sydney-bulldog-clinic

Summer Survival Guide: How to Manage Heat Stroke in Dogs

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 07:52:30 GMT

It’s not uncommon to experience a heatwave or three during an Australian summer, and while the sun and warmth can be enjoyable for some, they pose a serious risk to our pets.

Brachycephalic dogs, like Australian Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, British Bulldogs, Boxers, Boston Terriers, and Pugs, are especially vulnerable due to their unique anatomy, making it harder for them to regulate body temperature.

In this blog, we’ll tell you how to identify, prevent and respond to heat stress so you can help your best friend stay safe and comfortable all summer long.

Contact Sydney Bulldog Clinic immediately on (02) 8811 4604 if your bulldog is showing signs of heat stress or heat stroke.

Understanding Heat Stress in Dogs

Heat stress or heat exhaustion is a condition where a dog's body temperature rises too quickly for it to cool down . Dogs do not sweat over their bodies like humans; instead, they rely primarily on panting to release heat, which is a less efficient process.

If a dog's core temperature goes above the normal range of 38–39°C, to dangerous levels above 40°C, this is an indication that it has progressed to heat stroke.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency. If left untreated, it can lead to multiple-organ failure and potentially death.

Why Are Bulldogs More Susceptible to Heat Stroke Than Other Breeds?

Brachycephalic breeds are vulnerable to heat stress and heat stroke because their anatomy restricts airflow.

Flat-faced dogs have narrow airways, short noses, and elongated soft palates that restrict their ability to cool down through panting . This leaves them susceptible to overheating – even in moderate temperatures.

Early Signs and Symptoms of Heat Stroke in Dogs

Heavy panting
Restlessness or agitation
Excessive drooling
Thirst
Lethargy
Stumbling or collapsing
Loss of consciousness
Dizziness or disorientation
Pale gums and/or tongue
Diarrhoea
Vomiting
Muscle tremors
Seizures

Prevention: How to Keep Dogs Cool in Summer

How to Keep Dogs Cool Inside

Keeping your dog’s indoor environment cool is the most effective way to reduce heat stress. Use air conditioning or fans to move air through your home and keep blinds and curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day.

Hydration is essential , so make sure your dog has access to cool, fresh water throughout the house . Add ice cubes and offer frozen treats made from water, food, or pet-safe fruits.

Cooling mats and evaporative vests help absorb heat, or simply, wet towels laid on the floor can give your dog a comfortable place to rest. Light spraying with cool water—especially on the inner thighs, stomach, and paw pads—can help lower body temperature.

How to Keep Dogs Cool Outside

If you must venture out with your dog in hot weather, only do so in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are lower, and avoid strenuous activity. Take plenty of breaks, bring plenty of water, and seek out cool, shaded areas under trees, tarps or umbrellas.

Always check the ground temperature before walking (if you can’t hold the back of your hand on the pavement for 5 seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws) and never leave your dog in a parked car or tied up outside.

If your dog is in a front or backyard, a shallow paddling pool or a sprinkler is a great way for them to cool down.

Extra Tips for Keeping a Dog Cool in Summer

Regular brushing helps remove excess undercoat so heat can escape. For breeds with thick or double coats, avoid shaving too short, as their fur helps regulate temperature and protect against sunburn.

Swap heavy harnesses or coats for lightweight alternatives, provide low-intensity mental stimulation, and train your dog to rest on cue to prevent overexertion.

Most importantly, monitoring their health and breed-specific risks is key. Be aware of your dog’s medical history or medications that may increase heat sensitivity , and learn your dog’s normal breathing, energy levels, and recovery times so you can spot early signs of heat stress quickly.

Relief: How to Treat Heat Stress in Dogs

If your dog is showing signs of heat stress, act quickly to bring their body temperature down.

Move them to a shaded, or air-conditioned area and apply cool water to their body. Focus on the areas with less fur and high blood flow, such as the neck, armpits, groin, and paw pads—but avoid ice-cold water, which can shock their system.
Increase airflow by using a fan to encourage evaporation and heat loss, and offer small sips of water if your dog is alert (never force drinking).
Cool, damp towels placed on the groin, belly, or chest can provide additional relief.

