All breeds of dogs have issues that are inherent to them because of their specific breed parameters. When working with purebred dogs, you can be more aware of what specific genetic issues are more prevalent with that breed and, as a breeder, make sure you are testing for them to ensure you have the strongest, healthiest stock. Although it is as impossible with dogs as it is with humans to breed out every genetic issue, we can at least hedge our bets and help the odds to the best of our ability. As owners, it is also important to be aware of the potential genetic issues that are problematic in the breed you have chosen as your companion so that you can do everything in your control to help as well. This includes choosing a good breeder, proper nutrition, vet care, and control of any environmental contributors. When a breeder and owner work together, we are giving the puppy the best chance for a long, healthy life.
The French Bulldog is a compact, hearty dog with heavier bone and substance than his size would suggest. Because he is a brachycephalic breed, it is important to be aware of inherent issues associated with the shortened muzzle. What does brachycephalic mean? Brachycephalic dogs are those that have a shorted muzzle. Some of the brachycephalic breeds include:
Affenpinscher
Boston Terrier
Boxer
Brussels Griffon
Bullmastiff
Cane Corso
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Chow Chow
Dogue De Bordeaux
English Toy Spaniel
English Bulldog
French Bulldog
Japanese Chin
Lhasa Apso
Pekingese
Pug
Shar Pei
Shih Tzu
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Common brachycephalic issues include:
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)
Because of the unique structure of the skull on brachycephalic breeds, a condition called Brachycephalic airway syndrome (BOAS) can occur. BOAS is caused by a combination of 3 different functional abnormalities:
Stenotic nares- this happens when the nostrils are too small or narrow and it causes restricted airflow. Brachycephalic breeds, in general, are very intolerant of heat and should not be left unattended on a hot day.
Elongated soft palate- the soft palate is part of the roof of the mouth that separates the mouth from the nasal passages. Because brachycephalic breeds have a shorter muzzle, this can cause the soft palate to be too short for the length of their mouth. This can cause the excess to flap in the throat causing snoring sounds and potentially restrict airflow into the lungs.
Everted laryngeal saccules- saccules are 2 small pockets in the back of the throat. The altered anatomy of brachycephalic breeds can cause these flaps to become inverted and further block the airway when there is increased effort to breathe either from the narrowed nasal passages, elongated soft palate, or respiratory distress from excess heat or exercise.
Prolapsed Nictitans Gland (Cherry eye)
Dogs and cats have a third eyelid called a nictitating membrane. Sometimes, this third eyelid can become displaced. Although this can happen with any breed of cat or dog, brachycephalic breeds do have a higher occurrence. When the third eyelid becomes displaced, the corner of the eye can become pink and swollen giving the characteristic “cherry eye” appearance that has given this issue its name. When this happens, a surgery may be required to reseat the eyelid or remove it.
Heatstroke
Humans sweat when are too hot to cool ourselves down. Dogs do not have this ability. They cool themselves through panting. Brachycephalic breeds are not able to pant as effectively due to the shortened muzzle. It is important to be cognizant of this when it is hot to avoid heatstroke. Walks and play time outside on hot summer days are best done in the mornings or evenings when it is cooler. Fresh water and shade must also be provided.
Ear Infections
Brachycephalic breeds are predisposed to ear infections due to a more narrow ear canal that makes it more difficult for moisture and debris to exit. Prick ears breeds (where the ears stand up, like our Frenchies) have a bit of an advantage as their ears do not fold down and seal more moisture in. Make keeping your Frenchies ears clean part of your grooming routine and use a good ear wash to flush ears if s/he has gotten into trouble (playing in the mud, etc.)
Higher Risk with Anesthesia
Because of their head shape and as well as their more narrow trachea, it can be more difficult to insert an endotracheal tube (breathing tube required for surgery). Further, if the endotracheal tube is removed too soon and the Frenchie is not fully awake, s/he may not compensate for any breathing difficulties as effectively. Because of these risks, it is important that your vet be familiar with the breed and take any necessary precautions.
Skin issues
As with any breed that has skin folds, care must be taken to keep the skin folds clean and not allow bacteria and debris to build up and cause a potential infection or dermatitis. This is easily accomplished with a dog bath wipe or baby wipe. Keep these skin folds dry and clean and making good hygiene part of your Frenchie routine.
Upper Respiratory Infection (URI)
Almost all dogs/animals/humans will get a bacterial or viral upper respiratory infection (a cold) at some point in their lives. Unfortunately, just like with excess heat and exercise, extra care must be taken with your Frenchie here too as it can be harder on your French Bulldog. Please seek veterinary attention if your dog has any symptoms of an URI:
– Runny nose or congestion
– Decreased appetite
– Ocular discharge (watery eyes)
– Cough
– Lethargy or decreased energy
– Sneezing
Heart Murmurs
I am including a link to my wife’s page on heart murmurs as it is very well done. Any animal with a heart can have heart problems and the Frenchie is no exception. Screening hearts on breeding dogs is important to ensure only the healthiest adults are used in a breeding program.
Heart Murmurs – Guardian Rottweilers
The most common reasons for a heart murmur to develop in Frenchies can include:
– Weakened cardiac muscle walls (dilated cardiomyopathy)
– Blockage of a heart valve
– Heartworm disease
– Heart wall defects
– Endocarditis (infection of the heart)
Pododermatitis
Pododermatitis is a paw allergy that Frencies can get. As with all breeds of dogs, allergies often starts on the inside with an allergic reaction to something in their food. Here is a link to the nutrition page on my wife’s Guardian Rottweiler website for more information on common dog food allergens. Nutrition – Guardian Rottweilers Injuries to the foot or burns to the paws from walking on hot pavement can also lead to infection. Obesity and malnutrition can also be contributing factors. If you see excessive licking of the paws, if they appear swollen, red or have hair loss, or if you see any pus or open wounds, please see your veterinarian. Left untreated, wounds to the feed can lead to bacterial infection.
Vomiting
Vomiting is relatively common in dogs and usually happens as a reaction to food allergies or eating and/or drinking too quickly. Although it is common, it is still important to take note of and be ready to see your veterinarian if your dog appears to be in distress, pain, or is lethargic. There are more serious issues that can cause vomiting such as swallowing a foreign body, ingestion of a toxin, a bacterial or viral infection, or esophageal issues.
Joint Issues
Hip and elbow dysplasia– Thankfully, medium and small breeds of dogs do not suffer from hip and elbow problems as frequently as large and giant breeds, however, it is still something to be cognizant of, especially in a breed that does not always understand he is smaller and is quite comfortable playing with the big dogs and going at everything full throttle. When choosing a breeder, be sure to choose a breeder that does hip and elbow x-rays on their breeding stock. Although this will not fully eliminate the possibility of hips and elbow problems as environment and nutrition are equal contributors, it will give you quite an advantage genetically. Here is a page on hips dysplasia from my wife’s Guardian Rottweiler website: CHD – Guardian Rottweilers
Patellar luxation
This happens when the kneecap (patella) slips out of position. Again, more common in large breed dogs due to their size and rapid growth, however, it can occur in any animal with a kneecap and Frenchies do not help themselves with their fearless “all in” approach to everything. Make sure patellas are something your breeder is aware of in their breeding program as poor structure can be a contributing factor. Families often mistakenly presume that proper structure and good breeding do not matter if they are not planning on showing or breeding. But correct structure does so much more than simply produce a more beautiful dog. It also produces a healthier, more structurally sound dog.