Get to Know the French Bulldog Breed

The French Bulldog is a sight that will warm your heart. Those big, lovable brown eyes are just begging for some love. The ever-present stub of a tail is wagging nonstop, while the short legs are constantly on the move. The unique appearance of the French Bulldog makes it a favourite with dog lovers.

Background of the French Bulldog?

Are you looking for an affectionate, friendly dog for your family that can just sit in your lap and gives you a fun time? If that is what you are looking for, there can be no better furry buddy than a French Bulldog.

Before you indulge yourself in them, you need to have a look at where they come from and are they fun to have or not. Today, through this article, we will provide you with a complete guide about how these babies are just incredible to have.

A french bull dog sitting in the forest

French bulldogs have been long known for their affectionate companionship behavior towards almost everyone. They are way too generous, and for this reason, they are just way too perfect for nearly anyone, even those who are first-time pet owners.

Background and history of the French Bulldog

The French Bulldog is a breed of dog that originates from France. It’s a dog that was bred by a man named Pierre Monique. He first started to take care of them in the 16th century. It is now known as the French Bulldog.

French Bulldogs were first brought to America in the 1800s. This breed is now so famous that there are many French Bulldog lovers all over the world. Initially, they were used as working companion dogs since they used to help their masters with them by catching rats and bringing food back to their masters. 

The temperament of this beautiful dog was very charming that it became one of the most popular choices for people who want company at home with aristocratic behavior. Their friendly nature makes them even more adorable to have around at home or office.

Some quick facts about the loveable French Bulldog

FeaturesDetails
Life Expectancy10 – 12 years
SizeSmall to Medium
HeightMale: 11 -13 inches
Female: 11 – 13 inches
WeightMale: 20 – 28 lbs
Female: 16 – 24 lbs
EnergyLow to Moderate
HypoallergenicNo
Grooming LevelLow maintenance; easy to take care of
SheddingMedium

Appearance of a french Bulldog

According to the American Kennel Club, AKC French Bulldogs has been ranked at 2nd position for being a famous dog breed. You may find his envious face as he is a very tough puppy to own. Looks can be deceptive at times. 

A french Bulldog sitting in yellow jacket

This French Bulldog baby is more than a darling and is just a blessing to have around. They have these ears of bat that stand tall and erect. And has a nose that is short along an emotional face. 

Besides, you may notice they have usually a squared head along a wrinkled-up face having a classic Bulldog Pout, that is, the top lip hangs over the bottom one. Also, they are close to the ground and have a broad chest along narrow hips.

Body Build of French Bulldogs

Usually, they are bulky. They have a round-shaped, intense build-up of muscles. Besides, they are compactly built, having a thick neck that is arched well with loose skin. Also, the belly is tucked up, and the tail may be straight or often screwed.

Weight and Height of a French Bulldog

As discussed in the above section, French Bulldogs are heavier and have a lot of mass build-up. Because of this, they may weigh heavy as well. You can find a male French bulldog often weighing 20-28 lbs, whereas a female one is around 16-24 lbs. The height varies from 11-13 inches for a fully-grown dog for male and female French Bulldogs.

Colors You Can Choose 

The color varieties you will have along the French Bulldog are just unique. It comes in way too many colors, and you can easily choose yourself the one you love the most.

You can have a color like fawn or cream. These are the color most of the owners prefer. However, if you like that tiger brindle print, then let us tell you French Bulldogs come in that color as well. 

Besides, look for the acceptable colors according to AKC. As for the time being, White, Cream, Fawn and their combinations are widely accepted.

French Bulldog’s Coat and colors 

Their coat is short, dense, and smooth. It can be soft and delicate. The color of the coat ranges from brindle to white with tan markings or brindle or fawn, white or brindle, and white. The skin is loose and wrinkled, with a delicate texture, especially on the head and shoulders. Besides, they have a single coat of fur, the top coat, making them shed less hair.

Personality Traits of French Bulldogs

Two Frenchies looking at each other

Child Friendly

French Bulldogs have been known as the best friend of a man for way too long. Till now, you have already an idea about French Bulldogs being the family dogs and how sweet and affectionate they are at heart.

The best is to have a puppy French Bulldog and let it grow along with your toddler. This would make the bond among you, your toddler, and your French pup a whole lot stronger.

The temperament of a French Bulldog

French Bulldogs are loyal and loving towards their family. They love spending time with children too. However, they will not tolerate any cruelty in the form of abuse or beating from kids or people in the family. Though they might be shy when you bring them home for the first time, they will start to be happy and playful with their family members after getting familiar with them in a couple of days. This dog breed makes an excellent watchdog due to its alert nature.

Sociable with Other Pets

French Bulldogs can be very friendly with other pets and other friendly dogs around. They respond very well to the company of other dogs and has no fear of other creatures. They tend to be happier along effortlessly with other dogs and even cats. However, if, by chance, you notice your Frenchie chasing up your cat, then consider it completely normal.