Get Support This Summer With Sydney Bulldog Clinic

At Sydney Bulldog Clinic, we know just how quickly heat stress can escalate and how crucial care is when it does.

We work exclusively with brachycephalic breeds, which means we understand their unique anatomy, risk factors, and the early warning signs that some general clinics may overlook.

We offer breed-specific, routine vet care and summer pet safety guidance on cooling strategies, hydration, exercise limits, and at-home monitoring to help you keep your bulldog safe throughout the hottest months.

The team at Sydney Bulldog Clinic is here to help. Protect your pet and give yourself peace of mind with a visit to your nearest veterinary clinic for more heat stress advice.

FAQs

Cherry Eye in Bulldogs: Causes, Signs & Treatments

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 02:40:52 GMT

Something unusual in your dog’s eye should never be ignored. Whether it’s a small lump, redness, or discharge, it could be a sign of cherry eye.

Cherry eye is fairly common in flat-faced breeds like bulldogs. It’s treatable, but the sooner you seek care, the less discomfort your dog will experience.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about bulldog cherry eye — from causes and symptoms to dog eye surgery and aftercare.

Is your bulldog’s eye red, swollen or bulging? Book a cherry eye consultation today to get a professional diagnosis and treatment plan to prevent further irritation or long-term damage. Call Sydney Bulldog Clinic on (02) 8811 4604 .

What Is Cherry Eye in Dogs?

Cherry eye is a prolapse of the third eyelid gland or nictitating membrane, which is responsible for lubricating the eye and producing tear film.

When popped out of its normal position, it appears as a pink or red, swollen mass in the inner corner of the eye, causing irritation, inflammation and discomfort.

What Causes Cherry Eye in Bulldogs?

The English bulldog, French bulldog, and Australian bulldog are all at risk of developing cherry eye in one or both eyes. This is because of a genetic weakness in the connective tissues that hold the tear gland in place. Their brachycephalic face structure causes shallow eye orbits, therefore less space for the 3rd eyelid to sit.

Bulldogs are especially susceptible when they are under 2 years of age.

Other brachycephalic breeds prone to cherry eye include Shih Tzus, Cocker Spaniels, Boxers, Beagles, Basset hounds and Bloodhounds, Boston terriers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Chinese Shar-Peis, Great Danes, Lhasa Apsos, Mastiffs, Newfoundlands, Pekinese, Pugs, Saint Bernards, and Rottweilers.

Early Signs of Cherry Eye in Bulldogs

Symptoms of cherry eye are often very easy to spot. The most obvious is a red or pink, protruding lump in the inner corner of the eye, which can stay visible or come and go, and often covers part of the eye.

This is the primary sign of cherry eye, which a vet will visually examine to diagnose the condition and advise treatment.

Other early warning signs can include excessive tearing or blinking, watery eyes, discharge, dullness on the eye’s surface, squinting, and rubbing or pawing at the eye.

Best Treatment for Cherry Eye in Dogs

When it comes to cherry eye bulldog treatment, early intervention leads to better outcomes and less discomfort for your dog.

If left untreated, cherry eye can lead to chronic eye infections like conjunctivitis. The gland may not be able to produce tears effectively, and the dog has the risk of developing dry eye later in life.

This is why bulldog cherry eye surgery is always recommended.

The procedure repositions the prolapsed gland, restoring function and reducing irritation. It does this by creating a pocket in the tissue of the third eyelid to tuck the gland back in place, preserving the gland and tear production.

If repositioning is not viable, the gland may be removed as a last resort.

Cherry Eye Surgery Aftercare

Recovery from surgery usually takes 1 to 2 weeks, although your bulldog’s eye might be swollen for a little longer than that.

During this period, exercise should be limited, and your dog will need to wear an Elizabethan collar or cone to stop them from rubbing their eyes. Antibiotics and drops may be prescribed to manage pain and prevent infection.

Your vet will provide you with a tailored aftercare plan to ensure fast healing. Follow-up visits should be scheduled regularly to monitor progress and check for any complications. They’ll also advise you on when your dog can safely return to normal activities.

Treat Bulldogs with Cherry Eye at Sydney Bulldog Clinic

When it comes to cherry eye bulldog care, prompt veterinary attention is key.

