At The French Bulldog, every breeder listed here shares a commitment to health, transparency, and ethical breeding. One of the most important standards we all follow is genetic testing—a practice that helps prevent inherited diseases and gives every French Bulldog puppy the healthiest start possible.

What Is French Bulldog Genetic Testing?

Genetic testing is a simple DNA test that screens for inherited conditions passed down from a dog’s parents. It’s painless, affordable, and incredibly important—especially for purebred dogs like French Bulldogs, who are known to carry certain recessive genes.

Breeders use these tests before planning a litter to ensure they’re not passing down harmful conditions. That means healthier puppies, fewer vet bills, and more peace of mind for new owners.

The Most Common Genetic Disease We Screen For are Recessive Genes. 

Recessive genes mean a puppy must inherit the gene from both parents to be affected.

    •    Breeders on this site ensure at least one parent (typically the stud dog) is “clear”, meaning the gene is not present.

    •    This guarantees that even if the female is a carrier, none of the puppies will be affected.

This kind of careful planning is why genetic testing is a non-negotiable requirement for all breeders here.

Why We Start by Testing Our Stud Dogs

One male can sire many litters—so his genetic makeup matters a lot. That’s why responsible breeders start by testing their males first.

    •    If the male is clear of all key conditions, it reduces the chance of producing affected puppies, even if the female carries a gene.

    •    It gives breeders confidence in pairing choices and protects multiple litters across generations.

This is breed-wide preventative care, built into every puppy listed on this site.

The Top 6 French Bulldog Genetic Testing We Do 

All breeders featured on The French Bulldog test for the following core six genetic diseases common in the breed. Here’s what each one means—in simple terms:

1. CMR1 (Canine Multifocal Retinopathy)

    •    What it is: Eye disease causing retinal lesions and vision problems.

    •    Inheritance: Recessive.

    •    Why it matters: Can lead to blindness if two carriers are bred.

2. DM (Degenerative Myelopathy)

    •    What it is: Neurological disease like ALS, causing hind-leg weakness and eventual paralysis.

    •    Inheritance: Recessive.

    •    Why it matters: No cure. Responsible breeding prevents it entirely.

3. HUU (Hyperuricosuria)

    •    What it is: Causes high uric acid levels, leading to bladder or kidney stones.

    •    Inheritance: Recessive.

    •    Why it matters: Painful and expensive to manage. 100% preventable by testing.

4. JHC (Juvenile Hereditary Cataracts)

    •    What it is: Early-onset cataracts that may require surgery or lead to blindness.

    •    Inheritance: Recessive.

    •    Why it matters: Often develops before 1 year of age. Easily avoided.

5. Cystinuria (Type I-A)

    •    What it is: Causes stone formation in the bladder or urinary tract due to poor cystine processing.

    •    Inheritance: Recessive.

    •    Why it matters: Can lead to infections or blockages. Prevented with a clear male.

6. PRA-CRD4 (Progressive Retinal Atrophy – Cone-Rod Dystrophy 4)

    •    What it is: A degenerative eye disease that causes gradual vision loss and eventual blindness.

    •    Inheritance: Recessive.

    •    Why it matters: No treatment. Preventable through proper pairing.

What This Means for You as a Puppy Buyer

When you choose a breeder from [Website Name], you’re not just buying a puppy—you’re investing in generations of careful planning and scientific health screening.

You can expect:

✅ Transparent test results

✅ Puppies bred from tested and approved parents

✅ Fewer unexpected vet visits

✅ Confidence in your Frenchie’s long-term health

Breeders here don’t cut corners—because you deserve a puppy you can count on.

In Summary

Genetic testing isn’t optional—it’s the baseline standard for every breeder on this site. It’s how we work together to:

    •    Preserve the French Bulldog breed

    •    Prevent inherited disease

    •    Ensure the long-term health and happiness of every puppy we place

Ready to find your future French Bulldog?

Browse our trusted, health-conscious breeders—and bring home a puppy bred on integrity and science.