French Bulldog breed guide: Care, training, and fun facts
Breed guide overview
About French Bulldogs
Temperament
Exercise
Grooming
Training
Diet
Health
About the French Bulldog breed
French Bulldogs, or "Frenchies" as they are commonly known, are small, muscular dogs with a distinctive appearance. They have a compact build, a flat face, and "bat-like" ears.
They originated in 19th-century England as smaller "toy bulldogs" bred by lace workers, who later brought them to France where their distinctive bat ears and charming personality were refined. They quickly gained popularity in Parisian society and later in the United States, becoming cherished companions known for their adaptability and affectionate nature. Frenchies have now become one of the most popular companion dogs worldwide.
Weight, height & life expectancy
They have an average height of around 30cm and weigh between 8 and 14kg.
Their life expectancy is usually between 10 and 12 years.
What is the temperament of a French Bulldog like?
French Bulldogs have a lovable and easy going temperament. They are known for their friendly and sociable nature, making them excellent family pets. They enjoy being around people and get along well with children and other pets. French Bulldogs are generally affectionate, and they love to receive attention and be part of their family's activities.
French Bulldogs are not typically excessive barkers, but they may alert you with a bark if they sense something out of the ordinary. They can be a bit stubborn at times, but they are also intelligent and willing to please their owners. They are generally good-natured and adapt well to different living situations, including apartments or smaller living spaces.
Our French Bulldog Community
“Thor is 6 years old and is still a cheeky chappy. He loves a stick or a ball, and being outdoors. He’s a laid back guy on a walk, he just likes to sniff about and plod. He’s a great cuddler, and is happy just to sit and have a lazy day indoors.”
Thor’s owner, Rebecca from Yorkshire
“Clyde is a 2 year old French Bulldog. He has the most gorgeous nature and likes nothing more than snuggling on the settee. He adores people and children of all ages. His snoring is legendary. He loves going for a walk...”
Clyde’s owner, Deborah from Hampshire
How much exercise does a French Bulldog need?
French Bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed, which means they have a short muzzle and can have difficulty breathing. This means it's important to consider their tolerance to heat and avoid exercising them during the hottest parts of the day. They require around 30 minutes to 1 hour of exercise each day. This can include short walks, playtime in a secure area, or interactive games at home.
When it comes to French Bulldog puppies, their exercise needs should be handled with caution. Puppies have growing bodies and are more susceptible to injuries, so their exercise should be limited and controlled. Short, supervised play sessions in a safe environment are suitable for puppies. They tend to be able to manage full adult exercise by 12-18 months. Always consult with your vet for specific recommendations based on your puppy's health and development.
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Do French Bulldogs need a lot of grooming?
French Bulldogs have a short and smooth coat that is relatively low maintenance. They shed minimally. However, they do require regular grooming to keep their coat and skin healthy.
Brushing their coat once or twice a week with a soft-bristle brush or a grooming mitt will help remove loose hair and keep their coat looking its best. It's important to pay attention to their facial folds and ears, as they can accumulate dirt and moisture. Regular cleaning can help prevent skin irritations and infections.
Like any dog, regular tooth brushing with a dog-specific toothpaste twice daily is ideal. If you can’t manage that often, just do it as often as you can.
Are French Bulldogs easy to train?
French Bulldogs are generally eager to please their owners, which can make them responsive to training. However, they can also be independent thinkers and may have a stubborn streak, which can pose challenges during training sessions.
Positive reinforcement techniques, such as praise, treats, and rewards, work well with French Bulldogs. Consistency, patience, and short training sessions are key when it comes to training French Bulldogs. It's important to keep training sessions fun and engaging to prevent them from getting bored or losing interest.
French Bulldogs thrive on routine and consistency, so establishing a clear set of rules and boundaries from an early age will help them understand what is expected of them. Basic obedience training, such as teaching them to sit, stay, and come when called, is important for their safety and well-being. Socialisation is also crucial for French Bulldogs, as it helps them become comfortable and well-behaved around other dogs and people.
Remember to be patient and understanding during the training process. French Bulldogs may take a little longer to grasp certain commands, but with consistent training and positive reinforcement, they can become well-behaved and obedient companions.
Want to experience spending time with a Frenchie to decide if this breed is right for you? Borrow a French Bulldog near you.
What do French Bulldogs eat?
Feeding a balanced and nutritious diet is essential for the health and well-being of French Bulldogs. They have a tendency to gain weight easily, so it's important to monitor their food intake and ensure they maintain a healthy body weight. Choose a high-quality dog food that is specifically formulated for small breeds or French Bulldogs.
The amount of food will depend on their age, size, metabolism, and activity level. It's important to follow the feeding guidelines provided by the food manufacturer and adjust the portions as needed to prevent overfeeding. Most do well being fed twice daily.
When it comes to French Bulldog puppies, they have specific dietary needs to support their growth and development. They require a puppy-specific diet that is formulated with the appropriate balance of nutrients. Puppies should be fed 3-4 times a day until they are 6 months old, when it can be reduced to twice daily. As they mature, they can gradually transition to adult dog food at around 12 months of age, but consult with your vet for specific dietary recommendations for your French Bulldog puppy.
Are French Bulldogs healthy?
French Bulldogs, like a lot of dog breeds, can be prone to certain health issues. Some common health concerns in French Bulldogs include:
Bones and joints
Hip Dysplasia - a condition where the thigh bone and pelvis do not sit together properly at the hip joint, which can lead to discomfort and arthritis
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) - in this condition the discs of the spine are abnormal and can slip out of place and put pressure on the spinal cord, which can lead to pain and/or paralysis
Luxating patella - this is when a dog’s kneecap moves out of where it should normally be
Dental
Periodontal Disease - a buildup of plaque and tartar on a dog’s teeth leading to inflammation, infection and tooth loss
Eyes
Cataracts - a common cause of blindness due to a clouding of the lens of the eye
Cherry eye - this is when there is popping out of the third eyelid gland
Corneal Ulcers - open sores on the cornea of the eye
Respiratory
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) - narrow airways which can make breathing and temperature regulation difficult
Skin
Atopy - when the immune system overreacts to an allergen and results in skin irritation
Skin fold dermatitis - inflammation, and possible infection of the skin between two skin folds
This list is by no means comprehensive, if you have any concerns about the health of your dog, or if you want to discuss further if a Frenchie is right for you, consult with your vet.
Vet top tip
Be mindful of temperature regulation, as French Bulldogs are brachycephalic (short-nosed) and can easily overheat or struggle in cold weather. Always provide a cool, shaded environment during hot days, avoid overexertion, and consider protective clothing in colder months to keep your Frenchie comfortable and healthy.
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Information on this page should never replace advice given by your veterinarian. Potential health issues presented are given as a guide only and are not meant to be comprehensive. If you ever have any concerns about your dog's health, contact your local vet.
