04/22/2026
Very excited about this Q&A with a research vet at Perdue! Post your questions
**** Update **** We are officially scheduled for June 11th, there is still time to ask a question, drop them below. ****
The French Bulldog Foundation of America is honored to share a unique opportunity with our community.
In early May, our Board of Directors will be interviewing Dr. Kari Ekenstedt, DVM, PhD, an Associate Professor of Anatomy & Genetics at Purdue University and head of Purdue’s Canine Genetics Laboratory. Her work focuses on canine genetics and genetic disease research, including both inherited conditions and more complex health traits in dogs.
This conversation will include discussion surrounding the current French Bulldog spine study at Purdue, along with broader topics such as DNA, genetics, and French Bulldog health. Purdue’s Canine Genetics Lab describes its work as partnering with pet owners, veterinarians, researchers, and dogs to solve genetic diseases, while also helping support responsible breeding decisions through genetic testing.
Dr. Ekenstedt’s background makes this an especially valuable opportunity for breeders, owners, and breed advocates who want to better understand questions such as:
- what current research may teach us about French Bulldog spinal health,
- how genetics and inheritance actually apply in real-world breeding decisions,
- where DNA testing is helpful, and where it does not tell the full story,
- and what responsible health-focused progress could look like for the breed going forward.
We would love your input.
Please drop your questions for Dr. Ekenstedt in the comments below. We will be selecting questions from the community to help shape the interview panel discussion. This is a wonderful chance to bring thoughtful, health-centered questions to a leading voice in canine genetics and research.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the French Bulldog Foundation of America is committed to education, research awareness, and advancing conversations that support the long-term health of the breed.