French Bulldog Breed Information – French Bulldog Facts

Last updated on January 10, 2021

The French bulldog has its origins in England, where breeders bred it to be a small version of the British bulldog. They marketed it to shoe lace makers mostly in Nottingham, who liked it for its small size.

Around the late 1800s, the lace makers immigrated to France for better opportunities, and naturally, they had to bring their pets with them. It wasn’t long before the French bulldog’s charm spread out in France, and afterwards, the Americans caught it as well.

In the US, people saw the French bulldog at the Westminster Kennel Club show in 1896, where the fans nicknamed it Frenchie. The nickname stuck, and we still use it to refer to the French bulldog affectionately.

French Bulldog Owner’s Cheat Sheet

French Bulldog Characteristics – Owner’s Guide

Adaptability

How Well Does a French Bulldog Adapt to Apartment Living?

A French bulldog is well-mannered, which makes them quite adaptable to apartment living. Frenchies rarely bark making them an excellent companion for living in apartments. You won’t have to worry about waking up the neighbors in the middle of the night.

Moreover, French bulldogs do not need a lot of exercises to keep fit. A small apartment provides enough room for exercising with your dog.

Are Frenchies Good for Novice Owners?

Frenchies have a friendly personality that makes them an excellent choice for first-time owners. They are quite easy to train and fairly easy going. However, this does not mean that French bulldogs don’t have a few health issues and behavioral problems.

Therefore, as a new owner, you should regularly take your Frenchie to the veterinarian for checkups if you are a first-time owner. Overall, novice owners can quickly adapt to the needs of a new frenchie.

How Sensitive are French Bulldogs to Strong Verbal and Visual Communication?

French bulldogs are quite sensitive and will not handle criticism lightly. When you scold Frenchies, you will immediately notice that they tend to mope around for an entire morning or afternoon.

When dealing with French bulldogs, your best bet would be to use encouragement and positive reinforcement. Your dog will respond better, thus making training easier.

Can You Leave Frenchies Alone?

Although you can leave your Frenchie alone for a couple of hours, it is not advisable to do it for long hours. You can leave your French bulldog for a few hours provided you leave enough water and food.

Note that Frenchies enjoy connecting with humans owners, and enjoy spending quality time. Leaving your French bulldog alone for prolonged periods will lead to it having a serious withdrawal, and bad health.

Do French Bulldogs Tolerate Cold Weather?

French bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed, so they do not handle cold weather well at all. That is because they have thin and less fur cover, which makes them lose body heat quickly, in winter.

Prolonged exposure to cold weather will lead to breathing issues that can be rather severe, if not addressed on time.

Can Frenchies Endure Hot Weather?

Frenchies are more sensitive to heat when compared to other dog breeds. When the weather is too hot, you will notice your dog flopping around. In some cases, your Frenchie might collapse due to too much heat.

We recommend that you walk your Frenchie early in the morning, or late in the evening to avoid the extremely hot weather during the day. You can spray cool water over your dog’s skin, if you notice that it is panting too much.

All-Round Friendliness

Are French Bulldogs Affectionate?

Yes, a French bulldog is affectionate and friendly, and it creates a long-lasting bond with its owners. They were bred specifically for companionship, and as lap dogs, and that is what they have to offer.

Frenchies aren’t big barkers and they quickly adapt to living with other friendly pets. A Frenchie will wiggle its tail when they greet you, as a sign of their affection for you.

Are Frenchies Dog Friendly?

Frenchies are a playful, curious, lively, and comical friendly dog breed. Their easy-going and bright personality makes them one of the best companion dogs.

You need to provide your Frenchie with enough bonding time each day, otherwise they may feel neglected. They need to feel like they are wanted and appreciated by their owner, always.

Can a French Bulldog Live With Other Dogs?

French bulldogs are considered as a friendly breed that can coexist with other dogs. However, housebreaking Frenchies is rather slow and will take some time. At first, they may show some aggressiveness if they feel like they are competing for your affection.

