French Bulldog & Pug Physical Health Testing
Physical Health Testing for French Bulldogs and Pugs
DNA testing is important, but it is only one part of responsible breeding. A DNA report can tell us about known inherited disease markers, parentage, colour, coat type and genetic diversity. It cannot tell us how well a dog breathes, moves, recovers from exercise, handles heat, carries weight, gives birth, or functions in everyday life.
That is why physical health testing matters so much for French Bulldogs and Pugs. These are brachycephalic companion breeds, so responsible breeding has to look beyond paperwork and assess the whole dog.
A sensible approach to physical health approach considers breathing, nostrils, airway function, patellas, hips, spine, movement, eyes, heart, skin, ears, teeth, jaw, body condition, temperament, heat tolerance and reproductive function.
Our formal health testing system is being progressively strengthened across the programme. Some checks are already part of our routine puppy, veterinary and breeding review process. More formal assessments, including patella grading, hip assessment, Respiratory Function Grading and imaging where appropriate, are being implemented as dogs mature, enter breeding consideration, or reach breeding age.
The aim is not to claim that any breeding programme can remove all risk. The aim is to make better breeding decisions, avoid preventable problems where possible, keep proper records, and improve the breeds so that the puppies place into New Zealand homes are healthier and happier.
Health testing does not stop at DNA. DNA results help us understand inherited disease risks and carrier status, but they cannot tell us how a dog breathes, moves, recovers after activity, uses its rear end, carries its body, or copes with normal daily life. This page explains the physical health checks to use alongside DNA testing in French Bulldog and Pug breeding programmes, including BOAS and respiratory function grading, patella assessment, spine and hemivertebrae awareness, hips, heart, trachea, movement and overall structural soundness.
Why Physical Health Testing Matters
While DNA testing is an important part of responsible breeding, it cannot assess how a dog is physically built or how it functions in daily life. In French Bulldogs and Pugs, many of the most important health questions are structural and functional rather than purely genetic.
Physical health testing looks at the dog itself. It helps assess how the dog breathes, how the spine is formed, how the patellas track, how the rear end moves, how the heart sounds, how the eyes sit, and whether the dog is comfortable in normal activity.
This matters because a dog can have excellent DNA results and still have physical traits that should affect breeding decisions. A clear DNA profile does not prove that a dog has good airway function, sound knees, strong movement, normal spinal structure or suitable conformation.
For brachycephalic breeds such as French Bulldogs and Pugs, responsible breeding needs both genetic information and physical assessment. DNA testing helps identify inherited disease risks and carrier status. Physical health testing helps assess real-world function, comfort and structural soundness.
This page explains the main physical health areas we monitor in our French Bulldog and Pug breeding programmes, what each condition means, how it can be assessed, and how those results should influence responsible breeding decisions.
When Puppies Are Vet Checked
Puppies are generally not yet checked by a vet when you first enquire about a puppy. This is normal.
At Le Epitome Kennels, puppies receive their pre-sale veterinary health check in the week before they leave our care. This timing allows the puppy to be old enough for its first vaccination and gives the buyer a more useful health snapshot close to collection.
This means a puppy you enquire about may not yet have had its formal pre-sale vet check. That does not mean the puppy has been overlooked; it means the formal veterinary check is timed for handover so you can rest assured that your puppy’s health exam is current.
Before the formal vet check, puppies are monitored daily by us for feeding, growth, breathing, movement, toileting, confidence, litter interaction and general development. If a concern appears before the scheduled vet check, we seek veterinary advice earlier.
The pre-sale veterinary check includes general health, body condition, eyes, ears, mouth, teeth, bite, heart, breathing, nares, skin, coat, limbs, joints, movement, basic patella review, basic hip and mobility assessment, and overall development. Puppies also receive vaccination, worming and parasite care, and microchipping before they leave our care.
BOAS and Respiratory Function Grading
BOAS stands for Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome. It is a breathing condition that can affect short-faced breeds such as French Bulldogs and Pugs.
While DNA is useful, BOAS is not something that can be cleared by a DNA test. It is a physical and functional issue involving the dog’s airway, including the nostrils, soft palate, throat and upper airway. A dog may have clear DNA results but still have restricted breathing, poor heat tolerance, slow recovery after exercise, or other airway concerns.
The Respiratory Function Grading scheme was developed by The Kennel Club and the University of Cambridge and is used for Bulldogs, French Bulldogs and Pugs. Dogs New Zealand supports the Respiratory Function Grading scheme, with assessments carried out by trained veterinary assessors.
Respiratory Function Grading gives breeders and owners a more structured way to assess breathing function. Dogs can be assessed from 12 months of age, and breeding dogs should be reassessed periodically because BOAS can change over time.
At Le Epitome Kennels, breathing health is treated as a core part of breeding suitability. We consider nostril openness, resting airway noise, exercise tolerance, heat tolerance, recovery after activity, veterinary findings, and formal Respiratory Function Grading where available and appropriate.
Our formal RFG use is being implemented progressively as dogs reach the right age and stage for assessment. This sits alongside our day-to-day observations, ordinary veterinary checks, and breeding review process.
The Difference Between Frenchie/Pug Sounds and Breathing Problems
French Bulldogs and Pugs can be expressive dogs. Many make soft snuffles, grumbles, snores and little talking sounds as part of ordinary breed character. Not every sound is automatically a health problem.
The important question is whether the dog is comfortable and functional.
A healthy, comfortable dog should be able to rest quietly, sleep without obvious distress, move around the home comfortably, play in short sensible bursts, recover normally after activity, and breathe without persistent effort.
Breathing signs that should not be dismissed as “just normal for the breed” include heavy airway noise at rest, open-mouth breathing while resting, repeated gagging or choking, poor heat tolerance, slow recovery after mild activity, collapse, blue or purple gums or tongue, or a dog that cannot settle because of breathing effort.
For breeding decisions, we look beyond whether a dog is attractive or breed-typical. We pay attention to comfort, function, recovery and resilience. A French Bulldog or Pug should still be able to live well as a dog, not simply look good in photos.
