Introduction
Bulldogs, including English and French bulldogs, are a popular breed known for their distinct appearance and fun-loving temperament. However, their unique physical attributes, such as their shortened snouts and wrinkled skin, also make them prone to certain health issues.
Due to selective breeding practices and the pursuit of exaggerated features, bulldogs are predisposed to breathing difficulties, skin conditions, joint problems, eye issues, heart disease, reproductive complications, obesity, and more. Their compressed airways and narrow nostrils make them intolerant to heat, exercise, and stress.
Bulldogs require more veterinary care than the average breed. Responsible breeding focused on health can help, but issues persist due to their anatomy and genetics. Nonetheless, with proper preventative care and attention, bulldogs can still live happy lives as companions.
This article explores the common illnesses bulldogs face and how to best care for their wellbeing.
Breathing Problems
Bulldogs commonly suffer from brachycephalic airway syndrome (BAS) due to their shortened snouts and obstructed airways. According to the English Bulldog – Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome (BAOS) – UFAW, the English bulldog has the most compromised respiratory system of all brachycephalic breeds. Bulldogs with BAS often experience breathing difficulties, noisy breathing, overheating, coughing, gagging, vomiting, and even collapsing.
Specific breathing problems in bulldogs include:
- Stenotic nares – Pinched, narrow nostrils that restrict airflow into the nose.
- Elongated soft palate – The soft tissue at the back of the roof of the mouth is too long, obstructing the airway.
- Laryngeal collapse – Weakened cartilage around the larynx leads to airway obstruction.
According to the Brachycephalic Breeds Fact Sheet by the Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association, upper respiratory disorders were the cause of death for 17% of dogs with extreme brachycephalic conformations like bulldogs, compared to 0% of dogs with normal muzzles.
Skin Conditions
Bulldogs are prone to developing a number of skin conditions due to their loose skin folds and continual rubbing of their facial folds. Some of the most common skin conditions in bulldogs include allergies, fold dermatitis, acne, and alopecia.
Allergies often manifest as irritated, itchy skin and can be caused by food or environmental allergens like pollen or dust mites. Bulldogs may lick, scratch, rub, and chew excessively when experiencing allergy symptoms. Allergy testing and avoiding allergy triggers can help manage allergic dermatitis in bulldogs (Wildearth).
Fold dermatitis refers to infection and irritation of the skin folds on a bulldog’s face. Moisture and debris trapped in facial folds can cause yeast and bacterial infections. Redness, odor, and discharge are common symptoms. Keeping folds clean and dry is important to prevent infections (Dbldkr).
Acne can occur under facial folds or on the chin due to trapped debris and bacteria. Acne appears as red bumps or pimples and may be itchy or painful. Acne can be treated with frequent cleansing and topical acne medications recommended by a veterinarian.
Alopecia or hair loss is another common issue for bulldogs, especially on the tail and hindquarters. Allergies, hormonal disorders, and folliculitis can cause bald patches. Diagnosing the underlying cause is key to treating alopecia in bulldogs (Bulldog World).
Joint Issues
Bulldogs are prone to several joint issues, most commonly hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and patellar luxation. Hip dysplasia is an inherited condition where the hip joint does not form properly, leading to arthritis and lameness [1]. Elbow dysplasia is a similar condition affecting the elbow joint. Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap slips out of place, causing pain and difficulty walking. These joint problems are common in Bulldogs due to their stocky, low-slung bodies and bowed legs [2].
Studies show over 70% of Bulldogs have hip dysplasia, one of the highest rates among dog breeds [3]. Their hips can start to degenerate as early as 5-6 months old. Signs include limping, difficulty standing up, stiffness, and loss of muscle mass in the legs. Elbow dysplasia also impacts weight-bearing and can lead to lameness. Patellar luxation causes intermittent lameness that worsens over time.
These joint conditions are extremely painful and debilitating for Bulldogs. They greatly impact mobility and quality of life. Owners should have their Bulldog screened by a vet for early signs of joint degeneration. Maintaining a healthy weight, providing joint supplements, and avoiding too much exercise at a young age may help reduce chances of dysplasia. But joint issues remain an unfortunate reality for the Bulldog breed.
Eye Conditions
Bulldogs are prone to several eye conditions including:
Cherry Eye – This is when the tear gland in the third eyelid prolapses out, causing a red swollen mass in the corner of the eye. It’s common in bulldogs and can lead to dry eye if not treated.1
Entropion – This is when the eyelid folds inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the eye. It’s very painful and can lead to ulcers and scarring if not corrected surgically.1
Cataracts – Cloudiness in the lens of the eye that leads to blurred vision and eventual blindness. Cataracts are common in senior bulldogs.
Glaucoma – Increased pressure inside the eye that damages the optic nerve. Bulldogs are predisposed to this painful and blinding condition.
