Are French Bulldogs Healthy (and What Issues Can They Have)?

Frenchies are not a healthy breed compared to others because of their build. Through breeding, they are more likely to have cartilage problems and dental issues to name a few. They are more susceptible to the 20 most common dog disorders.

If you own a Frenchie or are considering getting one, you should be aware of their health risks. The key to ensuring your Frenchie’s quality of life as they age is learning what to watch out for.

What Are Common Health Issues With French Bulldogs?

The Royal Veterinary College found that Frenchies commonly suffer from the following:

• Ear Infections
• Diarrhea
• Conjunctivitis (Cherry Eye)
• Skin Fold Dermatitis
• Pyoderma
• URT Infection
• Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)
• Mobility Issues

They studied over 2000 Frenchies in 2018. In this study, 72.4% of the Frenchies they examined suffer from at least one of the health issues above.

But there is a long list of health problems associated with Frenchies. Other health disorders that they may suffer from are the following:

• Allergies
• Hip Dysplasia
• Deafness
• Heat Stroke
• Corneal Ulcers
• Otitis Externa
• Patella Luxation
• Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
• Von Willebrand’s Disease
• Thyroid Issues

Is It Common for French Bulldogs to Have Seizures?

Frenchies are one of the breeds that are prone to seizures. Seizures are a brief disturbance in brain function, followed by uncontrollable muscle movements. If your Frenchie’s seizures are recurring, they’re considered to suffer from epilepsy. But these two terms are often interchanged.

These seizures have varying intensities and durations. But it’s crucial to note that multiple seizures in a row or seizures that last more than five minutes can be deadly. More than three seizures within 24 hours are also dangerous.

What Causes Seizures in French Bulldogs?

Anything that causes damage or irritation to the brain cells can cause a seizure. This includes the following:

• Toxins
• Direct Trauma
• Metabolic Diseases
• Inflammatory Diseases Affecting the Brain
• Infections
• Blood Chemistry Imbalances

Idiopathic epilepsy is the most common cause of seizures in dogs. There is no known cause of this. But it’s generally thought that the brain cells are too excitable in this condition.

Other causes of seizures in Frenchies include:

• Cluster Seizures: These are multiple seizures that occur within 24 hours.
• Reactive Seizures: This is due to low blood sugar, toxins, liver or kidney disorders, or direct trauma.
• Symptomatic Epilepsy: The culprit of this type is brain lesions.
• Structural Epilepsy: This happens when a stroke, tumor, or infection affects your Frenchie’s brain.
• Status Epilepticus: These are seizures that have very short or no breaks between them. This type is dangerous and is a medical emergency.

Food may also cause your Frenchie’s seizures as they may contain the following toxins:

• Caffeine
• Ethanol
• Chocolate
• Xylitol
• Theobromine
• Mushrooms

These toxins are in household items: sanitizers, fruit juices, and toothpaste to name a few. Chocolate, theobromine, and xylitol are also toxic to dogs.

If your Frenchie suffers from seizures, consult with your vet for professional advice. They will narrow down the causes of the seizures and give the proper medication to your Frenchie.

What Does a Seizure Look Like in French Bulldogs?

The first thing you’ll notice is that your Frenchie’s behavior will change. They may be nervous and look for you and it’s almost like they’re anticipating something. This is the pre-ictal phase, one of the three phases of a seizure.

In the second phase, known as the ictal phase, your Frenchie may go through the following:

• Shaking or Whining
• Falling on Their Side
• Muscle Tightening
• Unusual Head and Eye Movements
• Jerking of the Arms and Legs
• Excessive Drooling
• Breathing Problems
• Urinating or Defecating
• Staring
• Temporary Loss of Sight
• Loss of Consciousness

This generally lasts anywhere between a few seconds to several minutes. If your Frenchie is convulsing for more than 5 minutes, call your vet immediately. This is a dangerous condition and can be life-threatening.

The ictal phase is immediately followed by the post-ictal phase. Your Frenchie will seem disoriented and may continue to salivate. They will also feel tired and may take a nap.

How to Stop a French Bulldog Seizure

While your Frenchie is convulsing, you can’t stop it. The best thing you can do is remain calm, stay by their side, and let them handle it. You can help your convulsing Frenchie by:

• Clearing the Area: Create a comfortable and quiet area for them.
• Keep a Record: Time your Frenchie’s seizure and take a video of them to show your vet.
• Cool Them Down: The longer the seizures, the more their body temperatures will rise. Turn on the air conditioner or put a wet towel on them.

If it’s the first time your Frenchie is experiencing a seizure, talk to your vet to find out the underlying cause. Your Frenchie may need medication if this is a recurring issue.

Medication will not stop your Frenchie from getting seizures. It will only decrease the severity and frequency.

Take note, once they start medications, they need to be on them for life. Stopping, reducing, or skipping medication may cause worse seizures to occur.

Is it common for French Bulldogs to Get Cancer?

French Bulldogs are not among the breeds that are prone to cancer. But Frenchies have a greater occurrence of cancer compared to others of the same size. Cancer is also one of the most common causes of death in the French Bulldog.

What Causes French Bulldog Cancer?