Choosing a Brachycephalic-Experienced Vet
French Bulldogs and Pugs are not assessed properly by just looking at them. Their health review needs to take brachycephalic structure seriously, especially breathing, nostrils, soft palate, heat tolerance, eyes, skin folds, spine, patellas, body condition and anaesthetic risk.
A brachycephalic-experienced vet understands the difference between breed-typical features and genuine welfare concerns. They are more likely to notice early airway restriction, poor recovery after activity, narrow nostrils, recurring eye irritation, unstable patellas, spinal warning signs, and the effect that extra weight can have on breathing and movement.
For breeding dogs, we value veterinary assessment that is practical, specific and decision-useful. A general statement that a dog “looks healthy” is less helpful than clear notes on breathing, nares, heart, eyes, patellas, movement, spine, hips, skin, teeth, bite, body condition and any follow-up required.
For puppies, our pre-sale veterinary checks are an important early screen, but they are not the same as later adult breeding assessments. Some structural and functional traits become clearer as a dog matures. That is why retained dogs and breeding candidates may need further assessment as they grow and approach breeding age.
The aim is not to medicalise every dog. The aim is to use the right veterinary input at the right stage, so breeding decisions are based on function, welfare and evidence rather than appearance alone.
How We Use Breathing Assessment in Breeding Decisions
At Le Epitome Kennels, breathing is treated as a functional health trait, not an afterthought. We do not rely on colour, pedigree or DNA results to tell us whether a dog breathes well.
For breeding dogs and retained prospects, we consider how the dog breathes in ordinary life: at rest, during activity, in warm weather, during recovery and during normal handling. Formal Respiratory Function Grading may also be used where available and appropriate, especially for breeding dogs.
A dog with significant breathing compromise should not be treated as breeding quality simply because it has attractive colour, good type or clear DNA results. Breeding decisions should favour dogs that can breathe, recover and live comfortably.
What Buyers Should Ask
Buyers should ask breeders how they assess breathing, not just whether a puppy has been vet checked.
Useful questions include:
Have the parents been assessed for BOAS?
Have the parents had Respiratory Function Grading or RFG-style assessment where available?
Do the parents breathe comfortably at rest?
How do they recover after activity?
Do they tolerate normal warm-weather management?
Have any dogs in the line needed airway surgery?
Can the breeder explain what they are doing to improve breathing over time?
A responsible breeder should be able to discuss breathing openly. Be cautious of anyone who dismisses BOAS as irrelevant, treats laboured breathing as normal, or focuses only on colour while ignoring airway function.
Nostrils, Soft Palate, Trachea and Airway Structure
Breathing health in French Bulldogs and Pugs is not determined by one feature alone. The airway is a system. The nostrils, nasal passages, soft palate, throat tissue, larynx and trachea all affect how easily air can move in and out of the dog.
Nostril openness is one of the easiest airway features for buyers to see. Open nostrils do not guarantee perfect breathing, but they are a positive feature. Very tight or pinched nostrils can make airflow more difficult, especially during activity, warm weather or excitement.
The soft palate and throat tissue also matter. In brachycephalic breeds, internal airway restriction may not be obvious from appearance alone. A dog may look good externally but still show signs such as heavy airway noise, gagging, excessive snoring, poor heat tolerance or slow recovery after activity.
The trachea is part of the same picture. A narrower airway can reduce breathing reserve, especially when combined with other airway restrictions. Tracheal size cannot be assessed from a DNA report or a photo; where there are concerns, veterinary assessment may be needed.
At Le Epitome Kennels, airway health is assessed in layers. We consider nostril openness, airway noise, breathing comfort, heat tolerance, recovery after activity and veterinary feedback.
A dog with attractive type or colour is not automatically suitable for breeding if airway function is poor. For French Bulldogs and Pugs, responsible selection means favouring dogs that can breathe, recover and live comfortably as companion animals.
Hemivertebrae, Spine and Tail Structure
Spine health is an important consideration in French Bulldogs and Pugs because spinal structure can affect movement, comfort, coordination, rear-end strength and long-term quality of life.
Hemivertebrae are abnormally shaped vertebrae. They are seen most often in screw-tailed or short-tailed breeds. Some hemivertebrae are incidental findings and may never cause obvious symptoms. Others can contribute to spinal curvature, pain, weakness, abnormal movement or neurological signs.
Tail structure is part of the wider picture. A short, kinked, tight or screw tail does not automatically mean a dog has a serious spinal problem, but it is a useful reminder that spine, tail structure and movement should be considered together.
Signs that may need veterinary assessment include:
weakness in the rear legs
wobbling or poor coordination
dragging feet or scuffing nails
reluctance to move, jump or climb
pain when touched along the back
abnormal spinal curvature
sudden lameness or collapse
loss of bladder or bowel control
unexplained change in gait or posture
Hemivertebrae are usually identified through imaging, most commonly spinal x-rays. In more complex cases, a veterinarian may recommend CT, MRI or specialist review, especially if there are neurological signs or concern about spinal cord compression.
Imaging must be interpreted in context. A finding on an x-ray does not always tell the full story by itself. The dog’s movement, comfort, age, symptoms, physical examination and veterinary advice all matter.
For French Bulldogs, DVL2 testing is now part of responsible breeding-dog DNA review and MDBA-aligned compliance. The DVL2 marker is associated with screw-tail type in breeds such as French Bulldogs, Bulldogs and Boston Terriers. MDBA registration requirements also require relevant French Bulldog breeding dogs to be DNA tested for DVL2 and ADAMTS3.
This information is useful, but it should not be treated as a simple pass or fail for spinal health. DNA markers can help breeders understand part of the picture, but they do not replace movement assessment, veterinary examination, health history or imaging where appropriate.
Not every spinal concern is hereditary. Trauma, falls, jumping from height, vehicle accidents and other injuries can also cause spinal damage. When reviewing health history, it is important to separate traumatic injury from suspected inherited or structural risk where the evidence allows.
For breeding decisions, spine health should be considered alongside movement, hips, patellas, breathing, body condition, temperament and overall function. At Le Epitome Kennels, we observe how dogs stand, walk, run, sit, rise, turn, play, recover and use their rear end. Where there is concern, veterinary assessment or imaging may be used before breeding decisions are made.