Sydney Bulldog Clinic’s experienced team specialises in bulldog health and dog eye health, offering expert diagnosis, surgery, and post-surgery services for all brachycephalic dog breeds.

As well as cherry eye, our veterinarians use advanced surgical techniques and state-of-the-art tools and technology to treat a wide range of eye conditions, including cataracts, corneal ulcers, glaucoma, entropion or ectropion eyelids, and the abnormal growth of eyelashes.

We provide personalised care tailored to your dog’s specific needs to ensure the best possible outcome for their vision and quality of life.

If you’re concerned about your bulldog’s eye, schedule an appointment with the staff at Sydney Bulldog Clinic for a thorough examination and diagnosis to help prevent further distress or damage.

FAQs

6 Most Common Orthopaedic Issues in Bulldogs

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 03:30:15 GMT

A bulldog’s compact build and unique weight distribution make them prone to joint stress and spinal issues. So, in the world of dog orthopaedics , they are considered one of the highest-risk breeds.

The good news is that with the right veterinary expertise, many of these problems can be corrected or managed, helping your bulldog to live a happier, more active life.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the causes and warning signs for the 6 most common orthopaedic conditions in bulldogs, and how dog orthopaedic surgery is often the best treatment.

Whether you’re worried about new symptoms or simply want to protect your bulldog’s health long-term, our guide will give you the knowledge — and the reassurance — you need.

Joint issues in dogs are common, but no less debilitating — especially in brachycephalic breeds. If your dog’s mobility is affected, call Sydney Bulldog Clinic on (02) 8811 4604 to book an orthopaedic consultation today.

A bulldog’s anatomy consists of short, stocky bones. Over time, this compact skeletal structure affects the way their joints function.

Shortened limb bones alter joint angles, which can lead to uneven wear and instability in the knees, hips, and elbows. Their broad, barrel-shaped chest shifts weight forward, placing extra strain on the spine and front legs. Their spines also often have malformed vertebrae, making them even more susceptible to spinal damage.

Because of these differences, bulldogs often don’t respond to the same health and lifestyle advice given to other breeds. While regular running may strengthen joints in some dogs, it can put excessive stress on a bulldog’s already vulnerable knees and hips. Even normal ageing can bring on joint deterioration earlier than expected.

6 Common Orthopaedic Problems in Bulldogs

1. Cruciate Ligament Injuries

What is it : A tear or rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament in the knee, one of the most common causes of lameness in bulldogs.
Signs and symptoms : Sudden limping, difficulty bearing weight, stiffness after rest or cold weather.
Treatment options : Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) or tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA) surgery is usually required to stabilise the knee joint.

2. Patella Luxation

What is it : The kneecap slips out of its normal groove, causing pain and abnormal movement.
Signs and symptoms : Skipping or hopping gait, bouts of lameness, reluctance to play or exercise.
Treatment options : Mild cases may be managed with physiotherapy and weight control. Moderate to severe cases usually need corrective surgery. Medial patella luxation (MPL) surgery will restore proper alignment and function of the kneecap.

3. Hip Dysplasia

What is it : Poorly developed hip joints that loosen over time, developing into arthritis.
Signs and symptoms : Stiffness, bunny-hopping gait, difficulty rising, and reduced stamina.
Treatment options : Preventative juvenile pubic symphysiodesis ( JPS surgery ) is the most effective way to stop young bulldogs from developing hip dysplasia. A total hip replacement may be the only treatment option available when they’re older.

4. Elbow Dysplasia

What is it : Abnormal growth or development of the elbow joint, leading to arthritis.
Signs and symptoms : Front-leg lameness, reluctance to run or play, uneven gait.
Treatment options : Corrective, surgical removal of fragments and realignment procedures can improve joint function and reduce pain.

5. Arthritis

What is it : Degenerative joint disease, where cartilage wears down, causing chronic pain.
Signs and symptoms : Stiffness, reduced movement, worsening after rest or in cold weather.
Treatment options : Lifestyle changes, such as weight management, low-impact exercise and using ramps instead of stairs, can have an immediate effect. Other options include joint supplements, anti-inflammatory medication or injections, physiotherapy, and, in advanced cases, surgery.

