What to do if your French Bulldog overheats

Frenchie Nation family,

Here is some information we hope you will find helpful. Did you know that French Bulldogs can overheat? What should you do if you find yourself in this predicament?

Cause

Firstly it should be understood before deciding to own a French Bulldog that they are a brachycephalic breed, meaning French Bulldogs have relatively short, broad skulls. These short, broad skulls though aesthetically pleasing, and desired where breed standards are concerned, can contribute to Brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome. This respiratory syndrome can cause your dog distress, thus making it difficult to breathe, which could potentially result in a life-threating situation for your dog. This is what is often commonly referred to as overheating.

How to Avoid

The first thing you can do to avoid such a situation is to purchase a dog from a reputable breeder. Reputable breeders have extensive knowledge about the breed, and are often licensed and inspected by your local or state department of agriculture. They also perform extensive health tests to ensure they are breeding the best dogs, so that you get the healthiest puppy available.

Although reputable breeders do the best they can to mitigate common health issues in the breed, understand that some dogs may still suffer from Brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome. 

The next thing you can do to avoid a situation where your dog overheats, is to keep them indoors where the temperature can be regulated. If you would like to take your French Bulldog for a walk, do so in the cool hours of the morning, or late in the afternoon when the heat and humidity are minimal. Heat, exercise and stress are contributing factors to Brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome.

Emergency Situation

If you find yourself in a situation where your dog his having difficulty breathing and begins to rapidly overheat; characterized by shortness of breath (often sounds like wheezing), here is what to do. First move your dog to somewhere cool; get to the nearest garden hose or whatever water source you can find (buy water if you have to) and wet the back of his/her head and neck, be sure not to get it on the dog's face, as you don't want them to choke on water while gasping for air. The goal is to cool the dog and bring it's temperature down so they can breathe normally. 

Once your dog is breathing normally offer them water to drink. Do not attempt to force your dog to drink, let them drink on their own accord. 

Lastly bring your dog indoors where the temperature is regulated and allow them to rest.

Consult a vet

If you find your dog suffers more often than not with this condition, it may be time to consult your vet. There are several procedures that can be performed such as widening the nostrils or removing the excess tissue of the soft palate.

We hope this post was helpful to someone. Have a blessed day. Please be sure to check out our shop for clothing, collars and charms for your French Bulldog.