11/15/2025
PLEASE READ— WE SEE THESE THINGS AND HEAT STROKE AS WELL AS DISC HERNIATION AND SKIN ALLERGIES ON A DAILY BASIS
French Bulldogs Are No Longer Classified as a Typical Breed in Terms of Health!🧬
A major study carried out by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) in the UK found that French Bulldogs differ significantly from other dog breeds when it comes to health risks. They’re so prone to various conditions, the researchers argue the breed “can no longer be considered a typical dog” from a health perspective.
What the Study Found📖
The research compared 2,781 French Bulldogs with 21,850 non-Frenchie dogs using the RVC’s VetCompass database.
Out of 43 common disorders studied, French Bulldogs had a higher risk of 20 of them (about 46.5 %) compared to other breeds.
Some of the highest risk conditions included:
Narrowed nostrils (stenotic nares) — Frenchies were 42 × more likely than other dogs.
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) — a major breathing disorder tied to the flat-face shape.
Skin fold dermatitis and ear discharge, both connected with exaggerated skin folds and ear structure.
Why It Matters🧠
Because of their highly modified anatomy — the flat face, deep wrinkles, large eyes, compact body — French Bulldogs are physiologically under more stress than many dogs bred with more “moderate” features. These extreme body shapes aren’t just aesthetic. They carry real welfare consequences.
What this means for owners:👫
Higher likelihood of vet bills, surgeries (especially for breathing or skin issues)
Need for more informed care (e.g., heat caution, respiratory monitoring, skin fold hygiene)
If you’re buying or rehoming a Frenchie, health screening and breeder transparency are extra important
What You Can Do Before You Get a Frenchie💭
Ask your breeder about health clearances, what tests they use, and how they evaluate breathing/airways.
Meet the dog’s parents if possible — are they comfortable breathing, moving, playing?
Consider how you will manage care: will you monitor for breathing issues, keep your dog cool, inspect skin folds?
Be wary of ultra-flat faces, very heavy wrinkles, or dogs that struggle with activity — these may signal exaggerated anatomy.
A Hopeful Note❤️
The study also pointed out opportunities for improvement. Because we now know how large the health gap is for Frenchies compared to other breeds, there’s potential for change — if breeders, kennel clubs and owners prioritise moderation over extremes.
