Heat Stroke
Due to their brachycephalic anatomy, French Bulldogs may not pant effectively. Since panting is the main method by which dogs cool themselves, French Bulldogs are very susceptible to heat stroke. During summer, ensure to always have fresh cool water available and keep your Frenchie indoors. Limit walks to the early morning or late evening to avoid over-exerting them in the heat.
Allergies
French Bulldogs frequently suffer from skin allergies. Environmental allergies will need to be mananged throughout your dog's lifetime, whether that's through medication or a special diet.
Skin fold dermatitis and Pyoderma
The characteristic folds around a French Bulldog's face (adorable as they are!) can cause problems by trapping moisture and heat, leading to an overgrowth of bacteria. It's recommended to gently clean your Frenchie's skin folds regularly to prevent bacterial infection (also known as pyoderma).
Ear infections
Unfortunately, skin allergies and ear infections often go hand in hand in French Bulldogs. The ear canal can become inflamed due to seasonal allergies and this warm, moist environment can breed yeast and bacteria. This requires topical antibiotics or antifungals to treat the infection, as well as managing the underlying cause.
Conjunctivitis and Corneal Ulcers
Conjunctivitis can also occur as a result of environmental allergies. Signs of conjunctivitis include a red appearance to the eye and discharge from the corners of the eyes. While bacterial conjunctivitis is treated with topical eyedrops, management of underlying allergic disease is important.
French Bulldogs have large eyelid openings which makes their eyes very prominent (part of their cute appeal!) This, coupled with their flat faces, makes their eyes susceptible to injury. A corneal ulcer can occur following a scratch or bump to the eye. Signs of a corneal ulcer include frequently blinking, squinting or rubbing at the eye.
It's important to get any eye condition checked out promptly, as they can be quite painful and can rapidly progress.
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
Intervertebral discs sit between the vertebral bones and act as cushioning for the spine. In certain breeds including the French Bulldog, the inner disc can slip out at high speed, causing bruising and swelling of the spinal cord.
Signs of IVDD affecting the neck include a low head posture, arched back and wobbliness in all four legs. Signs of IVDD affecting the back may include a tense posture, crying when picked up, and wobbliness or inability to walk with the rear legs. IVDD is typically diagnosed via MRI and treated with crate rest, anti-inflammatories or spinal surgery in severe cases.
