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If you’re considering adding a French Bulldog to your family, you must be aware of the french bulldog common health issues. Here at Pawsome Tips, We’ve compiled a list of the most prevalent health conditions affecting French Bulldogs and the most effective treatments. We’ll also share some tips on caring for your Frenchie so that he or she stays healthy and happy for years to come.
Common Health Issues in French Bulldogs
New research from the Royal Veterinary College shows that French Bulldogs’ extreme body type is linked with several health issues. Urgent action is required, according to the study, because French Bulldog’s severe bodily form is closely associated with numerous serious illnesses.
Following are the French Bulldog common health issues:
1) Thyroid issues
French Bulldogs are a popular breed of dog, known for their wrinkled faces and affectionate nature. However, French Bulldogs also have several health problems that potential owners should be aware of. One common issue is thyroid problems. The thyroid is a small gland in the neck that produces hormones that regulate metabolism.
In French Bulldogs, the thyroid may not function properly, leading to various symptoms, including weight gain, hair loss, and tiredness. Left untreated, thyroid problems can lead to more severe health issues like heart disease. However, many treatment options can help manage thyroid problems in French Bulldogs.
2) Allergies
Allergies in french bulldogs can be caused by environmental factors such as pollen, chemicals, or food allergies can cause them. Symptoms of allergies in french bulldogs include excessive scratching, rubbing the face, and red, inflamed skin. If your french bulldog is showing any of these symptoms, it is vital to take them to the vet for a diagnosis.
There are several treatment options for allergies in French bulldogs, including medication, diet changes, and allergy shots. With the proper treatment, your french bulldog can live a healthy life.
3) Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome (BAS) is a common respiratory disorder in Frenchies. French Bulldogs are predisposed to this problem due to their unique builds, including short faces and short noses. BAS can lead to severe breathing difficulties and, in some cases, chronic respiratory failure.
Fortunately, there are treatments to help Frenchies with BAS breathe easier. Surgery is often needed to correct underlying anatomical issues, while physical therapy can help relieve symptoms. Frenchies with BAS often require additional medical attention, but with the proper care, they can live long and happy lives.
4) Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a common hereditary disease in Frenchies. It is a malformation of the hip joints, leading to pain and reduced mobility. Hip dysplasia is usually treated with surgery, but there are also medical options to relieve pain and promote better mobility.
Frenchies with hip dysplasia often require regular veterinary and physiotherapy care to prevent complications and improve their quality of life.
5) Entropion
Entropion is a medical condition where the eyelashes or eyelids turn inward and irritate the eye’s surface. If not treated, this can cause significant discomfort, corneal damage, and even blindness. In french bulldogs, entropion is often caused by the excess skin on their forehead and face, which can pull the eyelids inward.
Treatment for entropion usually involves surgically correcting the position of the eyelids and may require a follow-up procedure if it recurs.
6) Hemivertebrae
A french bulldog’s spine is susceptible to a condition called Hemivertebrae. This occurs when one or more vertebrae in the dog’s spine fail to form correctly, resulting in an odd-shaped vertebra. In severe cases, this can cause paralysis.
There is no cure for Hemivertebrae, but there are treatments that can help minimize its effects. Surgery may be recommended to correct the shape of the affected vertebrae and relieve pressure on the spinal cord. Physical therapy may also help keep the dog as mobile as possible.
7) Conjunctivitis (Pinkeye)
Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is one of the french bulldog common health issues. It is an infection or inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin film that lines the inside of the eyelids and covers the white part of the eye. Conjunctivitis can be caused by several things, including bacteria, viruses, allergies, and irritants.
Symptoms of conjunctivitis include redness, swelling, itching, and discharge from the eyes. If left untreated, it can lead to vision loss.
Treatment for conjunctivitis depends on the cause but may include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, or eye drops.
8) Laryngeal Collapse
Laryngeal collapse is one of the french bulldog common health issues. This occurs when the cartilage in the dog’s larynx weakens and collapses, making it difficult for the animal to breathe. The most common symptoms of this condition are labored breathing and noisy breathing. Dogs with laryngeal collapse often try to open their mouths wide to get more air. If left untreated, laryngeal collapse can be fatal.
The best treatment for laryngeal collapse is surgery. During the surgery, the veterinarian will repair the weakened cartilage and hopefully restore the dog’s ability to breathe easily. Some dogs also require a tracheotomy tube to help them breathe until the surgery heals. After surgery, most dogs will require lifelong medication to help keep their larynx collapsed.
