French Bulldogs

[CattleCait]

My cousin raises Frenchies and I plan on getting one when I return home after college. I've heard that they have a lot of health problems though, exactly how bad is it? Do they have a significantly high number of problems compared to other breeds? I've only ever had experience with mutts and Border Collies.

[Otisdog]

Awe, French Bulldogs are adorable! Every breed comes with some sort of "issue". Do your homework and only purchase from a reputable breeder, as I'm sure you will hear numerous times through this forum.
Good luck!

[DougGeneration]

It's all in the genes as someone said to me before, so just like what Otis said, only buy from a trusted breeder so you wouldn't encounter any health-related problem. Most of those really are because they're inherited from their father/mother.

[Oliver & Henry's Mum]

Congenital issues arise not just from the parents, but from the Grandparents and Great-Grandparents.

If one is interested in a particular breed, and knows the breeder, they should be able to make an informed decision. Research the breed and its inherent issues, and make those inquiries to the Breeder.

A reputable Breeder will often "certify" and "guarantee" that their lines do not carry certain known genetic defects, like hips, eyes, heart, etcetera. The guarantee means that if your puppy is inflicted with one of whatever is "guaranteed", you return the puppy and receive a full refund, or a course of action to remedy the situation is negotiated with the Breeder, at the Breeder's expense.

Every toy breed comes with risks. For many of them, nature never intended that they be "that" small. Do your homework, as you are starting to do on here, and gather as much information as you are able. Unfortunately, we do not have many regular contributors to the Forum that have these dogs.

Please share with us what you learn and what you decide.

[Phyrie]

Frenchies have special problems because of their truncated muzzles. They have difficulty breathing, and can sometimes even need surgery to facilitate easier breathing. Because of their short noses, they also snort, snore and snuffle, which some claim is part of their charm! But special care must be taken not to overheat them.

But do your own research, go to dog shows, talk to breeders, join breed-specific forums and ask, ask, ask all the questions you can possibly think of. Ask your vet, and talk to owners. Buy books and read them. This can be a really fun part of owning a purebred dog!

Good luck.