~~~~~Required Reading For French Bulldogs and FrenchBos~~~~
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French Bulldog
Also known as Bouledogue Français, Frenchie, Frogdog
General Temperament
Bred strictly as a companion pet, the French Bulldog is sweet, lovable and possesses a great sense of humor. They are curious and comical and love to play. Their affection for their human owners is unending, often bonding strongly to one person in particular. They will thrive with companionship, and will be extremely unhappy without it. Jovial, affectionate and even-tempered, most will get along with just about anyone.
Although they enjoy human company, a Frenchie will function best with older or well-behaved children who will not tease the dog. They will happily play with other dogs, friend or stranger alike, although the occasional male may be dog-aggressive. They get along well with most other household animals.
French Bulldogs can be a bit willful but can be well trained by a patient and consistent trainer who does not use overly harsh tones or physical punishment.
The French Bulldog is ideal for apartment life as it does not need an excessive amount of exercise. They are particularly prone to heat stroke and will be happiest in a milder climate. Be sure not to overexert the dog in hot temperatures.
Breed History
The most commonly accepted theory of the evolution of the French Bulldog is that it was bred from small (or toy) English Bulldogs by people who wanted a non-fighting version of the breed. These small Bulldogs were taken to France in large numbers in the second half of the 19th century by English artisans, particularly lace makers, looking to preserve their craft in the wake of the Industrial Revolution. The breed became immensely popular in Parisian society, and two versions were established: one with rose-shaped ears and the other with larger ears. The larger bat-like ears eventually won out in America, leading to the modern French Bulldog that we see today.
The French Bulldog became immensely popular in the Northeastern United States around the beginning of the 20th century, but it’s popularity began to decline dramatically at the start of World War I. The French Bulldog Club of America sites many possible reasons for this. First of all, general interest in pure breeds declined after the Great Depression; regardless, a new snub-nosed toy breed called the Boston Terrier was becoming all the rage. Additionally, female French Bulldogs often encountered difficulty delivering puppies with such large heads (safe Caesarian Sections would not be instituted for many years to come). Overall economic growth, coupled with the advent of safer veterinary practices, lead to a resurgence in the breed’s popularity in the 1980’s.
Body Structure and Composition
The most distinctive feature of the French Bulldog are it’s bat-like ears, which sit on the corners of a level skull (though the forehead is slightly arched). A short muzzle, reminiscent of it’s most likely ancestor, the English Bulldog, is wrinkled with the flews (upper lips) hanging over the lower jaw. They also share the characteristic Bulldog underbite. It is a well-proportioned breed, approximately as long as it is tall. The neck is thick and the skin is loose on the throat. The Frenchie’s topline is slightly higher at the hindquarters than at the shoulder, due to it’s slightly longer back legs. The chest is deep, and it’s tail is straight or slightly screwed and hung low.
Medical Information
As a brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breed, the French Bulldog can be prone to breathing problems, as their airways are more compressed than non-brachycephalic breeds. Subsequently breathing problems are possible in all French Bulldog, although they occur particularly in individuals who are overweight. They are also very sensitive to warm temperatures, and it is important to keep the dog mainly indoors during hot summer months. They routinely wheeze and snore, and some may drool.
In addition to being brachycephalic, French Bulldogs are also chondrodystrophic, meaning that they suffer from dwarfism. This condition results in a shortening of the vertebrae as well as the long bones of the limbs. This can cause vertebral malformations or premature degeneration of the intervertebral discs, conditions that become more pronounced in individuals with shorter backs. Also, with the shorter spine comes decreased lung capacity, putting additional strain on an already debilitated respiratory system. The dog’s gait can be affected if the long bones of the forelegs are more affected by the dwarfism than the hind legs, causing the hid legs to overtake the forelegs when the dog trots. When choosing a French Bulldog puppy, look for parents with relatively longer backs and well-proportioned front and back legs.
Some French Bulldog lines are susceptible to various eye conditions. Glaucoma, corneal ulcers, juvenile cataracts, and Entropion (inward-turning eyelids) have all been known to plague this breed. Another condition called Cherry Eye is known to occur, although is more common in the Bulldog and the Pug (this occurs when the gland of the third eyelid - known as the nictitating membrane - prolapses and becomes visible as a red mass on the inner corner of the eye). Reputable breeders will have their breeding stock certified by the Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF) prior to producing a litter to help prevent the spread of inherited eye diseases.
The short and smooth coat of a French Bulldog is easy to care for - occasional brushing is all that is needed.
Anecdotal Information
The French Bulldog has enjoyed a dramatic increase in popularity in the last 30 years. According to the French Bulldog Club of America, registrations have grown from 170 in 1980 to over 5,500 in 2006. During the same period, the breed climbed the American Kennel Club’s registration list, from #76 in 1997 to #34 in 2007.
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Boston Terrier
Also known as Boston Bull, Boston Bull & Terrier, Boxwood, American Bull Terrier
General Temperament
Although they were first bred for various dog fighting sports, the Boston Terrier has since been bred down to be smaller and more docile, making it a more compatible companion pet. They are famous for being gentle and well-mannered. Boston Terriers are generally good with considerate children, but are particularly fond of the elderly.
The Boston Terrier has a playful disposition and a good sense of humor. They enjoy being an integral member of the family and do not do well if left alone for long periods. Most Boston Terriers rarely bark, although some will bark at a knock at the door. They get along well with other household pets and are very friendly with strangers. Male Boston Terriers can sometimes be aggressive with other dogs.
Boston Terriers are intelligent and enjoy learning, and are therefore very easy to obedience train, although they can be difficult to housebreak (the crate training method is recommended). With their intelligence comes significant sensitivity; harsh or heavy-handed training methods should never be used or the dog may become timid, neurotic or unwilling to learn. When properly trained, Boston Terrier’s can excel in agility and flyball.
Their portability and personability make Boston Terriers great traveling companions, although they are sensitive to extreme temperatures. They make good apartment dogs as they do not require extensive exercise. But like all dogs, they require walks and playtime to maintain good health.
