🔍 Quick Breed Overview

French Bulldogs are now the most popular breed in the USA, but their distinctive flat face and compact build come with increased health risks—over 20 disorders, many lifelong or requiring surgery. They’re particularly vulnerable to breathing, skin, spinal, and reproductive issues—plus anesthesia sensitivity.

1. Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)

Their short snouts, narrow nostrils (stenotic nares), and long soft palate make breathing difficult, and snorting and snoring are common. Surgery may improve airflow but carries a higher anesthesia risk.

2. Heatstroke & Overheating

Impaired panting makes cooling inefficient, increasing heatstroke risk—especially in warm or humid weather.

Tip: Avoid midday heat, monitor water access, and use cooling mats or vests.

3. Skin Fold Dermatitis & Pyoderma

Moist, warm skin folds can harbor yeast/bacteria—leading to dermatitis and pyoderma.

• Clean daily, dry folds fully.
• Use vet‑approved antimicrobial sprays/shampoos.
• Maintain a healthy weight.

4. Allergies

Frenchies commonly suffer allergies—food, environmental, or contact—leading to itchiness, hot spots, ear infections, and GI upset.

• Identify triggers via food trials or testing.
• Use hypoallergenic diets and environmental controls.
• Consider fatty acids, antihistamines, or immunotherapy.

5. Orthopedic & Vertebral Issues

French Bulldogs may have:

• Hip dysplasia: abnormal hip joint; causes arthritis.
• Patellar luxation: kneecap displacement (5× higher than average).
• Hemivertebrae: spinal deformities causing nerve pain or paralysis.
• Intervertebral Disc Disease: disc herniation risk.

Care: Regular vet checks, joint supplements, weight control, safe surfaces, and possible surgery.

6. Reproductive Concerns & Cesarean Rates

Most Frenchie litters are born via C-section (>80%) due to a narrow pelvis and a large head. Dystocia risk is high (~16×).

Advice: Work only with breeders who screen for pelvic conformation and use planned C-sections.

7. Eye & Ear Problems

Common eye issues include cherry eye, entropion, conjunctivitis, and cataracts. Ear infections are common due to folded ears and allergies.

• Gently clean folds and ears, monitor for discharge.
• Prompt vet evaluation for eye surgery or meds.

8. Dental & Oral Health

Crowded teeth and malocclusion increase plaque buildup and periodontal disease. Regular brushing and dental care are essential.

9. Neurological & Cardiac Conditions

Frenchies may develop:

• Degenerative myelopathy and Hansen-type disc disease.
• Pulmonic stenosis: narrowed heart valves causing fatigue or collapse.
• Von Willebrand’s disease: a clotting disorder.

Screening via cardiac auscultation, MRI, and genetic testing is recommended.

🔟 Life Expectancy & Preventative Care

Average life expectancy is ~9–10 years, lower than similar breeds.

• Preventative care: Yearly vet check-ups, proactive weight and dental care, joint support supplements.
• Insurance: Strongly recommended due to high healthcare costs.

🛡️ Lifestyle & Management Tips

• Keep cool—avoid heat, use AC, fans, cooling gear.
• Feed balanced diet rich in omega fatty acids for joints and skin.
• Groom daily—clean face folds, ears, teeth.
• Encourage safe exercise—avoid stairs, slippery surfaces.
• Use ramps/ramps for couches to avoid spinal strain.

🧸 Ask A Vet, Woopf & Purrz Support

• 🩺 Ask A Vet: Personalized monitoring, diet reviews, surgical referrals.

📋 Summary Table: Frenchie Health Risks & Management

🎯 Final Thoughts

French Bulldogs are lovable and loyal—but their unique conformation places them at high risk for serious health issues. Lifelong welfare hinges on responsible breeding, proactive veterinary care, and attentive lifestyle management. With the right support from Ask A Vet,  Frenchies can thrive well beyond expectations 🐾💛.

— Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc

Looking for a personalized care plan or breeder guidance? Visit AskAVet.com or download the Ask A Vet app today.