Common Health Issues and Care Needs of a French Bulldog
The robust, push-faced French bulldog has skyrocketed in popularity, usurping the Labrador retriever's 31-year reign as America's most adored purebred dog. Social media could be partly the reason.
What is it that makes the Frenchie so appealing to own? Their delightful personalities are the answer. There are also some peculiarities that are worth mentioning.
Characteristics
A French Bulldog is a dog with a unique personality and is a lot of fun. These dogs make great pet for families, and they can be very good with children. They are also great with other animals and pets. However, they can be a little cautious with strangers. They are also known to drool and sleep, which can be bothersome for some owners.
These dogs have a smooth, fine coat that is available in a variety of colors and designs. They are also well-known for their wrinkles and soft, supple skin. They shed a little and require regular grooming in order to appear their best. The shedding is not as bad as other breeds and a little brushing can go a long way.
Frenchies have moderate energy levels and are a breeze to train. They are great for families that are active, but like to spend time alone with their family members. They can adapt to many different living conditions, including apartments. However, they do need regular walks and trips to the dog park to keep active. They also love swimming and playing in the yard.
The most common health issues of the French Bulldog include brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome and hip dysplasia. The structure of the face that is short causes tissues in the nose and throat to become squishy. This condition can lead to breathing problems and heat stroke in hot temperatures. The joint disease affects the kneecaps, hip sockets and the shins. It is treatable by physical therapy and medication.
Despite the health issues most owners of these dogs are very happy with their pet. They are extremely affectionate and loyal and love spending time with their owners. They also do well with other pets and children. Many owners refer to their dogs as members of the family.
In the course of a study conducted by the University of California, the satisfaction of owners grew when they first owned their pet and the strength of the bond between the dog and its owner. However owners who viewed their dog's health to be less than ideal had less positive opinions about the breed. In addition, the chances of recommending the breed to others decreased with the amount of health issues related to conformation and the belief of the owner that their dog's behavior were less than what they had expected.
Health issues
Frenchies are prone to a variety of health issues, however the majority of them can be prevented with regular exercise and proper diet. This includes a diet that is low in fat and sugar that will help prevent excessive weight growth. To remain hydrated, people should also drink plenty of water. A sensitive stomach can lead to symptoms of gastrointestinal discomfort like diarrhea or constipation. A doctor can prescribe a diet plan to help manage these conditions.
Frenchies may develop arthritis or other mobility issues later in life due to their shorter legs. The patella (kneecaps) can slip, causing the dog's gait being impeded or even skipped. This condition is called patella luxation and it is fairly common in smaller breeds. Treatment can range anywhere from rest to surgery.
Since Frenchies are brachycephalic, they can experience breathing problems. This is because their flat faces make it more difficult to breathe than breeds with longer noses. They may also have trouble recovering from anesthesia, as their airways narrow and become inflamed.
Other health issues that could be a concern include a genetic predisposition to eye diseases, like corneal dystrophies and glaucoma and a tendency to become hot quickly. This could be due to an overactive thyroid gland which is common in these breeds. They are also prone to kidney and bladder stones. These stones are made of a crystal called cystine, which is very irritating to the bladder. The vet can dissolve the stones by a prescription diet which increases the acidity of the urine or surgically eliminate the bladder stones.
Like all dogs, it's important to take your French Bulldog to the vet for regular checks and vaccinations. A healthy puppy is more likely to enjoy an extended time with you.
Training
Frenchies are affectionate, playful dogs that are great companions. They are easily trained and are able to adapt to different environments. They are ideal for families with children and other pets. They are also good in apartments. However, they may have a tendency to snore or drool and are susceptible to heat. They also are susceptible to respiratory ailments and other health issues. Many shelters and rescues have adorable Frenchies who need loving homes.
Many owners complained of difficulties training their pet. Some owners cited the ease of training to justify their breed choice. These issues were often blamed on the French bulldog's stubborn nature. These challenges can be minimized by working with a professional dog trainer.
Dog trainers are trained to teach obedience and behavior modification techniques. They can also help owners improve their relationship with pets and address issues with behavior. They are able to provide customized training programs and can work with different dog breeds. The fees they charge are based on the type of services and the duration of the program.
Many research studies have examined the motivations of dog owner. One study revealed that owners who are extrinsically motivated tend to acquire fashionable breeds as part of a "personal identity project," whereas intrinsically motivated owners view their dogs as family members. The latter group is more interested in innately satisfying goals and want to know the distinct personalities of their pets.
When choosing a dog trainer, look for an experienced, qualified professional who has a strong understanding of positive reinforcement. A trustworthy dog trainer will employ positive reinforcement to strengthen the relationship between the dog and owner. They will also possess extensive knowledge about canine anatomy and behavior. They will be able to provide important information and recommend a diet that is appropriate for the breed.
You can also learn how to care for yourself.
Frenchies need a lot of attention to ensure their health and long life. They're not suitable for people who aren't prepared to be devoted to their individual needs. The playful breed loves being with family, friends, or other dogs. It is important to be aware of the common health problems and the requirements of your French bulldog to ensure that they can live in an enjoyable and safe environment.
This small breed is affectionate and playful and easy to train. They're also easy-going dogs that don't require a lot of exercise. Despite their relaxed nature these dogs are intelligent and can be taught quickly. Welpen Französische Bulldogge Kaufen should be fun and positive, as Frenchies can get frustrated with repetition-based training exercises.
Due to their pushed-in faces, Frenchies can have breathing difficulties, especially 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.
Contrary to other breeds of dogs, Frenchies are not watchdogs and will only bark when it is necessary. They are extremely protective and will defend their owners and their belongings to the death. They are also excellent house dogs who spend most of their time inside. Regardless of their tendencies to be indoor they require regular walks and trips to the park for socialization.
A French bulldog's short, smooth coat is easy to groom and maintain. The French bulldog is available in a variety of colors and markings, including white, cream (from light fawn all the way to red fawn) Fawn, fawn, and black. They may also have piebald, brindle or spots.
It can be difficult to adopt a puppy and especially if your research is lacking. You'll also need to prepare your home and purchase supplies for your puppy. Get pet insurance as soon as you can to ensure your puppy has a happy and healthy life.
You can find affordable options for coverage for your pet's needs by comparing quotes from top insurers for pets on BlueHaven's website. You can set up a pet saving account to pay for your dog's medical costs.