What You Need to Know About French Bulldog Health
Just as all people are likely to suffer from genetic diseases, so are all dogs. If the breeder does not offer a health guarantee for the puppy and tells you that there is absolutely no known health problem with the breed, please select a new breeder. A reputable breeder will be honest with you about the breed’s health problems and incidence. Here are some common health problems with French Bulldogs.
These small, flat-faced dogs are prone to brachycephalic airway syndrome. Dogs with facial bones and tissues are compressed can have obstructed breathing because they may have an elongated soft palate, laryngeal collapse, narrowed nasal cavities, or related problems. These are symptoms of brachycephalic airway syndrome. If you can not see their structural defects, you can tell they exist by listening to the dog’s labored breathing after minimal exercise. Dogs with brachycephalic syndrome cannot tolerate excessive heat or exercise. A subset of dogs may require surgery to improve airflow and breathing.
Besides, Frenchies may suffer from spinal diseases, such as spinal deformity and intervertebral disc disease. And reproduction is also a common problem of this breed. They may also have eye problems, such as cataracts, and intestinal malabsorption.
French bulldogs are sensitive to heat. Make sure not to take it outdoors in hot weather or at home without air conditioning. Obesity is one of the most common health problems in this breed, but it can be prevented. Keeping your French Bulldog at a healthy weight is one of the easiest ways to extend its life.
The breeder must inform you of all test results in the CHIC database. A dog does not need a good or even passing score in the evaluation to receive a CHIC number, so only CHIC registration alone is not proof of health, but all test results are posted on the CHIC website and can be accessed by anyone who wants to check the health of a puppy’s parents.
A large number of breeders screen their breeding stock for genetic diseases and breed only the healthiest and most beautiful specimens, but there are some exceptions to this rule that nature cannot resist. In spite of good breeding practices, puppies can still develop some diseases. There is no need to worry too much, modern veterinary medicine has been able to solve most of these problems and can keep your puppy healthy and happy. If you are buying a puppy, remember to ask the breeder about the lifespan of the dogs in her line and the causes of their deaths.