English Bulldog Hereditary Issues

English Bulldog Hereditary Issues

Hereditary problems in bulldogs are complex. They are often identified as a result of their regular occurrence within the breed rather than scientific study into their physiology. That said, much of what we understand today about the genetic problems afflicting bulldogs comes from centuries of breeding and observation. These genetic disorders include those that affect the eyes, bones and joints, skin, and mouth. In this article, we’ll provide you with a brief overview of several of the breed’s common hereditary issues.

Eye Disorders

English bulldogs cope with a number of issues that are related to their eyes. Strange though it may seem, their eyelashes are a common source of irritation. A condition known as distichiasis occurs when their eyelashes grow from follicles located along the inner eyelids. Another condition, called trichiasis, manifests when the eyelashes are longer than normal and turn inward toward the eyes. Both of these conditions can lead to ulcers developing with the cornea.

Another genetic disorder that affects bulldogs’ eyes in known as “cherry eye.” They are one of a few breeds that actually has a third eyelid. Cherry eye occurs when a gland (called the Harderian gland) slips out from beneath the third eyelid, becoming visible in the corner of the eye. In the past, the protruding gland was surgically removed. Today, due to the gland’s contribution to producing tears, cherry eye is treated by simply returning the gland to its proper position beneath the eyelid.

Bones, Joints And Hip Dsyplasia

There are a few genetic defects which afflict English bulldogs, but none as prevalent as hip dysplasia. The condition is observed in many different dog breeds and involves the joint that connects the head of the femur to the acetabulum socket of the pelvis. Under normal circumstances, the femoral head would fit securely within the socket. However, due to genetic influences in bulldogs, the tissue within the joint develops, causing the acetabulum socket to become too shallow to house the femoral head properly. Ultimately, the joint becomes unstable, making regular activity uncomfortable and painful.

Skin Problems

Bulldogs also have a number of genetic skin disorders that are particular to the breed. However, some of them are hard to identify and only become recognizable when exacerbated by your dog’s reactions (i.e. biting, scratching, etc.). These disorders can include folliculitis and fold dermatitis. Folliculitis is an infection that occurs within the hair follicles. It manifests visibly as small red or white bumps on the skin. Fold dermatitis happens as a result of moisture trapped within folds of the skin. As those folds continuously rub together, bacteria can cause an infection, making the area appear inflamed.

Soft Palate Problem

Many dog breeds that have a short or abbreviated face suffer from an elongated soft palate. Simply described, the condition is due to a lower jaw that is larger in proportion to the upper jaw. Normally, the soft palate acts as a filter that prevents material (food, liquid, etc.) from entering the lungs. When the palate is elongated, as it is in English bulldogs, the airway becomes slightly blocked. This is why bulldogs often breathe loudly and laboriously. And as they age, the problem becomes more pronounced.

Loving Your Bulldog Despite Its Problems

English bulldogs obviously have an assortment of hereditary problems to overcome. However, not all of them manifest with each generation. And when disorders do emerge, they are often limited in scope and can be treated fairly easily. That said, there are some genetic issues that are not so easily dismissed (for example, an elongated soft palate). But, they make fantastic pets, loyal and protective to the core, and have gained the love and affection of their owners for generations.

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