Patella Luxation and Knee Soundness
Patella luxation occurs when the kneecap moves out of its normal position. It is seen in many small and compact breeds, including French Bulldogs and Pugs.
Patella health matters because unstable kneecaps can affect comfort, movement, rear-end strength, exercise tolerance and long-term joint health. Some dogs show very little sign, while others may skip, limp, hold up a back leg, move awkwardly, or become sore after activity.
Patellas are not assessed by DNA testing. They require physical examination by a veterinarian. The vet checks whether the kneecap stays in place, can be moved manually, slips out and returns, or remains out of position.
Patella luxation is usually graded from Grade 1 to Grade 4:
Grade 1: the kneecap can be manually moved out of place but returns to position.
Grade 2: the kneecap may move out of place more easily and may stay out temporarily before returning.
Grade 3: the kneecap is out of position much of the time but can usually be manually replaced.
Grade 4: the kneecap is permanently out of position and cannot be manually replaced.
Grade 0, meaning no luxation detected, is preferred for breeding dogs. Grade 1 may be recorded and monitored depending on the whole dog. Grade 2 requires caution and should be considered carefully in context, including movement, comfort, structure, family history and the suitability of the other parent. Grade 3 or Grade 4 findings require serious veterinary guidance and would generally remove a dog from breeding consideration.
Puppy checks are useful, but they are not always the final word. Young puppies are still developing. Their joints, bones, muscles and soft tissues are still maturing, so early findings may need later reassessment.
A mild patella finding in a young puppy is different from a painful or functionally serious patella problem. The important questions are whether the puppy is comfortable, whether movement is affected, whether the finding is improving or worsening, and what the veterinarian recommends.
Signs that may need veterinary assessment include:
skipping or hopping on a back leg
intermittent lameness
stiffness after rest
reluctance to run, climb or play
pain or sensitivity around the knee
an unusual rear-end gait
a kneecap that appears to slip frequently
reduced confidence using the back legs
For breeding decisions, patella information should be recorded and used sensibly. A responsible breeding programme should avoid doubling up on known weaknesses, take repeated patterns seriously, and seek veterinary or specialist advice where findings are moderate, severe, painful or unclear.
At Le Epitome Kennels, patella health is considered alongside movement, hips, spine, rear-end strength, body condition, breathing, temperament and overall function. The aim is to breed dogs that are comfortable, mobile and structurally sound, not simply attractive in appearance.
Hips, Rear-End Strength and Movement
Hip structure and rear-end strength matter in French Bulldogs and Pugs because they affect comfort, balance, movement, exercise tolerance, pregnancy, whelping and long-term soundness.
A dog does not need to be athletic in an extreme way, but it should be able to move comfortably, rise easily, turn normally, walk with confidence, play appropriately and recover well after sensible activity.
Movement can show things that a DNA report cannot. A dog may have clear inherited-disease results but still move poorly because of structure, joint development, muscle weakness, spinal discomfort, hip issues or patella instability.
Signs that may need veterinary assessment include:
difficulty rising
weakness through the rear end
poor coordination
bunny-hopping or unusual rear-leg movement
reluctance to run, climb or play
stiffness after rest
pain or sensitivity around the hips or lower back
uneven weight-bearing
poor muscle development
repeated lameness or abnormal gait
Hip and mobility assessment begins with observation. Breeders and veterinarians can look at how the dog walks, stands, turns, sits, rises, plays and uses its rear end. Veterinary examination can also assess pain, range of motion, gait, joint stability and whether further imaging is needed.
For puppies, the pre-sale veterinary check can identify obvious concerns, but young puppies are still developing. Their bones, joints and muscles are not mature, so early checks are screening checks rather than final adult breeding assessments.
For retained breeding prospects and adult breeding dogs, hip and mobility assessment may be repeated as the dog matures. Formal hip assessment, hip scoring, PennHIP or other recognised imaging may be used where appropriate, usually when the skeleton is developed enough for the result to be more meaningful.
Rear-end strength also matters for reproductive function. A female should ideally be able to carry a pregnancy comfortably, move well during pregnancy, labour safely where natural whelping is appropriate, recover properly after birth and show suitable maternal behaviour. Whelping history can give useful information about pelvic function, stamina, recovery and overall soundness.
Veterinary intervention can be necessary and appropriate, and the safety of the dam and puppies always comes first. However, repeated dependence on intervention should be treated as useful health information, not ignored.
For breeding decisions, hips and movement should be considered alongside spine, patellas, body condition, breathing, temperament, reproductive history and veterinary findings. One injury or one awkward puppy stage is not the same as repeated hip, movement or rear-end weakness appearing across a line. Patterns matter.
At Le Epitome Kennels, we observe puppies and breeding dogs for movement, strength, coordination, comfort and rear-end function. Where a concern is minor, unclear or developmental, the dog may be monitored and reassessed. Where a concern is moderate, repeated, painful or functionally significant, veterinary advice should guide the next step.
Natural Mating, Natural Whelping & Functional Breeding
Natural mating and natural whelping are part of functional breeding health. They are not separate from health testing; they provide real-world information about structure, fertility, stamina, confidence, pelvic function, maternal ability and recovery.
In French Bulldogs and Pugs, reproductive function should be considered carefully because these are compact brachycephalic breeds. A breeding dog should not only look correct or carry desirable colour and coat genetics. It should also be able to function as a dog.
For males, natural mating ability can provide information about confidence, movement, structure, fertility, stamina and general soundness. A male that cannot mate naturally may still be valuable in some circumstances, but the reason should be understood and recorded rather than ignored.
For females, pregnancy, labour, whelping, maternal care and recovery all provide useful health information. A female should ideally be able to carry a pregnancy comfortably, move well during pregnancy, labour safely where natural whelping is appropriate, recover properly after birth and show suitable maternal behaviour.
Veterinary intervention can be necessary and appropriate. Artificial insemination, assisted delivery and caesarean section may be needed in some situations, and the welfare of the dam and puppies always comes first.
The important distinction is between sensible veterinary support and a breeding programme that becomes permanently dependent on intervention. If humans have to handle all the dating, all the midwifery and all the emergency logistics forever, eventually we need to ask whether we are preserving functional dogs or just managing around dysfunction.
