Common Health Issues and Care Needs of a French Bulldog
The sturdy push-faced French bulldog has seen a huge rise in popularity, usurping the Labrador retriever from its 31-year reign as America's most popular purebred dog. Social media could be to the blame.
But what makes the Frenchie such a wonderful breed to own? The answer: their delightful personalities. They also have a few quirks that are worth noting.
Characteristics
A French Bulldog is a fun and affectionate companion with distinctive personality. These dogs are great family pets and are able to get along well with kids. They are also good with other pets and animals. However, they might be a little cautious around strangers. They also tend to drool or snore which can be annoying for owners.
They have a smooth, fine coat that is available in a variety of colors and patterns. They are also well-known for their wrinkles and soft, supple skin. They shed a bit and require regular grooming to keep looking their best. However, the shedding isn't as a problem as some other breeds, and a little grooming goes far.
Frenchies are moderately energetic and easy to train. They are great for active families but also like to spend time alone with their humans. They can be adapted to different living situations, even apartments. To keep active, they need daily walks or trips to the dog park. They also love swimming and running around the yard.
French Bulldogs are at risk of hip dysplasia and brachycephalic blockage of the airway syndrome. The latter condition is caused by the short face structure, which causes the tissues of the throat and nose to squeeze together. This condition can lead to breathing problems and heat stroke in hot weather. The joint disease affects the hip sockets, kneecaps and shins. It can be treated by physical therapy and medication.
Despite their health issues owners are extremely satisfied with these dogs. They are loyal and affectionate and love spending time with their owners. They get along well with children and other animals. Welpen Französische Bulldogge Kaufen refer to their dogs as part of the family.
A study showed that satisfaction among owners increased with first-time ownership and the strength of the dog-owner relationship. Pet owners who felt that their pet's situation was not optimal expressed a negative opinion of the breed. In addition, the odds of recommending the breed to others decreased with the increase in conformation-related health problems and the owner's perception that their dog's behavior were less than what they had expected.
Health issues
Frenchies are susceptible to a few health problems, but with proper diet and regular exercise, you can stay clear of the majority. A diet low in fat and sugar will help to prevent weight gain. They also need to drink plenty of fluids to keep well-hydrated. A sensitive stomach can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort such as constipation or diarrhea. A veterinarian can recommend diets to treat these conditions.
Because of their short back legs, Frenchies can develop arthritis or other mobility issues later in their lives. The patella (kneecaps) may slide, causing your dog's gait to be restricted or even skipped. This condition is known as patella luxation and is prevalent in smaller breeds. Treatment can range anywhere from rest to surgery.
Frenchies may have breathing issues due to their brachycephalic form. This is due to their faces that are flat, making it more difficult for them to breathe than breeds with longer noses. They may also have trouble recovering from anesthesia when their airways become inflamed.
Other health risks that could be present include a genetic predisposition to eye diseases, like corneal dystrophies and glaucoma and a tendency to get hot quickly. The latter can be caused by an overactive thyroid gland, which is common in this breed. They are also prone to bladder and kidney stones. These stones are made from the crystal called cystine which can be extremely irritating to the bladder. The doctor can dissolve them using an individualized diet that can increase the pH of urine or surgically remove them from the bladder.
Like all dogs, it's important 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 happy life with you.
Training
Frenchies are affectionate, playful dogs who make wonderful companions. They are easy to train and can easily adapt to various environments. They are a good option for families with children and other pets. They also do well in apartments. They may snore or drool in excess and are sensitive to heat. They also are prone to respiratory illness and other health problems. Fortunately, many rescues and shelters are homes to adorable Frenchies that need loving homes.
While some owners mentioned ease of training as a reason to recommend their breed, a lot of owners had issues training their pet. These difficulties were often attributed by owners to the stubbornness of French bulldogs. These issues can be lowered by working with an experienced dog trainer.
Dog trainers are trained to teach obedience and behavior modification techniques. They also assist owners in addressing issues with their behavior and improve their relationship with their pet. They can provide custom-designed training programs and assist with a variety of dog breeds. Their charges vary based on the kind of service offered and the length of the program.
Several research studies have explored the motivations of dog owners. In one study, it was discovered that owners who are driven by extrinsic reasons tend to purchase trendy breeds as "personal identity projects" while those who are intrinsically motivated consider their pets as part of the family. The latter group is more focused on innately satisfying goals, and they want to understand the unique personalities of their pets.
When selecting a dog trainer, look for an experienced, certified professional with a solid knowledge of positive reinforcement training. A reputable dog trainer will employ positive reinforcement to strengthen the relationship between the owner and dog. They will also have a thorough 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.
You can also learn how to take care of yourself.
Frenchies require a lot care to ensure a healthy and long life. They aren't for people who aren't willing to dedicate themselves to their specific needs. The playful breed doesn't want to be left on its own and is a great companion for family members as well as friends and other dogs. As a pet owner of a French bulldog, it's important to be aware of their health issues and their specific needs so that you can provide them with a cosy home.
This small breed is playful and affectionate, making them easy to train. They're also go-with-the-flow breeds that do not require a lot of exercise. Despite their laid-back personality they are also smart and are able to learn quickly. Training sessions should be enjoyable and positive, as Frenchies are often frustrated by repetition-based training exercises.
Frenchies might suffer from breathing issues due to their pushed in faces, particularly in hot temperatures. They are prone to skin issues and ear infections too. They're also susceptible to accidents because of their short legs and awkward gaits.
In contrast to many breeds of dog, Frenchies are not watchdogs and only bark when needed. They are extremely protective and will protect people and their possessions to the death. They are also excellent house dogs who spend most of their time indoors. They must be socialized by going for regular walks and going to the park.
The short, smooth coat of the French bulldog is easy to care for. The French bulldog is available in a variety of colors and markings including white cream (from light fawn up to red fawn) Fawn, fawn, and black. They can also have spotted, piebald or brindle patterns.
It can be difficult to adopt a puppy and especially if your research is lacking. You'll also have to prepare the home and buy supplies for your puppy. To help ensure your puppy has a happy, healthy life, ensure that you purchase pet insurance as early as possible.
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 also set up a pet savings account to pay for the medical expenses of your dog.