Common American Bulldog Health Issues

Like all breeds, American Bulldogs can face some health problems. Their strong build might lead to joint issues, and their short noses can cause breathing problems. Knowing about these potential issues helps make sure they stay healthy and happy.

The earlier you have them checked out and the better your pet insurance, the easier it will be to manage long-term care costs.

Common American Bulldog Health Problems

Here are the seven common health problems in American Bulldogs, along with tips on spotting them, treatment options, and how to prevent them.

#1: Hip Dysplasia

Hip Dysplasia is a common health issue in American Bulldogs, characterized by a malformation of the hip joint. This condition can cause pain and mobility problems due to the joint not fitting properly into the hip socket.

10-20% of American Bulldogs are affected by Hip Dysplasia, according to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals.

When it develops:

Typically between 1 and 2 years old.

How to spot symptoms:

• Difficulty standing up or climbing stairs
• Limping or favoring one leg
• Reduced activity or reluctance to exercise
• Signs of pain or discomfort in the hips

Treatment:

If diagnosed, your veterinarian may recommend weight management, joint supplements, or pain medication for mild cases. Severe cases might require surgical options like hip replacement.

Prevention:

Maintain a healthy weight and ensure your American Bulldog gets regular exercise. Regular check-ups with your vet can help catch and manage Hip Dysplasia early.

#2: Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)

Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) affects American Bulldogs due to their short, flat snouts, which can lead to breathing difficulties. This condition is caused by the physical structure of their face and nose.

About 25-30% of American Bulldogs are affected by BOAS, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association.

When it develops:

Usually between 1 and 3 years old.

How to spot symptoms:

• Loud or labored breathing
• Snoring or wheezing
• Excessive drooling

Treatment:

For mild cases, managing weight and avoiding excessive heat can help. In more severe cases, treatments may include medication, oxygen therapy, or surgical interventions.

Prevention:

Regular veterinary check-ups can help monitor and manage BOAS. Keeping your Bulldog cool and avoiding strenuous exercise in hot weather can also help.

#3: Skin Conditions

American Bulldogs are prone to skin issues like allergies and infections, often due to their skin folds and wrinkles. These conditions can cause discomfort and skin irritation.
Approximately 15-20% of American Bulldogs experience skin problems, according to Veterinary Dermatology.

When it develops:

Can occur at any age, but often becomes noticeable in puppies or young adults.

How to spot symptoms:

• Redness or inflammation of the skin
• Itching or scratching
• Unpleasant odor from skin folds
• Rashes or hair loss

Treatment:

Treatment often includes regular cleaning of skin folds, topical treatments, and medications to manage allergies or infections. Your vet might also recommend special shampoos or diets.

Prevention:

Regularly clean and dry your Bulldog’s skin folds, and consult your vet about appropriate skin care products to prevent infections and allergies.

#4: Obesity

Obesity is a common issue in American Bulldogs due to their muscular build, which can make it easy for them to gain excess weight. This can lead to additional health problems, such as joint issues.

About 25-30% of American Bulldogs are prone to obesity, according to Pet Obesity Prevention.

When it develops:

Often starts to become a concern around 1-2 years old.

How to spot symptoms:

• Visible excess weight around the abdomen
• Difficulty in physical activities
• Decreased energy or stamina
• Excessive appetite

Treatment:

Weight management through diet control and regular exercise is crucial. Your vet might suggest a specific diet plan and an exercise routine to help your Bulldog lose weight safely.

Prevention:

Monitor your Bulldog’s diet and exercise regularly. Avoid overfeeding and provide consistent physical activity to maintain a healthy weight.

#5: Heart Problems

American Bulldogs can be at risk for heart conditions like dilated cardiomyopathy, which affects the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively.
Around 5-10% of American Bulldogs may develop heart issues, according to the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

When it develops:

Usually becomes apparent in middle-aged to older dogs, typically between 5 and 7 years old.

How to spot symptoms:

• Coughing or wheezing
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Decreased exercise tolerance
• Swelling in the abdomen or legs

Treatment:

Treatment may involve medications to manage heart function and reduce symptoms. Your vet might also recommend lifestyle changes and regular monitoring to manage the condition.

Prevention:

Regular veterinary check-ups can help catch heart issues early. Maintaining a healthy weight and exercise routine is also beneficial for heart health.

#6: Eye Conditions

American Bulldogs can suffer from eye issues like cherry eye or entropion, which can cause discomfort and vision problems. Approximately 10-15% of American Bulldogs may develop these conditions, according to Veterinary Ophthalmology.

When it develops:

Can occur at any age but is often noticed in young dogs.

How to spot symptoms:

• Redness or swelling in the eyes
• Protruding third eyelid (cherry eye)
• Inward rolling of the eyelids (entropion)
• Excessive tearing or squinting

Treatment:

Treatment may include medications to manage symptoms and surgical correction for more severe cases. Your vet will provide the appropriate treatment based on the specific condition.

#7: Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV)

Gastric Dilatation Volvulus, or bloat, is a serious condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists, which requires immediate veterinary attention. While less common, it affects less than 5% of American Bulldogs, according to the Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care.

When it develops:

Can occur suddenly, often in middle-aged to older dogs, especially after eating a large meal or exercising.

How to spot symptoms:

• Swollen or distended abdomen
• Restlessness or discomfort
• Rapid breathing or panting
• Unproductive attempts to vomit

Treatment:

Immediate veterinary intervention is required. Treatment often involves stabilizing the dog and performing surgery to untwist the stomach and prevent recurrence.

Prevention:

Feeding smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding exercise immediately after eating can help reduce the risk of GDV.

Does Pet Insurance Cover Common American Bulldog Health Issues?

Pet insurance can be very helpful for covering common health problems in American Bulldogs. This breed may face issues like joint problems, skin infections, respiratory conditions, and more.

When you get pet insurance for an American Bulldog, you can choose from policies that cover just accidents and injuries or more comprehensive ones that include common illnesses and chronic conditions.

Here’s what pet insurance typically covers:

• X-rays
• MRIs
• Routine wellness exams
• Prescription medications
• Diagnostic tests
• Blood tests
• Medical procedures like surgery
• Prescription food or supplements
• Behavioral therapy
• Alternative treatments

However, it’s important to note that basic pet insurance often does not cover pre-existing conditions. For American Bulldogs, pre-existing conditions might include things like hip dysplasia or respiratory issues. These are conditions the dog was born with or developed before getting insurance.

Some insurance companies might offer more expensive plans with extra coverage that could include these pre-existing conditions, but this is less common.

In summary, while pet insurance can cover many common health problems and treatments, it’s crucial to check the specifics of your policy, especially if your American Bulldog has known pre-existing conditions.