Don’t be distant from your French bulldog during the housebreaking period; soon enough they will notice that there is more than enough affection to go around.

Are They Friendly to Strangers?

Although French Bulldogs are very friendly to the owner and family, they tend to display guarding behaviors when in the presence of visitors. The remedy to this situation is to socialize the puppy at an early stage.

A French bulldog that isn’t socialized will behave like a typical guard dog, when approached with strangers. However, an adult Frenchie can also be socialized, although it might take a little bit more time.

Health and Grooming Needs

How Much do Frenchies Shed?

Frenchies have a fine, smooth, short coat that is relatively easy to groom. And, they shed less than other dog breeds. They lose their undercoat twice a year, during the fall and spring.

However, certain practices can help you manage their shedding better. For instance, you can use a grooming mitt or stripping comb to remove all the excess hair.

Do Frenchies Drool?

Yes, French Bulldogs are known to drool and slobber quite often. Soon enough you will learn to live with all the snorting, snoring, slobbering, drooling, and sniffing of your Frenchie. You just have to focus on their affection skills and companionship.

However, French bulldogs are generally clean animals that are perfect for apartment living. Cleanup is relatively easy, and this is a small price to pay for a small and cute dog that is affectionate, playful, and friendly.

How Healthy is a French Bulldog in General?

French Bulldogs may develop a number of health complications, since they are a brachycephalic breed. Their flat face, short snout, and large head often causes them to suffer from breathing difficulties..

However, regular visits to the vet can help you to manage these diseases and conditions, thereby keeping your Frenchie happy. Most of these health issues are congenital and genetic, so you cannot avoid them if you want to own a Frenchie.

Can French Bulldogs Become Overweight?

Frenchies get overweight when they lack exercise and are overfed. For good health, you may feed your French Bulldog twice a day, with a standard portion. Although they don’t need a lot of exercise, you should take them for a short walk at least once a day.

You can also play with them around the house to keep them in good shape, but don’t let them jump from raised surfaces such as a coach. Overfeeding and lack of exercise will also lead to several health problems, apart from obesity.

What is the Average Size of a Frenchie?

A French bulldog is around 12 inches tall. The males typically weigh between 20 -28 pounds, while the females weigh between 16-24 pounds. If you notice that your Frenchie packs a lot more than that, you need to visit your vet.

Frenchies are already predisposed to several health complications due to their unique head and body shape. Adding obesity to that list will lead to more health problems.

Trainability

Are French Bulldogs Easy to Train?

A French Bulldog may be easy to train, but it can be stubborn. You have to be firm and patient during the training sessions. House-training your Frenchie will take some time and a lot of practice, but the reward of an obedient Frechie is worth it.

The best way to train your French Bulldog is through positive reinforcement and lots of encouragement. Because these dogs were bred for companionship, they like pleasing their owners more than anything.

How Intelligent are Frenchies?

Frenchies are quite intelligent and quickly pick up on new things. They are also a playful breed that loves games. Therefore, the best strategy for training your Frenchie, is through fun games around the house.

French bulldogs are free thinkers, which makes them not the best choice, when you are signing up for a competitive challenge in agility or obedience. All your Frenchie needs is a loving companion to spend time with, during the long afternoons and weekends.

Are Frenchies Prone to “Mouthiness”?

Frenchies are prone to ‘mouthiness’ while growing, – they like to chew, nib, and play-bite. This is a common stage in most dog breeds, including the Frenchies, when they are teething.You can manage their mouthiness by providing them with bite toys.

However, as Frenchies get older they tend to stop the ‘mouthiness’ behavior.

Do Frenchies Have a Great “Prey Drive”?

Some Frenchies have a high prey-drive when compared to others. They enjoy chasing, killing, and catching weak or small animals including cats. However, when compared to other dog breeds, a French Bulldog has a relatively low prey-drive.

They enjoy lying around and spending time with their human companion. You will rarely find your Frenchie chasing around a weak or small animal unless it is purely for fun. Due to this low prey drive, French Bulldogs are not an ideal choice for hunting dogs.