Any intervention should be recorded with context. An imported semen mating, a one-off assisted delivery, a single-puppy litter, an emergency caesarean, a planned caesarean and repeated whelping difficulty are not all the same thing.
In a breed environment where artificial insemination, assisted delivery and caesarean sections are common practice, Olivia’s long experience with natural breeding and hands-on whelping care is an important part of our programme. She has spent many years practising careful natural midwifery with strong results, while in the occasional emergency, still using veterinary support whenever the safety of the dam or puppies requires it.
For breeding decisions, reproductive soundness should be considered alongside DNA results, breathing, movement, patellas, hips, spine, body condition, temperament, maternal ability and puppy outcomes.
At Le Epitome Kennels, we value natural mating and natural whelping wherever it is safe and appropriate for the dogs involved. We use veterinary care when needed, but we also treat reproductive history as health information. A breeding programme should not only produce dogs that look good; it should preserve dogs that can function well as dogs.
A dog breed should not need a full human support crew just to keep existing.
Eye Health in French Bulldogs and Pugs
Eye health matters in French Bulldogs and Pugs because their head shape, facial structure and eye prominence can increase the risk of irritation, injury and other eye concerns.
The aim is not simply to have large or expressive eyes. The eyes should be comfortable, protected, functional and free from ongoing irritation or injury.
Common eye concerns in brachycephalic breeds can include corneal ulcers, dry eye, irritation from facial folds, eyelid abnormalities, cherry eye, pigment changes, excessive tearing, injury from rough play, and trauma from environmental hazards.
Pugs often need particular attention because their eyes can be large and prominent. French Bulldogs also need careful monitoring, especially where facial structure, skin folds, play behaviour or eye shape may increase the risk of irritation or injury.
Warning signs that need veterinary attention include:
squinting
excessive blinking
rubbing the face or eyes
redness
cloudiness
discharge
swelling
visible injury
sudden change in eye appearance
keeping one eye closed
signs of pain or light sensitivity
Eye problems should not be ignored or treated casually at home. Corneal injuries can become serious quickly, and early veterinary treatment can make a major difference.
Eye assessment starts with observation and veterinary examination. At puppy checks, the veterinarian can look for obvious eye abnormalities, injury, irritation, discharge, eyelid problems or signs that the eye is not sitting comfortably.
Where there is concern, further assessment may include fluorescein staining for corneal ulcers, tear testing for dry eye, pressure testing, medication review, or referral to a veterinary eye specialist.
For breeding dogs, eye health should be considered over time. A one-off traumatic injury is different from repeated ulcers, chronic dry eye, eyelid problems, poor eye placement or recurring eye issues appearing in related dogs.
For breeding decisions, eye health should be considered alongside breathing, skull shape, facial structure, skin folds, temperament, movement, general robustness and veterinary findings.
At Le Epitome Kennels, we observe puppies and breeding dogs for eye comfort, appearance, injury history and any signs of recurring concern. Eye issues are recorded and considered honestly, especially where they are repeated, structural, chronic or seen across related dogs.
Heart Health and Cardiac Checks
Heart health is part of responsible French Bulldog and Pug breeding. A dog may appear strong, active and healthy externally, but heart function still needs to be considered through veterinary examination and sensible observation.
Cardiac assessment usually begins with auscultation, where a veterinarian listens to the heart with a stethoscope. This can help identify obvious murmurs, irregular rhythms or other findings that may need monitoring or further investigation.
Puppies should have their heart checked before leaving for their new home. A puppy heart check is an important early screen, but it is not the same as a full specialist cardiac assessment. If a murmur or irregular finding is detected, the next step depends on the puppy’s age, the grade of the murmur, clinical signs and veterinary advice.
Some murmurs in young puppies may be minor or temporary. Others may require monitoring, rechecking, ultrasound, specialist review or a change in sale or breeding decisions. The important point is that cardiac findings should be recorded, explained and followed up properly.
Signs that may need veterinary attention include:
fainting or collapse
coughing
tiring quickly
weakness
poor growth
blue or pale gums
difficulty exercising
breathing difficulty not explained by airway structure alone
a murmur that persists beyond puppyhood
In brachycephalic breeds, heart and breathing health should also be considered together. A dog with respiratory compromise should not also have an ignored cardiac concern. Breathing, circulation, recovery, heat tolerance and stamina all connect in the real dog.
For breeding dogs, heart health should be considered alongside breathing, movement, patellas, hips, spine, eyes, body condition, temperament, reproductive soundness and overall function.
At Le Epitome Kennels, heart checks are included in routine veterinary assessment. Puppies are checked by a veterinarian before handover, and breeding dogs are considered for cardiac findings as part of the wider health review. A dog with unresolved or significant cardiac disease should not be used for breeding simply because it has desirable colour, type or pedigree.
Skin, Ears, Allergies and General Robustness
Skin, ear and allergy resilience matter in French Bulldogs and Pugs because these breeds can be prone to irritation, skin folds, ear issues, itchiness and sensitivity.
Common concerns can include facial fold irritation, tail pocket irritation, itchy paws, recurring ear inflammation, hot spots, dermatitis, yeast overgrowth, allergic skin disease, food sensitivity, environmental sensitivity and recurring coat or skin discomfort.
Pugs often need attention around facial folds, eyes and skin creases. French Bulldogs may need careful monitoring around ears, paws, belly skin, tail pockets and any tight folds. In both breeds, excess weight, poor hygiene, unsuitable diet, trapped moisture, parasites, weather and environmental allergens can make skin and ear issues worse.
Warning signs that may need veterinary attention include:
repeated scratching or chewing
paw licking
red or inflamed skin
greasy or smelly coat
recurring ear irritation
head shaking
discharge from the ears
tail pocket odour or irritation
raw skin in folds
hair loss
repeated rashes or sores
ongoing itchiness or discomfort
Skin and ear health is assessed through observation, handling, grooming, veterinary examination and health history. A single minor irritation is not the same as a chronic or repeated pattern.
For puppies, the pre-sale veterinary check can identify obvious skin, coat, ear or fold concerns. Puppies should also be observed for coat quality, growth, digestion, weight gain, comfort and general vitality before handover.