Cancer is due to uncontrolled cell growth that wasn’t checked and stopped in time. Various factors contribute to this including:

• Environmental Carcinogens: Toxins from the environment can accumulate in your Frenchie’s body.
• Age: The relationship between old age and cancer can be because of a weakened immune system. This can also be due to greater exposure to carcinogens.
• Genetics: Some breeds are more likely to develop specific types of cancer. Frenchies are more prone to Mast Cell Cancer, for example.
• Gender: Female dogs have a greater incidence of cancer. This is likely because of mammary cancer.
• Viruses: Viruses may cause tumorigenesis or the growth of cancer.
• Hormones: There is a link between sex hormones and cancer. Especially estrogen’s role in developing mammary cancer in female dogs.
• Sun Exposure: Radiation from the sun puts your dog at greater risk for hemangioma and hemangiosarcoma.

Why Does My French Bulldog Scratch So Much?

Frenchies are susceptible to allergies that cause them to itch. Other than scratching, your Frenchie may also experience the following:

• Persistent licking
• Sneezing
• Inflammation
• Swelling
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Coughing
• Discharge from their eyes or nose

Chronic allergies are a common health problem in this breed and are hard to diagnose. This is because they can be allergic to many things including:

• Food: beef, fish, pork, egg, chicken, wheat, lamb, soy, dairy
• Household Allergens: mold spores, pet dander, pollen, mold spores, a few plants
• Other Allergens: trees, grass, weed

What Can You Give a French Bulldog for Itching?

Benadryl works well to relieve your Frenchie of itching but it’s best to talk to your vet first. Your vet can run tests to help you pinpoint the cause of his allergies.

Your vet may prescribe Benadryl or other antihistamines. Some of these may make your Frenchie drowsy or hyperactive and this is normal.

It’s also best to remove or limit their exposure to allergens. Your vet can provide you insight into the specific allergens your Frenchie reacts to. Try to remove these allergens one by one to see if their condition improves.

For example, if you find that your Frenchie is allergic to chicken, change proteins to salmon. This change should be a slow and careful process to avoid upsetting his tummy.

Frequent baths can also help with managing skin allergies. Use soaps or shampoos that are hypoallergenic and have anti-inflammatory ingredients. Hydrocortisone and aloe vera help with inflamed and red skin.

Are French Bulldogs Prone to Fleas?

It is as likely that French bulldogs will contract fleas as any other dog breed. But Frenchies may not handle fleas well and are more prone to allergic reactions due to fleas.

How Do You Know if Your French Bulldog Has Fleas?

You’ll first notice uncontrolled scratching and chewing on their legs. If your Frenchie is undergoing these behavioral changes, do a more thorough check.

Examine your Frenchie’s coat and skin. Run through their fur to view their skin at areas susceptible to infestation like the belly and ears. Fleas are quick and can evade you as you check their fur.

If you can’t find fleas, look for flea bites instead. Start by looking for reddish areas. This is your Frenchie’s reaction to flea saliva and you may find red dots on their skin.

Take your examination a step further and look for fleas in your house. The best places to look for fleas are areas where your Frenchie spends a lot of time in. This can be his feeding area, dog bed, or furniture.

If you see black speckles, wipe them with a white cloth for further examination.

Other signs that your Frenchie may have fleas are:

• Hair Loss
• Pale Gums
• Low Body Temperature
• Lethargy

How Do You Get Rid of Fleas on a French Bulldog?

You can use flea shampoos, powders, or sprays, depending on your vet’s recommendation. Be cautious about treating fleas without seeing a vet first. Using many flea treatments at a time may be toxic to your Frenchie.

In treating a flea infestation, you should also focus on cleaning your home. There may still be fleas lurking in areas your Frenchie spends a lot of time in. Skipping this step may cause another flea problem.

Frequent sanitation helps to prevent fleas from coming back. Create a routine for washing your dog’s bed, toys, and pillows. Vacuum areas that your Frenchie likes to visit as well, especially furniture and rugs.

If your Frenchie has access to a garden, frequent mowing is a simple way to kill fleas in the grass. This will expose fleas to sunlight and will prevent another infestation.

Why Does MY French Bulldog Wheeze?

There is a disruption in the normal airflow in a Frenchie’s breathing that makes a wheezing sound. This is a common issue with flat-faced or brachycephalic dogs.

This condition, Brachycephalic Syndrome, is due to their facial structure. Frenchies have narrow nostrils and elongated soft palates that result in breathing problems.

Occasional wheezing that lasts a few seconds should settle on its own. But if your Frenchie is constantly wheezing, you should contact your vet right away. This is may be life-threatening.

What Are French Bulldogs Commonly Allergic to?

Frenchies can be allergic to certain foods, and allergens found outdoors and indoors. Depending on what he’s allergic to, your Frenchie may need a different course of treatment.

Food that Frenchies may be allergic to is fish, wheat, lamb, soy, chicken, beef, dairy, corn, chicken, and eggs. If your Frenchie has a food intolerance try switching their protein for another one.

Some environmental allergens are dust, dust mites, pollen, mold spores, and animal dander. For environmental allergies, it’s best to limit your Frenchie’s exposure to them.

What Can I Give My French Bulldog for Allergies?