They also cannot run fast enough, as hounds do, so many prey will easily outrun them.

How Often do French Bulldogs Bark or Howl?

French Bulldogs are not known for howling or barking. However, the fact that they are dogs means they may howl or bark from time to time. In a survey conducted in the recent past, 85% of French Bulldog owners reported that their dogs rarely barked or howled.

That is one of the reasons Frenchies are considered as an ideal dog breed for apartment living. You will never hear your neighbors complaining of howls and barks in the middle of the night.

What is Frenchie’s Wanderlust Potential?

French Bulldogs have an extremely low Wanderlust potential. You will hardly notice your Frenchie taking off to catch random stuff that piques their interest.

They are rather lazy and prefer staying close to their human companion. Frenchies often resist the urge to follow scents, which makes them not the best tracking dogs.

Physical Needs

How Energetic are French Bulldogs?

French Bulldogs are a naturally energetic species that love playing and walking around with their human companion. However, they tend to get tired pretty quickly and start laying down. When your Frenchie is acting hyper, it shows that they need some exercise.

A short walk around the block and your Frenchie will become tired and need some rest. However, if your French Bulldog is showing behavioral issues, some house-training can help.

How Intensely Active are Frenchies?

Although Frenchies love playing around, they are not a super active dog breed. They don’t need long periods of exercise, because they get tired relatively fast. Frenchies are prone to heat exhaustion, so you need to avoid exercising them in hot temperatures.

You need to set aside about thirty minutes a day to ensure that your Frenchie has sufficient exercise. However, lack of exercise may lead to obesity which can cause serious health complications.

Does a French Bulldog Need Exercise?

Yes, French Bulldogs need to exercise to maintain a healthy weight. However, they do not need too much exercise. All Frenchies need is daily walks to help them maintain a steady and healthy weight.

Ensure that you monitor your Frenchie to prevent them from overexerting themselves. You can carry a bottle of cool water during walks, and use it to cool down your Frenchie if they overheat. You will know they need it when they start to pant desperately.

Are Frenchies Playful Dogs?

Yes, Frenchies are playful dogs that enjoy fun games and spending time with their human companions. These dogs are considered as “perpetual” puppies because they don’t outgrow their playful stage.

Your Frenchie will always be in the mood for a fun game which makes them an excellent choice for young kids. However, ensure that you teach your kids how to handle Frenchie appropriately to avoid any injuries.

Frenchies are rather delicate, and are prone to getting severely injured if they are mishandled while playing games. Generally, Frenchies are a great choice for big families with children because they provide a playful companion.

French Bulldog General Traits and Habits

Bat-eared with a short snout, this special appearance makes the French bulldog likeable. While other dog breeds are arguably more beautiful and presentable, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and the Frenchie is a classic example of that.

Many French bulldog owners choose them over other breeds, because of their companionship traits, rather than looks.

Laid Back Nature

The Frenchie has a muscular body, though it is small and fragile, covered with short fur, which makes it easy to groom. The Frenchie does not shy away from regular play, but you will often sport it lying lazily on the coach.

That playful and laidback nature makes it harder to train them, and so you have to be a little bit more patient with them. However, they are intelligent dogs, so if you make their training be part of a game, both of you will enjoy the training sessions.

Frenchies are Free Thinkers

Breeders consider them free thinkers, and they do not recommend them for competitions that require obedience or agility. Generally, once they choose not to follow your commands, there is no way of getting them to budge.

Companion Dogs

Frenchies love human contact, and they cannot survive for long without it. They are not outdoor dogs, and you cannot leave them alone for extended periods. They need the same love and attention they give you, always.

They are friendly towards friendly family kids and adults, but they may act aggressively towards visitors, because of jealousy. In that regard, they need to be socialized, which is not hard because they love human company.

Possessive and Territorial

The French bulldog’s possessive nature requires human owners to be firm, in order to keep their mischievous and idiosyncrasy nature under control. Patience is also important in dealing with any frustrations they may cause.