6. Spinal Abnormalities

What is it : Malformations or disc problems in the spine, such as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) and hemivertebrae, which may put pressure on the spinal cord. Common in screw-tailed bulldogs.
Signs and symptoms : Back pain, unsteady walking, or dragging legs. In severe cases, paralysis
 Treatment options : Rest and medication are best for mild cases, whilst surgical decompression followed by physiotherapy is needed for severe cases.

Getting a Diagnosis

The only way to know if your bulldog is suffering from a chronic orthopaedic condition is to get them thoroughly examined by a vet. At Sydney Bulldog Clinic, we use a combination of hands-on assessment and advanced imaging to get a complete picture of your bulldog’s joint health before starting treatment.

In a physical assessment, your vet will carefully move each joint to check for instability or discomfort and observe your bulldog’s gait.

X-rays can help to provide clear images of damage or degenerative conditions, and in more complex cases, CT scans can be utilised to create 3D images of bones and joints. This gives veterinary surgeons detailed insight for surgical planning.

Blood tests and joint fluid analysis may be recommended to check for inflammation or infection.

Get Advanced Orthopaedic Surgery and Post-Surgery Care at Sydney Bulldog Clinic

Our team of orthopaedic surgeons provide tailored solutions for every bulldog, from minimally invasive procedures to complex joint reconstructions.

Our comprehensive bulldog care services don’t stop once the operation is over. We create a personalised recovery plan for your dog, complete with pain management guidance to keep them calm, comfortable and as pain-free as possible during healing.

We also offer a range of dog physiotherapy and rehabilitation options, such as hydrotherapy to boost muscle circulation and ease joint pain, massage therapy to restore a dog’s range of motion, and physical therapy to build strength and flexibility.

If your dog is showing signs of pain, stiffness, or lameness, schedule a consultation with a vet at Sydney Bulldog Clinic to discuss surgical intervention. Our orthopaedic team is here to help get them back on their feet!

FAQs

Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome Explained

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 03:28:27 GMT

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (or BOAS) is a chronic respiratory condition that affects brachycephalic dog breeds.

Although some affected dogs’ symptoms can be managed, most require surgical correction to prevent serious and even life-threatening breathing issues from developing as they age.

In this blog, we’ll explain exactly what BOAS is, why an early diagnosis is important, and how BOAS surgery can help your dog breathe better almost immediately!

Worried about your dog’s breathing? Call Sydney Bulldog Clinic on (02) 8811 4604 to book a BOAS consultation today!

What Is Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome?

Brachycephalic airway syndrome (BOAS) is a condition that affects dogs with flat faces (i.e., the “pushed in” look created by decades of selective breeding).

Unfortunately, this has led to significant health issues, notably complex breathing difficulties, in breeds with this appearance.

The main anatomical abnormalities caused by brachycephalic syndrome in dogs are:

Stenotic nares - Narrow or partially closed nostrils that limit the amount of air a dog can take in through the nose.
Elongated soft palate - Excess tissue at the back of the mouth that is longer than it should be and flaps into the airway, partially blocking airflow to the windpipe and lungs.
Everted laryngeal saccules - Small pockets of soft tissue pulled inside out, protruding into the airway and worsening the obstruction.
Hypoplastic trachea - A narrow windpipe that makes breathing less efficient (i.e., like trying to draw air through a straw).
Laryngeal collapse - Cartilage that supports the larynx (voice box) is weakened by the strain of breathing, leading to collapse and blocking the airway.
Chronic airway inflammation – Constant effort to draw in air can cause swelling and irritation, further narrowing the passages and adding to the cycle of breathing difficulty.

What Are the Signs of BOAS in Dogs?

Common BOAS symptoms in dogs include:

Noisy breathing
Laboured breathing
Rapid breathing
Loud snoring or snorting
Excessive drooling
Gagging while eating
Regurgitating after eating
Vomiting
Reverse sneezing
Overheating
Exercise intolerance
Exhaustion
Fainting or collapse
Sleep apnoea
Sleeping sitting up
Bluish discolouration of the gums, tongue or lips

Why Early Intervention Matters

Catching brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome in dogs early goes a long way towards improving their breathing and quality of life, as well as preventing worsening of symptoms.