Breed History
The Boston Terrier is one of the few breeds to have originated in the United States. The breed was the result of crossing an English Bulldog and a white English Terrier, although they maintain little of their Bulldog roots as fighters. A dog named “Hooper’s Judge,” who was purchased by Robert C. Hooper in 1870, is commonly accepted to be the initial sire for the breed. Judge was quite a bit larger than the modern Boston Terrier, weighing in at over 30 lbs. Over time, the breed was bred down in size to make them a better companion pet, mixing with French Bulldogs along the way. The dog was initially termed the “American Bull Terrier,” but fanciers of the original Bull Terrier and Bulldog objected to this name, claiming that the breeds differed too much to share the name. The name Boston Terrier was adopted in 1891, when the Boston Terrier Club of America was formed.
The Boston Terrier was the first all-American breed to be accepted into the American Kennel Club stud book in 1893.
Body Structure and Composition
The most distinguishing characteristic of the Boston Terrier is it’s square head with a short and boxy muzzle, wide-set eyes, and tall ears that stand erect at the top of the head. The body is proportionate to the legs, meaning that the dog is as long at it is tall. The topline is level and the short tail is set and carried low. The Boston Terrier has a graceful, straight-lined and gait.
Boston Terrier puppies have large heads, therefore many litters are delivered via Caesarian section.
Medical Information
Boston Terriers are prone to a significant amount of hereditary diseases. The most noticeable problem facing this breed is Brachycephalic Syndrome, a disease that plagues many short-muzzled breeds. Symptoms include noisy breathing, overheating easily (even in moderate weather), labored breathing, frequent gagging or vomiting for no apparent reason, Cyanosis (blue gums due to lack of oxygen), and Syncope (sudden fainting).
The breed’s protuberant eyes are prone to a myriad of infections and diseases, including corneal ulcers, cataracts, and “Cherry Eye.” Cherry Eye is the term used when the gland of the third eyelid (known as the nictitating membrane) prolapses and becomes visible. Corneal Dystrophy is also common in this breed, and occurs when fluid build-up makes the cornea appear white, beginning at the edge and progressing to the center. It can cause a painful corneal ulcer that is difficult to treat. Glaucoma, Keratitis Sicca (dry eyes), Entropion (inward-turning eyelids), and Distichiasis (abnormally placed hairs on the inside of the eyelid) are also seen in this breed.
This breed also suffers from bone-related problems. Hemivertebrae (also known as butterfly vertebrae) is a condition in which the vertebrae of the spine are shaped more like triangles than blocks, resulting from the failure of the left and right halves of a vertebrae to fuse completely during fetal development. This condition creates a coveted corkscrew style tail, but can cause the dog significant pain. Boston Terriers also encounter Patellar Luxation (also known as “slipped stifle”) when the kneecap slips out of place, requiring surgery.
Boston Terrier’s have a high incidence of deafness, which can be diagnosed around 6 weeks of age using a BAER test. Puppies that are unilaterally deaf, meaning they are deaf in one ear, will likely not show significant symptoms and can make wonderful companion pets, although they should not be bred.
The Boston Terrier is also prone to skin allergies and heart murmur.
Grooming a Boston Terrier is relatively simple given their short and fine coat. Be sure to check the eyes and ears frequently to remove any foreign objects and prevent infection.
Anecdotal Information
The mascot of Boston University is a Boston Terrier named Rhett. The Boston Terrier is the state dog of Massachusetts. Helen Keller was given a Boston Terrier by her classmates at Radcliffe College.
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FrenchBos, AKA Faux Frenchies, Frenchtons
The frenchBos seem to get the best of both worlds: The frenchies are
stubborn, the bostons are smart, the frenchbos inherit the smarts and
eagerness to please. The frenchies are very body heavy and can lay
around alot, the bostons are athletic and can be kind of hyper, the
frenchbos are great affectionate cuddlers, yet LOVE to fetch and play
with thier toys. The frenchies as a breed have a spiral tail
formation which can translate into spinal difficulties if malformed,
the bostons do not, the frenchbos end up with a nice short tail, but
not usually spiraled. Both of the breeds are WONDERFUL family dogs,
both breeds are VERY devoted and loyal. The frenchies and the bostons
are flat faced and so in summer (outside) need to be watched for heat
sensitivity and in the winter cannot get too cold or have drafts on
them because of thier tendency to catch cold which can quickly move
into thier respiratory tract/lungs and cause pnemonia.
The frenchbos vary in body shape from the frenchies only slightly from
the frenchies, from being lighter built- (think of a boston on
steroids!) to looking identical to a purebred frenchie. Also I have
noticed that the solid brindle marked pups are mistaken more for
frenchies than the pied.
Here are some great video breed profiles for you to watch, these are
general, but very well done, by the animal channel, hope you enjoy!
Most people are not familiar with the term "Brachycephalic," but if you own a pug, French Bulldog, Boston Terrier, Pekingese, Boxer, Bulldog, Shih Tizu or any one of the other breeds with "pushed in" faces, you should become familiar with this word. The word comes from Greek roots "Brachy," meaning short and "cephalic," meaning head.
Brachycephalic dogs have been bred so as to possess a normal lower jaw, that is, one in proportion to their body size, and a compressed upper jaw. In producing this cosmetic appearance, we have compromised these animals in many important ways and you, as an owner, must be familiar with the special needs of your pet.
THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM
Brachycephalic breeds are characterized by "brachycephalic respiratory syndrome," which affects the different areas of the respiratory tract. Fortunately, most dogs do not suffer from all aspects of the syndrome but you should be aware of which your particular pet may have.
STENOTIC NARES -
This is a fancy name for narrowed nostrils. The brachycephalic dogs begins by having very small nasal openings for breathing. If this is severe, surgical correction is possible.
ELONGATED SOFT PALATE -
It is difficult to fit the soft tissues of the canine mouth and throat into the brachycephalic''s short face. As a result, the soft palate which separates nasal passage from oral cavity flaps loosely down into the throat creating snorting sounds. Virtually all brachycephalics suffer from this but, except in bulldogs, actual respiratory distress is rare. Excess barking or panting may lead to swelling in the throat which can, inturn, lead to trouble.
TRACHEAL STENOSIS -
The brachycephalic''s windpipe may be dangerously narrowed in places. This condition creates tremendous anesthetic risk and should be ruled out by chest radiographs prior to any surgical procedures.
