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ARE FRENCH BULLDOGS DELICATE?

Increasingly, we hear about French Bulldogs suffering from various health problems, to the point that the breed has earned the reputation of being “delicate.” But are these issues truly unavoidable and typical of the breed? Most of the problems observed are digestive, intestinal, or skin-related. While some may stem from improper nutrition, unfortunately, that is not the only cause.

Many of the Bulldogs in our country come from foreign pseudo-breeders who pay no attention to the health of the mothers or puppies. The parents are selected solely to produce as many puppies as possible, with no preventive testing to avoid passing on defects or genetic diseases. They are fed cheaply and kept in cramped, unsanitary conditions.

Puppies are weaned and separated from their mothers too early, preventing them from acquiring the nutrients necessary for healthy growth. Vaccinations and deworming are rarely performed, and the stamps and labels on their passports are often falsified. They are then crammed for transport to Italy, and if they survive, after some cleaning, they are sold in pet shops, online, or—worse—by breeders who hide this trafficking behind their business.

This is the worst-case scenario, but it is not the only factor contributing to the poor health of Bulldogs in Italy. Similar irresponsible breeding practices occur domestically, from the infamous “cagnari” who breed solely for profit, to individuals who, without knowledge or competent support, attempt to breed dogs with often disastrous or tragic results for both mothers and puppies.

Unfortunately, even experienced breeders capable of producing healthy puppies sometimes fail to invest in their health, relying instead on the pedigree as a supposed guarantee of quality. Producing healthy puppies is a long, costly, and demanding process that requires careful planning and continuous updating.

Many prospective buyers approach the process unprepared, impatient, focused solely on minimizing costs, or only seeking a specific color. Even worse are those guided by emotional impulses, pity for the puppy, or a protective instinct, which inadvertently fuels networks of suffering.

Ultimately, the ones who pay the highest price are the puppies, who, if they survive, often endure health issues, and the mothers, exploited and pushed to their limits. While no one can ever guarantee 100% that a puppy will be free from health problems, selecting a responsible and competent breeder first will drastically reduce the risks. You will have expert support for the care, growth, and education of your puppy, and you can be confident that you have not contributed to indiscriminate exploitation of the animals you love—or will love.

By Paolo Claudio Rossini fondatore AA Allevatori Arcobaleno

La bellezza della nostra Lillie con il s
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