French Bulldogs are prone to certain diseases, including:
Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is very common and occurs when the femur doesn’t fit snugly into the pelvic socket of the hip joint. It is possible for a dog to have hip dysplasia without signs. Some dogs exhibit pain and lameness on one or both rear legs. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop.
Brachycephalic Syndrome: This disorder is found in dogs with short heads, narrowed nostrils, or elongated or soft palates. Their body structure causes breathing obstructions to varying degrees and can result in anything from noisy or labored breathing to total collapse of the airway. Dogs with brachycephalic syndrome commonly snuffle and snort.
Allergies: Allergies can occur in any dog breed, but Frenchies are especially prone.
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): Intervertebral disc disease causes a bulge or rupture in the discs between the vertebrae. When that happens, it can cause pain, nerve damage, and paralysis. Sometimes, IVDD is mild and may be relieved through crate rest and medication, but dogs with severe cases could need surgery or the use of a wheelchair cart.
Von Willebrand’s Disease: This is a blood disorder found in both humans and dogs. It affects the blood clotting process, so dogs with it are very likely to have nosebleeds, bleeding gums, prolonged bleeding from surgery, and heavy or prolonged bleeding during heat cycles or after whelping. Occasionally, blood is found in the stool. This disorder is usually diagnosed between the ages of three and five and cannot be cured but is manageable with treatment.