9 simple tips to increase your French bulldog’s lifespan
French bulldogs, also known as Frenchies, are a popular dog breed. These dogs are not only affectionate but also super easy to manage.
Their small size makes it easy to look after them. Plus, it also contributes to the breed’s longer lifespan compared to larger dogs.
However, any mishandling or lack of care may compromise their lifespan.
To help you, we’ve compiled nine practical tips to help you increase your French bulldog’s lifespan.
How long do French bulldogs live?
On average, the life expectancy for a French bulldog is 10 to 13 years. However, the exact lifespan of a French bulldog depends on three factors:
- Genetics
- Breeding
- Lifestyle
While you cannot control genetics and breeding (especially if you’re keeping a French bulldog for the first time), you can influence the lifestyle you give your pup.
A good lifestyle that meets your dog’s natural needs will help you prolong your furry pal’s life.
Ensuring a completely healthy life for our furry friends can be complex and frustrating to study.
So, if you seek a quick guide, scroll down to read nine practical tips that can help you upgrade your French bulldog’s lifestyle and increase its lifespan.
Pay attention to your dog’s diet
Frenchies have a stocky build. And hence, they are more susceptible to weight gain. For that reason, you need to be very careful with their diet.
Feed them a high-quality, high-fiber diet and avoid giving them too many weight-gaining treats. Note that they may develop issues like obesity, soft bones, and heart issues in case of excessive weight gain.
Visit the vet regularly
When bringing in your French bulldog puppy, make sure you use a reputable doctor for veterinary care.
You can take references from friends or browse through the list of top veterinarians in your local area. Read reviews from their regular clients to determine their performance.
In your pet’s early days, you need to take him in for vaccines. But as your dog grows, make sure you take them to the vet for regular checkups. It may help you identify any underlying or developing issues that aren’t visible on the surface.
Watch for health warnings
French bulldogs can face several health problems. Recognize these warning signs of common health issues:
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS): Look for signs of breathing problems such as loud snoring, wheezing, excessive panting, and lethargy, especially in heat, due to being a flat-faced breed.
Hip dysplasia: Joint problem symptoms include limping, difficulty getting up, and reluctance to exercise.
Skin allergies: Signs include excessive scratching, red or inflamed skin, and hair loss. The breed can also suffer from skin fold dermatitis.
Ear infections: Watch for scratching at ears, foul odor, and discharge.
Eye problems: Look for excessive tearing, redness, swelling, or bulging eyes.
Weight gain: Signs include a noticeable belly, difficulty moving, and reduced stamina. Keep your French bulldog at a healthy weight.
Dental health: French bulldogs often face dental problems due to their crowded teeth. This can lead to plaque buildup and increased risk of periodontal disease. Look for signs like bad breath, swollen gums, and difficulty eating.
Use organic cleaning products
French bulldogs have a curious nature. Hence, it is terrible to use cleaning products with hazardous chemicals in them. Your pup may lick or inhale these chemicals and damage their health.
So, you should either keep all your cleaning products locked up in a cupboard. Or switch to organic products permanently.
Spend time with your dog
Nothing cheers pups more than your attention and affection. So, prioritize spending time with your French bulldog and shower him with love and care.
Studies show that an affectionate upbringing leads to a more significant release of happy chemicals, which helps prevent boredom and gives your dog a sense of fulfillment. This, in turn, keeps them healthy and increases your French bulldog’s lifespan.
Provide mental stimulation and training
French Bulldogs are playful and loving, but they need mental stimulation and training to thrive.
Use these strategies to keep them engaged and improve their well-being:
Interactive toys and puzzles: Toys that dispense treats or require problem-solving can challenge their minds and keep them entertained.
Training sessions: Use positive reinforcement in short, consistent sessions (5-10 minutes) to teach basic commands or tricks, rewarding with treats and praise.
Socialization opportunities: Arrange playdates or attend puppy classes to help them interact with different environments and other dogs, enhancing social skills.
Obedience classes: Enroll them in classes for structured training with professional guidance, reinforcing both basic and advanced commands.
Games and exercise: Incorporate fun activities like hide-and-seek or fetch to combine physical and mental stimulation.
Mental enrichment activities: Use scatter feeding or scent games to engage their natural instincts and stimulate their minds.
Consistency and routine: Establish a regular training and play schedule to reduce anxiety and improve focus during sessions.
Keep them hydrated
Dogs lose water pretty much like ourselves every single day. If they’re exceptionally physically active, they may be losing more water.
If the water used is not replaced with a fresh supply, your dog may dehydrate and develop health issues.
So, ensure your Frenchie consumes at least 1 ounce of water per pound.
Keep physical activity in check
Lazy dogs are prone to health issues and experience negative emotions. Dogs are generally playful.
So, schedule daily walks for your French bulldog. Take him to dog parks or play fetch-the-ball with him yourself.
Physical activities also stimulate mental activity, keeping your dog mentally and physically busy and healthy.
Spay or neuter your dog
Spaying or neutering refers to the removal of your dog’s reproductive organs. It’s a surgical process that’s vital for your French bulldog’s health.
Studies prove that male neutered dogs have a 13.8 percent longer lifespan than non-neutered dogs. Female neutered dogs have a 26.3 percent longer lifespan. The study included 70,000 subjects.
Final thoughts on extending your French bulldog’s lifespan
Increasing your French bulldog’s lifespan is all about giving your pup proper care.
Even if you don’t have the time or energy to go the extra mile, you only have to dedicate yourself to proper maintenance, and that will be enough.
Shawn Mack is a content writer who offers ghostwriting, copywriting, and blogging services. His educational background in the business and technical fields has given him a broad base to approach many topics. He is also fond of writing engaging articles on technology & digital marketing-related issues.