French Bulldogs are so lovable, it’s easy to want to spoil them with lots of treats and extra food. But you could be literally killing your Frenchie with kindness. Overweight dogs are more likely to get serious health problems and not live as long. Since over half the dogs in the United States are obese (other parts of the world are also seeing rises in obesity, particularly the U.K. and Australia), your Frenchie may be too. The following are three signs your French Bulldog is overweight. If you think yours is, it’s time to visit your vet.
#1 – No Definition
Think of your Frenchie as a human weightlifter or boxer. They should have a solid, athletic body, a strong chest, and a defined ribcage that tucks up into clearly defined hips. Can’t see those hips? Your French Bulldog is probably carrying a few extra pounds. If you can’t feel those ribs or he’s got fat rolls when he sits, it might be time to diet. Dr. Sophia Yin’s website has a great, easy to follow guide for checking this.
#2 – Unable To Reach That Itch
While the Frenchie’s body shape can make some types of grooming hard, they should be able to do normal dog things, such as scratch their ear or lick their back paws with ease. If she can’t reach her own hip to bite an itch, she is probably overweight and it’s time to diet.
#3 – Easily Overexerted
Do you walk a few steps and your Frenchie is already panting and wanting to stop? Barring hot weather, this is a sign that he is out of shape and probably overweight. Talk to the vet about a diet and exercise regimen that will slowly get him back on track. Be careful about pushing your French Bulldog to exercise more than their body can handle – that can cause other issues. With Frenchies, you also have to remember they cannot breathe well to begin with, so do not overexert him!
