Breeder Education

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 The French Bulldog Foundation of America is honored to share a unique opportunity with our community.

In early May 2026, our Board of Directors interviewed Dr. Kari Ekenstedt, DVM, PhD, an Associate Professor of Anatomy & Genetics at Purdue University and head of Purdue’s Canine Genetics Laboratory. Her work focuses on canine genetics and genetic disease research, including both inherited conditions and more complex health traits in dogs.

This interview includs discussion surrounding the current French Bulldog spine study at Purdue, along with broader topics such as DNA, genetics, and French Bulldog health. Purdue’s Canine Genetics Lab describes its work as partnering with pet owners, veterinarians, researchers, and dogs to solve genetic diseases, while also helping support responsible breeding decisions through genetic testing.

Dr. Ekenstedt’s background makes this an especially valuable opportunity for breeders, owners, and breed advocates who want to better understand questions such as:

- What current research may teach us about French Bulldog spinal health,
- How genetics and inheritance actually apply in real-world breeding decisions,
- Where DNA testing is helpful, and where it does not tell the full story,
- What responsible health-focused progress could look like for the breed going forward.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the French Bulldog Foundation of America is committed to education, research awareness, and advancing conversations that support the long-term health of the breed.

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 Spinal Health and Breeding:

• Dr. Ekenstedt emphasizes that there are currently no hard-and-fast research-based rules for breeding based on OFA spine results.
• While she advises caution when seeing many spinal anomalies, she stresses that clinical function—how the dog walks and lives—is more important than a numerical threshold.
• She clarifies that hemivertebrae (a bone abnormality) and Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD, a cartilage issue) are distinct conditions with different genetic drivers.

  The Role of DVL2 and CDDY:

• The DVL2 mutation, which causes the breed-typical "screw tail," is fixed in French bulldogs, meaning it is present in all individuals of the breed.
•  CDDY is a highly prevalent mutation in most canines   (approximately 89% in FBDs) that can cause abnormal discs, though having the mutation does not guarantee that a disc will herniate and cause clinical problems.

Recommendations for Breeders:

•  Dr. Ekenstedt encourages breeders to view spinal health as only one piece of a "really big picture" that includes overall form, temperament, and respiratory function.
• She advises keeping dogs lean, maintaining muscle mass through exercise, and keeping nails short to minimize environmental risks that might lead to disc herniation.

Future Research and Support

• The researchers are actively collecting DNA samples and radiographs from French bulldogs to increase their sample size and identify the specific genetics behind spinal phenotypes.
• They suggest that breeders and organizations can best support this work by continuing to contribute data and potentially collaborating with the AKC Canine Health Foundation to sponsor future research grants.

 The French Bulldog Foundation of America had the privilege of hosting an in-depth BOAS/RFGS educational webinar led by Dr. Julia Ziegler recorded for our members and followers.  Dr. Ziegler delivered over an hour of invaluable insight into the disease process of Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)—what it is, how it impacts our dogs, and most importantly, how we can objectively assess and improve respiratory health through the Respiratory Function Grading Scheme (RFGS). Throughout the session, we were also able to engage in meaningful Q&A, giving breeders, owners, and enthusiasts the opportunity to deepen their understanding and ask real-world questions. This webinar is just one example of our ongoing commitment to: • Educate • Advocate • Promote responsible, health-focused breeding At FBDFA, our mission is simple but critical: Health Above All Else. We are incredibly grateful to Dr. Ziegler for sharing her time and expertise with our community. More educational opportunities, clinics, and resources are coming soon—because improving the future of the French Bulldog starts with informed decisions today. If you’re not yet part of our growing community, we invite you to join us.