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Well, we just got back from our vet visit so that our pups could get their 2nd vaccines, and both of my pups have an unclosed fontenelle in their skulls (meaning the skull hasn't closed completely at the top of their heads). Penelope's is about 4 mm, while Fergus' is about 7. The vet said she often sees it in toy breeds such as pomeranians and yorkies who have a real domed-shaped heads, but in her 15 yrs of practice she's never seen it in a French Bulldog.
So, obviously this is a genetic thing considering both pups have it. We were assured not to worry, though, as most dogs with this grow up and have completely normal happy lives. The only risks are that if something sharp happens to hit that section of the skull that hasn't completely closed, there's nothing really protecting the brain from the outside world other than membrane and skin. (I'll admit, that kind of freaks me out)
Another complication that could happen (although rare) is that excess fluid can develop in that area causing your dog to become cognitively 'slower'. Meaning it may be harder to housetrain, etc., as they just don't 'get it'. (Dear lord, I hope not)
Again, we were told not to lose sleep over it and that our dogs will probably have a very normal, long life, but just to be aware. Has anyone else's Frenchie had this?
I'll definitely be contacting the breeder about it. It's the first time she's bred this particular male and female, so you never know what you'll get!
So, obviously this is a genetic thing considering both pups have it. We were assured not to worry, though, as most dogs with this grow up and have completely normal happy lives. The only risks are that if something sharp happens to hit that section of the skull that hasn't completely closed, there's nothing really protecting the brain from the outside world other than membrane and skin. (I'll admit, that kind of freaks me out)
Another complication that could happen (although rare) is that excess fluid can develop in that area causing your dog to become cognitively 'slower'. Meaning it may be harder to housetrain, etc., as they just don't 'get it'. (Dear lord, I hope not)
Again, we were told not to lose sleep over it and that our dogs will probably have a very normal, long life, but just to be aware. Has anyone else's Frenchie had this?
I'll definitely be contacting the breeder about it. It's the first time she's bred this particular male and female, so you never know what you'll get!