HEAT STRESS -
Because of all these upper respiratory obstructions, the brachycephalic dog is an inefficient panter. A dog with a more conventional face and throat is able to pass air quickly over the tongue through panting. Saliva evaporates from the tongue as air is passed across and the blood circulating through the tongue is efficiently cooled and circulated back to the rest of the body.
In the brachycephalic dog, so much extra work is required to move the same amount of air that the airways become inflamed and swollen. This leads to a more severe obstruction, distress, and further over-heating.
BRACHYCEPHALIC DOGS ARE THE MOST LIKELY CANDIDATES FOR HEAT STROKE.
Altogether, the upper airways of the brachycephalic dog compromises his or her ability to take in air. Under normal conditions the compromise is not great enough to cause a problem; however, an owner should take care not to let the dog become grossly overweight or get too hot in the Summer months.
Be aware of what degree of snorting and sputtering is usual for your individual pet plus, should your pet require general anesthesia or sedation, your vet may want to take extra precautions or take radiographs prior to assess the severity of the syndrome. Anesthetic risk is higher than usual in these breeds, though under most circumstances the necessary extra precautions are readily managed by most animal hospitals.
EYE PROBLEMS
With most of the nasal bones compacted, brachycephalic dogs tend to have trouble with the way their eyes seat in their heads.
First, recognize the prominence of the eyes on these dogs. The boney eye sockets are very shallow. This means that any blow to the back of the head, even a fairly minor one, can cause an eye to pop from its socket and require surgical replacement. This can happen also with too much pulling against the leash if the pet is wearing a collar. You may wish to consider a harness for your pet.
Sometimes, the eyes are so prominent that the lids cannot close all the way over the eyes. This will lead to irritation and drying of the center of the eye unless surgical correction is performed. If you cannot tell by watching your pet blink, watch as your pet sleeps. Dogs who sleep without closing their eyes all the way could do with surgical correction.
Eyelid problems are common in these breeds. Look for persistent wetness around the eyes. In some dogs, the shape of the eyelids prevents normal tear drainage and there is an overflow. This problem cannot be corrected surgically and is not uncomfortable for the pet; however, there is a more serious condition which looks similar. This second condition involves the rolling inward of the eyelids such that the lashes rub on the eye. Surgery may be needed to correct this problem.
Chronic irritation will show as a pigmented area on the eye surface, especially on the side nearest the nose. This is hard to see without a bright light but if it is noted, a search for the cause is warranted. Depending on the location of the pigmentation, surgery may be recommended.
OTHER CONCERNS
The normal dog has 42 teeth in its mouth. The brachycephalic dog also has 42 teeth but a lot less space to fit them in. This means that the teeth will be crowded and growing in at odd angles which, in turn, traps food debris and leads to periodontal disease at a far younger age than in non-brachycephalics. The earlier you begin using home care dental products, the longer you will be able to postpone full dentistry under general anesthesia.
Skin fold infections are common amid the facial folds of the brachycephalic breeds. Be sure to examine these areas periodically for redness. The broad headed nature of these breeds makes reproduction a tricky matter as Caesarean section is frequently needed. Difficult labor is common and, as surgical assistance is often necessary, it is important not to breed females with tracheal stenosis (see above). Breeding is best left to the experts.
Altogether, the brachycephalic breeds show plenty of personality and intelligence just as all dogs do but because of their special needs, they require some extra knowledge of their owners.
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Elongated Soft Palate
A problem that is frequently seen in French Bulldogs is called, elongated soft palate. The soft palate is a flap of mucousal tissue which closes off the animal's airway (nasopharynx) during swallowing to prevent foods and liquids from going into their lungs.
In the figure to the left, you can see the soft palate just above the Esophagus. In animals with a normal soft palate, it touches or slightly overlaps the epiglottis.
In dogs with an elongated soft palate, the palate overlaps the epiglottis to a considerable degree, partially obstructing the animal's airway during breathing. This is manifested by snorting, snoring, strider, gurgling and gagging. The obstruction is worse with exercise.
In time, stretched ligaments in the larynx leads to labored breathing and laryngeal collapse. Laryngeal collapse is a late stage in airway obstruction. Pressure changes caused by the elongated soft palate bring about the stretching of the ligaments that support the laryngeal cartilages. These cartilages gradually collapse inward and block the airway. (See the drawing below).
In the diagram you can see that more air moves freely in and out of the lungs in the normal dog's airway, but the dog with the collapsed airway has less air flowing through it. At this stage any changes in the dog's need for air can cause acute respiratory insufficiency and cardiac arrest.
TREATMENT:
An elongated soft palate is treated by surgically shortening the palate so that the edge opposes or slightly overlaps the epiglottis. Results are good and can extend the life of your French Bulldog by years if the operation is done before destructive changes occur in the larynx. It is for that reason that you have your French Bulldog checked by a veterinarian who is familiar with French Bulldogs and is skilled in identifying this abnormality.
This was an excerpt from the book, "Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook" 3rd Edition by James M. Giffin MD & Liisa D. Carlson, DVM
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HEMIVERTEBRAE
by Jan Grebe
Consider the Ideal Frenchie! Ah, that zenith of canine loveliness, with its beautiful flat face, roach back, hunk-like body, screw tail, voluminous wrinkles! But as with all purebred dogs, the distinguishing features of our little furry friends are not without cost, as they carry with them an increased risk of medical problems.
Frenchie breeders and pet Frenchie owners alike should be informed about some of the common problems seen in their breed. Informed breeders may help minimize the incidence of the more predictable inherited problems, to keep them from becoming the nightmare that conditions like hip dysplasia and juvenile cataracts have been for other breeds. For that reason, this article will deal with a common problem in Frenchies: hemivertebrae.
Two distinct problems which are seen alarmingly often in brachycephalic (short faced), screw tailed breeds (French and English Bulldogs, Boston Terriers) affect the back. These are : congenital malformations of the vertebrae, and degenerative disc disease. In this issue, we shall consider the commonest clinically-significant vertebral malformations (hemivertebrae), and in the next issue, disc disease. Forwarned is forarmed (or forpawed).