Cardiac Disease
Cardiac disease is unfortunately common in bulldogs due to their breed’s characteristic shorter snout and compact body shape. Two of the most prevalent heart conditions in bulldogs are mitral valve disease and ventricular septal defect.
Mitral valve disease involves a leaking mitral valve which allows blood to flow backwards into the left atrium of the heart. This causes the left ventricle to work harder to pump blood effectively. Symptoms include coughing, exercise intolerance, and fluid retention. Medications can help manage mitral valve disease, but often surgery is required to repair or replace the faulty valve.
Ventricular septal defect is a congenital heart defect where there is a hole in the wall separating the right and left ventricles. This allows oxygenated and deoxygenated blood to mix. Small defects may cause no issues, but larger ones can lead to heart failure. Surgery may be done to close the hole. Bulldogs are prone to this condition due their genetic makeup.
According to Wrinkly Tips 4 from WrinklyBulldogs.com, bulldogs are especially susceptible to dilated cardiomyopathy and owners should feed them high quality food like VICTOR Classic Professional Formula Dry Dog Food to support their cardiac health.
Cancer
Bulldogs are prone to certain types of cancer, with mast cell tumors, lymphoma, and hemangiosarcoma being among the most common.
Mast cell tumors are a form of skin cancer that originate from mast cells. These tumors often first appear as raised lumps on the skin and can be found anywhere on a bulldog’s body. Though they may start out small, mast cell tumors can spread quickly to other areas. Bulldogs should be checked frequently for any new lumps or skin changes, and have them evaluated promptly by a veterinarian. Early detection and removal provides the best prognosis.
Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymph nodes and lymphatic system. Bulldogs may develop lymphoma spontaneously or due to chronic inflammation. Signs can include enlarged lymph nodes, weight loss, fever, and lethargy. There are various treatment options for lymphoma in dogs, including chemotherapy, though it is difficult to fully cure. Owners should have their bulldog assessed if they notice any unusual lumps or swelling.
Hemangiosarcoma is an aggressive cancer that arises from the cells lining blood vessels. It most often affects the spleen, heart, or skin. Ruptured tumors can lead to sudden and severe internal bleeding. Signs of hemangiosarcoma can include collapse, pale gums, weakness, and abdominal swelling. As this cancer advances rapidly, immediate veterinary evaluation and testing is imperative if it is suspected.
Reproduction Issues
Bulldogs are known to have many issues when it comes to reproduction and giving birth. Because of selective breeding for their large heads and wide shoulders, Bulldogs often have difficulty mating and giving birth naturally.
One major issue Bulldogs face is dystocia, which is difficulty whelping or giving birth. Their large heads and shoulders make it difficult for puppies to pass through the birth canal. As a result, over 80% of Bulldog litters are delivered by Cesarean section.
Another problem is that male Bulldogs often struggle to naturally breed due to their body shape. Artificial insemination is commonly used to impregnate female Bulldogs.
According to a study cited on Ranker, “Narrowed nostrils and elongate soft palates are just two of the many structural problems caused by selective breeding that now interfere with a Bulldog’s ability to effectively mate.”
The selective breeding for certain physical traits has made reproduction very difficult for Bulldogs. Dystocia and the frequent need for artificial insemination highlight the reproduction problems faced by this breed.
Obesity
Bulldogs are prone to obesity due to their tendency to overeat. Their stocky build and shortened muzzle make it more difficult for them to exercise and burn calories. As a result, Bulldogs that are overfed and under-exercised can easily become overweight or obese.
According to the American Kennel Club, nearly half of Bulldogs are obese or overweight. Carrying excess weight puts added strain on a Bulldog’s joints and bones, which are already stressed by their physique. Obesity significantly increases a Bulldog’s risk for breathing issues, heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, ligament tears, and back problems.
Prevention is key to help Bulldogs maintain a healthy weight. Owners should consult their vet for feeding recommendations based on age, activity level, and health status. Bulldogs should be fed a portion-controlled, weight management diet. Owners can also help Bulldogs stay active with short, frequent walks and play sessions. With proper diet and exercise, Bulldogs can avoid obesity and enjoy an active, healthy life.
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Conclusion
Bulldogs are prone to various health issues, especially breathing problems, skin conditions, joint issues, eye conditions, heart disease, cancer, reproduction problems, and obesity. Proper care and preventative veterinary visits can help mitigate these risks.
To keep bulldogs healthy, focus on regular exercise appropriate for their physical limits, like short walks or playtime. Keep up with vaccines and preventative medications. Feed them a healthy diet and avoid obesity. Stay on top of dental care and grooming. Create a cool, comfortable environment indoors. Limit stressful activities. With attentive, proactive care bulldogs can live happy lives despite their tendency towards certain illnesses.