Common Prevailing Health Issues In Merle French Bulldog

Merle French Bulldog is one of the beautiful variations of the breed. They have Very distinctive coat pattern and so because you just see that patches of color are appearing with a small marble effect. While very stylish in appearance, breeding merle Bulldogs carries with it a host of health issues. 

The gene itself that causes the merle impacts several genetic diseases, so breeding needs to be done extremely carefully. Unfortunately, despite their ability to be affectionate and playful companions who possess all the good characteristics that make Frenchies so in demand, merle Frenchies suffer because of a myriad of problems. If you really want to get one, be sure to choose a good breeder who focuses on health and temperament. Lets overview about this breed and learn how to deal with health issues in bulldogs. 

 What Makes Them More Prone To Health Issues?

They are more prone to health issues mainly due to the genetic effects of the merle gene, which consequently leads to developmental anomalies. This gene causes the striking coat pattern characteristic of merle French Bulldogs but is linked to a higher prevalence of some congenital deformities, most notably those affecting the eyes among the breed blue merle french bulldog. 

Most breeding practices currently applied for creating merle variations pose a compromise on genetic diversity in the general population, hence increasing the risk of inherited conditions. On top of that, their brachycephalic structure contributes to other issues including breathing and overheating problems, altogether having raised the chance of health issues in Merle compared to purebred ones.

List Of The Health Issues And Tips How To Deal?

Intertrigo Skin Condition 

Common canine skin condition called intertrigo characterized by inflammation, found in the folds of dogs. Examples include the French Bulldog Merle and those primarily made of big folds. It usually occurs with moisture, friction, heat that collect and cause irritation and secondary infections. Because of their distinct anatomical characteristics, they are most predisposed to intertrigo and must be closely monitored by owners for managing their skin health.

Expert Tips For Intertrigo Management

• Wash the folds of the skin gently with a non-irritating, vet-recommended cleanser. This removes the moisture, debris, and irritants that may cause more irritation. After this, you must let the area dry completely without causing more irritation.

• Apply a vet-approved drying powder to keep the friction at bay and dryness in the folds. You can often use it during warmer days because this is when the accumulation of moisture will be more frequent.

• Routine check-ups with the vet should be kept so that the vet can follow up the skin condition of your dog periodically. 

Respiration Disorders

French Bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed, which indicates that their nose is extremely short and has a flat face. This feature may look cute but gives rise to some trouble for breathing, which is referred to as Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome or BOAS. BOAS stands for a range of respiratory problems that arise due to their narrow nostrils, lengthened soft palate, and several other anatomical deformities.

Expert Advice:

• Keep your Frenchie at optimal weight so that the complications from obesity-induced breathing problems are avoided.

•  With any breed, you simply must ensure your Frenchie stays comfortable in the temperature and balances exercise.

• Such Dogs may require major surgical interventions based on anatomical abnormalities, and appropriate correction will help improve breathing significantly.

Allergies and Skin Conditions

French Bulldogs tend easily to allergies and skin conditions, which becomes very uncomfortable and can even irritate them. A few of the primary allergens in the foods they take are problematic for them, especially the chicken and grains. As a result, their skin may also become itchy and irritated, and they may even be prone to diarrhea.

Expert Tips:

• Feed your Frenchie a great diet and avoid known allergens. If they persist showing allergic symptoms even after being taken off chicken and grains, then go ahead and feed your Frenchie a high-end hypoallergenic dry food, do not feed your Frenchie any other homemade food or treats.

• Do an immunization boost with your Frenchy for the next three months by using a liquid/soft chew immunizing supplement.

• You should refer to your veterinarian for any medication that may be prescribed, such as allergy medications or medicated shampoos.

If you ever want a merle puppy, make sure to find a great and respectable breeder that really cares about health testing and breeding ethics. Breeders like French Bulldogs LA provide great assistance with careful handling.

Final Words: 

In a nutshell, although the Merle French Bulldog are breathtakingly gorgeous and adorable, unfortunately they suffer from myriad health conditions. Particularly due to the genetic implications of the merle gene and brachycephalic structure. 

Owners have to be watchful for very common conditions such as intertrigo, respiratory disorders, and allergies. By implementing proactive management practices and routine veterinary check-ups, your Bulldog will always be on the path to good health and happiness.