Canine backs normally have from 49 to 53 vertebrae, depending on tail length. Our abbreviated little screw tailed friends thus have about 10 to 15 fewer, the missing bones being those of the errant tail.Those tail vertebrae that are present are usually deformed in Frenchies. The bones of the back, while all having the same basic structure, are differentiated into various regions, with 7 Cervical, 12 or 13 Thoracic, 7 Lumbar, 3 Sacral, and the rest Coccygeal vertebrae. (Fig. 1).
Each vertebra in that elegant Frenchie top-line has a cylindrical ventral part (the body), between adjacent pairs of which are the intervertebral discs.The alternating bodies and discs form a flexible supporting rod. A body arch rises dorsally from each body to enclose an opening (spinal foramen). (Fig. 2).
The large number of vertebrae, coupled with the complex development of each from several bone-forming centers, predispose the back to a high probability of errors. Many defects represent an incomplete development, as seen in hemivertebrae ("butterfly" vertebrae). This is a CONGENITAL defect (present at birth) with a GENETIC (inheritable) basis, though it is unlikely that the genetic mechanism is a simple one-locus, dominant/recessive one. The very high incidence of hemivertebrae in brachycephalic, screwtailed breeds is a reflection of the fact that the brachycephaly and short tail are actually skeletal deformities (sorry, Minnie!) which have been built into the breed. Beautiful to the eye, but malformations nevertheless. In fact, the coccygeal vertebrae in the screwtail ARE hemivertebrae, whose asymmetry produce that elegant little embellishment on the derriere.
But what is esthetically pleasing on the rump may have serious consequences in the rest of the spine.
Hemivertebrae form when the right and the left halves of the developing vertebral body fail to fuse, producing a body which ressembles a butterfly when seen from above. The two unfused halves often grow unequally, producing a wedge-shaped vertical body. Depending on which way the broad side of the wedge is directed, this may cause a dorsal curvature (kyphosis) or a lateral curvature (scoliosis).As the backbone is bent, so bends the spinal canal; and any deformity of the canal can compress the spinal cord and/or its blood supply, with serious effects.
If the function of the spinal cord is impaired by direct compression or by vascular problems, the animal may show either pain or loss of sensation due to the interruption of the sensory circuits; if motor nerve circuits in the cord are affected, weakness or paralysis, especially of the hind limbs, will result. Any body part receiving its nerve supply from that part of the cord posterior to the damaged area may be affected.
Various studies have reported on several aspects of hemivertebrae in dogs. The vertebrae most often involved are the 9th thru the 11th Thoracic vertebrae; secondary changes in the rib cage may be produced by a curvature here.
There are many cases, often involving only a single vertebra, in which no clinical problems are seen, and the malformation may be detected only accidentally, if at all. If more than one vertebra is involved, the probability of clinical problems increases due to the greater degree of curvature.
In those rare cases in which the dog does show some clinical signs, the outlook is not good. Most often, symptoms begin at the age of three or four months, with a sudden onset of hindlimb weakness, often preceded by a gait abnormality which is often noted only in retrospect. There may be pain on palpation of the back at the level of the hemivertebrae, with varying degrees of curvature. The latter may be so subtle that it is only detectable radiographically. In pups which do show such symptoms, the hindlimb paralysis generally worsens, the muscles waste, and bladder and bowel control may be lost. In most cases, that awful decision to euthanize must eventually be faced.
Hemivertebrae, both the wedge-shaped and butterfly-shaped types, are very common in Frenchies, and when a single one is present it very rarely causes problems. The inheritability of hemivertebrae in minks is by an autosomal recessive gene. In humans, it is known to be familial (i.e. to "run in families"), but it is not inherited in a straightforward and predictable way. In Frenchies, hemivertebrae appear to be so common that they may be an unavoidable side effect of the chondrodystrophic condition that characterizes the breed.
Chondrodystrophy (derived from words meaning "bad cartilage nourishment") is a condition in which the fetal skeleton, which is first formed in cartilage as a sort of "model ", does not have a good blood supply, and so doesn't develop properly. This results in the bones that replace the early cartilage models being poorly formed. (This poor nourishment of cartilage also causes the cartilage of the intervertebral discs to deteriorate early in life, often leading to intervertebral disc degeneration and herniation as the next article will describe).
The long bones of the limbs are malformed by chondrodystrophy in a way that causes a flaring of the ends of the bones; this is what Frenchie people prize as "bone", actually a malformation and an indicator of the degree of the chondrodystrophy. In the spine, chondrodystrophy increases the incidence of malformed vertebrae. The more severe the chondrodystrophy, the greater the incidence of malformations.
It is unfortunate that we have no accurate data on the true frequency of hemivertebrae in our breed, and we do not know whether they tend to be more common in some lines of dogs than in others. We need to do X-ray screening of whole families of dogs, and follow them through several generations, to determine this. Since most hemivertebrae are detected incidentally on X-rays being done for other reasons, it is clear that they are usually asymptomatic.
Most back problems in Frenchies are caused by degenerative disc disease. Because of this, it is difficult to know how to decide whether to breed a dog with hemivertebrae. If a bitch has more than one, or if she has any sign of spiral canal deformity, instability, or muscle weakness and/or pain related to hemivertebrae, she shouldn't be bred because of the additional stress that pregnancy would place on her back. If a dog or bitch has several hemivertebrae, or has produced puppies with multiple hemivertebrae and/or symptomatic back problems, it probably shouldn't be bred. But if an animal with only a single hemivertebra and no clinical problems related to it is otherwise sound, and possesses desirable traits that should be perpetuated, then breeding it (especially to another Frenchie with a good and asymptomatic back) might be all right.
If a breeder can find a vet who cares for a number of Frenchies (and other breeds affected by hemivertebrae, like Pugs, Bulldogs and Boston Terriers), that vet could help evaluate backs of potential breeding animals both radiologically and by physical exam, and could help advise the breeder about pros and cons of breeding a given animal.
A vet involved in this way could also help gather the type of information we need in order to learn more about this condition and whether we can by selective breeding lessen its incidence in French Bulldogs.