9) Deafness
One of the french bulldog common health issues is deafness. While it is not entirely understood what causes deafness in french bulldogs, it is believed that genetics may play a role. If you have a french bulldog, it is crucial to get your dog tested for deafness early to begin treatment if necessary.
If your french bulldog is found to be deaf, a few treatment options are available:
- One option is to provide your dog with hearing aids. These can be custom-made or purchased from a pet supply store.
- Another option is to train your dog to respond to hand signals and other visual cues. This involves working with your dog regularly and teaching them the commands you want them to respond to.
- A third option is to have your french bulldog fitted with a cochlear implant. This is a surgically implanted device that helps dogs hear sound.
No matter which treatment option you choose, it is important to continue working with your french bulldog regularly to ensure they understand what you are asking of them.
10) Elongated Soft Palate
French bulldog owners should be aware of the elongated soft palate, a common health issue in the breed. This is a condition in which the soft palate, the fleshy part of the roof of the mouth, is too long and hangs down into the airway. This can cause breathing problems and even lead to pneumonia if not treated.
The good news is that elongated soft palate can be treated with surgery. The surgery involves cutting away the excess tissue and stitching the palate closed. This procedure is usually successful in restoring normal breathing for french bulldogs.
11) Distichiasis
French bulldogs are known for their characteristic eyes and cute faces. But sometimes, something can go wrong with their eyes, and they can develop a Distichiasis condition.
Distichiasis is a condition where extra eyelashes grow from the edge of the eyelid. These extra eyelashes can rub against the eye’s surface, causing irritation and inflammation. In severe cases, the extra eyelashes can even cause damage to the eye itself.
If your french bulldog has been diagnosed with Distichiasis, a few treatment options are available:
- One option is to remove the extra eyelashes surgically.
- Another option is to use prescription eye drops or ointments to help reduce inflammation and irritation. If your french bulldog’s Distichiasis is mild, you may be able to control it using over-the-counter tear duct cleaners or saline solutions.
If your french bulldog is experiencing any symptoms of Distichiasis, it’s important to take them to the veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
12) Von Willebrand’s Disease
Von Willebrand’s Disease is a genetic disorder that affects the blood’s ability to clot. This can lead to excessive bleeding, particularly after surgery or during times of trauma. Von Willebrand’s Disease is the most common bleeding disorder in dogs and is caused by a deficiency in von Willebrand factor, a protein that helps to form clots.
There is no cure for Von Willebrand’s Disease, but treatments available can help manage the symptoms. Treatment usually involves regular injections of von Willebrand factor, which helps to improve the blood’s ability to clot. In some cases, giving dogs aspirin or other blood-thinning medications may also be necessary to help prevent excessive bleeding.
13) Cherry Eye
Cherry Eye is one of the french bulldog common health issues. The condition is caused when the gland that helps to produce tears becomes displaced and pops out of the eye socket. This can be very painful for the dog and lead to vision problems.
Treatment for cherry eye usually involves surgery to correct the problem and return the gland to its proper place.
14) Cardiovascular issues
French bulldogs are prone to several cardiovascular problems. These can include Mitral Valve Disease, Patent Ductus Arteriosus, and Pulmonary Stenosis. all of which can lead to heart failure if left untreated.
Treatment options vary depending on the individual dog’s condition but may include medications, surgery, or a combination of both.
15) Intervertebral Disc Disease
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a condition that affects the spine of french bulldogs and other breeds of dogs. It occurs when the soft material inside the discs between the vertebrae bulges or ruptures, causing pain and possible paralysis.
There are two types of IVDD:
- Type I is the most common and is caused by a herniation (or bulging) of the disc. This type usually affects the neck and can cause pain, weakness, or paralysis.
- Type II is less common and is caused by a disc rupture (or break). This type usually affects the back and can cause pain, weakness, or paralysis.
The symptoms of IVDD vary depending on which part of the spine is affected. They may include:
- Pain, especially when moving or touching the neck or back
- Weakness in the limbs
- Inability to move or paralysis
If your french bulldog shows any of these symptoms, it is crucial to take him to the veterinarian as soon as possible for treatment. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the condition but may include medication, surgery, or physical rehabilitation therapy.
16) Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative myelopathy (DM) is a progressive neurologic disease in dogs. The condition is caused by a demyelinating process in the spinal cord. This means that the insulation around the nerve cells is gradually destroyed, leading to a loss of communication between the brain and the rest of the body. DM typically affects older dogs but can occur in any breed of dog.
French bulldogs are particularly prone to developing DM, and signs of the disease can often be seen as early as five years of age. Dogs with DM will experience muscle weakness and paralysis in their hind limbs. They may also have difficulty walking, going to the bathroom, and controlling their body temperature. There is no cure for DM, but treatments available can help improve a dog’s quality of life.
One treatment option is steroids, which can help reduce inflammation and slow the progression of the disease. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help keep dogs mobile and comfortable. Surgery may sometimes be necessary to remove affected parts of the spinal cord. Ultimately, treatment aims to help dogs live as comfortably as possible for as long as possible.
17) Stenotic Nares
Many french bulldogs suffer from stenotic nares, a condition in which their noses are too narrow. This can make it difficult for them to breathe and can lead to other health problems.
Treatment for stenotic nares usually involves surgery to widen the nose.
18) Ear infections
Ear infections are common health issues in french bulldogs. The infection is usually caused by bacteria and can lead to several symptoms, including pain, discharge, and odor. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the dog’s body and become severe.
The best way to treat an ear infection is with antibiotics. Your veterinarian will likely prescribe antibiotics to clear up the infection. In addition, you may need to clean your dog’s ears regularly to help prevent the infection from returning.
19) Diarrhea
Diarrhea is one of the french bulldog common health issues. There are different causes of diarrhea, such as infection, parasites, or dietary changes. Treatment will vary depending on the cause of diarrhea.
If an infection causes diarrhea, your veterinarian will likely prescribe antibiotics. If parasites cause it, your veterinarian may prescribe anti-parasitic or deworming medication. If dietary changes cause diarrhea, you may need to switch your french bulldog’s food to a more digestible option.
Make sure to follow your veterinarian’s instructions closely and not give your french bulldog any over-the-counter medications without consulting your vet first.
20) Tracheal Collapse
The French bulldog is a breed of dog that is prone to many health issues. One such issue is tracheal collapse, caused by the weakening of the trachea (windpipe). Symptoms of tracheal collapse include coughing, gagging, and difficulty breathing. If left untreated, tracheal collapse can lead to death.
Treatment for tracheal collapse usually involves surgery to fix the weakened trachea.
21) Heat Stress
Heat stress can be one of the french bulldog common health issues, as they can quickly overheat. Symptoms of heat stress include heavy panting, drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. If your french bulldog is experiencing heat stress, you should move them to a cooler area and offer them water to drink. You may also need to give your french bulldog an ice pack to help cool them down.
22) Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis is a condition that results in the inflammation of the stomach and intestine. This can be caused by various factors, including infection, toxins, or dietary indiscretion. In french bulldogs, gastroenteritis is often the result of eating something they shouldn’t have, such as garbage or spoiled food.
Symptoms of gastroenteritis include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and dehydration. If left untreated, gastroenteritis can lead to more severe health problems, such as liver failure or sepsis.
If your french bulldog is experiencing any of these symptoms, take them to the veterinarian immediately. The veterinarian will likely prescribe antibiotics to treat any underlying infection and fluids to help combat dehydration. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary.
23) Patellar Luxation
The French bulldog is a breed prone to patellar luxation, a condition in which the kneecap pops out of place. This can cause pain and inflammation and can eventually lead to arthritis.
Treatment for patellar luxation typically includes medications to reduce inflammation, surgery to fix the kneecap’s alignment, and physical therapy to help the dog regain strength and mobility.
24) Cataracts
Cataracts are one of the french bulldog common health issues. It is a condition in which the eye’s lens becomes cloudy, causing vision problems.
The treatment for cataracts is surgery to remove the lens and replace it with an artificial one.
25) Cleft Palate
A Cleft palate is a birth defect that affects the roof of the mouth. It can cause problems with feeding and speaking. French bulldogs are more prone to cleft palate than other breeds, which can often be treated with surgery.
Conclusion
No matter what health issue your french bulldog is experiencing, it’s important to get them the treatment they need. Many of these health issues can be treated with surgery or medication, but it’s essential to seek veterinary help as soon as possible. French bulldogs are a unique breed with their health issues, but they can live long and happy lives with the proper care.
Do you have a french bulldog? Have they experienced any of these common health issues? How did you treat them? Share in the comments below to help others who have this beautiful creature!
