There are three types of bulldogs, English, American and French bulldogs. In this article, we will focus on the English Bulldog. The English Bulldog is a gentle and reliable dog breed that makes a wonderful addition to the family. Like all dog breeds, Bulldogs are predisposed to certain health issues and mobility issues. Joint conditions such as dysplasia, degenerative joint disease, and respiratory problems are just a few of the medical issues affecting the English Bulldog.
The main joint and health problems in English Bulldogs
English Bulldog Respiratory Problems
English Bulldogs have a distinct look, with a short nose. Although known for its distinct appearance, a bulldog’s facial structure can cause serious respiratory problems.
The bulldog is classified as a brachycephalic breed. A brachycephalic dog is a breed with a flat face and a flattened nose. Due to the shape of the dog’s face and nasal passage combined with a narrow trachea, brachycephalic dogs are prone to respiratory problems. Dogs with brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) have trouble breathing and panting properly. Bulldogs are the breed most diagnosed with BOAS. This can lead to overheating, difficulty getting enough air into their lungs, and can cause heavy, rapid breathing. Exercise can make an English Bulldog’s breathing worse, leading to severe distress, gasping, and even death in dogs with BOAS.
Bulldog respiratory problems can range from mild to severe. Age is not always a contributing factor, although it can get worse as the dog ages. Very young dogs may also show signs of BOAS. Almost all English Bulldogs are thought to have some degree of respiratory ailments, although the impact on a dog’s life varies. Dogs diagnosed with brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome should be careful about any medical procedure that requires anesthesia due to an increased risk of death. Secondary risks of BOAS include gastrointestinal problems, bronchial collapse, and even heart failure.
Joint problems
Joint and ligament injuries are quite common in bulldogs. In fact, hip dysplasia is one of the most common problems in English Bulldogs.
Sometimes called bulldog dysplasia, the elbow and hip joints can be affected. Hip dysplasia is a skeletal condition that occurs when a dog’s hip joint grows abnormally. This can cause the hip joint to loosen, leading to instability, joint pain, and arthritis. Likewise, a Bulldog’s front legs can be impacted by elbow dysplasia. Elbow and hip dysplasia are common in English Bulldogs. Signs of dysplasia can be detected early in a dog’s life, and early detection is essential for a bulldog to maintain healthy joints.
Simple ways to promote canine joint health:
- A high-quality dog joint supplement can reduce inflammation, promote joint mobility, and relieve joint stiffness.
- Keep your pet at a healthy weight to limit joint stress. For example, an overweight bulldog is more at risk of developing joint problems as they age.
- Regular exercise. Bulldogs prone to joint problems should avoid high impact activities such as jumping or running.
- A multimodal approach through canine rehabilitation can help keep joints healthy. Laser therapy, acupuncture, massage, and physiotherapy are just a few techniques to help improve a dog’s joint mobility, reduce inflammation, build strength, and improve flexibility.
Degenerative joint disease
Arthritis or degenerative joint disease is a progressive disease that affects a dog’s joints and gets worse over time. Although a dog can show signs of arthritis at any age, most Bulldogs will show signs of arthritis in middle age or later. Additionally, since Bulldogs are prone to knee and elbow problems, osteoarthritis is also quite common in the breed.
English Bulldog Loss of Mobility
Although paralysis in French Bulldogs is more common, loss of mobility also affects the English Bulldog breed. Loss of mobility can vary in severity, from weak hind legs, where a dog’s legs give way or tire periodically on long walks, to more severe cases, where a bulldog’s legs are completely paralyzed and unable to support the weight of the dog.
Sudden paralysis can be caused by a neurological condition, a traumatic injury (most often when the spinal cord is compressed), or a degenerative disease. Any change in a dog’s mobility and ability to walk requires a visit to your veterinarian.
Bulldog Mobility Solutions
Fortunately, there are mobility aids to help your bulldog walk. Becoming paralyzed or having sudden back leg weakness doesn’t mean the end for your best friend. A Bulldog cart will support your dog’s hind legs. The rear wheels of a dog wheelchair are on either side of your dog’s hips, with the wheels replacing your dog’s rear legs. The cart will help your dog stand and walk naturally, and your dog will also get the exercise he needs.
Advantages of a Bulldog wheelchair:

- Ability to stay active and independent.
- Helps maintain muscle mass and limit atrophy.
- Continuous exercise encourages the natural elimination process, making it easier for dogs to pee and poop!
- Excellent for mental health, an active dog is a happy dog!
- Perfect for rehab support during recovery
- Dogs spend more time with their families doing their favorite things!
When choosing the best wheelchair for your bulldog, choose an adjustable cart. It is normal for a dog’s weight to fluctuate, especially after long periods of inactivity. Since your dog will move more often, regular exercise can help an overweight dog lose extra weight and even strengthen their legs. With an adjustable wheelchair, the width of the cart can widen or narrow as the body changes. Plus, the height and length are adjustable, so the wheelchair will perfectly fit your Bulldog’s unique shape and size.
In many cases, the loss of mobility may be gradual in nature. This means that your dog’s leg strength may get worse or the mobility issue may begin to affect all four legs. Look for a wheelchair that will adapt and change with your pet’s changing needs. The Walkin’ Wheels Rear Dog Wheelchair can easily convert to a full support wheelchair with the addition of a front wheel attachment.