Frenchies are great indoor watchdogs, thanks to their alertness at all times, even when asleep. While it is not their nature to bark without cause, they will warn you of any intruders, and even risk their lives defending you.

Small Apartment Dogs

If you live in a small home or an apartment, Frenchies will not have a problem with that. A 30-minute walk each day is enough to keep their weight in check, as well stopping them from becoming hyperactive.

Frenchie can easily suffer from heat exhaustion, which is why you must keep their surroundings cool, but not cold, at all times. Leaving outdoors on a hot day can kill them.

Sedentary Lifestyle

If you work from home, Frenchies can sit wit/h you all day long, which is what they were bred to do. Most owners say they cannot imagine life without them, thanks to their mischievous but goofy nature.

French bulldogs are living examples of beauty on the inside. They will love you with all the energy and enthusiasm their small bodies can muster.

French Bulldog Vital Facts

French bulldogs are living examples of beauty on the inside. They will love you with all the energy and enthusiasm their small bodies can muster.

Frenchies belong to the companion breed of dogs, so if you want a companion dog then a French bulldog will serve you well. They are a small breed, so they will average between 11 inches and about 12 inches tall.

Frenchies tend to get overweight without exercise, but their normal weight ranges between 16 pounds and 28 pounds. They live for up to 14 years, but it is normal if they die at only 11 years of age. French bulldogs may have health issues, if they have features such as rare colors, caused by genetic mutation.

Highlights – French Bulldog Care Guide

• You do not need to give your French bulldog lots of daily exercise, to keep healthy. However, you must give the daily walks that last about 15 minutes, to keep them from gaining excess weight.
• On hot days, you need to monitor your Frenchie closely, because they do not have an efficient cooling system. You need to make sure they have sufficient cool water to help them cool, and hydrate themselves at all times.
• French bulldogs are not the cleanest dogs, and so if you are not keen on cleaning after your pets all day long, avoid Frenchies. They drool, shed occasionally, flatulate, and you will have to be more patient when house training them.
• Frenchies are not hostile towards children, although you still need to train your kids to act friendly towards them. You must also supervise the very young kids when they are around your Frenchie.
• French bulldogs were bred as companion dogs, which is why they flourish when they have human contact. That is why you must not leave them isolated from humans, for more than a few hours, each day. If you must leave them alone, it should not be more than three hours.
• Frenchies are vulnerable to genetic diseases, if an irresponsible breeder breeds them. So, you must get your Frenchie from a reputable pet store, and never from puppy mills. We also recommend that you do not choose them based on non-standard features such as rare colors.

French Bulldog Health Problems

Some of the most common health problems that Frenchies suffer from include respiratory disorders, eye diseases, joint diseases, bone diseases, heart diseases, and spinal diseases. In this section, we will look at these Frenchie diseases and disorders in detail.

Hip Dysplasia

This is a joint disease, where the femur does not fit nicely into the pelvic socket, to form a flexible joint. The Hip Dysplasia disease is genetic, and therefore, heritable.

It can affect one or both of the Frenchie’s rear legs. The condition transforms to arthritis, at which point the dog will prefer a sedentary lifestyle. That happens when the dogs begin to feel pain or lameness.

You take your dog for x-ray screening at the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals or the University of Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program, if you suspect it is suffering from Hip Dysplasia.

One of the best ways to prevent these diseases from spreading is not breeding dogs with Hip Dysplasia. You should ask your breeder for certified proof that their Frenchie was not bred from parents with Hip Dysplasia.

The best treatment is a surgical hip replacement, which provides a more natural hip joint. The replacement is referred to as a Total Hip Replacement (HIP). It is pain free, and provides dogs affected by Hip Dysplasia, a more natural motion.

Brachycephalic Syndrome

The Brachycephalic Syndrome is common with dogs such as Frenchies, because they have short heads, elongated or soft palates, and narrowed nostrils. These features cause their airways to become constricted.

The constriction can happen in varying degrees, leading to partial or total collapse of the airways. Your Frenchie will start to snort or snuffle when that happens.

