Why You Shouldn't Buy French Bulldog Puppies
Frenchies are very popular because they are easy to handle and can easily adapt to urban life. Popularity draws bad breeders who focus on profit over health.
Find a responsible breeder that has tested their breeding dogs for DNA and who can provide comprehensive documents. These records will reveal whether the parents were affected by any genetic diseases that could be passed on to their puppies.
Health Care
Frenchies are susceptible to numerous health problems, including inherited conditions such as respiratory problems and heart defects. While these ailments can't always be prevented however, there are ways you can reduce the risk. For your French bulldog, a healthy diet, regular wellness exams and protection through insurance for pets are essential.
When choosing the best Frenchie puppy, it's important to work with breeders who value wellbeing and health. Ethical breeders will DNA test their dogs and provide a detailed health report for each puppy. In addition, they follow a strict breeding schedule and ensure their pups are current on vaccinations and veterinary examinations. Also, be aware of how the littermates interact with each other - playfulness and social behavior are excellent indicators, whereas aggressiveness or shyness could indicate potential behavioral problems.
Like all puppies, it's important to get your new Frenchie to a vet to have a health checkup whenever you can. A vet will evaluate the puppy's overall health and give you a checklist of at-home care that will keep them happy and healthy. During the exam your vet will listen to your puppy's heart with a stethoscope and look for any abnormalities.
With their shortened airways as well as nostrils, Frenchies are predisposed to respiratory issues. They also have digestive problems, such as food allergies or chronic diarrhea. A clogged tear duct is another frequent problem in this breed. It can be fixed with surgery.
Due to the additional skin rolls on their faces, Frenchies can develop a skin fold dermatitis or pyoderma. If not properly cleaned and dry these irritations could lead to bacterial infections. Avoid overexertion as it may cause more harm.
When it comes to pet insurance, you'll want to choose a plan that covers the medical ailments Frenchies are most susceptible to developing. You can find a plan that's affordable by using Pawlicy Advisor to instantly compare quotes from top-rated providers. You can tailor your policy with a range of reimbursement and deductible options to meet the needs of your Frenchie.
Training
Frenchies are people-pleasers and can be trained to obey the commands of their owners. Early training can help to reduce future behavioral issues like excessive chewing or separation anxiety. They are stubborn but they are not difficult to train. A properly sized crate can help your Frenchie relax and feel at ease, using their natural instinct to den. Going outside with them for potty breaks and training them to remain in their crate at times of quiet or when you're busy will further remind them that responding to your demands is the best method to earn their affection and affection.
French Bulldogs require some level of regular maintenance, including grooming, nail trims and ear cleanings. They are at risk of developing gum disease and require regular dental treatment by a vet to avoid painful complications as they age.
Because Frenchies are brachycephalic, also known as flat-faced dogs, they are unable to breathe as easily as larger nosed breeds and may overheat quickly when exercising vigorously or in hot weather. Avoid training or playing in warm areas. Instead short walks or indoor activities will provide the exercise your dog needs, without overdoing.
Frenchies aren't natural runners but they do love playing games like fetch and can be taught to walk on a leash with gentle guidance. They are also extremely adept in dog sports such as agility and can be extremely competitive.
It is essential to teach your Frenchie how to respond quickly when you call them. This can save their lives if they become lost or hurt. As with any training positive reinforcement is the most effective approach. If your Frenchie isn't responsive to food or toys It could turn to other self-employment options, such as entering your recycling bin. Teach them self-control exercises while they are young. A strop caused by an angry puppy is difficult to reverse after it has been mastered. This will also help prevent injuries or requiring costly surgery as adults. Socialization is an excellent way to avoid these problems. Make sure that your Frenchie is exposed to different surroundings and also interacts with other dogs as they grow.
Exercise
Frenchies are affectionate, people-oriented dogs who love having fun with their human companions. They're incredibly social and highly trainable, making them a great fit for families of all sizes and ages. Consistent training will not only help your Frenchie learn new tricks and improve their behavior skills, but will also strengthen the bond between you and them, which results in an overall healthier, happier dog.
Frenchies are more prone to overheat and have difficulty breathing when exercising because of their noses being shortened. Avoid strenuous activities during hot or humid weather to protect their health. They may also develop joint problems which is why it is essential to take breaks and monitor their health when necessary.
Make sure your French Bulldog puppy is at least six months old before taking them outside for the first time. Until then, focus on indoor exercises such as playing hide and seek or fetch. These games are great for exercise and can help you work on reducing the use of resources (try to teach your Frenchie that letting go of their toys will earn amazing rewards).
Begin by taking your dog on an exercise in the garden or house once they are ready to go outside. This will aid in their spatial awareness and help teach them to stay at your side while on a leash. You may eventually be able to move to formal lead walking with the harness and collar. This is an important skill for your Frenchie, as it will help prevent them from running after other dogs or getting into situations they should not.
Frenchies aren't well-known for their swimming skills and their head-heavy physique makes them more prone to drowning. However they can be taught to swim if you're willing spend time with them and provide plenty of supervision. Even when your Frenchie is only going for an hour or so of swimming, it's best to ensure that they're wearing a life vest at all times. This will keep them safe in the event that they fall into the water or get hit by a boat or another watercraft.
Children's Care
Frenchies are very social animals and thrive on human companionship. They love walking with their families, going to cafes and spending time at home curled up on the couch. They can adjust to a busy lifestyle, but they'll need to know what is expected of them. They are great for families that have children, provided that they are able to communicate with them. Children should be supervised and given small treats when playing with Frenchies in order to prevent them from becoming too excited or aggressive. They will benefit from early interaction with children and should be introduced to them at a young age so that they perceive the child as a member of the family, rather than an adversary fighting over attention.
Because of their short snout, Frenchies are prone to developing breathing issues, like brachycephalic airway disorder (BOAS). This condition can lead to wheezing and breathing difficulties and is why it's crucial to have your Frenchie examined by a vet on a regular basis. They are also prone to gain weight easily, so you should ensure they are eating an appropriate diet and are not overfed.
Another health issue that is common to this breed is patellar luxation. This is where the kneecap is slipping out of alignment, usually when your pup is running or jumping. It can be a minor issue and require only pain relief or it may be a serious issue. In extreme cases surgery to correct the kneecap's posture could be required.
It's important to be aware that French Bulldogs are susceptible to allergies as humans are. They're particularly susceptible to allergic reactions to pollen dust, mold and pollen. Atopy is a type of skin allergy that can trigger itching in the belly, feet, and folds of their skin. This is caused by the immune reaction to triggers in the environment. It isn't easy to control.
When purchasing a puppy, make sure you select a Kennel Club Assured Breeder as they have gone through extra health screening and met higher standards of breeding. Find out from a prospective breeder their vaccination schedule, and ensure that the puppies are raised in a healthy environment with plenty of early socialisation.