Top Outdoor Companions

French Bulldogs are perfect outdoor companions, especially for people who live in small spaces as they love to roam around and visit every inch of your yard. They make great indoor-outdoor buddies and kids’ best friends who will not mind having them around the house as long as you take them for a walk daily.

French Bulldogs can fit right in and fit right into their lives and homes for those living in small towns. They are prone to separation anxiety when left alone for a longer time and may become aggressive.

Intelligence

French Bulldogs are an intelligent breed of dogs. They can adapt to whatever you try to teach them. They are sociable and like to learn and have friendly contact with its owner.

Besides, they are intelligent learners, and their intelligence allows them to understand their owner’s commands quickly and are often obedient.

Barking Restraint

Frenchies are really not known for unnecessary barking. Indeed, they are a very calm, kind-hearted, and happy dog breed. However, you will get to experience some funny noises as they snuggle around or growl excitedly.

Prey Drive

French Bulldogs are considered to have a relatively high prey drive. If they see anything that moves and is weaker and smaller than them, they tend to chase them. Because of this drive, you must take caution when they are around little pets or animals. To lower your French Bulldog’s prey drive, train them well from the beginning.

How to Care for a French Bulldog

To have your French Bulldog healthy and lively, you need to take proper care of them. Read below to know some quick tips to take care of your furry one.

A man holding french bulldog's paw

Grooming Requirements

French Bulldogs are average shedders, but you will need to brush your dog regularly to keep their hair tangle-free. 

As for the claws, schedule a regular nail cutting, ear cleaning schedules for your French Bulldog. You can do this at home by yourself. If you cannot do that on your own, regular visits to a groomer’s will help you maintain their beautiful look for longer durations of time. Also, brushing their teeth regularly is recommended.

Diet and Feeding Requirements for a French Bulldog 

If you plan to own a French Bulldog, you will need to take proper care of their diet and nutrition.

For a healthy weight, feed your French Bulldog 15-20 calories per pound of their body weight. This will ensure that they avoid obesity. Also, make sure that the diet is rich in proteins and fat to provide them with the energy they need to play around and be happy.

French Bulldogs have been known for their flatulence problem. To avoid it, limit the number of starchy foods in their diets, such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, pasta, and things like this. Also, they sometimes tend to eat grass. But sometimes, their tendency for eating grass can cause them to build up an intestinal blockage.

Colourful French Bulldog Toys

French Bulldogs are not considered energetic or active dogs, but they are playful once they are bored. You can buy them some colorful toys to encourage them to engage in physical activity for a little while. 

Toys which you can choose for your French Bulldog include balls, rubber toys, ropes, etc. They will enjoy playing with these toys, and it will help them boost their energy levels.

Keep one important thing in mind: as they are a flat-faced breed, they may be prone to breathing problems and should never be left to exercise in hot or humid weather.

How to Train A French Bulldog

Training a French Bulldog is not a difficult task. They are brilliant and easy to train. If you have ever had a dog before, you can teach them how to sit, stay, come, etc., from Day 1. So if you have been thinking about training a dog ideally for the first time, then French Bulldogs can be the one for you.

  • Training Your French Bulldog to “Stay.” 

This can be done by either going up to him and touching his collar or moving his leash. He will sit down and keep his eyes on you without moving a muscle, even if someone comes near him while he is sitting in that position.

  • Training Your French Bulldog to “Sit.” 

As aforementioned, this can be done by either going up to him and touching his collar or moving his leash. He will sit down and keep his eyes on you without moving a muscle, even if someone comes near him while he is sitting in that position.

  • Training Your French Bulldog to “Come.” 

This can be done by either going up to him and touching his collar or moving his leash. He will come running to you at full speed without stopping, even if someone comes near him while he is coming.

Possible Health Problems of French Bulldogs

Frenchie snuggling in a blanket.

If you are thinking of bringing a French Bulldog to your home and your heart, this is the article’s essential part to read. This is heartbreaking news for every pet lover: these French Bulldogs tend to have health problems way too much, just like their ancestors.

Inherited diseases include hip dysplasia, Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome, Hemivertebrae, Von Willebrand’s disease, and Cleft palate. 

Most commonly, they may have breathing problems because of their flat face and short nose. They may end up having conjunctivitis or URT infection. Also, it may often have skin diseases like Pyoderma, Skin Fold Dermatitis because of the skin folds.

To avoid all these health issues, try to buy a French Bulldog puppy from those breeders tested as healthy. Besides, you can always use screening to prevent all these health issues beforehand.

Daily Routine for a Happy French Bulldog

To have your fluff buddy the happiest, try to have its routine maintained. Besides, you have to be constant while fixing up a good schedule for him. The trick is to have a pretty set routine and then mix things up with play and training around those more set routine things.

French Bulldogs and family life 

If you want a dog for your family that is quiet, calm, affectionate, and playful, then a French Bulldog is the best for you. They are energetic and effortless to train. Plus, they are outstanding, along with toddlers, and you will love to have them as your family dog.