As with most genetic issues, the primary need is for concerned breeders to be diligent in their analysis of their dogs, and honest and open in the sharing of information about them. Anyone who loves our breed (and who could help it?) should be alert to its potential problems, especially those which may be debilitating and/or life-threatening. The best conformation in the world is futile if the dog dies young; and the grief resulting from the loss of a beloved pet is beyond price. Every Frenchie is a precious gift, and we should do what we can to give them the best and longest lives possible.
Translated by Eva Sohlberg
JAN GREBE
teaches Gross Anatomy and Radiographic Anatomy to medical students in Kansas City, USA.
Her doctoral and postdoctoral work were in Zoology, with emphasis in Genetics and Embryology.
She has been a Frenchie Fancier since 1980, but a dog fancier since birth.
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INTERVERTEBRAL DISC DISEASE
by Jan Grebe
The second article in a series of two.
Premature degeneration of the intervertebral discs, like hemivertebrae, is an all-too-common problem in French Bulldogs. In Sweden, research indicates that Frenchies are second only to Dachshunds in the incidence of disc disease, proportionate to the breeds' population sizes. No data are available for the frequency of the condition in the United States Frenchie population; but it seems to be high here as well.
Researchers believe that the breeds most commonly affected are the "chondrodystrophic" ones in which an abnormal development of the bones results in various skeletal disproportions, such as short legs and noses. In these breeds, chondrodystrophy predisposes the discs to being prematurely converted to an abnormal type of tissue, whose consistency is unsuitable for the discs' function. Then, in the parts of the back most subject to mechanical stress, these degenerated discs are liable to rupture or protrude.
It is likely that a tendency toward disc disease, like hemivertebrae, is a side effect of the developmental defects that we select for as characterizing our lovely breed. But some lines of Frenchies probably have a higher-than-average incidence of the ailment superimposed on this built-in breed tendency. Inbreeding and line-breeding would increase the probability of an undesirable characteristic just as they would increase the incidence of the desirable ones. As with other inherent breed problems that accompany the desirable traits, a perfect conformation may be too expensive if its cost is the health or the life of the Frenchie. It might be wise to reconsider the breed standard periodically to see whether a minor change in it could produce a healthier breed.
A first step toward coming to terms with this or any health problem is to educate Frenchie Friends ... breeders and pet owners alike ... as to the nature of the disease, its clinical signs, prognoses and treatment.
Underlying those beautiful folds and wrinkles of the Frenchie back is the vertebral column, consisting of 7 cervical, 13 thoracic, 7 lumbar, 3 sacral and a variable number of coccygeal (tail) vertebrae. The latter group is greatly reduced and generally abnormally formed in our little screwtailed friends (FIG. 1).
Between the ventral solid parts (bodies) of each pair of adjacent vertebrae is a flexible, cushion-like disc composed of a tough, outer fibrous envelope (the annulus) containing a soft, jelly-like inner mass (the nucleus). Either with aging, or due to premature disc degeneration, dehydration of the disc may occur, resulting in a loss of elasticity. The nucleus of the disc may then thicken, become fibrous, and finally calcify. These degenerative changes, generally present to some extent in old dogs of all breeds, often occur prematurely in the chondrodystrophic breeds.
Although the changes in the disc may be seen in x-rays as a narrowing of the intervertebral space, plus the presence of calcium deposits in the space, the degeneration of the disc does not itself generally cause clinical signs.
The problems arise when part or all of the disc is squeezed out from between the vertebrae and protrudes dorsally into the adjacent spinal canal, causing an inflammation and/or compression of the spinal cord, and sometimes accompanied by bleeding from blood vessels in the tissues surrounding the spinal cord. There may be a bulging out of the annulus, or an extrusion of the nucleus of the disc from its annulus (like squeezing the pulp of a grape out of its skin), or even total displacement of the entire disc. The terms disc herniation, protrusion, rupture, extrusion, and prolapse have all been applied to various types of disc problems. Because these terms are not consistently used, we will refer to ANY movement of all or part of a disc out of its intervertebral space as a disc protrusion.
A degenerated disc may protrude slowly over a period of time, or rapidly; and it may happen for no apparent reason, or as a result of a trauma. Something as simple as a jump off a chair can dislodge or protrude a diseased disc, not that Frenchies are ever allowed on furniture, of course.
Protrusion usually occurs dorsally in the midline, into the spinal canal containing the spinal cord (FIG. 4). Ventral protrusion is rare because the annulus is thicker ventrally and is also reinforced ventrally by a strong ligament.
The specific discs most often affected are those thoraco-lumbar discs between vertebrae T11 to L2 (where it is estimated that 60 per cent of all disc protrusions occur), and in the cervical area, especially in the discs between vertebrae C2 to C4 (FIG. 2). The nine discs located between vertebrae T1 - T10 rarely protrude because they are reinforced dorsally by a ligament associated with the ribs which are attached to these vertebrae.
When the disc degeneration is a consequence of age (in dogs ten years old or older), the cervical discs are the ones most often affected. In the premature condition, as often seen in Frenchies, both the cervical and the thoraco-lumbar discs show a high incidence of degeneration, with the latter being more often affected. Protrusion of prematurely degenerated discs is most often seen in dogs that are three to five years old, though degenerative changes in the discs have been found to occur as early as four months of age. Both sexes are affected equally.
CLINICAL SIGNS
The location of the protruding disc, and the extent of the resulting spinal cord injury determine what signs the dog will show. The canal containing the spinal cord is much larger in the cervical region, so that there is a relatively large space around the cord. Thus, the degree of cervical cord compression is generally less severe and produces less serious signs than in the thoraco-lumbar area, where the spinal cord occupies about 80 per cent of the available space in the spinal canal.
Protrusion of a cervical disc generally produces pain, but little if any muscle weakness or paralysis. The dog will walk with its head extended straight forward, and the neck muscles stiff and contracted. If the neck is manipulated, the pain is severe; and during an acute attack, the dog's body is rotated. If muscular involvement occurs, it will generally cause "knuckling" or stumbling of the fore limbs, especially when the involved disc is one of the more posterior ones in the cervical group.
In the thoracic and lumbar regions, the smaller diameter of the canal is likely to result in more serious cord compression, with a much greater likelihood of hind limb paralysis. In addition to directly compressing the spinal cord, a protruding disc may also cause an inflammation and swelling of the cord, and/or hemorrhage by damage to the blood vessels in the tissues surrounding the cord.