Your vet will provide proper treatment for your Frenchie’s specific case. Medication without the recommendation of a vet may do more harm than good. Especially when your Frenchie has existing health issues.

Benadryl is a common medication for dogs suffering from allergies. But its main use is to prevent vaccine reactions and it may not be the best answer for your Frenchie’s allergies.

Are French Bulldogs Prone to Bladder Problems?

Bladder problems are not on the list of the French Bulldog’s most common health issues. But if found that your Frenchie has had potty accidents, there may be several reasons for that:

• Age: Younger and older Frenchies can’t hold their pee for too long. Especially for older Frenchies with existing health problems.
• Changes: The death of another dog, moving out, routine change, and more.
• Excitement: Your Frenchie may experience bladder incontinence out of too much excitement.
• Diet: A Diet with a high moisture content means that your Frenchie is taking in more water than usual.
• Drinking Too Much Water: This may be because of salty food, hot weather, exercise, to name a few.
• Hormone Incontinence: Low estrogen levels in older female Frenchies affect their bladder control.
• Medication Side Effects: Some medications make your Frenchie thirstier. The more water they drink, the more they pee.

What Causes French Bulldogs to Lose Hair?

Your Frenchie may be losing hair for many reasons, including allergies or alopecia. But before anything else, make sure to rule out seasonal hair loss.

If your Frenchie’s hair loss is out of the ordinary, it may be because of the following:

• Allergies: In Frenchies, an allergic attack will make him itch a lot. The constant itching will cause hair loss.
• Acute Moist Dermatitis: This is due to moisture in the folds of your Frenchie’s skin.
• Acral Lick Dermatitis: This type of dermatitis has a psychological cause. Your Frenchie will lick himself excessively, causing hair loss.
• Mange: Sarcoptic and demodectic mites can cause mange. This makes your Frenchie’s skin itch to the point of hair loss, scabs, and open sores.
• Hormonal Imbalance: A lack or overproduction of certain hormones causes hair loss. In the case of hormonal imbalance, hypothyroidism is the most common cause.
• Infections: Bacterial or fungal infections and ringworm may also cause hair loss.

Why Is My French Bulldog Losing Hair on His Back?

The most common cause of hair loss on your Frenchie’s back is a hormonal imbalance. Hormone problems can also cause bald patches on the tail, sides of the body and mouth, and around the eyes.

The good news is that your veterinarian can easily treat these health conditions.

Why Is My French Bulldog Losing Hair on His Ears?

Ear mites, ringworm, and allergies are all probable causes of hair loss on your Frenchie’s ears. Ear mites and ringworm are easily diagnosed, but allergies are a bit more tricky. The good news is that your veterinarian has a variety of medications to treat your Frenchie.

When moist, their narrow ear canals and skin folds make their ears a perfect breeding ground for bacteria.

Why Does My French Bulldog Keep Getting Ear Infections?

Frenchies are prone to ear infections due to their anatomy. This combined with mites, bacteria, allergens, and disorders can cause ear infections.

The “bat ears” are a trademark feature of Frenchies that makes them likely to catch dirt and dust in their ears. A moist environment like the ears with accumulated dirt attracts bacteria. This can cause an infection when unchecked.

Ear mites and allergies can cause open wounds from excessive scratching. These wounds in the ears can lead to an infection, with pus discharge and even crusting. These two need individual treatment so it’s best to consult your vet.

Autoimmune and endocrine disorders can make your Frenchie more susceptible to ear infections. Endocrine disorders linked to ear infections are hypothyroidism and Cushing’s Syndrome.

It may be confusing to know what is causing your Frenchie’s ear infections. An accurate diagnosis from your vet is necessary to pinpoint the exact cause. With this, they can provide you with an effective treatment plan for your Frenchie.

Why Is My French Bulldog So Anxious?

Frenchies are companion dogs that get anxious when they don’t get enough attention. If your Frenchie is getting more anxious than usual, it’s important to know the cause.

Poor socialization can cause your Frenchie to be anxious around people and dogs. This comes from a place of unfamiliarity. Frenchies that aren’t used to seeing strangers or new experiences get anxious.

Another reason is separation anxiety. This makes your Frenchie restless, waiting for you to come home.

In your absence, they may destroy furniture, bark, lose bladder control, and more. In extreme cases, they will escape home to look for you.

But symptoms of separation anxiety only come out when you’re not around. If your Frenchie is still anxious in your presence, this may be because of an underlying health issue:

• Thyrotoxicosis
• Prediabetes
• Hypothyroidism
• Encephalitis

So if your Frenchie has problems with anxiety, take them to your vet to rule out health issues.

What Can You Do for an Anxious French Bulldog?

Before anything, make sure your vet gave your Frenchie a clean bill of health. The next step would be to identify what triggers your Frenchie’s anxiety. The proper course of action will depend on his triggers.

Here are some ways you can help your anxious Frenchie:

• Exercise: Take your Frenchie out for walks in the morning before you leave work. This gets rid of excess energy so he can nap while you’re away.
• Mental Stimulation: Keep your Frenchie stimulated with interactive toys. A variety of different toys works best for anxiety.
• Dog Pen: Give your Frenchie his own space with food, water, and an area for peeing or urinating.
• Doggy Daycare: You can opt to leave your Frenchie at a doggy daycare where he can interact with other dogs. Someone can even take them on a walk for you.
• Leave Your Worn Clothes: Clothes with your scent can help your Frenchie feel at ease while you’re away.
• Safety Cue: Create a word or action that lets your Frenchie know you’ll be coming home. This takes time, but with practice, your Frenchie will understand this.

