Give Your Frenchie Treats
"A breed that craves human companionship"
French Bulldog Health Issues and Allergies
French Bulldogs are adored for their one-of-a-kind looks, but they do come with a few health concerns that potential owners should keep in mind to help your Frenchie live a healthy, happy life:
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Breathing Issues: Their brachycephalic (flat-faced) build can cause respiratory difficulties, making them prone to overheating—especially in hot or humid weather.
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Eye Conditions: Their facial structure can also lead to eye problems like cherry eye or corneal ulcers, so regular vet checkups and close monitoring are important.
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Skin Problems: Frenchies are prone to skin infections and allergies, particularly in their folds and wrinkles. Keeping these areas clean and dry helps prevent irritation.
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Ear Infections: Their compact ear shape makes them susceptible to ear infections, so routine ear cleaning is essential.
Common French Bulldog Health Issues
On the health front, genetics or old bumps can cause problems like luxating patella—when their kneecap slips out of place—and hip dysplasia. Frenchies can also face back troubles like degenerative myelopathy (a progressive spinal issue in older dogs), IVDD (where spinal discs get wonky and cause pain), and other spine-related challenges. Dogs bred by high breed standards are less likely to inherit some of these health conditions. We always perform tests to screen our breeding stock for inherited French Bulldog diseases.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a joint condition caused by poor hip development, often due to genetics. It leads to bone grinding, pain, and reduced mobility, and can worsen over time. Rapid growth, excess weight, and poor nutrition can make it worse. Feeding a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and using vet-recommended joint supplements can help manage or prevent the condition.
Collapsed Trachea
Common in small breeds, collapsed trachea is a progressive condition where the windpipe weakens over time. Early detection is important, and using a harness instead of a collar can help reduce pressure on the trachea and prevent further damage.
Cherry Eye
Cherry eye occurs when a dog’s third eyelid pops out due to weakened or stretched tissue. It’s fairly common in French and English Bulldogs. If your Frenchie shows signs of a red, swollen mass near the inner eye, contact your vet promptly for treatment.
Cataracts
Cataracts in dogs are most often inherited, though they can also develop due to diabetes or simply as a part of aging. They usually appear later in life and can cloud the eye’s lens, affecting vision. In some cases, surgery can remove them, but many dogs maintain decent eyesight even with cataracts.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
PRA is a genetic eye disorder that causes gradual vision loss, eventually leading to blindness. Diagnosis requires an exam by a veterinary ophthalmologist to assess the retina’s function. In some cases, genetic testing can be done on young dogs to check for the gene linked to PRA.
Allergies
French Bulldogs can develop allergies to various environmental or food-related triggers. Common signs include itchy skin, redness, or changes in skin texture. Identifying and managing your dog’s specific allergens—ideally with your vet’s help—is key to keeping symptoms under control and your pup comfortable.
Respiratory Conditions
French Bulldogs are prone to brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), a condition caused by narrowed or collapsing airways. Heat and strenuous activity can worsen it, so overexertion should be avoided. Due to their short snouts and poor swimming ability, Frenchies should never be left unsupervised near water.
Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia is a condition where blood sugar levels drop too quickly, and it’s especially common in small breeds and young puppies. Signs may include weakness, unsteady movement, confusion, or dizziness. To help prevent it, vets often suggest feeding smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day instead of one or two large meals.
Sensitive
French Bulldogs are highly sensitive to both heat and cold, so they shouldn’t be left outdoors for extended periods, regardless of the season.
French Bulldog Breed Guide
History of the French Bulldog Breed
Initially bred from English Bulldogs by lacemakers, these smaller dogs became ideal companion. The breed migrated to France, where they flourished by capturing the hearts and quickly became a symbol of Parisian culture.