Various sensory and motor "circuits" are contained in specific parts of the spinal cord and the type of paralysis, plus the presence or absence of pain, are clues from which the extent of damage to the cord can be deduced.
Figure 3 illustrates a cross-section through the spinal column, canal and cord. Numbers 1, 2 and 3 three demonstrate the locations of three important circuits within the cord. Numbers 1 and 2 represent motor circuits (i.e. controlling muscle movement), while number 3 represents the pain circuit.
If a protruding disc causes a cord lesion or damage that extends into the cord as far as line B, interrupting circuits numbers 1 and 2, the hind limbs will lack muscle tone and will show a flaccid paralysis. Pain will still be present.
In the most serious case, the cord damage extends all the way to line C, and affects all three circuits; in this case the hind limbs will show a flaccid paralysis, but loss of the pain circuit in area no. 3 will result in an absence of pain. This combination of signs indicates the most severe cord damage, with the least favorable outlook for recovery.
TREATMENT
The more rapidly the condition is diagnosed and treated, the better the chance for recovery, especially when the signs indicate that the cord injury is of the less extended type. Drug therapy with corticosteroids and other anti-inflammatory agents may help reduce the inflammation and swelling of the cord; when coupled with pain relieving drugs, improvement may be seen immediately. However, a relief of pain may reduce the dog's cautiousness and allow it to move around enough to further protrude the disc. It is a good idea to cage the dog to restrict movement during its convalescence. Most Frenchies love to rest anyway, so this doesn't really work a hardship on them.
Physical therapy to help maintain muscle tone may include massage and manipulation of the limbs, whirlpool baths, and warm pads applied to the back. Ultrasound may also help by increasing blood flow to the affected area and often relieves the muscle spasms that cause much of the pain.
Good nursing care should also include keeping the skin clean and dry, and can prevent or minimize pressure ulcers of the skin (bed sores). If there is a loss of bladder and bowel control, the bladder should be emptied twice daily by manual pressure to help prevent bladder infections. Enemas may be given to prevent fecal retention. Any or all of these measures may be necessary to support the dog during its recovery, if the condition is treatable. However, if the condition does not respond to either medical or surgical treatment, euthanasia would be the kindest option. Pain and paralysis is no life for any dog ... especially a Frenchie.
If surgery is indicated (on which point the owner should consider the opinion of his veterinarian, and may wish to consult a specialist for a second opinion), two surgical approaches are possible. One method for surgically relieving the pressure on the spinal cord is fenestration, in which the protruding disc material is removed from the intervertebral space by means of a needle or a scraper. This may be done either by a ventral approach or by a lateral one (FIG. 4), and is more commonly done in cervical disc protrusions. An opening is made in the outer annulus of the disc, and its nucleus is removed through the opening. In this method, the spinal canal is not invaded, minimizing the danger of further injuring the cord.
Another surgical treatment, more often used to decompress the cord in the thoraco-lumbar disc protrusion, involves the removal of half or all of the dorsal arch of the vertebra (hemilaminectomy or laminectomy). Fig. 4 shows the portion of the vertebra removed. If paralysis is present, surgery may be justified if the animal's overall condition seems to warrant it. In the thoraco-lumbar area, where the canal is smaller and cannot accommodate as much swelling, decompression should be done within five to seven days... the sooner the better. It may be delayed longer in the cervical area.
Let us hope that by educating breeders and pet owners to recognize and deal with health problems in our breed, we may see a continual improvement in the soundness of our pups as well as in their conformation. If breeders will continue to communicate openly with one another about potential problems in their lines as well as about desirable traits, and outbreed occasionally to reduce the incidence of problems, the entire Frenchie breed will benefit in the long run.
We must consider health and longevity to be as important a breed characteristic as bat ears and wrinkles; otherwise we are not really our Frenchies' Friend.
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Hot Weather Care
Written by; John Niedhamer
Summer is upon us, the time of year when our Frenchies suffer the most. With their lack of ability to shed heat, summers can be intolerable and dangerous. When Frenchies become overheated, their narrow airways can easily become blocked by swelling or their own mucus. Unable to breathe, they can quickly die.
There are many things you can do to make summer more bearable for them:
Make sure they only go outside early in the morning and late in the evening, when they are least likely to overheat. Don't leave them outside unsupervised.
Keep the house cool and comfortable for them. If you leave them alone, set up fans or air conditioners where they can enjoy them.
Make sure there is always plenty of water for them to drink; keep it topped up and make sure it is clean and cool.
Offer them cool treats. My Frenchies enjoy baby carrots straight from the freezer. They love to crunch away on them on hot days.
Let them swim: most Frenchies can't manage the deep water of a regular swimming pool. Get them a little plastic kiddie pool. Many Frenchies love to splash in a few inches of cool water. (Note: don't use the inflatable kind of pool. Frenchie nails will quickly puncture it if their teeth don't.)
Signs your Frenchie is overheated:
Heavy uncontrollable panting, tongue swells, eyes bulge, fatigue, vomiting.
If your Frenchie gets into overheating difficulties:
Get them to a cool location immediately.
Wet them with cool (NOT ice cold) water.
Use a spray bottle to wet their bellies, insides of legs, ears.
When they recover, give them cool (NOT ice cold) water to drink.
It is important NOT to use ICE on an overheated dog. The ice will constrict surface capillaries, moving blood away from the skin and into internal organs. This will slow the exchange of heat and will make it harder for your Frenchie to cool down quickly. Once the dog is cooled, ice can be used. Don't shock the Frenchie's system by trying to cool them down too fast.
If your Frenchie becomes dehydrated, it will become necessary to replace electrolytes as well. Sports drinks that are flavored are not always palatable to Frenchies. The best choice is to use infant formulas such as unflavored Pedialyte.
Remember, don't take your Frenchie for a walk or for vigorous exercise in the heat of a summer day. And DON'T EVER leave your Frenchie unattended in a car. Even early in the day, the interior of a car can heat up very quickly, with lethal results.
