Consider the French Bulldog breed for a furry family companion. They have a great temperament and typically live for 10-12 years. However, they are prone to some health problems. Our vets in Santa Rosa can guide you on how to ensure a healthy, long life for your Frenchie.
The Life of a French Bulldog
If you are considering bringing home a new dog, such as a French Bulldog (also known as a 'Frenchie'), it is important to know certain facts, such as their life expectancy.
It is always wise to be prepared for the commitment required when choosing a new pet and for the proper care required to help them live a healthy and long life.
So, how long do French Bulldogs typically live? With proper care, this breed of dog usually lives for an average of 10 to 12 years.
What factors influence the lifespan of a French Bulldog?
Like most animals, the care that your French Bulldog receives will directly affect their lifespan and quality of life.
Some of the factors that directly affect a French Bulldog's lifespan include the following:
Diet & Nutrition
Just like you or I, the food your pup eats will affect their health. To keep your dog as healthy as possible you should aim to feed them a nutritious and well-balanced diet. If you need help deciding which type of food or brand to feed your French Bulldog, feel free to reach out to your vet.
Your vet can also help you determine the right amount to feed your Frenchie to prevent weight issues that could affect their health.
Exercise
It is commonly believed that French Bulldogs do not require much exercise due to their small size, but this is not true. Even though they are not working dogs that need to run for extended periods, they still need daily exercise to maintain their weight, keep their heart and joints healthy, and prevent boredom.
You should ensure that you spend some time every day playing with your dog using toys and taking them on walks. However, it is essential to remember that dogs with short noses may have trouble breathing, particularly in warm weather, so avoid over-exercising them.
Routine Veterinary Care
To ensure a long and healthy life for your French Bulldog, it's important to provide them with regular veterinary care and check-ups. This routine care is crucial for maintaining your pup's well-being and preventing serious conditions that could seriously impact its health. Our vets Santa Rosa recommend bringing dogs in for check-ups and vaccinations every few weeks, while adult dogs should visit yearly.
During these routine visits, your French Bulldog will receive necessary parasite prevention to protect them against pests that can cause severe and potentially fatal diseases. Your vet will also conduct a full physical examination to identify any concerning signs that need to be addressed as soon as possible to ensure the best possible outcome.
Health Issues
French Bulldogs are prone to a range of health issues that could negatively impact their quality of life and potentially shorten their lifespan. One of the main concerns related to Frenchies is their brachycephalic nature, which makes them more susceptible to brachycephalic airway syndrome. This condition can be caused by several abnormalities, resulting in breathing difficulties. Due to their short facial shape, Frenchies may have difficulty breathing in conditions where other dogs would be perfectly fine.
In addition, French Bulldogs are also susceptible to eye and joint conditions, particularly as they age. Although these problems may not seem significant at first, they will continue to worsen over time, making early detection and treatment essential.
What are some common French Bulldog health concerns?
- Hip Dysplasia
- Cherry Eye
- Heat Stroke
- Brachycephaly
- Entropion
- Otitis Externa
- Corneal Ulcer
- Brachycephalic Airway Obstructive Syndrome
- Upper Respiratory Tract Infections
- Luxating Patella
- Von Willebrand's Disease
- Otitis Media
- Cataracts
- Diarrhea
- Canine Degenerative Myelopathy
- Deafness
- Dry Eye
- Allergies
- Conjunctivitis
- Tooth Pathology
- Cleft Palate
How can you extend the life of a French Bulldog?
To help your French Bulldog live a long and healthy life, you should start by providing them with a healthy and balanced diet. This will help prevent weight-related concerns and other health issues that can be prevented with a nutritious diet and supplements if necessary. You can ask your vet for recommendations on supplements that may be beneficial for your pup.
Exercising your Frenchie regularly is important, but be mindful of the temperature and air quality because these factors can affect their breathing.
Regular veterinary care is crucial for preventing serious health conditions. Our vets in Santa Rosa offer comprehensive examinations, vaccinations, and parasite prevention treatments.
If you're getting your pup from a breeder, make sure to ask for information about the pup's parents. This can give you an idea of any conditions your Frenchie may be predisposed to.
Why is routine care important for a long life?
Routine physical exams and dental care are just as important for your Frenchie as it is for you.
Aside from needing routine care, your Frenchie also has special care requirements to help watch for and manage certain conditions that are likely to occur with a French Bulldog.
Your vet will take some time during your visit to examine your dog, provide any necessary preventive care, including parasite prevention and vaccines, and check for any signs of the common issues that affect this dog breed.
Once the exam is completed, your vet in Santa Rosa will discuss their findings, if any, and share their recommendations for your French Bulldog moving forward,
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.