Radiographic findings have an association with weight-bearing and locomotion in English bulldogs
Researchers from Finland have published a paper on skeletal problems and the effect of these problems on locomotion and function of English bulldogs.
They reported a considerable number of dogs having hip and elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation and spinal abnormalities (78.6% of the dogs had at least one malformed vertebra). In contrast to previously reported breeds, the static weight-bearing of the dogs in the study was heavily distributed to the front limbs.
According to the study, it seems unlikely that any changes in breeding could produce healthier individuals when taking into account the prevalence of orthopedic diseases in addition to many other health issues the breed is affected with. They suggest crossbreeding as the only option for healthier dogs.
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