In summer, when I walk my Frenchies, I always take a spray bottle full of water with me, even before dawn or in the evening. They often ask me for a spritz in the mouth, or a spray on the tummy as a quick cool down. And it is handy to be prepared in case of emergency.
Umpqua Valley Kennels LLC extends the following warranties, guarantees only to the buyer below: We guarantee all papers on stated registered puppies. We guarantee all puppies to have had all treatments and vaccinations as stated on written health record. We make no guarantees of your puppy’s mature size, or that it will be show, or breeding quality.
We warrant against life threatening congenital defects for the first 6 months. You must request a written statement from your vet on office stationary and signed by him/her for our records, stating health problem to include a description of the symptoms supporting his/or her opinion to validate guarantee.
You must notify us the day of initial examination to make claim for a replacement puppy. The original puppy must be returned (alive) within 24 hours along with all paperwork. If you choose Euthanasia without our prior consent you will forfeit any guarantees within this contract. You agree to fill out all necessary forms to return ownership of puppy to breeder.
If you qualify for a replacement puppy, we will provide a new puppy of equal value, if one is available, or from next available litter ( WITHIN 1 YEAR OF ORIGINAL DATE OF PURCHASE). If you choose a puppy of greater value you are responsible to pay the difference.
By signing this agreement you as the buyer are also aknowledging that you accept total responsibility for the special care that may be needed for the very tiny Chihuahuas that may experience hypoglycemia. Treatment for this condition can be quite expensive, but is almost always totally preventable if proper care instuctions are followed. This is extremely serious and can result in disabilty or death for the puppy. Luxating Patella, Hydroencephelitis, Coccidia, Giardia, and any parisitic presence at time of purchase is not covered in this contract. These are conditions that occasionally occur, regardless of the level of care that is given to the pups prior to leaving my home. We highly suggest taking advantage of the VPI health insurance 2 month free offer that is in your puppy starter pack.
By signing this contract you are agreeing that it is your responsibility to place this puppy in a new, appropriate home, regardless of financial compensation if :
1. The puppy does not “bond” with you or your family.
2. Your living situation changes and you are no longer able to have pets.
3. You change your mind for any reason and do not wish to have the puppy as part of your family.
We are more than happy to assist you with advice on how to do this and pass on contacts of anyone who may be interested in adopting your puppy. Actual screening and agreement of adoption is up to you.
It is also your responsibility to safe guard your puppy’s health and obtain medical treatments for it when needed. We are extremely diligent in our protection and care of them from birth to the time they come to be your puppy and have done everything humanly possible to ensure they are healthy and well adjusted. This is the primary reason your puppy may not come back into our environment, the risk of exposing our babies that are here to outside contaminants and diseases is too high.
We are not responsible for vet fees, treatment costs, transportation costs, stress, or other expenses. All sales are final and irreversible with the only exceptions being those as stated above.
I THE BUYER, HAVE READ, UNDERSTAND, AND AGREE TO THE CONTRACT.
Deciding whether to have your Dog sterilized is one of the first important decisions that you will make as a pet owner. As with all decisions, there are pros and cons that need to be weighed before you decide on whether or not to spay or neuter your puppy.
The Advantages of Sterilization
Perhaps the greatest benefit of spaying and neutering is the decrease in the population of unwanted puppies. Accidental pregnancies and irresponsible breeding are real problems that result in unwanted puppies. These puppies often end up in animal shelters where the lucky ones are adopted and the unlucky ones are euthanized. Both the emotional and financial costs of this problem are staggering and could be avoided with responsible sterilization .Further, it is commonly believed that spaying and neutering can improve the health and attitude of Dogs.
Spaying and neutering reduces your Dog’s hormone levels and lead to a significantly lower incidence of certain types of cancers. There is evidence that a female Dog gets the biggest health advantage if she is spayed prior to her first heat. Also, sterilization can reduce the dog’s urge to roam around looking for a mate. Dogs without the urge to roam are easier to control outside and safer because they have a lower risk of getting lost, stolen or hit by a car. Sterilized dogs, particularly male Dogs, are often less aggressive which helps to keep them safe and out of trouble.
The Disadvantages of Sterilization
While there is much evidence regarding the medical advantages of sterilization, there are some disadvantages that you should be aware of prior to taking your Dog in for surgery. First, there is the risk of infection and complications that come with all types of anesthesia and surgical procedures. Second, there is some evidence that the incidence of certain types of cancer rise even while others decrease.Of course, the biggest disadvantage of sterilization is that it often occurs while your dog is a puppy and you lose your option to breed the dog later in life.
If your Dog comes from a fine pedigree or you wish to see her deliver puppies and you are prepared for the large amount of work and responsibility that comes with that, then spaying or neutering may not be the best option for you.Many veterinarians and non-profit agencies feel so strongly that dogs should be spayed or neutered that they often help pay the bill if an owner cannot afford the surgery. So, financial factors should not play into your decision regarding sterilization.Sterilization is a personal decision that each Dog owner has to make. It is important to know that you are not depriving your pet of anything and may be working toward making his or her life much healthier.
Further, by spaying or neutering your dog you are doing your part to help alleviate the overpopulation problem among dogs. It means that for every puppy that you could have placed in a home another puppy may be adopted rather than euthanized. So, unless you plan to breed your dog, it is important to carefully consider the costs and benefits of sterilization and to make your decision accordingly.
We recommend spay/neuter between the age of 4 - 6 months.
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Is pet insurance right for you?
A decade ago, had you told someone you were considering pet insurance for your dog, they'd have looked at you like you had two heads. Why not go ahead and buy him braces, too?
Today, pet insurance is a $200-million-plus industry, with not only vets but the ASPCA and the American Kennel Club promoting it. The question is, is it right for you?
How does pet insurance work?
In many ways, pet insurance plans aren't much different from what's available for humans. Most cover accident and/or illness, and some have preventive medicine options available as well. They all have a deductible, and all have exclusions for certain preexisting or breed-common conditions.
Be sure to read the fine print. For instance, most act just like human insurance companies and cover only what they deem eligible, less deductible and co-pay. In other words, your reimbursement may be far smaller than you think it should be.
Ask the right questions before you buy
Just as with human health insurance, there are some fairly major differences among policies, so make sure you get the answers to the following questions (along with any others you may have) before you sign on the dotted line:
Do I pay first, then get reimbursed?