For breeding dogs, skin and ear history should be reviewed over time. A one-off issue caused by environment, injury, parasites or ordinary puppy life is different from chronic allergies, recurring ear infections, repeated dermatitis, severe fold irritation or ongoing medication needs.
General robustness means how well a dog copes with ordinary life. A robust French Bulldog or Pug should maintain healthy body condition, recover well from normal activity, tolerate routine handling, have stable digestion, maintain comfortable skin and coat, and not constantly sit on the edge of needing intervention.
For breeding decisions, skin, ears and allergy history should be considered alongside body condition, breathing, structure, temperament, diet, environment, veterinary findings and any patterns seen in related dogs.
At Le Epitome Kennels, we record and consider skin, ear and allergy concerns as part of the whole-dog health picture. The aim is not to pretend these issues never occur. The aim is to notice them, manage them properly, distinguish isolated issues from repeated patterns, and use that information honestly in breeding decisions.
Dental, Jaw and Bite Health
Dental, jaw and bite health matter in French Bulldogs and Pugs because mouth structure can affect comfort, eating, chewing, tooth alignment, jaw function and long-term oral health.
In French Bulldogs and Pugs, a slightly undershot bite is breed-standard. This means the lower jaw sits slightly forward of the upper jaw. In practical terms, this may look like a neat reverse scissor-type bite rather than the ordinary scissor bite expected in many longer-nosed breeds.
The front teeth should meet neatly and lightly, with the lower jaw broad and the mouth able to close comfortably. Teeth and tongue should not sit visibly outside the mouth when closed.
This bite structure supports normal eating, chewing and tearing, including for dogs fed a raw diet. The key is moderation and function. A slightly undershot bite can be normal for these breeds, but a severely undershot bite, wry jaw, protruding tongue, visible teeth when the mouth is closed, difficulty eating, jaw discomfort or poor dental alignment should be treated as more significant.
Common dental and jaw concerns can include:
crowded teeth
rotated teeth
retained puppy teeth
missing teeth
uneven tooth wear
jaw asymmetry
soft tissue trauma from misplaced teeth
teeth pressing into the gums, lips or roof of the mouth
early dental disease
difficulty eating or chewing
mouth pain or discomfort
Dental and bite assessment starts during the puppy stage. At the pre-sale veterinary check, the veterinarian can assess the puppy’s mouth, teeth, bite and jaw development. This check can identify obvious concerns before the puppy leaves for its new home.
Because puppies are still growing, dental development should continue to be monitored. Adult teeth come through later, and some issues are not fully visible at eight weeks. Retained puppy teeth, crowding and bite changes may become clearer as the dog matures.
For breeding dogs, dental and jaw structure should be considered as part of the whole-dog review. A mild breed-standard underbite is not the same as a severe bite fault that affects comfort or function.
For breeding decisions, the key questions are whether the mouth is functional, whether the dog can eat comfortably, whether there are signs of soft tissue trauma, and whether similar bite or dental issues appear in related dogs.
At Le Epitome Kennels, puppies are checked by a veterinarian before handover, including mouth, teeth, bite and general oral development. We also observe puppies as they grow, including whether they are eating well, chewing normally, gaining weight, holding condition and showing normal jaw use.
Weight, Body Condition and Heat Tolerance
Weight and body condition have a major effect on the health of French Bulldogs and Pugs. These breeds are compact, solid companion dogs, but they should not be allowed to become overweight.
Extra weight can place more strain on the airways, joints, spine, heart, skin folds and general movement. It can also reduce heat tolerance and make recovery after activity slower.
A healthy French Bulldog or Pug should feel solid but not round. You should be able to feel the ribs with light pressure, see some body shape from above, and see that the dog can move comfortably without carrying excess weight.
In brachycephalic breeds, weight matters because breathing, heat tolerance and body condition are closely connected. A dog that is too heavy may breathe harder, pant more, move less comfortably, snore more heavily, recover more slowly and struggle more in warm weather.
Heat tolerance is especially important in French Bulldogs and Pugs. These breeds should not be exercised heavily in heat, left in warm vehicles, pushed through breathing distress, or expected to cope like longer-nosed working breeds.
Warning signs of heat stress or poor heat tolerance can include:
excessive panting
noisy or laboured breathing
weakness or wobbliness
slowing down suddenly
difficulty recovering after mild activity
vomiting or gagging after exertion
red, blue, purple or pale gums
collapse
distress that does not settle quickly with rest and cooling
Heat stress can become serious quickly. Owners should manage exercise sensibly, avoid the hottest part of the day, provide shade and water, use cooling or air flow where needed, and treat signs of overheating as urgent.
Body condition is assessed by both looking at and handling the dog. Useful factors include weight, shape, rib coverage, waist, muscle tone, movement, breathing effort, stamina, heat tolerance and general comfort.
For puppies, growth should be steady rather than excessive. A puppy should be well-fed, thriving and gaining appropriately, but not pushed to become heavy simply because a chunky puppy looks appealing in photos.
For breeding dogs, healthy body condition matters before mating, during pregnancy, after whelping and during recovery. A dog that is overweight, underweight or poorly conditioned may need to be held from breeding until its condition is improved.
For breeding decisions, weight and heat tolerance should be considered alongside breathing, movement, patellas, hips, spine, heart health, skin folds, reproductive soundness and overall function.
At Le Epitome Kennels, we monitor body condition, growth, heat tolerance, recovery after activity and general comfort as part of the wider health picture. The aim is to support dogs that are solid, functional, resilient and comfortable in normal New Zealand home life.
Neurological Signs, IVDD and Back/Neck Health
Back, neck and neurological health matter in French Bulldogs and Pugs because pain, weakness or nerve-related signs can affect movement, comfort, coordination and quality of life.
IVDD stands for intervertebral disc disease. It involves the discs between the vertebrae of the spine. When a disc degenerates, bulges or ruptures, it can place pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. This may cause pain, weakness, wobbliness, dragging feet, difficulty walking or, in serious cases, paralysis.
Not every back or neck issue is IVDD. Spinal pain, injury, muscle strain, neurological disease, trauma, developmental issues and other orthopaedic problems can sometimes look similar from the outside. Veterinary assessment is important where symptoms appear.
