English Bulldog Diseases to Watch Out for

English Bulldogs are known for their history of upper respiratory problems. If you own one of these lovable dogs, you should be aware of the common diseases that plague this breed. These diseases include Cherry eye, Entropion, Patellar luxation, and Thyroid disease. Learn about these diseases and how you can prevent them before they become a big problem for your dog.

Cherry eye

Surgical correction of the prolapsed gland is the most common treatment for this disease. During this procedure, the gland is repositioned and stitched in place to prevent it from popping out. However, in some cases, surgery is required to remove the prolapsed gland. This procedure is usually successful in preventing the condition from returning and relieving your dog of the irritation and pain.

Entropion

Entropion occurs when the eyelid margin rolls inward due to a defect in eyelid length. This condition can result in irritation to the eye cornea and can lead to squinting and excessive tearing. While this disease is rare, it can be a serious issue, and proper diagnosis is necessary for proper treatment.

Patellar luxation

Patellar luxation is a common problem in small breeds such as the English Bulldog. It occurs when the patella does not line up with the tibia or femur bone. The result is lameness and abnormal gait. Left untreated, it can lead to canine inflammatory arthritis and require surgery. It can also cause the dog’s leg to appear bow-legged.

Skin fold dermatitis

A recent study explored the prevalence of skin fold dermatitis in dogs and reported that 0.37% had the condition in any given year. The most common breeds affected by this disease are the English Bulldog, French Bulldog, and Pug. These breeds exhibit extreme conformation and are thought to be at increased risk for the condition.

Heart disease

English Bulldogs are susceptible to a variety of health problems, including heart disease. One of these problems is a heart murmur, which is a characteristic sound made by the dog’s heart. This condition is usually found during puppy health checks, but it can also develop later in the dog’s life. It is considered a genetic defect because it is a result of defective genes passed down from one parent to another. Most soft heart murmurs in English Bulldogs will go away on their own by the time they reach four to six months of age. While not life-threatening, they can be an indication of heart disease and require treatment.

Quality of the environment

Providing your English Bulldog with a comfortable environment is key in supporting a healthy condition. This includes, a well-ventilated place, ideally fresh during summer months and not warm during winter times. Also, maintaining an appropriate humidity level will really help.

Finally, don’t underestimate the value of quality bedding for your Bulldog. To learn more on this, be sure to check “The 5 best beds for an English Bulldog”. You will get solid recommendations to make the best choice four your English Bulldog friend. After all, your couch potato deserves the best!