You will probably have to pay your dog's medical bill at the vet's office, and then get reimbursed by your pet insurance company. Make sure that's the case, and learn just how simple (or not!) the claims process is, and the average time it takes to get your reimbursement check.
Can I use any vet, or a network of providers?
If there are certain doctors you must choose from in order to get reimbursed, make sure your favorite vets are on the list.
How hefty is the deductible?
The lower the deductible, the higher your monthly premiums will be, and vice versa. And see if there's a limit on the number of claims or visits you can make in a year (or over the life of the policy). If your dog is prone to eating things she shouldn’t, take note that some companies only allow surgical removal of ingested items once every 12 months.
Does the insurance plan end when my dog reaches a certain age?
Many policies are designed only for young, relatively healthy dogs. You may need a different policy entirely for an older dog or one with a chronic condition (and those are available, too).
When does coverage begin?
Does it kick in immediately, or does it require a visit to the vet first? Almost every plan has a waiting period of at least a few days for certain conditions—some are as long as a year.
Is there a cap on coverage?
It can be as low as a few thousand dollars annually or as high as tens of thousands--but know before you sign.
How long is the policy in effect?
Unlike human health insurance, pet policies tend to be short-lived; most are only a year long and are renewable only with the company's approval. Most reputable companies won't count illnesses that were treated during the previous coverage period as preexisting conditions, but you'll want to be sure about that.
So is pet insurance right for me?
In the end, pet insurance will be right for some and not right for others. Give some thought to your dog's specific needs, like chronic conditions and age. Consider your finances, too. A full-coverage plan for illness and injury will cost much more than an accident-only plan. And don't overlook the value of preventive care coverage, especially for younger pups. If you do decide you want to purchase pet insurance, once you have a list of the conditions you want coverage for—and the monthly premium you can afford—it’s much easier to wade through all the pet insurance plan options.
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New Puppy Instructions and Tips
Foods:
- Dry kibble currently being fed is Kirkland Chicken, Rice and Vegetable adult chow,
( Manufactured by Diamond for Costco) all one color kibble. This is “free feed” available 24/7
for the pup as well as fresh water. ( you will find a complete nutritional breakdown in your
puppypack)
- CHIHUAHUAS:
- Please give your new pup 2-3 small pea sized globs of the Fortical at least 3 times a day for the first two days puppy is new to your home and family. Many times puppies will be so excited/nervous about all the changes and missing their siblings that they do not take in enough calories. In the Chihuahuas this could be very serious and induce stress related Hypoglycemia. Please keep new stimulations to a minimum when your puppy goes home with you for the first week. Please give the Fortical whenever you are traveling with your pup until they are completely comfortable traveling. You will find a new tube of Fortical in your gift bag / puppy pack.
- If you are worried that your puppy/dog will not eat, here are a few human foods to try:
Chicken- you can buy a ready to go roasted one at one of your neighborhood grocery stores for $6-$8, or roast one yourself. I have never met a dog that could resist roasted chicken! I also have a recipe for canned chicken and rice, please let me know if you would like it to fix for your doggy.
Dairy products- Cottage cheese, yogurt, cheese
Human Baby food, scrambled egg, are also great nutrition sources for proteins and easy on the tummy!
LOOSE STOOL: ½ soaked kibble , ½ cooked rice, brown or white will help firm stools.
A word about Vaccinations:
Until your puppy has ALL their shots, you are it’s environmental protection against disease! Here is a simplified example of how Vaccinations work:
I have a litter of 10 puppies. I give the first vaccination at 7 weeks, only 5 puppies immune systems are developed enough to make antibodies to those diseases. I give the second vaccination at 10 weeks, another two pups develop antibodies. I give the third vaccination and the remaining two pups HOPEFULLY have developed antibodies. I give a fourth just to make sure, SINCE I HAVE NO WAY OF KNOWING WHO HAS DEVELOPED ANTIBODIES!!
The ONLY sure way to know if your pup has developed antibodies to any disease is to have a “ Blood Titer test “ done at your veterinarians office . This can be expensive but worth it if you really want to know.
Physical and environmental protection instructions:
NO dog Parks, NO rest areas on highways,
ALWAYS take your puppy in a carrier to the vet’s office, DO NOT set the carrier on the floor, DO NOT allow other clients to touch your puppy, DO NOT allow other animals in the office to have contact with your puppy. THEY ARE THERE BECAUSE THEY HAVE MORE THAN LIKELY BROUGHT A SICK ANIMAL IN.
If they weigh scale is a rubber matted one and does not get sanitized after each animal is weighed,
please ask your technician to place a sanitized towel on the scale and re-zero it before you place your
puppy on it. I am very strict about this, if they will not do it, find another vet. They are providing a
service to you and should cater to your wishes, mine do!
Please DO NOT leave your puppy unattended on any surface higher than the top of their
head. ( even if they are sleeping and you don’t want to wake them!) It may not be a
tremendous distance but, the Chihuahuas have delicate limbs and a “MOLERA”
( soft spot) and can injury themselves severely. The Frenchies and FrenchBos are very
spontaneous and can leap from your arms in split seconds. REPEATED jarring and
shocks to their front legs will more than likely cause them to be deformed as an adult!
So, please do not allow them to even jump down off of a chair as a young pup,
even though they do not appear to have difficulty doing it!
PLEASE PURCHASE A JINGLE BELL FOR YOUR PUPPY’S COLLAR!
This will keep you from stepping on them and shutting them in doors, also it makes it easier to find them when you can’t see them!
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Say Hello
If you would like to contact us, We LOVE to brag about our Babies! We also have references available on request for serious inquiries only , please phone us at: 541-459-5951 and ask for Mary or Vic! You can also email us at: uvkennels@gmail.com
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We want to send out an enthousiastic and heartfelt THANK YOU ! To all the wonderful families that have purchased pups from us! We are sincerely dedicated to providing your new babies with the very best care and LOTS of love in the 8-10 weeks we have them before they can go home to you!
Never Hesitate to contact us if you have questions about how the babies are doing! We LOVE new families that keep in touch, both durring and after the adoption process!
