Common Health Issues and Care Needs of a French Bulldog
The French bulldog, a strong dog with a face that is push-faced has seen a rise in popularity and is now the most sought-after purebred. It replaces the Labrador Retriever which held that title for 31 years. Social media may be partly to the blame.
But what is it that makes the Frenchie such a heart-melting breed to own? The answer is their adorable personalities. They also have a few oddities that are worth mentioning.
Characteristics
A French Bulldog is a jolly, affectionate companion with a distinct personality. These dogs make great family pets, and they can be very good with children. They also do well with other animals and pets. They can be a bit nervous when it comes to strangers. They also tend to drool or snore which can be annoying for some owners.
They have a smooth, fine coat that is available in various colors and patterns. They are also renowned for their wrinkles and soft, supple skin. They shed a bit and require regular grooming in order to appear their best. The shedding is not as bad as other breeds and a little brushing can be beneficial.
Frenchies are moderately active and easy to train. They can be great playmates for families that are active However, they also love relaxing on the couch with their human. They can be adapted to various living conditions including apartments. However, they require daily walks and trips to the dog park to keep active. They also love swimming and playing in the yard.
The most common health issues of the French Bulldog include brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome and hip dysplasia. The face's short structure causes tissues in the throat and nose to relax. This condition can cause breathing problems and heatstroke during warm weather. The joint disease affects the kneecaps, hip sockets and the shins. It can be treated by physical therapy and medication.
Despite their health issues, owners are extremely satisfied with their dogs. They are affectionate and loyal and love to spend time with their owners. They get along well with children and other animals. Many owners describe their dogs as family members.
A study revealed that the satisfaction of owners grew when they first owned a pet and the degree of the dog-owner bond. Owners who felt their pet's condition was less than ideal expressed a negative opinion of the breed. In addition, the odds of being able to recommend the breed to others decreased with the number of health issues related to conformation and the owner's perception that their dog's behavioural traits were worse than expected.
Health concerns
Frenchies may be afflicted by some health issues However, if you follow a healthy diet and regular exercise, you can avoid most of them. This includes a diet low in fat and sugar, which will prevent excessive weight gain. They also need to drink plenty of fluids to remain hydrated. A sensitive stomach can trigger gastrointestinal discomfort such as diarrhea or constipation. A doctor can prescribe a diet to help manage these conditions.
Due to their shorter back legs, Frenchies can develop arthritis or other mobility problems later in their lives. This is because the kneecaps (patella) can slide out of alignment and cause your dog to hobble or skip when they walk. This condition is known as patella luxation. It is fairly common in smaller breeds. Treatment can range anywhere from rest to surgery.
Frenchies can have breathing problems because of their brachycephalic design. This is because their flat faces make it harder to breathe more easily than breeds with longer noses. They also have difficulty recovering from anesthesia as their small airways become inflamed.
Other health issues include a genetic predisposition to eye conditions like corneal disorders and glaucoma and the tendency of dogs to become overheated easily. This could be caused by an overactive thyroid gland which is common in these breeds. Additionally, they are prone to bladder and kidney stones. These stones are composed of the crystal cystine which can be very irritating to the bladder. The vet can dissolve the stones using the prescription diet that can increase the acidity in the urine or surgically eliminate the bladder stones.
As with all dogs it's crucial to take your French Bulldog to the vet to have regular examinations and vaccinations. A healthy pup is more likely to live a an extended and happy life with you.
Training
Frenchies are affectionate, playful dogs who make wonderful companions. These pups are easy to train and adjust well to various environments. They are an excellent option for families with children and other pets. They are also a good fit in apartments. They can however be prone to snoring or drooling and may be sensitive to heat. They also are prone to respiratory illness and other health problems. Fortunately, many rescues and shelters are homes to adorable Frenchies that need loving homes.
Many owners reported difficulties in training their pet. Some owners cited the ease of training to justify their choice of breed. These difficulties were often attributed by owners to the stubborn nature of French bulldogs. Working with a professional trainer can help minimize these challenges.
Dog trainers are experts in teaching obedience and methods to modify behavior. They can also help owners improve their relationship with pets and address any issues with their behavior. They are qualified to work with a range of breeds of dogs. They also offer customized training programs for each client. Their fees are dependent on the type of service and the length of each program.
Many research studies have investigated the motivations of dog owner. One study showed that extrinsically motivated owners tend to purchase trendy breeds as part of an "personal identity project," whereas intrinsically motivated owners see their pets as members of their family. The latter group is more interested in having a sense of fulfillment and wants to know the distinct personalities of their pets.
When choosing a dog trainer, choose an experienced, certified professional with a deep understanding of positive reinforcement training. A reputable trainer will use positive reinforcement to promote obedience and strengthen the overall bond between the owner and dog. They also have a deep knowledge of canine anatomy and behavior. They will be able provide crucial information and recommend an appropriate diet for the breed.
Care
Frenchies require a great deal of attention to live a long and healthy life. They aren't for new dog owners who aren't prepared to dedicate themselves to their specific requirements. This playful breed doesn't want to be left on its own and enjoys the company of family members and friends as well as other dogs. As the owner of the French bulldog, it's essential to be aware of their health issues and specific care requirements to provide them with a warm and welcoming home.
This small breed is a lot of fun and affectionate, which makes it easy to train. They are also sociable and don't require a lot of training. These dogs are intelligent and quick to learn despite their relaxed personalities. Frenchies can be frustrated by repetitive training exercises. Make sure that your training sessions are fun and positive.
Due to their pushed-in faces, Frenchies can have breathing problems, especially in hot weather. They're susceptible to skin issues and ear infections as well. They are also at risk of accidents because of their short legs and awkward gaits.
Unlike many dog breeds, Frenchies are not watchdogs and will only bark when it is necessary. Nonetheless, they make protective companions and will protect their people and possessions with their lives. They are therefore great house dogs that spend the majority of their time indoors. They need to be socialized by going for daily walks and visiting the park.
A French bulldog's smooth, short coat is easy to groom and maintain. The French bulldog is available in a wide range of colors and markings including white cream (from light fawn up to red fawn) Fawn, fawn, and black. They may also sport brindle, spotted, or piebald patterns.
The process of getting a new puppy can be overwhelming, especially if you haven't done your research. Apart from choosing a veterinarian and making appointments, you'll need organize your home and purchase equipment for your new pet. Find pet insurance as quickly as possible to ensure that your puppy lives a healthy and happy life.
You can find low-cost coverage options for your furry friend by comparing quotes from top insurers for pets on BlueHaven's website. You can also open the pet savings account to help pay for your dog's medical costs.