Constantly struggling or gasping for air is as stressful and debilitating for dogs as it is for humans. Recognising it whilst they are still young will help stop it getting worse as they get older, and reduce the risk of them developing secondary problems like pneumonia or gastrointestinal disease.

So, at what age should BOAS surgery be performed? If done at around 12 months of age, surgery offers a 90% chance of moderate to significant improvement. Although it is not considered a “cure”, it will substantially increase airflow and minimise the stress and strain on your dog’s respiratory system.

Getting a Diagnosis

BOAS in dogs is typically diagnosed according to your dog's breed and medical history, clinical signs, and the results of a thorough physical examination.

A veterinarian will be able to identify stenotic nares pretty easily, but an elongated soft palate or everted laryngeal saccules at the back of the mouth will need sedation or general anesthesia to inspect.

Some dogs with brachycephalic syndrome don’t go well under anaesthetic, so your vet might recommend blood work, CT scans and X-rays first to check your dog’s general health. If your dog has a general anesthesia to diagnose BOAS, it might be best to get the corrective surgery done at the same time.

What Does BOAS Surgery Involve?

BOAS surgery is designed to make breathing easier and reduce the health risks caused by narrowed airways. Each dog is different, but most procedures include a combination of the following 5 steps:

Widening the nostrils – Opening up the nasal passages so air can flow more freely.
Reshaping the soft palate – Trimming (shortening and thinning) excess tissue at the back of the throat that can block the airway.
Removing obstructive tissue – Clearing tissue from the larynx or nasal cavity if it is restricting airflow.
Taking out laryngeal saccules – If these small pockets have flipped inside out and are blocking breathing, they will be removed.
Tonsil removal – Enlarged tonsils may be taken out if they are contributing to airway obstruction.

Recovery Timeline and Expectations

Bulldog airway surgery recovery starts with a brief hospital stay to ensure there are no complications. Your dog should start to breathe better within the first 24-48 hours post-surgery; however, if they sound nosier than usual during this time, there’s no reason to be alarmed. There’s always some inflammation around the surgical sites that needs to heal.

Most dogs get back to their normal selves within 2-3 weeks, but it can take up to 6 weeks to be fully recovered. During this time, you should monitor their activity, attend follow-up appointments, and follow any dietary or medication instructions from your vet.

Your dog will require plenty of rest, should be restricted to very low-impact exercise, and can only eat soft meals to start (4-5 days after surgery, a normal diet can be slowly reintroduced).

Get Trusted Brachycephalic Care at Sydney Bulldog Clinic

Brachycephalic airway syndrome in dogs doesn’t have to be a lifelong affliction.

Here at Sydney Bulldog Clinic, our highly experienced Sydney vet team uses advanced tools and technology to accurately diagnose and treat bulldog breathing problems like BOAS.

Our clinics are sterile and stress-free environments where your best friend is kept calm and well looked after before, during, and after corrective surgery, and we always keep you – the owner – informed every step of the way.

If your dog’s breathing is affecting their quality of life, it’s time to consider surgical intervention. Call us or email the clinic closest to you to organise a breathing assessment.

FAQs

6 Biggest Bulldog Health Problems Owners Should Know About

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 03:23:10 GMT

Bulldogs are loved worldwide for their affectionate, loyal nature. Gentle with adults and children alike, they’re often seen as the ideal family pet.

However, there are a few things all new and prospective bulldog owners should know.

Because of their unique anatomy – flat face, stocky build, and thick skin folds – bulldogs are at risk of developing a wide range of health conditions.

In this blog, we’ll explain the six most common bulldog health issues and how they’re best managed, from simple at-home tips to professional support at Sydney Bulldog Clinic.

Early intervention and care can help prevent serious problems. Call us on (02) 8811 460 4 to book a bulldog health assessment today!

1. Breathing Issues

One of the most widespread bulldog health conditions is brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (or BOAS).

BOAS is a respiratory disease found exclusively in flat-faced dogs like bulldogs. Their short snouts, thickened and elongated soft palates, excessive tissue in the throat and nasal cavity, protruding lower jaw, and overcrowding of teeth can cause extreme difficulty breathing.

Symptoms include laboured or rapid breathing, loud snoring, snorting, gagging while eating, digestive issues such as vomiting, and sleep apnoea.