However, if by any chance you are a workaholic and don’t have much time to socialize with your dog, then you must avoid going for a French Bulldog. French Bulldogs demands socialization, and if left alone, they may develop separation anxiety.

Another thing, French Bulldogs may require a regular grooming session. So, if you can afford those salon sessions or can do it by yourself, you can only go for this breed.

Should You Buy Or Adopt A French Bulldog?

Usually, a Frenchie puppy can cost you about $1,800 to $5000, and the price may vary if the puppy has a unique color and the breeder. To have a healthful and energetic Frenchie as your family member, try to buy them from a breeder. Breeders are often monitored and don’t have any kind of harmful diseases. 

However, suppose you have a strict budget. In that case, you can adopt a French Bulldog from a shelter or any other adoption platform. Make sure to have the screening beforehand, bringing any pup to your home.

Common questions about The French Bulldog 

Do French Bulldogs Require Excessive Healthcare?

French Bulldogs have unique health problems just like their fellow Brachycephalic breeds. You might have to take them to the vet more than any other dog breed. Most often, they may face respiratory issues related to their nose. Besides, they need constant attention from the owner to behave well.

Do French Bulldogs Shed A Lot?

No, they don’t. They are average shedders. But make sure that you brush them weekly to maintain their beautiful look and prevent tangles in their hair.

Are French Bulldogs Aggressive?

Often you may think of French Bulldogs as aggressive dogs because of their facial features. However, French Bulldogs are some of the most loving pups. They are friendly and playful. But they need proper training to develop excellent social skills. If you don’t train your dog well enough, then there is a chance that it will be aggressive at times. So, keep an eye on its behavior and teach it often to retain its friendly nature.

Which French Bulldog Shall I Go For, Whether A Male Or Female?

There is not much difference among both male and female French Bulldogs. However, many French Bulldogs revealed that male French Bulldogs are assertive and love to participate in playful activities. On the other hand, female bulldogs are timid and a bit shy.

Why Are French Bulldogs So Attached To Their Owners?

French bulldogs have been bred to give the ultimate companionship to their owner. So, if you are thinking of buying one, keep in mind that you have to provide them with a lot of attention; otherwise, they may acquire separation anxiety.

Do French Bulldogs Get along with Children?

French Bulldogs are the best breed for kids as it is friendly and playful. They will love to be with kids. Even though French Bulldogs are miniature, they don’t have any problems getting along with kids, and due to their body build, they can’t scratch or bite them.

Do French Bulldogs Chew Things up?

Yes, they do. But this is one of the most common problems that most people face with French Bulldog. The best way to stop them from chewing things up is to provide an excellent place to do this. Also, the best thing that you can do here is not to let your dog chew things that are not acceptable for it.

Can I Sleep with My French Bulldog? 

Yes, you can, and it is fine as long as you do it with their permission. This is a lovely way to bond with them. However, make sure that you don’t let your dog sleep in your bed because they are prone to chewing things up. If this happens once, then the chances of it happening again are high. So, it is better to keep them separate from your bed or purchase an anti-chew bed for them.

How Long Do French Bulldogs Live?

It is estimated that the French Bulldog lifespan or average life expectancy is around 10-12 years. However, you can expect their lifespan to be shorter than other dog breeds due to their unique health issues like respiratory problems, which considerably shorten their breath.

Do French Bulldogs Bark A Lot?

Barking is one of the most common problems French Bulldogs face due to their sensitive noses, which are easy enough to get irritated quickly by things around them. You must keep an eye on their barking from time to time. Make sure that they stop barking when asked. They will start to learn if you spend a lot of time with them.

Do French Bulldogs Make Good Family Dogs?

French Bulldogs are loving and friendly dogs that make great family dogs if trained well enough. If you own a French bulldog, you will need to prepare it well because these pups tend to get bored if left alone for an extended period. Also, they need to exercise regularly to maintain a healthy physique and prevent weight gain.

Are Frenchies right for First Time dog owners?

If you are a new dog parent, then French Bulldog is a great breed to go for. They are usually easy to teach and can be groomed easily too. And are adaptable to blend in with their owners quickly.

Facts and Figures Summary

Appearance

  • Squared face
  • Short nose
  • Wrinkled face
  • Timid look
  • Pointed ears

How to care for a Frenchie

  • Brush hair twice a week 
  • Brush teeth regularly
  • Check for ear wax regularly
  • Maintain a fat-free diet
  • Daily walk

Health Problems

  • Hip dysplasia
  • BOAS
  • Hemivertebrae
  • Von Willebrand’s disease
  • Cleft palate. 
  • URT infection
  • Pyoderma
  • Skin Fold Dermatitis.

Personality traits

  • Playful
  • Energetic
  • Lively
  • Sensitive

French Bulldog Training Tips:

  • Reward enforcement
  • Teach them their name
  • Be consistent

Daily Routine

  • Potty in the morning
  • Breakfast 
  • Potty 
  • Walk 
  • Lunch 
  • Potty at 
  • Treats at 
  • Potty 
  • Dinner
  • Potty 
  • Treats