Common Health Issues and Care Needs of a French Bulldog
The sturdy push-faced French bulldog has soared in popularity, usurping the Labrador retriever from its 31-year reign as America's most adored purebred dog. Social media could be partly responsible.
What is it that makes the Frenchie so appealing to own? Their delightful personalities are the answer. They also have a few peculiarities that are worth mentioning.
Characteristics
A French Bulldog has a unique personality and is a lot of fun. They make wonderful family pets, and they are great with children. They are also good around other animals and pets. They can be a bit nervous when it comes to strangers. Additionally, they tend to snore and drool which can be a problem for owners.
They have a smooth, fine coat that is available in a variety of colors and designs. They are also well-known for their wrinkles and soft, supple skin. They shed a bit and require regular grooming to look their best. The shed isn't as severe as other breeds, and a quick brushing can go a long way.
Frenchies are moderately energetic and easy to train. They are ideal for active families but also love spending time with their owners. They can adapt to different living environments, including apartments. However, they will require regular walks and visits to the dog park to stay active. They also enjoy swimming and running around the yard.
The most prevalent health issues of the French Bulldog include brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome and hip dysplasia. The short face structure causes tissues in the nose and throat to squish. This can lead to breathing problems and heatstroke in hot temperatures. The joint disease affects the kneecaps, hip sockets and shins. It can be treated by physical therapy and medication.
Despite the health issues most owners of these dogs are extremely satisfied with their pet. They are affectionate and loyal and love to spend time with their owners. They get along well with children and other animals. Many owners refer to their dogs as family members.
A study showed that the satisfaction of owners grew with first-time ownership and the strength of the dog-owner relationship. However owners who viewed their dog's health to be less than ideal had less positive feelings about the breed. The odds of recommending a breed to others decreased with the amount and severity of conformation-related issues, as well as the owner's perception of their dog's behavior.
Health Issues
Frenchies are susceptible to a few health problems However, if you follow a healthy diet and regular exercise, you can avoid most of them. This includes a diet low in sugar and fat that will help prevent excessive weight increase. To remain hydrated, people should also drink plenty of fluids. Another problem that is often encountered is a sensitive stomach that can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, such as diarrhea and constipation. A doctor can prescribe a diet plan to assist in addressing these issues.
Frenchies may develop mobility issues or arthritis later in life due to their shorter legs. This is due to the fact that the kneecaps (patella) can slip out of place which causes your dog to sway or swerve when walking. This condition is known as patella luxation. It is quite common in smaller breeds. Treatment options range from rest to surgery.
Since Frenchies are brachycephalic, they can experience breathing problems. It is because they have faces that are flat, making it more difficult for them to breath than breeds with longer noses. They can also have difficulty recovering from anesthesia when their airways get inflamed.
Other health issues include a genetic predisposition eye conditions like corneal disorders and glaucoma, as well as the tendency of dogs to overheat easily. The latter is caused by an overactive thyroid gland which is common in this breed. They also are prone to bladder and kidney stones. These stones are made of the cystine crystal which is extremely irritating to the bladder. The doctor can dissolve them with a prescription diet that increases the acidity of the urine, or surgically remove them from the bladder.
As with all dogs it's crucial to take your French Bulldog to the vet for regular checks and vaccinations. A healthy puppy is more likely to live a a long life with you.
Training
Frenchies are playful, affectionate dogs that make great companions. They are easy to train and adapt well to different environments. They are a good choice for families with children and other pets. They also work well in apartments. They may snore or drool excessively, and be sensitive to heat. They also are prone to respiratory diseases and other health problems. Fortunately there are many shelters and rescues that are the home of adorable Frenchies who require loving homes.
Although some owners have cited the ease of training as a reason for recommending their breed, others reported challenges in training their pet. These issues were frequently attributed by owners to the stubbornness of French bulldogs. A professional trainer can help minimize the challenges.
additional resources are experts in teaching obedience and techniques for modifying behavior. They can also help owners improve their relationship with pets and address issues with behavior. They are able to offer tailored training programs and deal with various breeds of dogs. The cost of their services varies based on the kind of service offered and the length of the program.
Numerous research studies have looked into the motivations of dog owners. In one study, it was discovered that those who are driven by extrinsic reasons tend to purchase trendy breeds for their "personal identity projects" while those who are intrinsically motivated view their pets as part of the family. The latter group is more interested in innately satisfying goals and want to understand the unique personality of their pets.
When selecting a dog trainer, select an experienced professional with certification who understands positive reinforcement. A trustworthy dog trainer will utilize positive reinforcement to improve the relationship between dog and owner. They will also have a thorough knowledge of canine anatomy and behavior. They will be able to suggest an appropriate diet for the breed and give important information.
Care
Frenchies require a good amount of care to live a long and healthy life. They're not for first-time dog owners who aren't prepared to dedicate themselves to their specific requirements. This playful breed doesn't like to be left alone and enjoys the company of family members, friends, and other dogs. As a pet owner of the French bulldog, it's important to know their common health issues and their specific needs so that you can provide them with a cosy home.
This small breed is playful and affectionate, making them easy to train. They are also very easy to handle and don't need much training. Despite their laid-back personality, these pups are smart and can learn quickly. Frenchies can become frustrated by repetitive training activities. Make sure that your training sessions are fun and positive.
Frenchies might suffer from breathing issues due to their pushed in faces, particularly during hot temperatures. They are prone to skin issues and ear infections as well. A short leg and an awkward gait can also cause them to be at risk of accidents.
Frenchies, unlike many other dog breeds do not bark unless it is absolutely necessary. They are protective and will protect people and their belongings to the death. They are therefore perfect house dogs who spend the majority of their time inside. Regardless of their tendencies to be indoor, they still need daily walks and trips to the park to socialize.
The short, smooth hair of the French bulldog is easy to groom. They can be found in various colors and patterns such as white cream, fawn (ranging from light fawn to red), and black. They may also have piebald, brindle, or patterns with spotted spots.
It can be a bit overwhelming to find a new puppy particularly if your knowledge isn't thorough enough. Besides choosing a veterinarian and making appointments, you'll have to organize your home and purchase items for your new puppy. Get pet insurance as soon as you can in order to ensure your puppy is happy and healthy life.
You can find affordable coverage options for your pet by comparing quotes from top pet insurance companies on BlueHaven's site. You can set up an account for saving money on your pet to help you pay for medical expenses for your dog.