BOAS surgery from about 12 months of age is the only treatment option that offers real relief – a 90% chance of significant improvement, in fact. It involves widening the nostrils, shortening and thinning the soft palate, and removing excess tissue (and possibly tonsils) to increase airflow.

2. Joint & Skeletal Conditions

Orthopaedic bulldog health problems are also very common.

Their stocky build and short legs can place a lot of strain on joints, leading to cruciate ligament injuries, patella luxation, elbow and hip dysplasia, and spinal abnormalities. If left untreated or unmanaged, bulldogs are likely to develop arthritis in their older age.

Limping, stiffness, swelling or tenderness, difficulty standing, walking, or playing, and lameness can all be signs of joint stress.

Joint supplements and medications can be helpful; however, in many cases, they aren’t effective or appropriate. In these scenarios, bulldog orthopaedic surgery is the best way to fix orthopaedic damage. Common procedures include fracture repairs, tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) surgery for cruciate ligament repair, medial patella luxation (MPL) surgery for kneecap stabilisation, juvenile pubic symphysiodesis ( JPS surgery ) for hip joint corrections, and elbow surgery to improve leg function.

3. Eye Problems

Another of the bulldog health concerns owners should be aware of is eye conditions, as their big, round eyeballs are prone to congenital abnormalities, injuries and infections.

The most prevalent is cherry eye, where the third eyelid gland prolapses and a red lump forms in the corner of the eye. Others include dry eye, corneal ulcers, the abnormal growth of eyelids and eyelashes, glaucoma, and cataracts due to age.

Symptoms to look out for are inflamed or gunky eyes, excessive blinking or squinting, rubbing of the eyes, or vision impairment (i.e., bumping into things).

A serious case may require bulldog eye surgery to relieve discomfort, restore vision, and prevent further damage. If the issue is minor, medications can often be prescribed by a vet to manage symptoms.

4. Allergies

Allergies can present in a few ways in bulldogs. The most common are skin infections like skin fold pyoderma and dermatitis. These occur when moisture and bacteria become trapped in a bulldog’s wrinkled skin.

Their narrow airways and ear canals make them susceptible to environmental irritants like pollen and dust mites, too, whilst their sensitive immune systems can cause them to be intolerant of some foods.

Itchy skin, rashes, foul odours, lumps, hair loss, red, watery eyes, sneezing, and excessive licking or scratching can all be signs of an allergic reaction.

To treat chronic bulldog allergies , keep your dog away from known triggers. For the skin, thorough cleaning and drying, and the use of dog-safe wipes or topical creams, will help control symptoms. In many cases, additional medications are required to reduce allergic inflammation and reduce itchiness the help them feel comfortable. For respiratory relief, vet-prescribed medications like steroids or antihistamines can help.

5. Heat Stress

Hot weather is not a friend to the bulldog. Their short snouts make breathing in humid conditions difficult, and their thick skin also makes it hard for them to regulate their body temperature.

This is why heat stress, or heat stroke, is a common problem. Obviously, the warmer months are particularly risky; however, many heatstroke cases occur in warm weather at the beginning of Spring when our dogs are not used to the heat and we are not expecting it!.. If your bulldog is lethargic, panting excessively, has laboured breathing, or collapses, they need urgent help.

Give them plenty of fresh water to drink and keep them in a cool area near an air-conditioner or in the shade. Apply a wet flannel to their face, paws and armpits. If you have access to one, a shallow kiddie pool is perfect for them to stand in and cool down.

If they don’t improve after 10-15 minutes, you should seek emergency veterinary care.

6. Obesity

Rounding out the common health problems of bulldogs is obesity.

Their sedentary lifestyle and love of food mean that they can gain weight easily, exacerbating other issues such as breathing difficulties, joint strain, skin conditions, and heat intolerance.

However, their short, stocky build can make it hard to tell if they are overweight or obese. You need to examine their body, checking that you can feel their ribs under a thin layer of fat, and that their abdomen is “tucked up” from the rib cage to the hind legs. Fat pads between their legs or on the top of their hips can be a sign of obesity.

To keep bulldogs healthy, avoid overfeeding (i.e., control portion sizes) and ensure they do regular, low-impact exercise like walking or swimming. A vet can put them on a diet if needed.

