Why You Shouldn't Buy French Bulldog Puppies
Frenchies are very popular because they are easy to handle and easily adapt to urban life. Popularity attracts bad breeders that focus on profit over health.
Find a responsible breeder who has tested their breeding dogs' DNA and who is able to provide complete documents. These records will indicate if the parents had any genetic diseases that could be passed on to their pups.
Health Care
Frenchies may be afflicted with a variety of health issues, particularly inherited conditions such as respiratory and heart problems. While these conditions aren't always preventable but there are ways you can help reduce their risk. A healthy diet, routine wellness exams and pet insurance coverage are all important for your French bulldog's well-being.
When selecting the best Frenchie puppy, it's important to work with breeders who value health and wellbeing. Breeders who are ethical will test DNA on their dogs and provide a comprehensive health record for each puppy. They will also follow a strict breeding regimen and ensure that their pups are up-to-date with vaccinations and veterinary exams. Pay attention to the way the littermates interact. Playfulness and social behaviour are good signs, whereas aggression and shyness could be a sign of behavioral issues.
Like all puppies, it's important to get your new Frenchie to a vet for a health exam as soon as you can. The vet will examine the health of the puppy and provide you with an array of ways to keep it happy and healthy. During the exam your veterinarian will listen to the heartbeat of your puppy using a stethoscope, and check for any abnormalities.
Frenchies are more prone to respiratory problems because of their nasal airways being smaller and shorter. They can also suffer from digestive issues, including chronic diarrhea or food allergies. Another issue that is common is a blocked tear-duct which can be corrected with surgery.
Due to the extra rolls of skin on their faces, Frenchies can develop a skin fold dermatitis or pyoderma. These irritations can result in infections with bacteria if they aren't kept clean and dry. It is also essential to avoid too much exercise, as it can increase the severity of these diseases.
When it concerns pet insurance, you'll want to choose a plan that covers the medical ailments Frenchies are most susceptible to develop. You can find a plan that is affordable by using Pawlicy Advisor to instantly compare quotes from top-rated providers. With a range of options for reimbursement and deductibles you can tailor your policy to meet the needs of your Frenchie.
Training
Frenchies are very friendly and can be trained to respond to the commands of their owners. They're strong-willed, but they're not difficult to train. In fact, early training can help reduce the likelihood of future behavior issues like chewing too much, barking, or separation anxiety. A properly sized crate will also help your Frenchie feel secure and safe, allowing them to access their natural desire for an area to call home. Taking them outside for potty breaks, and teaching them to stay in their crate during periods of peace or when you're working can further remind them that responding to your demands is the best method to earn their affection and affection.
The French Bulldog requires regular maintenance, such as nail trimmings and cleaning of the ear. They are at risk of developing gum disease and require regular dental care from a veterinarian in order to avoid painful problems as they age.
Because Frenchies are brachycephalic, also known as flat-faced dogs, they are unable to breathe as easily as long nosed breeds and can overheat quickly when they are exercising intensely or in hot weather. Avoid playing or exercising in warm areas. Instead, short walks and indoor activities will give your dog the exercise your dog needs without overdoing it.
Frenchies aren't the most natural runners, however they love playing games like fetch and can be taught to walk on a leash with gentle guidance. They are also skilled in dog sports like agility and can become very competitive.
Teaching your Frenchie to consistently show up when you call is an essential ability that could save their life in the event that they get lost or are injured. Positive reinforcement is the key to any kind of training. If your Frenchie does not respond to food or toys, it may resort to other self-employment activities like getting into your recycling bin. Learn self-control techniques for them as they grow older. A strop by an angry puppy is difficult to reverse after it has been mastered. This can also help keep them from injuring themselves or requiring costly surgery as an adult. Socialization is an excellent way to avoid these problems. Make sure your Frenchie is exposed to various surroundings and also interacts with other dogs as they grow.
Exercise
Frenchies are affectionate, social dogs who love having fun with their human companions. They are extremely social and trainable, making them an ideal companion for families of all sizes and age. Consistent training will not only help your Frenchie develop their obedience skills and learn new techniques, but it will also strengthen the bond you share with them, which will result in a happier, healthier dog.
Frenchies are more prone to overheat and have trouble breathing when exercising due to their narrow noses. Avoid strenuous exercise during hot or humid conditions to ensure their health. Additionally, they may develop joint problems which is why it's essential to monitor their level of activity and take breaks as required.
You should wait until your French Bulldog puppy is at minimum six months old before taking them outside for the first time. Focus on indoor activities like hide and search and fetch until. These games can be a great way to exercise and can help you work on reducing the use of resources (try to teach your Frenchie that giving up their toys will earn them fabulous rewards).
Begin by taking your dog for an exercise in the yard or around the house once they are ready to go outside. This will improve their spatial awareness and teach them how to remain close to you while on the lead. At some point, you'll be able to proceed to more formal lead walking classes with a collar and harness. This is a vital skill for your Frenchie because it will stop them from running after another dog or causing harm to other dogs they shouldn't.
Frenchies are not well-known for their swimming skills, and their head-heavy builds make them more susceptible to drowning. They can learn to swim with your assistance and supervision. Even if your Frenchie is going to take just a short swim, it's best to ensure that they wear a life jacket at all times. This will keep them safe in the event they slip into the water or are struck by a boat or other watercraft.
Children's Care
Frenchies are extremely social dogs who thrive with human companionship. They love going on walks with their families and visit cafes, as well as spend time at home. They can adjust to a busy lifestyle but they will need to be taught what is expected of them. This makes them ideal for families with children, provided they have been taught how to interact with their dog. Children should be watched and given small treats when playing with Frenchies to prevent them from becoming too hyper or aggressive. Early socialization will benefit them and they should be introduced to children as a young, so that the child is viewed as part of the group, not an enemy seeking attention.
Due to their snout being short, Frenchies are prone to developing breathing problems, such as brachycephalic respiratory syndrome (BOAS). This condition can cause wheezing and breathing difficulties and is why it's crucial to have your Frenchie checked by a vet on a regular basis. They can also gain weight quickly, so you should ensure that they are eating a balanced diet and are not overfed.
Patellar luxation is yet another common health issue for this breed. The kneecap may slip out of alignment when your dog is running or jumping. It can be a minor issue and require only pain relief, or it could be a serious issue. In severe cases, surgery could be required to restore the proper positioning of the kneecap.
In the end, it's crucial to be aware that French Bulldogs can suffer from allergies just like humans. They are especially susceptible to reactions to pollen, mold and dust. They could also develop a skin allergy known as atopy. It makes their feet, belly and folds of skin itchy. This is caused by the immune response to triggers from the environment. It can be difficult to control.
If you are buying a puppy make sure you select a Kennel Club Assured Breeder as they have been through additional health screening and met higher standards of breeding. It is also recommended to ask the prospective breeder about their vaccination schedule, and make sure the puppies are being raised in a safe environment with plenty of early socialisation.