Which health problems are common in the French Bulldog?
French Bulldogs are prone to breathing trouble from the flat face, which heat makes dangerous, and to ear, skin and eye problems. A lean weight, walks in the cool hours and a breathing assessment from 1 year help the most.
Updated November 9, 2026
What should French Bulldog owners watch for?
Common for the breed doesn't mean your dog will have it.
- Breathing. The flat face narrows the airway. Snoring, loud breathing at rest or tiring fast are signs. Heat is dangerous, so walk in the cool hours.
- Ears. Ear infections are common. Head shaking, scratching or a smell from the ear are the signs.
- Skin. Skin fold infections and allergies are far more common than in other dogs. Clean and dry the folds every day, and tell your vet about itching or licking.
- Eyes. The prominent eyes are prone to ulcers. Squinting, tearing or a cloudy spot needs a vet visit soon.
- Spine. Spine problems are more common in the breed. Back pain, a hunched back or wobbly back legs need a vet check.
Which checkups do vets often suggest?
| Checkup | What it is | When |
|---|---|---|
| Breathing assessment | A trained vet listens to breathing before and after 3 minutes of brisk walking. Repeated every 2 years from 1 year of age. | From 1 year · Every 2 years |
| Eye exam by an ophthalmologist | A specialist checks the eyes for inherited problems. Screening programmes suggest repeating it every year. | Every year |
| Kneecap check | Your vet feels the knees to see whether a kneecap slips out of place. Programmes certify it from 1 year of age. | From 1 year · Once |
| Hip X-ray | X-ray of the hips, usually under sedation, to check for dysplasia. Schemes take it from 1 year of age in the UK and 2 in the US; ask your vet when. | From 1 year · Once |
Your vet decides which checkups fit your pet, and when.
How do I keep a French Bulldog health record?
VetVitae, a free pet health record app for iPhone, Android and the web, shows these notes on your dog’s profile under Health, and Plan it opens the exam or test with its name filled.
For vaccines, parasites and the signs that can’t wait, see the dog care guide.
This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. Your vet knows your pet.
Sources
- French Bulldogs differ to other dogs in the UK in propensity for many common disorders: a VetCompass study, O'Neill et al., Canine Medicine and Genetics, 2021
- Non-sporting group health testing requirements, American Kennel Club
- French Bulldog, Breed health and Breed Watch, The Royal Kennel Club
- Respiratory Function Grading Scheme, The Royal Kennel Club and University of Cambridge
- Recommended tests for French Bulldog, Orthopedic Foundation for Animals
- Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome in Dogs, VCA Animal Hospitals
- Hip Dysplasia Scheme, British Veterinary Association
Start a record for your pet.
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