Get On Top of Bulldog Health Issues With Sydney Bulldog Clinic

Here at Sydney Bulldog Clinic , we focus on brachycephalic dog breeds, so our team is highly experienced in assessing, diagnosing and treating conditions common to them.

Bulldogs, in particular, are a unique breed that face a unique set of health challenges. This includes breathing difficulties, orthopaedic problems, eye conditions, allergies, heat stroke, and obesity.

Our veterinary clinics are equipped to deal with all kinds of bulldog health issues, and we use advanced technologies and equipment to perform everything from routine health checks to complex surgeries.

Is your bulldog showing signs of a common health condition? Talk to our trusted veterinary team about our range of in-clinic and at-home vet care options today.

FAQs

sydney-bulldog-clinic

Summer Survival Guide: How to Manage Heat Stroke in Dogs

It’s not uncommon to experience a heatwave or three during an Australian summer, and while the sun and warmth can be enjoyable for some, they pose a serious risk to our pets.

Brachycephalic dogs, like Australian Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, British Bulldogs, Boxers, Boston Terriers, and Pugs, are especially vulnerable due to their unique anatomy, making it harder for them to regulate body temperature.

In this blog, we’ll tell you how to identify, prevent and respond to heat stress so you can help your best friend stay safe and comfortable all summer long. ﻿

Understanding Heat Stress in Dogs

Why Are Bulldogs More Susceptible to Heat Stroke Than Other Breeds?

Early Signs and Symptoms of Heat Stroke in Dogs

Prevention: How to Keep Dogs Cool in Summer

How to Keep Dogs Cool Inside

How to Keep Dogs Cool Outside

Always check the ground temperature before walking (if you can’t hold the back of your hand on the pavement for 5 seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws) and never leave your dog in a parked car or tied up outside.

If your dog is in a front or backyard, a shallow paddling pool or a sprinkler is a great way for them to cool down.

Extra Tips for Keeping a Dog Cool in Summer

Regular brushing helps remove excess undercoat so heat can escape. For breeds with thick or double coats, avoid shaving too short, as their fur helps regulate temperature and protect against sunburn.

Swap heavy harnesses or coats for lightweight alternatives, provide low-intensity mental stimulation, and train your dog to rest on cue to prevent overexertion.

Most importantly, monitoring their health and breed-specific risks is key. Be aware of your dog’s medical history or medications that may increase heat sensitivity , and learn your dog’s normal breathing, energy levels, and recovery times so you can spot early signs of heat stress quickly.

Relief: How to Treat Heat Stress in Dogs

Get Support This Summer With Sydney Bulldog Clinic

Cherry Eye in Bulldogs: Causes, Signs & Treatments

What Is Cherry Eye in Dogs?

What Causes Cherry Eye in Bulldogs?

Early Signs of Cherry Eye in Bulldogs

Best Treatment for Cherry Eye in Dogs

Cherry Eye Surgery Aftercare

Treat Bulldogs with Cherry Eye at Sydney Bulldog Clinic

6 Most Common Orthopaedic Issues in Bulldogs

6 Common Orthopaedic Problems in Bulldogs

1. Cruciate Ligament Injuries

2. Patella Luxation

3. Hip Dysplasia

4. Elbow Dysplasia

5. Arthritis

6. Spinal Abnormalities

Getting a Diagnosis

Get Advanced Orthopaedic Surgery and Post-Surgery Care at Sydney Bulldog Clinic

Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome Explained

What Is Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome?

What Are the Signs of BOAS in Dogs?

Why Early Intervention Matters

Getting a Diagnosis

What Does BOAS Surgery Involve?

Recovery Timeline and Expectations

Get Trusted Brachycephalic Care at Sydney Bulldog Clinic

6 Biggest Bulldog Health Problems Owners Should Know About

1. Breathing Issues

2. Joint & Skeletal Conditions

3. Eye Problems

4. Allergies

5. Heat Stress

6. Obesity

Get On Top of Bulldog Health Issues With Sydney Bulldog Clinic

In this blog, we’ll tell you how to identify, prevent and respond to heat stress so you can help your best friend stay safe and comfortable all summer long.