Signed in as:
filler@godaddy.com
Welcome & Thank You!
Thank You For Health Testing Your Frenchie!
Whether you're a first-time Frenchie owner, a hobby breeder, or a full-on show enthusiast, we're here to help get you started with how to test your French Bulldog both genetically as well as physically (including how to submit your health tests to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA.org), with a list of references and resources to help you navigate this journey. Please note that the testing labs are always increasing their screening and available tests, but these resources can help you to get on the right track.
And most importantly, WELCOME! Just by reading this article, you’re helping improve the health of this breed. I knew you were out there and others just like you have wonderful, healthy, well-bred French Bulldogs just waiting to be documented like what we’ve done.
Hopefully, this guide will help you get processed and connected to other ethical breeders. Thank you for your time.
French Bulldog Health
Gateway to French Bulldog Health Education & Resources
Welcome to the French Bulldog Foundation of America's (FBDFA) Health Hub – your ultimate gateway to ensuring the longevity, vitality, and well-being of French Bulldogs everywhere. As a breed beloved for their charm and companionship, Frenchies face unique health challenges, from respiratory issues to genetic conditions. At FBDFA, we're committed to advancing breed health through education, transparent testing, and cutting-edge research. Whether you're a breeder, owner, or enthusiast, this page connects you to essential resources, programs, and studies that promote ethical practices and informed decisions. Dive in to discover how you can contribute to a healthier future for French Bulldogs – because every wagging tail starts with strong health!
French Bulldog Foundation of America
Health Testing and Evaluations
Understanding and prioritizing health screenings is key to preventing common issues in French Bulldogs. Explore recommended tests and find professionals to help.
Educational Resources & Links
Build your knowledge with articles, guides, videos and and community insights on French Bulldog health.
Programs and Directories
Programs and Directories
Our signature programs & directories recognize health excellence and promote transparency in breeding and ownership.
Research and Studies
Programs and Directories
FBDFA supports and highlights ongoing research to tackle breed-specific health challenges. Stay updated on groundbreaking studies and how to participate.
Find an Evaluator
Community Connections
Community Connections
Part of the challenge to getting started with health testing is finding an evaluator near you. We're building this list to make it easier to make the right connections for you and your Frenchie.
Community Connections
Community Connections
Community Connections
Link up with the OFA Health Testing Community on Facebook for discussions and support. Health Testing Community
Getting Started with Health Tests
Core Health Tests
Learn about essential evaluations like hips (OFA or PennHIP for dysplasia), patellas (for luxation), cardiac (basic or echocardiogram for defects), eyes (CAER/OFA for abnormalities), elbows, trachea, and spine X-rays for IVDD and anomalies.
Respiratory Function Grading (RFG/BOAS)
What is RFG/BOAS?
Learn more about assessing breathing in brachycephalic breeds through a 3-minute exercise test. Over 46% of tested Frenchies are unaffected – find out how to get your dog graded.
Find an Evaluator
Search our directory of verified OFA evaluators, PennHIP specialists, and RFG/BOAS evaluators.
We've also got links to help you search for OFA clinics near you.
Directories & Tools You Can Trust
Trust But Verify
Health Tested & Screened French Bulldogs
Health Tested & Screened French Bulldogs
This is our independently vetted list of French Bulldog breeders who have met our criteria for health testing and transparency, including verifiable public OFA certifications for breed recommended health tests (hips, patellas, cardiac, eyes.).
We focus on ethics and health, awarding a "Verified" seal only after confirming eligibilty via a
This is our independently vetted list of French Bulldog breeders who have met our criteria for health testing and transparency, including verifiable public OFA certifications for breed recommended health tests (hips, patellas, cardiac, eyes.).
We focus on ethics and health, awarding a "Verified" seal only after confirming eligibilty via a combination of public databases or documentation provided by the Breeder themselves, such as such as Preliminary OFA certifications or spine reports.
