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Can French bulldog hemivertebra worsen from massage, bathing, stairs?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

I have recently learned about the strong presence of Congenital Hemivertebra in French bulldogs. Can this condition be aggravated by massaging their backs or firm scrubbing while bathing? Or by going up and down stairs too much?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on April 4th, 2019

These activities could aggravate a back lesions if you are causing your pet to move roughly or excessively. Always be gentle when manipulating, rubbing or washing pet's backs and necks. Hemivertebra are generally detected on radiographs so if you have concerns that your Frenchie has a problem, have some x-rays done. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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