Warning signs that may need urgent veterinary attention include:
sudden weakness
dragging feet or scuffing nails
wobbliness or poor coordination
yelping or pain when picked up
reluctance to move, jump, climb or play
a hunched back
a stiff or painful neck
sudden lameness
collapse
loss of bladder or bowel control
paralysis
seizures
sudden blindness or disorientation
Sudden paralysis, severe pain, collapse, seizures, loss of bladder or bowel control, or major neurological change should be treated as urgent.
Some DNA panels include CDDY/CDPA or related markers that may be associated with disc degeneration risk. These results can be useful, but they are not a complete back or neck health answer. A DNA result does not tell us whether a dog is currently painful, mobile, strong, injured or clinically affected.
Assessment starts with observation and veterinary examination. A veterinarian may assess pain, reflexes, coordination, gait, limb strength, spinal comfort and whether the signs suggest a neurological, spinal or orthopaedic problem.
Where signs are serious or unclear, further investigation may include x-rays, CT, MRI, specialist referral, blood testing or other veterinary workup depending on the case.
Good records matter. A dog injured by a fall, rough play, jumping from a vehicle or other trauma is not the same as a dog showing repeated unexplained neurological signs. Separating trauma from suspected inherited or structural risk helps breeders make fairer and more accurate decisions.
For breeding decisions, neurological signs, back pain, neck pain, weakness, abnormal gait and confirmed IVDD-type issues should be taken seriously. A breeding dog showing unexplained neurological signs should be held from breeding until properly assessed.
At Le Epitome Kennels, back, neck and neurological health are considered alongside spine structure, movement, hips, patellas, breathing, body condition, temperament and overall function. The aim is to notice meaningful signs early, seek veterinary advice where needed, record concerns properly, and avoid breeding decisions that increase risk over time.
Pug Neurological Health and PDE/NME Awareness
Pug neurological health deserves specific attention because Pugs can have breed-related risk for necrotising meningoencephalitis, often referred to as NME or Pug Dog Encephalitis.
NME is a serious inflammatory brain disease. It is not the same as ordinary back pain, IVDD, injury or a simple movement issue. It is a neurological condition and should be assessed by a veterinarian where concerning signs appear.
Warning signs that may need urgent veterinary attention include:
seizures
circling
head pressing
sudden behaviour change
sudden blindness
poor coordination
weakness
collapse
confusion or disorientation
neck pain or discomfort
progressive neurological decline
Any seizure, sudden blindness, collapse or unexplained neurological sign should be treated seriously.
PDE/NME is not diagnosed by a simple visual check. A dog with concerning neurological signs may need veterinary examination, blood testing, neurological assessment, imaging, specialist referral or other diagnostic work depending on the case.
DNA testing can help identify genetic susceptibility to Pug Dog Encephalitis, but it is a risk test rather than a guarantee. A lower-risk result does not mean a dog can never develop a neurological problem, and a higher-risk result does not mean a dog will definitely become affected.
For breeding, the value of PDE/NME DNA information is that it helps breeders make more informed decisions. It should be considered alongside the dog’s health history, family history, neurological signs, progeny outcomes and genetic diversity.
Removing every dog with a risk marker without considering the wider gene pool can narrow genetic diversity, which may create other problems over time. The more responsible approach is to record the result, avoid high-risk combinations where possible, monitor lines carefully and take any neurological sign seriously.
A Pug with confirmed serious neurological disease should not be used for breeding. Repeated neurological concerns in related dogs should trigger a wider review of the line.
Temperament, Confidence and Stress Resilience
Temperament is part of health. A dog may look correct and have good test results, but still be unsuitable for breeding if it is overly anxious, unstable, reactive, difficult to handle or poorly suited to family life.
French Bulldogs and Pugs are companion breeds. They should generally be people-focused, confident, socially engaged and able to cope with normal home life. This includes handling, visitors, household noise, grooming, travel, veterinary care, routine changes and gentle social pressure without excessive fear or stress.
Temperament is influenced by both genetics and environment. Early handling, socialisation, household exposure and good placement all matter, but breeders should also pay attention to family patterns. If repeated anxiety, reactivity, poor recovery, aggression or poor maternal behaviour appears across related dogs, that information should influence breeding decisions.
Useful temperament signs to observe in puppies include:
curiosity
willingness to interact
ability to recover after being startled
normal play behaviour
appropriate confidence
ability to settle
tolerance of gentle handling
healthy litter interaction
steady development as the puppy matures
No puppy is expected to behave perfectly. Puppies can be bold, cautious, noisy, clingy, playful, sleepy or dramatic depending on age and stage. The important question is whether the puppy is developing within a healthy range and whether its temperament is suitable for the home it is being placed into.
For breeding dogs, temperament should be considered alongside physical health, DNA results, breathing, movement, structure, reproductive soundness, maternal ability and health history. A dog with serious anxiety, aggression, poor recovery from stress or unstable behaviour should not be used simply because it has desirable colour, coat type or pedigree.
Temperament also matters for placement. The right puppy for a busy home with children may not be the same as the right puppy for a quieter home, an older owner or a first-time dog owner. Good matching is part of responsible breeding.
At Le Epitome Kennels, puppies and adult dogs are observed through daily life, handling, feeding, litter interaction, social exposure and ordinary household activity. The aim is to breed and place dogs that are not only physically sound, but also confident, manageable and suited to life as family companions.
How We Use Physical Health Results in Breeding Decisions
Physical health assessment only has value if the information is recorded, understood and used.
A breeding decision should not be based on one result alone. A dog may be strong in some areas and need caution in another. Good breeding decisions consider the whole dog, including breathing, movement, patellas, hips, spine, eyes, heart, skin, ears, teeth, bite, body condition, temperament, reproductive soundness, veterinary findings, health history and outcomes from related dogs.
Severity and function matter. A minor finding in a comfortable, functional dog is different from a serious finding that causes pain, breathing difficulty, poor mobility, neurological signs, repeated infection, poor recovery or reduced quality of life.
Patterns also matter. One isolated injury or one temporary puppy-stage concern is not the same as repeated similar issues appearing across siblings, parents, progeny or related lines. Repeated patterns should influence future pairings, retirement decisions and whether a dog remains in the breeding programme.
