French Bulldogs have a median lifespan of nine years, but a typical life expectancy is closer to ten or twelve years. According to the British Kennel Club, the Frenchie’s lifespan is on the shorter end of the small-breed spectrum. The Chihuahua has an average lifespan of 17 years, so Frenchies are expected to live considerably shorter lives than their Chihuahua cousins. In fact, in a 2013 review of over 2,200 French Bulldogs under veterinarian care, 98 Frenchies died at an average age of 3.6 years.
French Bulldogs have brachycephalic facial construction
The short-nosed head structure of the French Bulldog causes breathing problems and knock-on effects, such as laryngeal collapse. These conditions can cause respiratory distress and chronic discomfort, and in severe cases, may even result in death. Therefore, it is important to know the exact causes of brachycephaly before purchasing a dog. Listed below are the main causes of brachycephalic facial construction.
While it is difficult to diagnose French bulldogs due to their flat face, a few common ailments can be treated. The most common of these problems is cherry eye, a mass appearing over the eye. It can appear continually or periodically. The mass is caused by a weak attachment of the third eyelid gland to the eyelid, which causes the gland to pop out.
They are prone to congenital issues
French Bulldogs are known for their longevity and health, but there are a few problems that can make their lifespan shorter. The UK Kennel Club (UKKC) has listed them as a category 3 breed for congenital disorders, which is the highest level. The Breed Watch system is designed to identify common health conditions and occurrence of visible or exaggerated problems.
One of the most common congenital disorders in French bulldogs involves their very flat faces. Because of this, these dogs are prone to developing a number of congenital disorders. A common congenital disorder affecting French bulldogs is a deformity of the palate, the roof of the mouth which separates the nasal passages from the mouth. Due to incomplete development of the tissues in this area, a deformed palate can lead to a wide range of issues. The most common defect is cleft palate, which affects the hard and soft palates and the lip.
While French bulldogs are very good with children and babies, they can be a bit standoffish around strangers. Early socialization is necessary to help French bulldogs get along with other dogs and people. Because they don’t tend to bark very much, this breed is great for families with small children. However, if you live in an apartment, socialization is not necessary as long as you take your dog to the park and socialize them with other dogs and people.
It’s best to start socializing your French Bulldog puppy when it is at least two to three months old. This will give it time to adjust to the new dog while still young enough to accept the change. If you don’t start early, your puppy may develop a fear of new things, which will make socialization a challenge for him in the long run. It’s important to remember that the more you socialize your French bulldog puppy, the better it will be for you and for the other people around it.
They need regular check-ups
The health of your French Bulldog is one of the most important aspects of its care. Regular checkups are important to identify problems before they get worse. A number of common diseases affect French bulldogs, including inflammatory bowel disease, which causes the digestive tract to thicken and become infected with immune system cells. This disease causes chronic vomiting and diarrhea, and can be aggravated by stress, diet changes, and intestinal parasites. Diagnostic tests may include an intestinal biopsy, and your French Bulldog may need special diets to treat the symptoms.
Surgical procedures may be required to treat a French bulldog’s entropion, a condition that causes the eyelid to roll inward, which rubs against the cornea. Entropion is a serious medical condition that can affect any dog, but the condition is particularly common in French bulldogs. The veterinarian may perform surgery to correct the issue, or use an elimination diet to eliminate the allergens causing the eyelid to roll inward.
They require being active
A healthy diet and regular physical activity is essential for a long life for French bulldogs. A healthy lifestyle includes exercise, proper nutrition, and joint care. Freshly cooked meals delivered to your door are an ideal option for Frenchies. Avoid the temptation to let them couch potatoes or snooze on the couch. Encourage your Frenchie to engage in a variety of activities, including playing with toys and taking walks.
A diet rich in probiotics is also important for your French bulldog. Good bacteria aids in digestion and helps maintain a balanced immune system. If your dog does not eat enough of this good bacteria, the digestive system may malfunction and its immune system will suffer. Exercise is also important for older French bulldogs. They don’t need much physical activity while young, but they may require more physical activity as they age.