In the United States, the French Bulldog is a popular dog breed. Out of the 195 different breeds of dogs in the U.S., the French Bulldog ranks number four. One reason why they are so popular, these dogs are simply adorable. Not only are they handsome, but these dogs are the perfect size with sweet personalities.
French Bulldogs are excellent companions. These dogs are also affectionately known as “Frenchies.” Are you considering owning one of these wonderful bat-eared dogs? If so, you may be wondering about the French Bulldog lifespan.
French Bulldogs have made their presence known on social media. Frenchies are wonderful house mates, terrific at snuggling, they are great outing partners, and love to go on adventures. But how old do French Bulldogs live? This question and many more will be answered in the article.
What is the Average French Bulldog Lifespan?
A French Bulldog is expected to live between 9-12 years. This may seem rather short for a dog but this is just a range. Unfortunately, this breed of dog does not have a great health record. It is pretty typical for French Bulldogs to experience many health concerns.
It is quite hard to grasp the notion that these adorable pups could have any health problems. If you are a prospective French Bulldog owner, you should know that their health issues can impact their quality of life. This doesn’t mean that the dog will have a horrible life by any means. But this does mean that you should take extra precautions when dealing with the health of your French Bulldog.
The average lifespan of these dogs is around 10 years. There are some Frenchies that live shorter periods and some that beat the average. The record for the longest living French bulldog is 14.5 years. Considering that 14-15 years is the average life span of most dogs, French Bulldogs have the potential to live a long life.
Usually, small dog breeds have a shorter life span than larger breeds. The average depends on the specific breed. Genetic health concerns in a breed should be considered to help predict their quality of life.
How old do French Bulldogs live? Now, that you know the average life span of a French bulldog is around 10 years, you may be wondering why do French Bulldogs have a shorter life expectancy? There are a few factors that contribute to the life span and health of a French Bulldog.
What Causes the Short Lifespan of French Bulldogs?
One of the major factors that contribute to the short life of this breed is health problems. Unfortunately, some of the health problems can be very serious and life-threatening. If you already own this breed or you are contemplating ownership, it is recommended that you do extensive research so that you can properly take care of your furry best friend.
The French Bulldog is more prone to medical conditions than other breeds. These are not just minimal health concerns; they can impact the life expectancy of the dog. Stress in your dog’s life can have an effect on their quality of life and longevity.
Anxiety is another major factor, especially with smaller breeds. Increased anxiety in a French Bulldog may have a negative impact on their health, which in return may lead to further health complications.
Have you heard that with humans, women usually outlive men? This is partially the case for French Bulldogs. The sex of the dog can play a major role in health problems. Male French Bulldogs have a higher probability of suffering from certain disorders. Although the males are more likely to get certain health disorders, the lifespan of both the male and female are similar.
French Bulldog Health Concerns
There are a few top health concerns for French Bulldogs, they include:
• Ear infections
• Diarrhea
• Conjunctivitis (pink-eye)
• Over long nails
• Skinfold dermatitis
These are not the only health concerns of this breed, but they are the most common. More seriously, French Bulldogs experience upper respiratory tract disorders. The cause of these disorders is because the dogs have brachycephalic facial structure or better known as flat-faced.
When a dog has a flat-face, it is more likely that they will have breathing problems. I know we think the cute little sounds and snorts a French Bulldog make are adorable, but in reality, this is a sign that they cannot breathe.
Due to their flat faces, French Bulldogs may suffer from sleep apnea and snoring. This can have a negative impact on their quality of life.
The health concerns do not stop there. During hot temperatures and while exercising, French Bulldogs cannot maintain healthy and safe body temperature. As you may have guessed, this can be dangerous and lead to overheating.
Why does this occur? Most dogs depend on the evaporation from their mouths to keep cool. This is not the case with the French Bulldog, they do not have enough space or surface area on their tongue to keep cool.
It may seem as if your French Bulldog is lazy or doesn’t want to be active, it could simply be they are overheating and can’t breathe. There are a number of French Bulldog deaths that are attributed to overheating.
Some of the health issues of this breed are genetic. You cannot fix the fact that French Bulldogs have flat faces and therefore suffer from breathing problems. That is innate to their breed. But there are some health concerns that you can help to treat or eliminate.
Improving The Life Expectancy of Your French Bulldog
All hope is not lost for the French Bulldog. They are cute, adorable, and make the best cuddle buddies. Although they can potentially have a few health conditions, there are some things you can do to help.
Before making the decision to own a French Bulldog, be sure to research the parents of the dog. Breeding dogs should always be tested for health conditions. If these health conditions are addressed and treated before breeding, the liter will have a better chance of survival.
Always work with reputable French Bulldog breeders. Most experienced breeders will test the dog for health disorders and deliver the proper immunizations to support the health of the dog. In return, this is less you will have to worry about once you own the dog.
It is important that your French Bulldog receive an eye test and hip test. These tests can let you know if any problems exist early so you can take the necessary precautions. The eye test is important because French Bulldogs are prone to hereditary cataracts.
To help prevent hip problems later on in their life, French Bulldogs should receive hip scoring. Hip dysplasia is a serious health concern in this breed.
Not all French Bulldog medical issues can be tested for. The goal is to test the dog for all avoidable health problems. You want to make sure that you are receiving a healthy French Bulldog. The best way to do this is to receive the dog from a source that has run all testing and you can view the results. The breeder should be both experienced and licensed.
Healthy Tips To Extend your French Bulldog Lifespan
Incorporating a healthy diet is essential for long life. French Bulldogs also suffer from food allergies. Be sure to pay close attention to any food that your dog may have an allergen for.
If you own a French Bulldog, regular visits to the vet is a must. Keeping a regularly scheduled standing appointment with your vet can help to ensure that your pup stays healthy. This also helps you to notice and address any health concerns before they get out of control.
Yes, it is true that French Bulldogs overheat easily. But this should not stop you from allowing your dog to exercise. The key is to incorporate safe exercise into your French Bulldog’s life. They love to take frequent long walks. This is not the breed that will enjoy fast runs. Brisk walks are safe for French Bulldogs.
Routine health maintenance adds to the life span of your dog. Nail trimming, teeth brushing, and grooming can all help to improve the quality of life for your dog.
Smaller breeds, like the French Bulldog, live with great anxiety. Unfortunately, prolonged anxiety and stress in a French Bulldog can lead to further health complications. A great tip is to always show love and kindness to your pup. This can help to eliminate stress in their life.
French Bulldogs like to receive love and affection. Their anxiety is minimized when they feel safe and have a routine. The unknown and different spaces can lead to anxiety for your dog. Provide a routine and stick with it. This could potentially be a life-saving tactic for your French Bulldog.
Conclusion: French Bulldog Lifespan
The average life span range of a French Bulldog is around 9-12 years. This can vary greatly based on the health and quality of life of your dog. Other life span factors include genetics, exercise, diet, and overall lifestyle.
French Bulldogs may have breathing issues, but they are still excellent dogs. With added attention to their health and lifestyle, they can make excellent companion dogs.
When you pick up your Frenchie one of the first recommendations I have for you is to look into French Bulldog Health Insurance.
PS – In event that your French Bulldog passes away you might look into these French Bulldog dog urn options.
