As practice shows, French bulldogs are quite strong, hardy, well-built and, for the most part, quite healthy dogs. However, there are a number of certain specific diseases, as well as hereditary predispositions, which are very characteristic of this breed.
Backbone
One of the common problems is the state of the backbone. The French Bulldog belongs to the risk group, which is due to frequent pathologies in the ridge zone. Quite often, the owners of such a breed are faced with the formation of trapezoidal vertebrae or pathological changes in the intervertebral discs.
Such pathologies are genetic, and if such problems are detected, adults are not allowed to breed in the conditions of the nursery. Among other things, such a pet is categorically contraindicated for significant motor loads or jumps.
Features of the structure also affected the senses of the French bulldog, including problems with the eyes, ears and nasopharynx. Significant failures in the state of health can occur in a dog due to sufficiently large and bulging eyes. The most common problem is conjunctivitis, with the defeat of which there is redness of the eyes, pronounced lacrimation, as well as the presence of abundant, purulent discharge that glues the eyelids.
Respiratory system
A large head and a short nose are the main cause of the problem of the respiratory system of dogs of such a breed as the French Bulldog. In principle, in a completely healthy pet, breathing is completely silent or with a slight snoring. Pathological changes are accompanied by pronounced brachycephalic breathing, almost constant wheezing of the dog, which very characteristically increases on hot days, with an increased level of humidity or the presence of excess weight in the animal.
Owners of the French bulldog can face neurological pathologies that negatively affect the general condition of the dog, and often become the main cause of paralysis of the hind legs, accompanied by: confusion of movements, weakness of the hind limbs, rapidly progressive paralysis. If the gait of a French bulldog has become sluggish, confused – you need to contact a veterinarian.
The main reasons for the failure of the hind legs of the French Bulldog are as follows: severe bruises, gust and tendon injuries, fractures, tumor changes, arthritis, discopathy.
The most common skin diseases include various types of allergies, including dermatitis and reactions to parasites. The main manifestations of allergies can be: skin itching and scratching, the appearance of rashes on the skin, debilitating sneezing, shortness of breath, the appearance of redness and swelling under the coat, local hair loss.
Allergies
Allergies can be year-round or seasonal. Contact allergy is caused by the use of inappropriate hygiene and cosmetic products, as well as household chemicals, in the process of caring for a pet. Shampoos must necessarily be of high quality and hypoallergenic. To minimize the risk of developing allergies in the pet, it is necessary to frequently perform wet cleaning and ventilation of the room and to add to the daily food appropriate supplements that will prevent your dog from having all the symptoms. One of the best treats is Allergy Chews for Itchy Skin & Hot Spot, the vet doctors say. The chews suppress the appearance of symptoms and there is no need to fight with allergies, as constant preventive measures do the trick.
Dermatitis
Dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin caused by the presence of an allergen. French bulldogs are the owners of a low immune threshold and they are prone to a vivid manifestation of the body’s reaction to any stimuli. The most common is atopic dermatitis. It is visible on the dog, and it gives it away by constant scratching. It is characterized by inflammation and rashes on certain areas of the skin, the appearance of blisters on the abdomen, between the fingers, on the testicles. Skin diseases are more often affected by light-colored dogs, so they require more careful monitoring of hygiene. Allergy Skin diseases are treated easily, but problems arise when self-diagnosis and determination of what exactly is caused by dermatitis. Here you need to consult a veterinarian. The method of control is to review the products from the diet and alternately exclude them, until the source of the allergen is identified. Besides, it is recommended to start giving treats to a dog, often suffering from allergies. Chews are the most undistinguished and advantageous forms of treats for dogs as it does not cause any difficulty for your dog to eat. It can even become a favorite part of a day, if you turn giving chews into a game.
How to the prevention of diseases
Currently, there are highly effective medications and surgical methods that can cure the dog of this disease or, at least, relieve the general condition of the animal. But it is impossible to completely protect the dog from all existing diseases. But we must remember that the full responsibility for the health of the dog lies with the owner. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian, a full and healthy diet, the presence of vitamins, walks and moderate active games, socialization with other dogs, here is a simple set of rules necessary for a healthy dog that will delight you with its presence in the house for many years. The dog is completely dependent on the owner, so it is necessary to provide it with all the conditions for a full and happy life. Knowing about the main diseases and carefully monitoring the French bulldog in the course of life, ensuring the prevention of diseases and taking timely measures, will significantly reduce the risks and ensure a long and happy life for your pet.
