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 popular purebred dog. Social media may be a part at fault.
What makes the Frenchie breed so desirable? The answer is their charming personalities. They also have some oddities that are worth mentioning.
Characteristics
A French Bulldog is a playful and affectionate pet with a distinct personality. These dogs are great family pets and get well with children. They are also good around other animals and pets. They can be a bit shy when it comes to strangers. In addition, they are likely to snore and drink which can be a problem for owners.
They have a smooth fine coat that comes in various colors and patterns. They are also famous for their wrinkles as well as soft, supple skin. They shed a bit and require regular grooming to appear their best. The shedding is not as severe as other breeds, and a bit of grooming can be beneficial.
Frenchies have a moderate energy level and are easy to train. They are excellent playmates for active families however, they also enjoy peace and quiet in the sofa with their owners. They can be adapted to different living conditions, including apartments. However, they do need regular walks and visits to the dog park to stay active. They also like to go swimming and running around the yard.
The most common health issues of the French Bulldog include brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome and hip dysplasia. The face's short structure causes the tissues of the throat and nose to squish. This condition can cause breathing problems and heatstroke in hot weather. The latter is a joint condition that affects the kneecaps and hip sockets. It is treated with physical therapy and medication.
Despite the health issues, most owners of these dogs are extremely satisfied with their pet. They are incredibly loving and loyal, and they love spending time with their owners. They get along well with children and other animals. Many owners say their dogs are family members.
In a study, it was found that the satisfaction of owners increased when they first owned their pet and the strength of the relationship between the dog and its owner. Pet owners who felt that their pet's condition was less than ideal had a negative view of the breed. Additionally, the likelihood of being able to recommend the breed to others decreased with the amount of health issues related to conformation, as well as the belief of the owner that their dog's behavioural traits were more problematic than they expected.
Health-related Issues
Frenchies are susceptible to some health issues However, if you follow a healthy diet and regular exercise, you can prevent the majority. A diet that is low in sugar and fat will aid in preventing excessive weight growth. They also need to drink plenty of fluids to keep hydrated. Another issue that is common is a sensitive stomach that can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, such as constipation and diarrhea. A doctor can prescribe a diet plan to help manage these conditions.
Frenchies might develop arthritis or other mobility issues later in life due to their shortened legs. This is because the kneecaps (patella) may move out of position which causes your dog to hobble or swerve when walking. This condition is called patella luxation. It is common in smaller breeds. Treatment can range from rest to surgery.
Since Frenchies are brachycephalics, they can suffer from breathing problems. This is because their slender faces make it difficult to breathe for them than longer-nosed breeds. They may also have trouble recovering from anesthesia, as their airways are irritated.
Other health issues include a predisposition genetic to eye diseases such as corneal disorders and glaucoma and a tendency for dogs to overheat easily. This can be due to an overactive thyroid gland, which is common among the breed. They also are prone to bladder and kidney stones. They are formed from the crystal called cystine which can be extremely irritating to the bladder. The vet can dissolve them with an individualized diet that can increase the acidity of the urine, or surgically remove them from the bladder.
As with all dogs, it's crucial to take your French Bulldog to the vet to have regular checkups and vaccinations. A healthy puppy is more likely to live a the rest of its life.
Training
Frenchies are playful, affectionate dogs that make loving companions. These pups are easily trained and adapt well to different environments. They are ideal for families with children and other pets. They also work well in apartments. They can snore, or drool a lot, and be sensitive to heat. They are also susceptible to respiratory diseases and other health issues. Fortunately there are many shelters and rescues that are home to adorable Frenchies who need loving homes.
While some owners mentioned ease of training as a reason to endorse their breed, many others reported challenges in training their dog. These difficulties were often attributed by owners to the stubborn nature of French bulldogs. A professional trainer can help minimize the challenges.
Dog trainers are experts at teaching obedience methods and behavior modification. They also help owners address behavioral issues and improve their relationship with their pet. They are qualified to work with a variety of breeds of dogs. They also offer customized training plans for each client. The fees they charge are based on the type of service and the length of each program.
Numerous research studies have looked into the motivations of dog owners. One study found that extrinsically motivated owners tend to buy trendy breeds as part of an "personal identity project," whereas intrinsically motivated owners see their pets as members of their family. The latter group is more focused on innately satisfying goals and want to understand the unique personality of their pets.
When selecting Suggested Internet page , make sure you choose an experienced professional with certification that understands positive reinforcement. A reliable dog trainer will utilize positive reinforcement to strengthen the relationship between owner and dog. They will also have extensive knowledge of canine anatomy and behavior. They will also be able to recommend an appropriate diet for the breed, as well as provide important details.
Care
Frenchies require a lot of attention to ensure their health and long life. They aren't for first-time 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. As a pet owner of the French bulldog, it's important to know their common health issues and their specific needs so that you can provide them with a warm and welcoming home.
This small breed is a lot of fun and affectionate, making it easy to train. They're also go-with-the-flow dogs that don't require a lot of exercise. These pups can be quick to learn and are able to master the subject despite their relaxed personalities. Frenchies can be annoyed by repetitive training exercises. Make sure your sessions are fun and positive.
Frenchies might suffer from breathing issues because of their pushed-in faces, particularly in hot weather. Frenchies also have a tendency to skin and ear problems. They're also susceptible to accidents due to their short legs and awkward gaits.
Unlike many dog breeds, Frenchies are not watchdogs and will only bark when necessary. They are protective and will defend people and their possessions to the death. This makes them excellent pets for homes that are content to spend the majority of their time in the indoors. They need to be socialized by going for regular walks and going to the park.
A French bulldog's smooth, short coat is easy to groom and maintain. They come in a variety of colours and markings such as white cream, fawn, (ranging from light fawn to red fawn) and black. They may also sport piebald, brindle, or spots.
The process of getting a new puppy can be overwhelming, especially if you haven't done your research. You'll also need to prepare the home and buy supplies for your new puppy. Take advantage of pet insurance as soon as you can to ensure your puppy is healthy and happy life.
You can find low-cost coverage options for your pet's needs by comparing quotes from top pet insurance companies on BlueHaven's site. You can set up a pet saving account to help you pay for your dog's medical costs.