The right treatment for Brachycephalic Syndrome will vary depending on how severe it is. It often involves oxygen therapy, and if that is not enough, your Frenchie may have to undergo surgery to widen the nostrils.

French Bulldog Allergies

Your Frenchie may suffer from various allergies, of which there are three types, – food-based allergies, contact allergies, and inhalant allergies. Your vet will treat each of these three types of allergies differently.

Food-based allergies are treated by elimination, where you find the offending food and replace it with one that agrees with your dog.

For contact allergies, you find the topical substance causing them and eliminate it. That could fleas, dog shampoos, chemicals, or even beddings.

Inhalant allergies are often caused by pollen, mildew, dust, or even perfumes. The vet will treat them based on their severity and cause.

They may even have to treat a secondary infection such as an ear infection, which often accompany ear infections.

Hemivertebrae

Hemivertebrae is a malformation of the vertebrae, giving or a wedged or triangular shape. It can be the only malformation, or it can happen in combination with other deformities.

Its effects can include pressuring the spinal cord, which then causes paralysis, weakness, or pain. Other times, it may not create a significant discomfort.

It is treated if it pressures the spinal cord, otherwise, the vet will recommend daily care and management.

Patellar Luxation

This is a congenital condition also referred to as “slipped stifles”. Patellar Luxation occurs when the thigh bone (femur), the kneecap (patella), and the calf (tibia), are misaligned.

The misalignment causes knee-joint tissues to shear, leading to inflammation, which then leads to arthritis. Since the condition is present since birth, it can be diagnosed early, and it makes the dog appear bowlegged.

The degree of misalignment varies from a grade I, which is slight misalignment, to grade IV, which is a major misalignment. Grade I can be aligned manually, while grade IV needs surgical treatment.

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IDD)

IDD happens when the intervertebral disc slips or herniates, pushing against the spinal cord. The disc the pinches or compresses the spinal cord, cutting off nerve transmissions.

IDD can happen due to aging where vertebral muscles cannot support the discs, trauma during fights, or physical shock. For instance, jumping down from significant heights can cause a physical shock, easily.

IDD is treated by giving the Frenchie some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), physical therapy, or even surgery. You must not give it NSAIDS made for humans, because they can poison it.

Von Willebrand’s Disease

The Von Willebrand’s Diseases affects both dogs and humans, and it is caused by low levels of the Von Willebrand factor. The deficiency leads to the blood failing to clot when exposed to air.

That leads to unstoppable or prolonged bleeding if nothing is done to artificially stop it. That makes simple issues such as nose bleeding, gum bleeding, and even whelping to become a life threatening.

A vet can diagnose the condition between the ages of 3 and 5 years, but there is no cure. It can only be managed using transfusions, cauterizing, avoiding certain medications, and suturing injuries.

Cleft Palate

The palate is the soft and hard tissues that separate the mouth from the nasal cavity. A cleft palate is one with an opening/hole that runs across or along the palate, which can be congenital or traumatic.

Most Frenchies with a cleft palate die while they are still young, or get euthanized after birth. For those that survive, they can undergo a surgical operation to close the opening.

The veterinarian will recommend the best treatment or course of action, after examining it.

Health Clearance – French Bulldogs

It can be hard to determine whether the Frenchie you are about to buy is healthy or not. Fortunately, there are organizations committed to help you buy a healthy Frenchie, or at least one that is born of healthy parents.

You can use their sites to confirm whether the certificate the breeder is presenting you is legitimate or not.

For hip dysplasia, von Willebrand’s disease, elbow dysplasia, and hypothyroidism, the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) offers a good health clearance certificate, with scores of fair or better.

You can verify the certificate at their site – offa.org, after the breeder shows it to you. You may ask them to help you verify its authenticity. If you are not convinced, then you should not buy your Frenchie from them.

Other notable organizations where reputable Frenchie breeders get health clearance certificates include the Auburn University for thrombopathia, and the Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF), both of which give certifications for good eyesight.