Signed in as:
filler@godaddy.com
Signed in as:
filler@godaddy.com






Welcome to the French Bulldog Foundation of America's (FBDFA) Legacy of Health Program! This system 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.
Do you have a health tested French Bulldog that meets the FBDFA Legacy of Health requirements for one of the following levels? Share your Frenchie's stats and join the movement toward improved health and inspiration. It's free, it's easy, and the Frenchies thank you in advance! Apply Online Now.

Verified OFA CHIC NORMAL
VERIFIED OFA NORMAL

The Legacy of Health Program features five tiers, similar to tiered systems that reward accumulating health certifications. Progression reflects the volume of completed tests, akin to building from basic to advanced recognition in other breed programs. Additionally, the Legacy of Health Program includes a special designation for research contributions, comparable to research-focused honors elsewhere.
Results must pass per OFA standards (normal/clear/carrier; affected ineligible) and be verifiable in the OFA public database (spinal submissions require proof). Dogs need a registration number (e.g., AKC or equivalent) for verification.
The criteria mirror comprehensive lists from similar programs, focusing on breed-specific concerns. Each item counts as one point toward the level total.
Any DNA result must be either a Clear or Carrier – Affected/homozygous results are not eligible. (Each Count as One):
Temperament (Each Count as One)
Obedience Titles (Each Count as One)
(Counts as One per Category):
Each Counts as One per Category:
Each Counts as One per Category:
AKC Agility Titles: earned by qualifying three times (for Novice, Open, Excellent) in specific classes. They are categorized by Standard (regular) or Jumpers With Weaves (JWW).
Breed Research Contributor (BRC) Details
Similar to research-oriented designations in other programs, this is given to dogs participating in studies that benefit French Bulldogs. It can be standalone or added to a Health Level. Examples include submissions to CHIC DNA repositories, OFA spinal contributions, or cystinuria research (with passing results). Other relevant studies are evaluated case-by-case—provide proof of involvement.
To qualify, a dog must participate in verifiable research studies that directly benefit French Bulldogs. Participation typically involves submitting biological samples (e.g., DNA, blood, or imaging) or data to approved repositories or ongoing projects. The FBDFA evaluates submissions on a case-by-case basis to ensure they align with breed-improvement goals. Key requirements include:
The designation is not points-based like the main Health Levels; it's awarded upon review of the submission. It can be applied for alongside or separately from the tiers, and once earned, it's noted on the dog's certificate.
Below are dedicated FAQs for each section of the FBDFA Legacy of Health Program. These provide quick answers to common questions based on the program's details. For general inquiries, email fbdfoundationamerica@gmail.com.
The program includes Bronze (5 certifications/screenings), Silver (6), Gold (7), Platinum (8), and Diamond (10). These tiers reward increasing levels of health testing, similar to progressive systems in other breed programs.
Progression is based on accumulating verifiable, passing certifications from the eligible list. Start at Bronze and upgrade by adding more tests—each tier reflects broader health evaluation.
No, it's a separate or add-on honor for study contributions, comparable to research-focused elements in similar programs. It can stand alone or enhance a tier.
Any AKC-registered French Bulldog with documented results can participate, regardless of coat color or traits. It's voluntary, inclusive, and uses public/voluntary data—no fees or endorsements.
Each eligible item (e.g., a passing OFA certification, AKC title, or DNA screening) counts as one point. Accumulate them to reach tier requirements. Any DNA result must be either a Clear or Carrier – Affected (homozygous) results are not eligible.
OFA "Normal" results in: Basic Cardiac (advanced preferred), Patellar Luxation, Tracheal Hypoplasia, Thyroid, Eyes, Hip Dysplasia (OFA or PennHIP DI ≤0.60 at ≥12 months), Elbows, BAER (hearing), RFG (Grades 0-2);
Spinal Submission (Does NOT Need to be "Normal"). Screen capture of OFA submission acceptable as "proof".
French Bulldogs commonly exhibit spinal abnormalities, with OFA data* showing over 95% rated as abnormal due to breed traits like hemivertebrae (wedge-shaped vertebrae) and butterfly vertebrae. These are often incidental findings and not always symptomatic, but they are prevalent in the breed.
Unlike other tests (e.g., hips or cardiac) where 'normal/clear/carrier' directly indicates health suitability, spinal submissions in our program prioritize data contribution over perfection. By encouraging owners to submit X-rays (regardless of result) to the OFA Spinal Database, we support breed-wide research to track patterns, improve genetics, and reduce future risks—similar to how other programs value research participation. Proof of submission is required, but no specific grade is needed to earn points, as the act of sharing advances collective knowledge.
*based upon data reported by OFA as of 12/20/2025
Each title counts as one point: Coursing/FastCat/Agility, FITDog/ATT/Therapy, or Canine Good Citizen (CGC) for temperament.
AKC Agility Titles
Agility titles are earned by qualifying three times (for Novice, Open, Excellent) in specific classes. They are categorized by Standard (regular) or Jumpers With Weaves (JWW).
AKC Coursing Titles
These titles apply to lure coursing, often for sighthounds, or the Coursing Ability Test (CAT) for all breeds.
Official AKC Temperament Titles
Related Behavioral Titles While not strictly "temperament" titles, the following are often grouped with temperament evaluations because they assess behavior and social stability:
FitDog: A fitness-based title system where owners earn points for regular activities like walking or swimming to achieve Bronze, Silver, or Gold status.
Hereditary Cataracts (also known as Juvenile Hereditary Cataracts), and Type 3 Cystinuria DNA Marker. Results must be passing and verifiable. Any DNA result must be either a Clear or Carrier – Affected results are not eligible.
Yes, they must be verifiable in the OFA database or with proof (e.g., for Preliminary Hips and/or spinal submissions*). Passing per OFA standards (normal/clear/carrier).
*Spine Results will NOT be published by FBDFA and will remain confidential, reflecting 'verified by FBDFA' and date of verification. FBDFA will acccept a screen capture of your OFA login results page showing tests submitted as proof of spine test.
What is the Research Designation?
It's a special honor for dogs contributing to studies benefiting French Bulldogs, similar to research elements in other programs. Standalone or added to a Health Level.
How does a dog qualify?
Participate in relevant studies (e.g., CHIC DNA repositories, OFA spinal contributions, cystinuria research) with passing results where required. Evaluated case-by-case with proof.
What proof is needed?
Submit documentation like confirmation emails, certificates, or receipts from the study organization.
Can non-FBDFA studies qualify?
Yes, if they demonstrate clear benefits to French Bulldogs—provide details for review.
How do I apply for a level or designation?
Email fbdfoundationamerica@gmail.com with verifiable OFA links/proof.
Can I upgrade a level later?
Yes, submit additional tests for review—levels are upgradable but one-time per achievement milestone.
What do I receive upon approval?
A certificate detailing the level, tests, and any designation, issued digitally or at events.
Is there a deadline or cost?
No costs for digital certification.
Does this program guarantee a dog's health?
No, it's an educational resource only—not a health guarantee or endorsement.
Where does the data come from?
Public/voluntary sources like OFA—no representations of accuracy; verify independently.
How do I opt out if included?
Refer to our main [FAQ](/faqs) for removal requests—handled case-by-case for public data.
Is FBDFA affiliated with other clubs?
No, we're independent and non-commercial, focused solely on breed advocacy.
Copyright © 2026 French Bulldog Foundation of America - All Rights Reserved.