Why Does My French Bulldog Shake?

The common reason why your Frenchie’s shaking is that he’s excited, cold, or stressed. Most of the time. Sometimes, it may be due to old age or health issues.

When your Frenchie is shaking, you must first check your environment. This may be due to the cold temperature, the excitement of you coming home, or something is scaring him.

If one of these is the case, the shaking should calm down on its own in a few minutes. But if the shaking continues and is not because of these, it may be because of the following:

• Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar is common in small dogs like Frenchies. The main cause of hypoglycemia in Frenchies is malnutrition.
• Poisoning: Toxic substances can cause your Frenchie to shake and symptoms vary. Common toxic substances include chocolate, human medicine, rodent poison, and cleaning agents.
• Distemper: This is a very contagious infection between dogs caused by the virus, paramyxovirus. Shaking is one of the many symptoms infected dogs display.
• Addison’s Disease: Damage to the adrenal tissue causes a hormone reduction in dogs. This damage can be trauma, cancer, infections, or immune-induced. One of the symptoms of this condition is intermittent shaking.
• Age: Older Frenchies shake more than younger ones. Most of the time, it’s because it’s easier for them to get cold.

Why Is My French Bulldog Limping?

The most common cause of Frenchies limping is over-exertion after running or jumping. Excessive exercise wears him out and it should take him a few minutes to recover.

But if your Frenchie hasn’t recovered after a few minutes, it can be because of these:

• Strain or Injury: Over-exertion can also cause strained muscles, soft tissue damage, and ligament or tendon damage.
• Broken Claws: Split claws are painful for your Frenchie. Especially when the damage is near the nerve endings.
• Wounded Paws: Check your Frenchie’s paws for splinters or insect bites. These can cause significant discomfort.
• Dislocations and Fractures: Frenchies are genetically susceptible to dislocations.
• Hip Dysplasia: Unfortunately, Frenchies are prone to hip dysplasia. Frenchies suffering from this would need surgery to relieve them of pain.

What Is IVDD in French Bulldogs?

Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), occurs when the discs that surround the spinal cord burst or bulge. Chondrodystrophic breeds like the Frenchie have a cartilage formation disorder. This is what makes them prone to IVDD.

What Causes IVDD in French Bulldogs?

IVDD in Frenchies is due to the degeneration of spinal discs in the neck and back area. When these discs protrude, they compress the nerves of the spine, causing pain. It can also be due to trauma to the spine.

But since Frenchies are genetically prone to IVDD and are not a hyperactive breed, degeneration is the most probable cause.

There are two types of disc degeneration in dogs: Hansen type I and Hansen type II. These two only vary in the mechanism of disc degeneration.

Hansen type I is the hardening of the inner layer of spinal discs. This occurs along with the degeneration of the outer layer. When this outer layer bursts, the hardened inner layer puts pressure on the spinal cord.

This type may occur at any time and is very painful for your Frenchie.

Hansen type II is when the material inside the inner layer compresses the spinal cord. This degenerative process occurs over time.

IVDD can also be due to trauma due to a fall or getting hit by a car. These can cause rupture of your Frenchie’s disks, compressing the spinal nerves, causing pain.

What Age Do French Bulldogs Get IVDD?

Older Frenchies are more at risk of developing IVDD than younger ones. This is because the degenerative effects of IVDD are gradual.

The two forms of IVDD affect certain age groups in dogs. Hansen type I is common in dogs aged 2 years old and above, while Hansen type II is common in dogs of 5 to 12 years of age.

But Frenchies can suffer from IVDD at any age. IVDD in young Frenchies can even happen instantaneously.

What Are the Symptoms of IVDD in French Bulldogs?

The effects of IVDD can be anywhere from mild to severe pain. And in worst-case scenarios, can cause paralysis. You can tell if your Frenchie has IVDD with these symptoms:

• Difficulty in Lifting the Head
• Whining or Crying
• Inability to Jump
• Hunched Back
• Abnormal or Wobbly Walking
• Back Pain
• Reduced Appetite and Physical Activity
• Difficulty Standing Up
• Muscle Spasms
• Sensitivity to Touch
• Bladder Problems

Is IVDD Genetic in French Bulldogs?

Due to genetics, French Bulldogs are prone to IVDD. Breeds that have short legs, like French Bulldogs, are chondrodystrophic. Chondrodysplasia causes them to have abnormal cartilages that affect their growth plates.

Because of this, they are susceptible to the degeneration of their intervertebral disc.

How Likely Is a French Bulldog to Get IVDD?

Although Frenchies are susceptible to IVDD, it’s hard to tell how likely they will develop it. There is not enough study on the prevalence of this condition in the breed.

But a study published in the BMC Veterinary Research may give us some insight. This study showed that 45.5% of the 533 they studied had Hansen type I intervertebral disk herniation.

How Do You Prevent IVDD in French Bulldogs?