Depending on the finding, a dog may be:
suitable for breeding
suitable only with a carefully selected mate
monitored before any breeding decision is made
held from breeding until veterinary review is complete
rested or retired
placed or sold as companion-only
removed from the breeding programme entirely
This approach allows health information to be used with judgement. The aim is not to remove every dog with any minor imperfection. The aim is to avoid breeding from dogs with serious welfare concerns, avoid repeating known weaknesses, and make steady improvement over time.
Colour, coat, pedigree and type may all be part of breeding, but they do not override health. A rare colour or valuable line does not make a dog breeding quality if the physical health picture is poor.
At Le Epitome Kennels, physical health findings are used alongside DNA results, bloodline knowledge, puppy development, veterinary advice and owner feedback. The goal is to make better decisions over time and breed dogs that are comfortable, functional, stable and suited to life as companions.
What Buyers Should Ask Any French Bulldog or Pug Breeder
Buyers should feel comfortable asking clear questions about health, puppy raising and after-sale support. A responsible breeder should be able to explain what they assess, what information they record, and how health findings affect breeding decisions.
Useful general questions include:
Are the puppies checked by a veterinarian before handover?
When is the pre-sale vet check done?
What does the pre-sale vet check include?
Are the breeding dogs DNA tested or DNA reviewed?
Are puppies individually DNA tested, or clear by parentage for relevant conditions?
How are breeding dogs assessed before being used?
What happens if a puppy or breeding dog has a health concern?
Are known issues disclosed clearly?
Do you provide support after the puppy goes home?
For breathing and BOAS, useful questions include:
How do you assess breathing in your breeding dogs?
Do the parents breathe comfortably at rest?
How do they recover after normal activity?
Do they tolerate normal warm-weather management?
Have the parents had Respiratory Function Grading or similar assessment where available?
Have any dogs in the line needed airway surgery?
For structure and movement, useful questions include:
Have the parents’ patellas been assessed?
Have any related dogs had patella surgery?
Do you monitor hips, rear-end strength and movement?
Do you assess spine, tail structure and movement?
Have any dogs in the line had IVDD, weakness, paralysis or unexplained neurological signs?
Are retained breeding dogs reassessed as they mature?
For eyes, heart, skin and general health, useful questions include:
Has the puppy’s heart, eyes, mouth, bite, skin and movement been checked by a vet?
Have the parents had recurring eye ulcers, dry eye, allergies or ear infections?
Are skin, ear and allergy patterns recorded across related dogs?
What diet has the puppy been raised on?
What health signs should a new owner watch for at home?
For reproductive health, useful questions include:
Can the dogs mate naturally where appropriate?
Do females whelp naturally where safe and suitable?
Are caesarean sections, assisted deliveries or reproductive interventions recorded with context?
Are females retired or reviewed if they have repeated difficulty, poor recovery or poor maternal function?
For records and transparency, useful questions include:
Do you keep health records on breeding dogs?
Do you record buyer-reported health outcomes from puppies you have bred?
Do you separate traumatic injuries from suspected inherited or structural concerns?
Do health findings change pairings, retirement decisions or future breeding plans?
Can you explain both the strengths and known risks of the breed clearly?
A good breeder should not be offended by sensible health questions. The goal is not to find someone who claims there are no risks. The goal is to find a breeder who understands the risks, records information honestly, explains health clearly and uses that information to make better decisions.
How Buyers Can Understand Health Testing Claims
Health claims should be clear, specific and understandable. Buyers do not need to be veterinary experts, but they should be able to ask what has actually been checked, who checked it, when it was checked, and what the result means.
The phrase “health tested” can mean very different things. It may refer to a DNA test, a puppy vet check, a breathing assessment, Respiratory Function Grading, patella grading, hip assessment, spine imaging, eye review, heart check, specialist assessment, or breeder observation. These are not all the same.
A useful way to assess a health claim is to ask five simple questions:
What test or assessment was done?
Was it done on the puppy, the parents, or both?
Who performed the test or assessment?
When was it done?
What was the result, and does it affect breeding or sale decisions?
Different types of health information answer different questions. A DNA test can help identify inherited disease markers and carrier status, but it cannot assess breathing, patellas, movement, spine, hips, eyes, heart or temperament. A puppy vet check gives a health snapshot close to handover, but it is not the same as formal adult breeding assessment. Imaging can show structural information, but it still needs to be interpreted alongside the dog’s movement, comfort and veterinary findings.
Buyers should be cautious of vague phrases such as “vet checked,” “health tested,” “clear,” or “perfectly healthy” if the breeder cannot explain what was actually assessed. A clear answer is usually a good sign. A defensive, confusing or dismissive answer is less reassuring.
It is also reasonable for breeders to protect private documents. Full laboratory reports and veterinary records may contain owner details, microchip numbers, certificate numbers, private notes or other identifying information. That does not mean buyers should be given no information. A responsible breeder should still be able to provide appropriate summaries, redacted results, vaccination and microchip records, pre-sale vet check information, disclosure notes or clear explanations where relevant.
The goal is not to demand every private document or overwhelm the breeder with technical questions. The goal is to confirm that health claims are real, specific, properly understood and actually used when decisions are made.
Good health testing is not just paperwork. It is the process of using DNA results, veterinary findings, physical assessment, development, health history and owner feedback to make better breeding decisions over time.
How This Page Works Alongside Our DNA Health Testing Page
Physical health testing and DNA health testing answer different questions.
DNA testing looks at inherited disease markers, carrier status, parentage, colour and coat genetics, and genetic diversity where available. It helps breeders understand genetic risk and plan safer pairings.
Physical health testing looks at how the dog functions in real life. It considers breathing, airway function, movement, patellas, hips, spine, eyes, heart, skin, ears, teeth, bite, body condition, temperament, heat tolerance, natural mating ability, whelping history and recovery.
Both layers matter. A dog can have excellent DNA results but still be unsuitable for breeding if it has poor breathing, weak movement, unstable patellas, significant eye issues, poor recovery after activity, unsuitable temperament or poor maternal function.
Likewise, a dog may appear physically sound but still need careful DNA review before being bred, especially if it carries a known inherited disease marker, is being paired with a genetically similar dog, or is part of a line where genetic diversity needs to be managed carefully.
