Common Health Issues and Care Needs of a French Bulldog
The sturdy push-faced French bulldog has seen a huge rise in popularity, surpassing the Labrador retriever from its 31-year reign as America's most adored purebred dog. Social media could be to the blame.
But what makes the Frenchie such a heart-melting breed to own? The answer: their delightful personalities. They also have some oddities that are worth mentioning.
Characteristics
A French Bulldog is a dog with a unique personality and is very playful. They make wonderful pet for families, and they can be very good with children. They also get along well with other pets and animals. They may be a little cautious around strangers. kaufen oder adoptieren tend to drool or snore which can be annoying for some owners.
These dogs have a fine, smooth coat that is available in many colors and patterns. They are also famous for their wrinkles and supple, soft skin. They shed a little and require regular grooming in order to look their best. The shedding is not as severe as other breeds, and a little brushing can be beneficial.
Frenchies are moderately active and are easy to train. They are great for families with active children, but love spending time with their humans. They are able to adapt to different living environments, including living in 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.
French Bulldogs are prone to hip dysplasia as well as brachycephalic obstruction of the airway syndrome. The latter condition is caused by the short facial structure which causes the tissues in the nose and throat to squeeze together. This condition can lead to breathing problems and heat stroke during hot weather. The joint disease affects the hip sockets, kneecaps and shins. It can be treated with medication and physical therapy.
Despite their health issues, the majority of owners are extremely satisfied with their dogs. They are incredibly affectionate and loyal and enjoy spending time with their owners. They get along with children and other animals. In fact, many owners say their dogs are family members.
A study revealed that the satisfaction of owners grew with the first time ownership and the quality of the relationship between dog and owner. However owners who viewed their pet's health as less than ideal had less positive feelings about the breed. In addition, the chances of being able to recommend the breed to others decreased with the amount of health issues related to conformation, as well as the perception of the owner that their dog's behavioural traits were less than what they had expected.
Health-related Issues
Frenchies are susceptible to some health issues, but most of them can be avoided by regular exercise and a healthy diet. A diet that is low in fat and sugar will help prevent excessive weight increase. Also, they should drink plenty of water to remain well-hydrated. Another issue that is common is a sensitive stomach, which can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, such as diarrhea and constipation. A doctor may prescribe a diet to assist in addressing these issues.
Frenchies might develop mobility issues or arthritis later in life due to their shorter legs. The patella (kneecaps) can slide, causing your dog's gait to be hampered or skipped. This is known as patella luxation and it is quite common in smaller breeds. Treatment options vary 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 to breathe than breeds that have longer noses. They also may have difficulty recovering from anesthesia, as their airways become inflamed.
Other health issues include a genetic predisposition to eye conditions like corneal disorders and glaucoma, as well as the tendency of dogs to become overheated easily. The latter is caused by an overactive thyroid gland which is common in this breed. In addition, they are prone to bladder and kidney stones. These stones are made of the cystine crystal which is extremely irritating for the bladder. The vet can dissolve them using the help of a prescribed diet that increases the pH of urine or surgically remove them from the bladder.
Like all dogs, it's essential to take your French Bulldog to the vet regularly for checkups and vaccinations. A healthy dog is more likely to live a an extended and enjoyable life with you.
Training
Frenchies are playful, affectionate dogs that make loving companions. They are easily trained and are able to adapt to different environments. They are a great option for families with children and other pets. They are also a good fit in apartments. They may snore or drool in excess and may be sensitive to heat. They also are susceptible to respiratory illnesses and other health issues. Fortunately, many rescues and shelters are home to adorable Frenchies who require loving homes.
Many owners reported difficulties in training their pet. Some owners mentioned the ease of training to justify their breed recommendation. These difficulties were often attributed to the French bulldogs' stubborn nature. This problem can be overcome by working with an experienced dog trainer.
Dog trainers are experts in teaching obedience techniques and behavior modification. They can also help owners improve their relationship with pets and address any issues with their behavior. They are able to work with a variety of breeds of dogs. They also offer customized training plans for each client. Their charges vary based on the kind of service and the duration of the program.
Many research studies have investigated the motivations of dog owners. 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 dogs as family members. The latter group is more focused on innately satisfying goals, and they want to understand the unique personality of their pets.
When selecting a dog trainer, look for a certified, experienced professional with a deep understanding of positive reinforcement. A trustworthy dog trainer will use positive reinforcement to strengthen the relationship between the dog and owner. They also have extensive knowledge about canine anatomy and behaviour. They will be able to recommend an appropriate diet for the breed and provide other important information.
Care
Frenchies need a lot of attention to ensure their health and long-lasting life. They're not suitable for new dog owners who aren't willing to be devoted to their individual needs. The playful breed loves being with family, friends, or with other dogs. It is essential to know the most common health issues and requirements of your French bulldog to ensure they can enjoy an environment that is a joy to be in.
The small breed is fun and affectionate, which makes it easy to train. They are also very easy to handle and don't require a lot of training. These dogs are smart and learn quickly despite their laid-back personalities. Frenchies are often frustrated by repetitive training exercises. Make sure that your sessions are fun and enjoyable.
Due to their pushed-in faces, Frenchies can have breathing problems, especially in hot temperatures. Frenchies also have a tendency to ear and skin problems. They're also prone to accidents due to their small legs and awkward gaits.
Unlike many dog breeds, Frenchies are not watchdogs and will only bark when necessary. They are affluent and will defend people and their possessions to the death. This makes them excellent dogs for the home, who are happy to spend a lot of their time in the indoors. Regardless of their tendencies to be indoor they require daily walks and trips to the park for socialization.
The short, smooth hair of a French bulldog is easy to groom. They come in a variety of colors and patterns such as white cream, fawn (ranging from light fawn to red) and black. They also come with spotted, piebald or brindle patterns.
It can be overwhelming to find a new puppy and especially if your research isn't thorough enough. Besides finding a veterinarian and scheduling appointments, you'll have to prepare your home and buy items for your new puppy. To help ensure your puppy's healthy, happy life, ensure that you get pet insurance early.
BlueHaven offers the ability to compare quotes from the most reputable pet insurers. You can find affordable options for your pet. You can also use an account for savings for your pet to pay for the medical expenses of your dog.