The best way to prevent your Frenchie from developing IVDD is to help them maintain a healthy weight. Extra weight will put pressure on their neck and back, which are the sites of degeneration.

A female Frenchie’s ideal weight is around 17 to 24 pounds, while a male Frenchie’s would be around 20 to 28 pounds (7.7–10.9 and 9.1–12.7 kg, respectively). You should be able to feel your Frenchie’s ribs and see their waist.

There are other ways you can prevent IVDD including:

• Using a Harness: A collar puts added pressure on your Frenchie’s neck. Harnesses are a better option because it spreads pressure throughout their body.
• Restrict Jumping: Jumping from high areas puts your Frenchie at risk of spinal injury.
• Spay or Neuter at the Right Age: Doing this while at a young age increases the likelihood of IVDD. Spay or neuter your Frenchie only when they’re adults.
• Picking Them up Properly: Make sure to support your Frenchie’s spine whenever you pick him up.
• No Unsupervised Play: Dogs sometimes play tug of war games where neither one gives in. This can lead to spinal injuries.

A genetic predisposition IVDD doesn’t guarantee that your Frenchie will develop this. But taking extra precautions will help your Frenchie live a comfortable life.

Do French Bulldogs Have Back Problems?

Frenchies are prone to back problems because of their physical characteristics. Common hip and spine problems Frenchies may have are:

• Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): A condition where a spinal disc bursts and compresses the nerves of the spinal cord.
• Hip Dysplasia: When your Frenchie’s thigh bone doesn’t fit right into the hip joint.
• Hemivertebrae: An abnormality in one or more vertebrae to be triangular.
• Patellar Luxation: A misalignment in the femur, tibia, and patella. This causes the knee joints to not be in the proper position.

What Causes Back Problems in French Bulldogs?

The main cause of back problems in Frenchies is due to breeding them to have short legs and curled tails. This made it common for them to have spinal deformities.

What Age Do French Bulldogs Get Back Problems?

It’s hard to tell an exact age but Frenchies between the ages of 3 to 6 years commonly show back problems. It’s important to note that Frenchies can suffer from back problems at any age.

Older Frenchies are more prone to back problems. This is because the degeneration of their spine is a slow process that can come up as they mature.

How Do You Know if Your French Bulldog Has Back Problems?

The easiest way to tell if your Frenchie has a back problem is if he has problems walking or if he is crying out of pain. But there are other symptoms you should look for like:

• Collapsing
• Tentative Gait
• Sensitivity to Touch and Movement
• Hunched Back
• Limb Paralysis
• Lowered Head
• Muscle Stiffness
• Reluctance to Jump

How to Help French Bulldogs With Back Problems

The best way you can help your Frenchie suffering from back problems is to take them to the vet immediately. Medical treatment varies on the cause and severity of the back problem.

Your vet will prescribe medicine for pain management and to control inflammation. Some medicines cause adverse effects when taken at the same time. So it’s important to follow your vet’s instructions.

Treatment plans usually include cage rest of a few weeks. Once your Frenchie is on medication, they seem to have recovered. But it’s important to stick to strict cage confinement for a successful recovery.

How Do You Prevent Back Problems in French Bulldog?

Eliminating excessive pressure on your Frenchie’s spine is important to avoid back problems. Controlling their weight is the best way to do this. Since an unhealthy weight adds extra pressure to their neck and back region.

Whatever your Frenchie’s weight, you should avoid having them jump around too much. Jumping from high areas puts your Frenchie at risk of getting their spine injured.

Another way is to use a harness instead of a collar. Collars add pressure on your Frenchie’s neck and can damage their trachea and thyroid. Harnesses prevent injuries by keeping their neck and spine in the right position.

Finally, you consider getting your Frenchie spayed or neutered. But only when they’re old enough. Fixing them prematurely can cause rapid degeneration of your Frenchie’s skeletal system.

How Do You Know if Your French Bulldog Hurt Its Back?

A Frenchie who’s walking wobbly, crying, and is sensitive to touch may have hurt their back. You may also notice them not wanting to lift their head out of pain.

Seeing your Frenchie like this is difficult. With medical intervention, they should be able to recover. But this process takes time as they would need cage confinement for a few weeks.

Is It Common for French Bulldogs to Break Their Backs?

It is common for Frenchies to break their backs. Mobility issues like this are one of the top health issues that they have. Back problems can be a result of injury, degenerative diseases, or congenital conditions.

Avoiding degenerative diseases or congenital conditions can be difficult to avoid. Your Frenchie’s genetics dictate these.

But back problems due to injury are preventable. Frenchies aren’t hyperactive. Still, being careful by supervising your Frenchie during playtime is best.

What to Do When Your French Bulldog Hurts Their Back

When your Frenchie hurts their back, you should take them to the vet to get medical intervention. This may include painkillers, anti-inflammatory medication, or other drugs.

Besides medicine, your vet will recommend cage rest them. Your Frenchie will need to stay in confinement for a few weeks to recover. This cage should include their essentials: food, water, and toys.

You can take them out of the cage for short walks. But there should be no strenuous exercise.

In severe cases, your Frenchie may need surgery. This is for Frenchies who are unable to walk, are in extreme pain, or when medications don’t work for them.