Health Tested & Screened French Bulldogs
Health Tested & Screened French Bulldogs
Health Tested & Screened French Bulldogs
One of the challenges ethical breeders face is locating OFA health-tested Frenchies with NORMAL results for hips/PennHip, not to mention many others, such as patellas, basic cardiac, eyes, RFG/BOAS, elbows, trachea, and spine. This list helps you fully research vertical pedigrees using OFA's tools.
Legacy of Health (LOH) Program
Health Tested & Screened French Bulldogs
Legacy of Health (LOH) Program
This Program recognizes French Bulldogs that complete extensive health evaluations to support breed advancement and welfare. It draws similarities from established frameworks, such as the multi-tiered recognition in the French Bulldog Club of America's (FBDCA) Ambassador of Health (AOH) and Pioneer of Health (POH) programs, as well as t
This Program recognizes French Bulldogs that complete extensive health evaluations to support breed advancement and welfare. It draws similarities from established frameworks, such as the multi-tiered recognition in the French Bulldog Club of America's (FBDCA) Ambassador of Health (AOH) and Pioneer of Health (POH) programs, as well as the progressive Bronze, Silver, and Gold ratings used by the French Bulldog Club of England (FBCE). Our approach emphasizes verifiable testing to encourage transparency, reduce genetic risks, and guide ethical breeding decisions—inclusive of all French Bulldogs, regardless of coat color or traits.
French Bulldog Research
Join Purdue's Groundbreaking Spine Study
Led by Dr. Kari Ekenstedt, the study focuses on breeds prone to hemivertebrae, including French Bulldogs, to identify genetic markers for prevention. Madeline Coffey, a PhD candidate in the lab, emphasizes the importance of community participation: a large sample size is crucial for developing reliable genetic tests that can help eliminate severe spinal issues.
UC Davis Spotting Gene Research
Support groundbreaking genetic research at UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine led by Samantha Van Buren, PhD candidate, on mapping canine spotting genes—including variants not detected by standard "sp" (piebald/white spotting) tests. This doctoral project investigates coat patterns, theories, and potential health implications for French Bulldogs and other breeds, aiming to advance breeding practices and reduce associated risks.
FBDFA encourages participation: Donate DNA via in-person blood draws or remote cheek swabs. If your dog is already on file with the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory (VGL), share your NCD number and a photo. Contact Samantha at slvanburen@ucdavis.edu to discuss candidates or submit samples.
Health Links & Resources for French Bulldogs
OFA French Bulldog Page
This link will take you to important French Bulldog specific Health information, such as recommended health tests, breed statistics, disease information, and screens relevant to the French Bulldog.
Breathing Issues: RFG/BOAS
A leading cause of death in French Bulldogs, sadly, is respiratory failure. What can you do about it as a breeder? Familiarize yourself with tests now available in the USA, developed in Cambridge by Dr. Jane Ladlow.
OFA Health Videos
OFA Health Videos
Dr. Jarold Bell is the reining authority on hereditary genetics in small animals. This 3 hour lecture given to the French Bulldog Club of America (FBDCA) at their National Specialty in 2022 covers an incredible amount of useful and insightful information. Slide Decks Part 1 and Part 2 are also available.
HIP Health
What is Patellar Luxation?
OFA Health Videos
Hip dysplaysia doesn't HAVE to be prevalent in French Bulldogs, and research from the Orthopoedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) shows that purposeful pairings between individuals with normal hips, with depth and breadth of pedigree, increases the likelihood of normal offspring.
Showing Some Spine
What is Patellar Luxation?
What is Patellar Luxation?
Where does our breed fit in when it comes to spine health? There are a lot of opinions, especially when it comes to anomalies and the likelihood of developing IVDD, something that is not yet officially reported on OFA's website, however they DO have slide decks and lectures that discuss this topic. View this blog to learn more.
What is Patellar Luxation?
What is Patellar Luxation?
What is Patellar Luxation?
The patella, or kneecap, is part of the stifle joint (knee). In patellar luxation, the kneecap luxates, or pops out of place, either in a medial or lateral position.
OFA Applications
OFA Applications
OFA Applications
Link to OFA Applications. Browze this list to locate the health registry relevant to French Bulldogs (Hips, Eyes, Heart, Patellas, Trachea, Spine, and many more.