French Bulldogs Breathing Problem: How to Treat 2021

The breed’s trademark of a French Bulldog is their erect bat ears, large and square head, wrinkles, flat-faced, short wide nose, and visible nose trills. These features made them lovable and caught the dog lover’s attention. However, behind their charm hides a curse.

It is common for flat-faced dogs to have airway abnormalities, making it difficult for them to breathe. This disorder is usually called brachycephalic airway syndrome. This disorder could lead to severe respiratory distress if not treated.

Are all French bulldogs suffering from breathing problems?

Not all French bulldogs are suffering from breathing problems. According to research, 66% of French bulldogs possessed tight nostrils and have breathing problems with other complaints. The reason behind it was all because of breeding concerns that are getting worse over the years. The probability of having a French bulldog having a breathing problem is high, but this doesn’t mean we should stop buying them. Knowing their breathing issues serves as a cautionary, and we must know how to handle it.

Why some French bulldogs have breathing problems?

The breathing problems of French bulldogs are mostly because of their abnormal anatomical features. These are the unfortunate result of their cuteness turned into a problem. But aside from that, there are other things to consider. Here’s the list that helps us understand why they are having breathing problems.

The stenotic nares are a hereditary condition of brachycephalic breeds. Their dorsolateral nasal cartilage is in between and dislocated, intruding at the opening of the external nasal.
The extended soft palate is another hereditary condition syndrome that disturbs French bulldogs eating and breathing. Elongated soft palates block the throat that made them hard to breathe.
The hypoplastic trachea is the abnormal growth of tracheal cartilage rings that makes the airway passage narrow.
The everted laryngeal saccules are the masses located between vocal folds and the larynx’s lateral wall—the cause of why the respiratory increases its effort to breathe normally.
Allergies – coughing, sneezing, wheezing, and runny discharge from the eyes and nose are some signs of allergies. These may trigger because of foods, drugs, mites, spores, chemicals, and the environment.
Tumors – nasal and sinus tumors also caused French bulldogs noisy breathing.
Object – unexpected foreign things trap inside their throat or nasal like toys, food, bones, or any possible choking hazard also make your pets have breathing problems.

What are the signs that your French bulldogs are having breathing problems?

Know your dog. As an owner or planning to own a French bulldog, awareness is the key to giving extra care to your pets. Know the signs so that you will think of a solution. Here’s the list that may guide you on how to identify their breathing problems.

Struggling from breathing or panting even it is only resting.
They may drool heavily and no time to breathe.
Gums and tongue are turning blue.
Collapsing or fainting even though it is not overtired.
Exercise intolerance.
Snorting.
Choking.
Hyperventilating.
Loss of appetite.
Hacking cough.

Diagnosis of French bulldogs breathing problems

In diagnosing French bulldogs’ breathing problems, they made a clinical test. Vets made a complete physical examination using medical instruments like a stethoscope for auscultation to determine their chest’s movement and breathing. The thoracic radiographs are used to assess heart or lung condition. Vets also made a visual inspection to define the shape of nostrils. In examining their mouth and larynx, they are put under sedation to avoid difficulties. Vets need to make a thorough examination to diagnose an overlong soft palate or laryngeal saccules that are not in a good position.

Further testing like MRI or CT scans can also help veterinarians see your pet’s anatomy. It is vital to know the length of your French bulldog’s palate, tongue, and tonsils because it will help them decide whether your pet will be needing corrective surgery.

Simple things you must do

It is much better to avoid it than to look for a cure. There is nothing more convenient and better way for your pets to prevent them from encountering breathing problems than this. To do that, you have to know the things you must do. Here are the guides that may help you.

It is common for French bulldogs to have a problem with breathing, but it is not normal. Once you identify the signs, you have to take them seriously. Owners commonly take this for granted because it is normal for French bulldogs to snore. You have to know the difference between heavy breathing and the sound of normal breathing. And if you think it is not normal, don’t hesitate to see your vet. For new owners, you need to be watchful on this part.
There is nothing wrong if you want your pets to go out and have a walk. It is perfect for their hearts, but be attentive and signifies that they need a break. Drooling happens once they are over-exercised. When this thing happens, you need to stop and wait for its recovery.
In some cases, a dog’s oxygen deficiency happens. This case is an extreme one that needed immediate attention. The result of the lack of oxygen will make them collapse. Most of the time, this happens during hot weather. During these times, French bulldogs are recommended not to overexert them. It is also best for them to walk in the early morning or evening.
You are aware of the French bulldog’s breathing, and you have to understand it. It’s more because of its anatomical condition. The French bulldog’s narrow nostrils and the same size of soft palate and tongue make them breathe through their mouth. Knowing their situation is a big help to take good care of your pets.

Additional things to consider

The weight of your dog could also be the reason behind their breathing problem. Maintaining the weight of your pets could be a big help to prevent this problem. Overweight French dogs are more likely prone to respiratory distress. Always remember that a healthy weight leads to healthy breathing.

Do not forget to bring water during your walks to keep them hydrated and to cool down. Remember that they cannot tolerate too much heat, so better cool them down now and then.

A harness is better than using a collar because it will only constrain their breathing. Harness, on the other hand, provides comfort, stress-free, flexible, and affordable. Don’t worry about its price. There is a harness in the market selling at a reasonable price without suffering the quality.

Another reason your dog has a problem breathing is there’s an object stuck at the back of their throat or nasal. Don’t forget to check it and be sure that your dog’s airway is clear.

While your dog struggles, try not to do something that might stress them, like chasing your pet or keeping him while struggling to escape.

Treatment for French bulldog breathing problems

After a thorough check-up, your vet will give the best recommendation to treat your pet. For French dogs having a severe case due to their strained nostrils, extended palates, or inflamed saccules, there is both medical and surgical way to help manage the condition, correct the abnormality and save them from distress. Here are some useful lists that might give you an idea of what treatments are possible for French bulldogs.