How Long Does It Take for a French Bulldog to Recover From Back Injury?

Successful recovery will take anywhere from 6 weeks to 12 weeks. This depends on the severity of your Frenchie’s condition or the treatment plan.

During the recovery period, you should limit their physical activities. Light walks and playing is okay, as long as you make sure that your Frenchie isn’t being too rough.

How Much Is Back Surgery for French Bulldogs?

An all-inclusive cost of back surgery can be anywhere between $8000 to $12000. This includes diagnostic costs and surgical treatment.

The surgery itself costs between $1500 to $9000. While neurological tests and imaging techniques cost a hefty $1000 to $8000.

And if you include physical therapy as post-surgery care, the price for a full recovery can stack up. Physical therapy is mandatory. But this can help your Frenchie have a successful recovery.

How Successful Is Back Surgery on French Bulldogs?

The back surgery success rate is about 90 percent in dogs who still have sensation in their legs. But for others who’ve had back problems for a long time, they don’t make a full, 100 percent recovery.

The success of the surgery depends on two things. It depends on how much spinal cord function is gone and for how long they’ve had back problems.

How Long Does It Take for a French Bulldog to Recover From Back Surgery?

Frenchies who’ve had back surgery usually take 6 to 8 weeks to recover. During this period, you should restrict their playtime to avoid over-exertion. By not limiting their physical activity post-surgery, you can extend their recovery period.

How Do You Know if Your French Bulldog Is in Pain?

Frenchies who are in pain will have changed behavior, decreased appetite, and whine to name a few. It can be difficult to know when they are in pain. Below is a more detailed list of signs of pain:

• Being Withdrawn: Behavioral changes can be worrying. Your Frenchie may avoid contact or hide from you.
• Eating or Drinking Less: These are common symptoms of pain. If they have difficulty eating hard food, they may have dental pain.
• Sleeping More: This may be their attempt to recover. Or they may have difficulties moving around so they opt to sleep instead.
• Being Noisy: Frenchies are not a vocal breed. So barking and growling can be alarming. Sometimes, they even whine or cry.
• Constant Grooming: They may lick their paws to comfort themselves. This happens when they have a wound but sometimes the pain is internal.
• Breathing Problems: Heavy panting without exercise is worrying. Shallow breaths are an indicator that breathing is painful.
• Stiffness or Limping: These may be a result of injury, arthritis, wounded paws, or may even be hip dysplasia.
• Restlessness: Pacing around is a sign that your Frenchie isn’t comfortable. They may also have difficulty sleeping.
• Swelling or Redness: This can be on their face, legs, tummy, or paws.
• Shaking: This can often mean that your Frenchie is cold or old. But this can also be due to poisoning or kidney problems.

What Can You Give a French Bulldog for Pain?

Your vet should be able to prescribe your Frenchie pain killers to ease the pain. Figuring out what is causing your Frenchie pain is hard to do on your own. Consulting with your vet is important to pinpoint the exact cause.

After a visit to the vet, make sure your Frenchie is as comfortable as possible. Provide them with soft bedding in a cozy room and restrict their physical activities.

Make sure to watch how your Frenchie reacts to pain medication. If they have a negative response to it, contact your vet immediately.

How Many Teeth Does a French Bulldog Have?

As puppies, Frenchies have 28 teeth. When they grow into adulthood and lose all their milk teeth, they will have a set of 42 heterodont teeth. This includes incisors, canines, premolars, and molars.

How Many Sets of Teeth Do French Bulldogs Have?

Frenchies have two sets of teeth during their lifetime. The first set is their “baby” or “milk” teeth when they’re puppies. The second set is their permanent set of teeth and will replace their baby teeth at about 12 weeks.

Is It Common for French Bulldogs to Lose Their Teeth?

It is normal for puppies to lose their teeth as this is part of the teething process. But if your adult Frenchie loses their teeth as an adult, it may be due to periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease targets the support structure of teeth, making them inflamed. This leads to infection and in severe cases, tooth loss.

This disease is due to food particles accumulating in the gums, forming plaque. These particles attract bacteria, which also gets into the gums and causes inflammation.

Unfortunately, brachycephalic dogs like Frenchies are prone to periodontal disease. Their crowded teeth are susceptible to plaque formation. And this can lead to periodontal disease when unchecked.

Brushing your Frenchie’s teeth daily should prevent plaque accumulation. Chewing toys and dental treats can also help get rid of plaque build-up.

Why Do French Bulldogs Lose Their Teeth?

French Bulldog puppies lose their teeth due to the teething process. Their baby teeth get pushed out by adult teeth and will fall out on their own, or with the help of chew toys.

Sometimes, adult Frenchies lose their teeth. This is because of periodontal disease. This is a condition where the support structure of teeth becomes too weak, leading to tooth loss.

Periodontal disease affects 80% of all dog breeds as young as two years old. Frenchies are vulnerable to this due to their skull structure.

Brachycephalic dogs have shorter skulls. A consequence of this is a smaller mouth that has to fit a lot of teeth in it. This results in overcrowding of the teeth.

With crowded teeth, it’s easy for food and bacteria to accumulate. This leads to plaque build-up, and when not addressed, it can cause periodontal disease.