For responsible breeding, DNA results and physical health information should be read together. Neither replaces the other.
At Le Epitome Kennels, this page explains the physical health side of our programme. Our DNA Health Testing page explains inherited disease markers, colour and coat genetics, parentage, genetic diversity and how DNA information is used in breeding decisions.
Learn About Our DNA Health Testing Approach
Frequently Asked Questions About Physical Health Testing
When are Le Epitome Kennels puppies vet checked?
Puppies are usually vet checked in the week before they leave our care. This gives buyers a current health snapshot close to collection and allows the puppy to be old enough for its first vaccination. A puppy you enquire about may not yet have had its formal pre-sale vet check, and that is normal.
What does physical health testing mean?
Physical health testing looks at how a dog functions in real life. It considers breathing, airway function, nostrils, movement, patellas, hips, spine, eyes, heart, skin, ears, teeth, bite, body condition, temperament, heat tolerance and reproductive soundness.
Is DNA testing enough for French Bulldogs and Pugs?
No. DNA testing is useful, but it cannot assess how a dog breathes, moves, recovers from activity, tolerates heat, carries weight, gives birth or functions in daily life. A dog can have good DNA results and still have a physical health concern.
Do French Bulldogs and Pugs need BOAS assessment?
Breathing should be taken seriously in both breeds. BOAS cannot be assessed by DNA testing alone. Breathing assessment may include observation of nostril openness, airway noise, comfort at rest, heat tolerance, recovery after activity, veterinary findings and Respiratory Function Grading where available and appropriate.
Does every puppy need spine x-rays or hip scoring?
No. Spine imaging and formal hip scoring are usually more useful for breeding dogs, retained breeding prospects or dogs with a specific clinical concern. Pet puppies are observed for movement, strength, comfort and development, and any concern should be investigated with veterinary advice.
Can young puppies be accurately graded for patella luxation?
Young puppies can be checked for obvious patella concerns, but early grading is not always definitive. Their joints, bones, muscles and soft tissues are still developing. If a concern is raised, veterinary guidance, monitoring, later reassessment or formal grading may be recommended.
What happens if a health concern is found before handover?
If a concern is identified before handover, the information should be reviewed properly and discussed with the buyer. Depending on the issue, this may involve monitoring, treatment, delayed handover, written disclosure, further veterinary advice, or reassessing whether that puppy is suitable for that home.
Does physical health testing guarantee a puppy will never have a health problem?
No. Physical health testing helps reduce risk, but it cannot guarantee perfect lifelong health. Dogs are living animals, and health can be influenced by genetics, development, environment, injury, diet, veterinary care and ordinary life. The value of testing is that it helps breeders make better decisions and respond properly when concerns arise.
Why is physical health testing especially important for brachycephalic breeds?
French Bulldogs and Pugs are brachycephalic companion breeds, which means their short-faced structure can affect breathing, heat tolerance, eye protection, dental structure and general function. Physical assessment helps breeders look at the dog in real life, not just on paper.
What should buyers ask about physical health testing?
Buyers should ask what has been checked, who checked it, when it was checked, what the result means, and whether the information affects breeding or sale decisions. Clear answers are more useful than broad claims such as “vet checked” or “health tested” without explanation.
Breed Health Data and Prevalence
Breed-health studies are useful because they show which conditions are reported more often in French Bulldogs, Pugs and other brachycephalic breeds.
The strongest published evidence usually comes from large veterinary-record studies. These studies do not predict the health of an individual puppy, but they do identify the areas breeders should take seriously.
In a UK VetCompass study comparing French Bulldogs with non-French Bulldogs, French Bulldogs had increased adjusted odds for 20 of 43 common disorders, and reduced adjusted odds for 11 of 43 disorders. The strongest predispositions reported for French Bulldogs included narrowed nostrils, BOAS, ear discharge, skin fold dermatitis and dystocia.
In a UK VetCompass study comparing Pugs with non-Pugs, Pugs had increased risk for 23 of 40 common disorders, and reduced risk for 7 of 40 disorders. The strongest predispositions reported for Pugs included BOAS, narrowed nostrils, eye ulceration and skin fold infection.
These figures should be read correctly. A high odds ratio means the breed was much more likely to be diagnosed with that condition than the comparison group. It does not automatically mean most dogs in the breed have that condition.
The practical use of this data is prioritisation. For French Bulldogs and Pugs, the evidence points breeders toward airway function, nostril openness, eye comfort, skin folds, ears, movement, spine, weight, heat tolerance, reproductive soundness and general function.
References and Further Reading
The following resources are provided for readers who want to understand the evidence and guidance behind physical health testing, breathing assessment, structural health and breed-specific risk in French Bulldogs and Pugs. These links are for education and do not replace veterinary advice.
Dogs New Zealand — Respiratory Function Grading Scheme
New Zealand information on the Respiratory Function Grading scheme for Bulldogs, French Bulldogs and Pugs.
The Royal Kennel Club — Respiratory Function Grading Scheme
Information on the RFG scheme developed with the University of Cambridge to assess BOAS risk in Bulldogs, French Bulldogs and Pugs.
University of Cambridge BOAS Research Group — Recognition and Diagnosis of BOAS
Educational information on recognising and understanding Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome.VetCompass — French Bulldogs Compared With Other Dogs in the UK
Peer-reviewed breed-health research discussing French Bulldog predispositions, including BOAS, stenotic nares, skin fold dermatitis and corneal ulceration.
VetCompass — Health of Pugs in the UK
Peer-reviewed breed-health research discussing Pug predispositions, including BOAS, stenotic nares, corneal ulceration and skin fold issues.
UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory — Chondrodystrophy / Chondrodysplasia and IVDD Risk
Information on CDDY and CDPA testing and how these markers may relate to IVDD risk.
UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory — Susceptibility to Pug Dog Encephalitis
Information on PDE/NME susceptibility testing in Pugs, relevant to neurological-health awareness.
PLOS Genetics — DVL2 and Screw-Tail Breeds
Peer-reviewed research on DVL2 and its association with screw-tail breeds, relevant to spine and tail-structure awareness.