French Bulldogs can live from 11-14 years. Here is how to make the most of those them:
Your French Bulldog can live for between 11-14 years according to the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals).
However, like any breed, they come with their own set of health concerns.
That’s why it’s crucial for you to understand the best health tips for taking care of your French Bulldog to ensure a happy and healthy life for your furry friend.
Here are some of my top tops for taking care of your Frenchie. As always, seek the guidance of a vet for any serious health concerns.
Understanding the Unique Needs of French Bulldogs
Before diving into the health tips, it’s important to understand the unique characteristics of French Bulldogs.
Frenchies have a brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure, which makes them prone to breathing difficulties.
Their short snouts can also lead to overheating.
Additionally, they have compact bodies that can make them prone to joint issues.
Keeping these unique traits in mind will help guide the specific care they need.
1. Watch Out for Breathing Problems 🫁
Because French Bulldogs have that adorable squished face, they are prone to brachycephalic airway syndrome.
This means they may struggle to breathe, especially in hot weather or when overexerted.
You may notice your Frenchie snorting, snoring, or even gasping for air.
Here is what you can do about it:
Keep your French Bulldog in a cool environment, especially during the summer.
Make sure they don’t overexert themselves during playtime, especially in humid weather.
And when you’re out for a walk, keep it short and sweet to avoid stressing their breathing.
If your Frenchie seems to be struggling, consult your vet.
In extreme cases, surgery might be necessary to help open up their airways.
2. Control Their Weight ⚖️
French Bulldogs may be small, but they LOVE to eat.
But keeping your Frenchie at a healthy weight is crucial for their overall well-being.
Extra weight can put pressure on their joints, leading to issues like arthritis, spinal problems, and hip dysplasia.
Being overweight can exacerbate their breathing problems, just like in humans…
How can you keep their weight in check?
Feed them a balanced diet, avoid giving too many treats, and make sure they get regular exercise.
You don’t need to take them on long, strenuous hikes – short walks or even some indoor playtime will do the trick. This is what makes Frenchies great apartment pets!
If you’re unsure about how much to feed them, ask your vet for guidance.
3. Keep Their Skin Folds Clean 🧼
French Bulldogs have adorable wrinkles, especially around their face.
But those cute skin folds can become a breeding ground for bacteria if not cleaned properly.
Moisture and dirt can get trapped in those folds, leading to infections and irritation.
You may notice redness, a bad odor, or your Frenchie scratching at their face.
Here is what you can do:
4. Eye Care is Essential 👀
French Bulldogs have prominent eyes that can be prone to injury or irritation.
Their eyes can easily become dry or develop conditions like cherry eye, where the gland in the corner of the eye becomes inflamed.
To keep your Frenchie’s eyes healthy, regularly check for signs of irritation, discharge, or redness.
Use a vet-approved eye wash if needed to flush out any dirt or debris.
And if you notice anything unusual, like persistent redness or swelling, it’s best to consult your vet.
5. Protect Their Joints 🦴
French Bulldogs have compact, muscular bodies, which can put pressure on their joints.
They’re prone to hip dysplasia and other joint issues, especially as they age.
To keep their joints healthy, make sure they maintain a healthy weight.
You can also give them joint supplements, like glucosamine or omega-3 fatty acids, to support their joint health.
But be cautious with activities that could strain their joints, like jumping off furniture or running on hard surfaces. Big “no no” ❌❌❌
You can use ramps or stairs to help them get on and off higher surfaces, which will reduce the impact on their joints.
6. Regular Vet Check-ups 🏥
Regular vet visits are essential for your French Bulldog’s health.
Your vet can check for any potential health problems early on and provide the appropriate treatments or advice.
From checking their respiratory system to monitoring their weight, your vet is a crucial partner in keeping your Frenchie healthy.
7. Dental Care is a Must 🦷
Just like humans, French Bulldogs need regular dental care to prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
Their small mouths can easily become a hotspot for plaque buildup, leading to bad breath, tooth loss, or even infections.
To avoid this, brush your Frenchie’s teeth regularly with a dog-safe toothpaste.
You can also provide dental chews or toys designed to help keep their teeth clean.
8. Avoid Extreme Temperatures 🌡️
Because of their short snouts and compact size, French Bulldogs are highly sensitive to extreme temperatures.
In hot weather, they can easily overheat, which can lead to heatstroke – a life-threatening condition.
In cold weather, they may struggle to keep warm due to their short coats.
To keep them safe, avoid taking your Frenchie out in very hot or cold weather.
If it’s hot, keep them indoors with air conditioning and provide plenty of water.
If it’s cold, consider getting them a doggy sweater to keep them warm during walks.
9. Monitor Their Activity Levels 🏃♂️
French Bulldogs are playful but they’re not built for high-intensity exercise.
Over-exercising can lead to breathing problems or put strain on their joints.
Aim for moderate activity levels – think short walks and light playtime.
It’s all about balance.
You want to keep them active but without pushing them too hard.
Wrapping It Up 🎁
Your French Bulldog is a unique and lovable companion, but they come with specific care needs.
By following these health tips for taking care of your French Bulldog, you can help them live a long, happy, and healthy life.
From monitoring their weight to keeping their skin folds clean, every little step you take matters.
Your Frenchie may not be able to say thank you, but their wagging tail and endless cuddles will say it all. 💙