How Many Teeth Do French Bulldogs Lose?

French Bulldog puppies lose all their 28 milk teeth to make way for their 42 adult teeth. You may be wondering why the number of their teeth increases.

This is because Frenchie puppies don’t have molars, to begin with. Their molars will come in at the same time the adult teeth begin to replace their baby teeth.

What Age Do French Bulldog Puppies Lose Their Teeth?

At 12 weeks, your Frenchie puppy’s teeth will begin to fall out to make way for their adult teeth. This process is painful for them so providing them with chew toys will help.

How Long Are French Bulldogs Teething?

Frenchies will completely stop teething anywhere between 7 to 8 months old. This is an uncomfortable period for your Frenchie. Knowing the different stages of this process will help you know what to expect.

• 2 to 3 Weeks of Age: Their baby teeth begin to grow. Incisors, canine, and premolars will come out in this order.
• 8 Weeks of Age: All baby teeth have come out and will stop growing.
• 12 Weeks of Age: This is the start of the teething process. Adult teeth will start to replace the baby teeth.
• 7 to 9 Months of Age: Around this time, the teething process is complete.

What Should French Bulldog Teeth Look Like?

Healthy Frenchie teeth should not have any browning or plaque build-up. Their gums should also be either pink, black, or spotted. White or red gums aren’t normal, especially when it’s bleeding.

Frenchies have 4 types of teeth with different functions. Here’s what they should look like:

• Incisors (Front Teeth): The two front incisors at the upper jaw should have a slight point. While the others are flat-edged. They should have a total of 6 incisors.
• Canines: Immediately beside the incisors are two pairs of canines at the upper and lower jaw. They are long and sharp.
• Premolars: There are 8 of these on the upper and lower jaw, right behind the canines. The edges of premolars are sharp.
• Molars: You’ll find 4 of these at the upper jaw and 6 in the lower jaw. Molars have flat crowns.

Are French Bulldogs Known to Have Bad Teeth?

French Bulldogs are more prone to teeth problems than other non-brachycephalic breeds. With their tiny mouths, they’re likely to have overcrowded teeth. This puts them at risk for infections and dental diseases like:

• Plaque and Tartar
• Periodontal Disease
• Gingivitis
• Abscess

Why Do French Bulldogs Have Bad Teeth?

Their bad teeth are a result of breeding them to have shorter skulls and smaller mouths. Frenchies have the same number of teeth as non-brachycephalic dogs. But the latter has enough space in their mouths for 42 teeth, unlike Frenchies.

As a result, their teeth are not aligned perfectly or they have an underbite. These two are normal in Frenchies. As long as they don’t have problems drinking and eating, they should be fine.

It’s crowded teeth that usually cause concern. Frenchies with overcrowded teeth need daily brushing to avoid dental diseases.

When Should French Bulldog Puppies Be Vaccinated?

It’s recommended to vaccinate your Frenchie at six to eight weeks old. After this, they should have follow-up shots every two to four weeks. This series of shots should continue until they are 14 weeks of age.

What Shots Do French Bulldog Puppies Need?

The essential vaccines your Frenchie needs are DHLPP and rabies. DHLPP protects them from distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus.

Here is a vaccination schedule guide for these vaccines:

DHLPP (Distemper Shot)

• First Shot: 6 to 8 weeks
• Second Shot: 9 to 11 weeks
• Third Shot: 12 to 14 weeks
• Fourth Shot: 16 to 17
• Booster Shots: Every 12 months

Rabies

• First Shot: 16 to 18 weeks
• Booster Shots: Every 12 months

There are also optional vaccines that you can give your Frenchie. This will depend on the risk factors of your pet so you can choose not to get them.

• Bordatella: Protects your Frenchie from kennel cough. It’s recommended for social dogs.
• Lyme: Prevents Lyme disease, a tick-borne bacterial infection. It’s recommended for dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors.
• Influenza: Helps to prevent canine influenza. Also recommended for social dogs.
• Canine Coronavirus (CCoV): For protection against canine coronavirus disease, a contaguous intestinal infection. Your Frenchie can catch a CCoV infection by sniffing or licking infected items. These items can be flooring, soil, or grass that were in contact with infected feces.

What Should I Do if My Adult French Bulldog Isn’t Vaccinated?

If your Frenchie isn’t fully vaccinated, you should consult your vet on what to do. You should do the same thing if you don’t know your Frenchie’s vaccination history.

Should I Insure My French Bulldog?

They are genetically predisposed to various health issues, so this is the best thing to do. As they age, they become more susceptible to health problems. Veterinary bills are expensive and maintenance medicine costs can stack up.

Not all pet insurances are the same. Some policies only cover accidents. While they are not a hyperactive breed, accidents do happen.

Frenchies have sensitive spines, to begin with. They may hurt themselves from playing too rough or jumping from high areas. They may even ingest something poisonous to them without you knowing.

But Frenchies are more likely to see the vet because of health issues rather than accidents. Instead, look for insurance that has a more rounded cover.

You should look for ones that cover illnesses and visits to the vet too. And regular visits to the vet will help you catch any illnesses before they become severe.

So before getting pet insurance, check if it covers a French Bulldog’s specific needs.

