How Long Do French Bulldogs Live? French Bulldogs have grown immensely in popularity over the last ten years. Also widely known as “Frenchies”, these devoted dogs are beloved by pet owners all over the country due to their adaptability, gentle nature, amazing intelligence, size, and of course, cuteness. Who could ask for a better companion? As with many other dog breeds, however, Frenchies are susceptible to a range of illnesses.
How Long Do French Bulldogs Live?
This vulnerability means that they don’t tend to live as long as other small dog breeds. In fact, the French Bulldog’s lifespan is about 10-14 years on average.
What are some factors that lead to such a short life? Can some health problems be prevented, even those in the long run? Let’s find out.
French Bulldogs Health Issues
It’s a well-known fact that Pugs often suffer from breathing issues. French Bulldogs tend to have the same problem. The main cause is the facial structure of these dogs: A “smashed” or “flat” face, as we might see it. It makes breathing more difficult for these animals, and as the dogs are further bred to look “cuter”, their airways are becoming narrower.
That’s why it is very important to breed responsibly or choose a responsible breeder if you go that route when adopting. Frenchies may find it difficult to exercise, play, or even sleep in certain positions. As with humans, dogs can suffer from sleep apnea. When this occurs, you may find that your dog is snoring loudly, waking up frequently, or sleeping in an upright position.
Their lack of stamina can also play a role in their short lives. In order to minimize these problems, it is essential to help your dog maintain a healthy weight. Obesity makes it even harder to take in air and it further decreases your dog’s physical stamina.
If a balanced diet is important for us, it should also be of utmost importance for our pets!
Handing out the occasional “people food” treat can be fun for the both of you, but your dog’s diet should primarily consist of nutritional dog food that contains healthy fats and vitamins. Never overfeed your dog even if they’re a big eater! Another way to prevent a short life is to avoid smoking around your dog.
Secondhand smoke has the same effects on pets as it does on people and can put your companion at risk for even more health problems. If your dog shows signs of excessive breathing issues, take him or her to your local veterinarian right away.
Another condition that Frenchies often suffer from is an ear infection.
If left untreated, the infection can result in deafness. Gastroenteritis affects a small number of Frenchies as well, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and loss of appetite. As for cancer rates, that is another category in which Frenchies exceed other small dog breeds.
However, there are ways to lower even a high risk dog’s chances of developing tumors. Among them are two procedures that your vet can’t stress enough: spaying and neutering. Spaying your female French Bulldog lowers the risk of breast cancer, which is a more common cancer within the breed. Neutering your male dog makes them less prone to testicular cancer.
As mentioned previously, poor breeding can result in genetic factors that later lead to cancer. Any lumps on your dog’s body should never be ignored. If detected early enough, tumors can be removed before having a chance to spread.
Conclusion
How long do French Bulldogs live? If you are already a French Bulldog owner or plan on adopting one, knowing how to prolong his or her short life will result in better health and happiness. Frenchies are excellent dogs for families and children and are growing in popularity each day. Just like with any breed, however, they deserve to live life to the fullest.
Your dog depends on you to know its health concerns and meet its needs accordingly. We should also only adopt from shelters and avoid breeders altogether if possible. A French Bulldog can exceed 14 years if conditions are good enough! Now that you know the French Bulldog’s life expectancy and problems that can affect it, you can be better prepared to care for a smart, energetic, and healthy Frenchie of your own!