French Bulldogs are known to have several health issues. They are prone to Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) due to their flat faces [7]. They can also suffer from epilepsy, hip dysplasia, and respiratory difficulties [9]. Other common issues include eye conditions such as cherry eye, juvenile cataracts, or entropion, and skin allergies and autoimmune skin disorders [1][11].

French Bulldog Nutrition

French Bulldogs should be fed a well-balanced diet that corresponds to their “life stage” (puppy, adult, senior). This diet should include high-quality animal protein from poultry, meat, and fish. Fat provides a concentrated source of energy in the form of calories, as well as omega fatty acids for skin and coat support⁴. It’s also important to feed your Frenchie a balanced and healthy diet and avoid overfeeding or giving too many treats [8].

While a balanced diet should provide all the necessary nutrients for your French Bulldog, some owners choose to supplement their dog’s diet with things like fish oil for skin and coat health, and glucosamine for joint support. However, it’s important to consult with a vet before starting any supplement regimen.

Remember, every dog is unique, and these guidelines may not perfectly suit your French Bulldog. Always consult with a vet for personalized advice.
[Learn More: French Bulldog Nutrition]

Life span of a French Bulldog

The average life expectancy of a French Bulldog is between 10 and 12 years [4][5][6]. At the top end of the scale, the longest surviving French Bulldog reported in the American Kennel Club survey reached just over 14.5 years old. This is fairly average for dogs overall, but on the low end for small breeds. Bear in mind that these life expectancy figures are just averages, and the actual lifespan of an individual dog will vary due to elements like genetics, diet, physical activity, and overall health care.

Grooming needs for French Bulldogs

French Bulldogs have a smooth and short coat that sheds moderately and requires occasional brushing once or twice a week to remove loose hair and dirt. They don’t need weekly baths, but when they do need a bath, it’s important to use a vet-recommended shampoo due to their propensity for skin allergies.

Like other furry pets, French Bulldogs need to have their ears cleaned and nails trimmed regularly. Make sure they don’t get any food or drool stuck in their facial folds after eating by wiping them with a damp cloth wipe. These facial folds should be cleaned regularly to prevent infections and irritations [20][21].

Vet & medical costs for French Bulldogs

The average annual vet and medical costs of the French bulldog are about $800 to $1,500, depending on the health condition, the insurance, and the location. Adult French Bulldogs will need at least one vet check-up every year, which can cost between $130 and $270. For heartworm and flea prevention medications, you will pay between $70 and $210 each year [25][28].

Genetic skeletal issues in French Bulldogs

French Bulldogs are known to have skeletal issues due to their physical structure. They are prone to conditions like patellar luxation (dislocated kneecap), hemivertebrae (abnormally shaped spine bones), and hip dysplasia [27][29][31].

French Bulldogs can be susceptible to back problems, particularly if they carry excess weight or lack sufficient physical activity. To prevent injuries, discourage your Frenchie from leaping off elevated areas. Instead, teach them to use stairs to access higher furniture or sofas. It’s crucial to maintain their weight within a healthy range and ensure they get ample exercise to strengthen muscles and safeguard their back and joints.

Indications of a back injury in dogs can vary, from a simple limp to severe paralysis, often beginning with the hind legs. Any alterations in your Frenchie’s walk or overall behavior should be promptly brought to your vet’s attention [25].

Avoiding problems with their teeth.

They also have a unique dental arrangement due to their compact jawline, which can sometimes cause problems with tooth decay or gum disease if not properly cared for [21][25].

Ear Infections

Ear infections, encompassing both yeast and bacterial types, are a prevalent health concern for French Bulldogs. These infections could be indicative of underlying allergies or may be attributed to the structure of the ear canal. [25]

Manifestations of an ear infection can include behaviors such as head shaking and scratching, along with symptoms like odor and inflammation. If you observe these signs and suspect your Frenchie might have an ear infection, it’s advisable to schedule a visit with your veterinarian. During the appointment, the vet is likely to take a swab from your dog’s ear canal for microscopic examination to identify the source of discomfort.
To mitigate the occurrence of ear issues, regular ear cleanings using a pH-balanced ear cleaner designed specifically for dogs can be beneficial [25].

Despite these potential health issues, French Bulldogs are popular. Why?

Appearance: French Bulldogs have a unique and appealing look with their flat faces and compact size [2][11][18].
Behavior: They are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They are good companion dogs, suitable for a sedentary lifestyle with limited space, and are considered good for households with children [3].

Breed Loyalty: Owners of French Bulldogs are highly likely to want to own their breed again in the future, and to recommend their breed to other owners [3].

French Bulldog Health & Life Expectancy
Video Credit: Fenrir French Bulldog Show

Awareness of a dog breeds vulnerabilities is the best way to avoid them!

Knowledge of a breed’s health vulnerabilities is the first step in avoiding the “potential” negative results. Many dog breeds have specific health issues that are more common within that breed like those listed in this article for French Bulldogs.

For example, German Shepherds are prone to hip dysplasia, Labrador Retrievers are prone to obesity, and Beagles are more likely to have epilepsy [19]. It’s always a good idea to research a breed before deciding to get a dog, so you know what potential health issues to expect and can provide the best care possible.

It is important to note that not all dogs of a specific breed will develop these health issues. Many factors, including genetics, diet, exercise, and regular veterinary care, can influence your dog’s health. It’s also worth noting that mixed breed dogs can also be a great choice and can often have fewer health issues due to greater genetic diversity [22].

Owning any dog is a big responsibility.

Potential owners should be prepared to deal with any health issues that may arise, regardless of the breed. It’s always recommended to adopt from a reputable breeder or rescue organization, and to ensure the dog has been health tested for common breed-specific issues. Regular vet check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can also go a long way in preventing and managing health issues.

At Javi’s French Bulldogs & American XL Bullies Breeder, we not only want to provide you with the best value in your choice of the dogs we offer; we want to help inform you so that you make a choice that will be best for you and your pet – even if that means you realize that a French Bulldog or American XL Bullie is not for you!

In this article, “French Bulldog Health”, we hope to help you have the information to help your pet live a long and happy life with your family. Knowing how to avoid or minimize the effects of possible genetic issues may add healthy years to your Frenchie’s life!

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