Getting pet insurance will not only save you money. It will also ensure that your Frenchie will get the best level of care whenever they need it. Pet insurance can be a lifesaver for your loving companion.

How Much Is It to Insure a French Bulldog?

Pet insurance for French Bulldogs can cost you between $37 to $81 a month. This will depend on where you live, cover level, deductibles, and the age of your Frenchie.

It may be hard to insure them because they are prone to common health issues. Insurance companies may take a careful approach to cover your Frenchie.

Some Frenchies may be too old to get insurance. In their old age, they are more likely to need medical treatment instead. So some insurance companies impose age limits and may not insure older dogs.

Other insurance companies may charge higher costs for older dogs. They may even remove some covers, like death by illness.

With this, it’s best to get pet insurance for your Frenchie while they are young. Usually, it’s at 8 months of age when puppies can begin getting insurance.

What Is the Lifespan of a French Bulldog?

The average lifespan of Frenchies is between 9 to 12 years old. Smaller breeds live longer than larger breeds in general. But Frenchies live shorter lives compared to other small breeds.

Several factors contribute to their lifespan including:

• Genetics: A healthy bloodline will make it more likely for your Frenchie to live longer. Especially if their parents didn’t have any health issues.
• Healthy Diet: A right proportion of meat, vegetables, and grains is best. This will have a significant impact on your Frenchie’s health.
• Vet Visits: Regular check-ups may prolong your Frenchie’s life. This will help you catch any illnesses they may have before they become too severe.
• Proper Care: Pay special attention to their face and tail. These areas have folds and pockets that collect dirt. If not cleaned, this may lead to an infection.
• Exercise: Frenchies aren’t active breeds so they are prone to obesity. Burning calories will shed off the extra weight they may have to relieve pressure on their back.
• Vaccinations: These protect your Frenchie from deadly diseases. Essential vaccines include DHLPP and rabies. There are also optional vaccines you can give your Frenchie.
• Stress and Separation Anxiety: Spending lots of time alone is stressful for them. This can harm their health. In rare cases, Frenchies will try to escape home to look for you, increasing their risk for accidents.

How Long Do French Bulldogs Live in Human Years?

Frenchies of standard size can live between 12 to 14 years, while mini-sized ones live between 10 to 12 years old. At around 7 to 8 years of age, they will start to show signs of aging.

During this age, they may show weight changes, mobility issues, and diabetes to name a few. So once your Frenchie reaches this age, you should visit your vet to come up with a health plan. This will extend your Frenchie’s life and help ensure that they’re comfortable as they age.

Do Male or Female French Bulldogs Live Longer?

Your Frenchie’s lifespan will not depend on their gender. Instead, this depends on their genetics and how well you look after them.

But gender may play a role in their susceptibility to health issues. A study published in 2018 showed that male Frenchies are more prone to some disorders. This showed no difference in their life expectancies, though.

What Is the Most Common Cause of Death for French Bulldogs?

French Bulldogs usually die from cancer. Cancer is more common in breeds of bigger sizes. But Frenchies seem to be more prone to cancer compared to other breeds of similar size.

Apart from cancer, other common causes of death include:

• Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
• Hip Dysplasia
• Addison’s Disease
• Heart Failure
• Gastric Torsion
• Hemangiosarcoma
• Hypoglycemia
• Old Age

How to Keep a French Bulldog Healthy

A balanced diet and proper care are the two main things to keep your Frenchie healthy. Giving them the vaccinations they need and regular trips to the vet will also help in this.

They may be more high maintenance compared to other dogs and the vet costs may be expensive. You can help your Frenchie stay healthy by:

• Choosing the Right Diet: They should have the right proportion of carbs, proteins, fats, minerals, and vitamins in their diet for their age. Makes sure they also drink enough water.
• Avoiding Food Preservatives: Watch out for food preservatives that may cause allergies. Common preservatives are ethoxyquin, butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT).
• Maintaining Their Weight: Obesity can lead to several health problems. It may cause leg joint pain and contributes to back problems or IVDD. You can avoid this with daily physical activity.
• Taking Regular Baths: Frenchies have folds in their skin that trap dirt and bacteria. Also, Frenchies have a long list of allergies that can give them skin problems. These are avoidable with antifungal or antibacterial shampoo.
• Keeping Them Cool: They don’t do well in the heat and are prone to heatstroke. If they are outside, make sure they stay in shady areas and give them enough water.
• Keeping Them Warm: Aside from heatstroke, they are also prone to hypothermia. The best temperature for Frenchies would be between 20 to 25 C degrees (68 to 77 Fahrenheit).
• Brushing Their Teeth: They tend to have crowded teeth that collect food particles. This can lead to dental issues that cause their teeth to fall off so make sure to give them a daily brushing.
• Vaccinating Them: Some potentially fatal diseases are avoidable with vaccines. You should protect your Frenchie from rabies, parvo, and distemper.
• Training Them: The most important training would be to teach your Frenchie to be alone. They are prone to separation anxiety which causes them a lot of stress.
• Giving Them Lots of Love: At the end of the day, all your Frenchie wants from you is your love and attention. They are companion dogs so spending lots of time with them will make them happy and healthy.