Let us introduce you to the goofy, bat-eared super-pup: the French bulldog. With their smooshed faces, this pup guarantees to redefine your stereotypes on small breeds.
Its vivid and winning personality is unlike any other too, and it'll provide you with a lifetime of companionship and entertainment.
Are you looking for a friendly and unique dog to provide a forever home? Frenchies are a versatile breed and suitable for many family dynamics, living situations, and lifestyles. Keep reading and determine for yourself if they'll be a good pet for you.
According to the AKC:
6 Quick Facts About French Bulldogs
- They aren't French, and the Industrial Revolution is why they became "French"
- We first saw the breed in Nottingham, England
- Frenchies snore frequently
- They have their own way of doing things
- French bulldogs are emotionally sensitive
- They love toys and to play
Learn About the Frenchie
French bulldogs belong to the AKC's non-sporting group, which generally represents companion or heritage dog breeds.
Who would have thought that the Frenchie is an intentional cross between a terrier, an English bulldog, and a pug?
The idea was to establish a smaller version of the English bulldog for people to keep in their homes, at work, and everywhere in between.
The video above provides invaluable 101 information about this adorable snorting breed and more on their history.
How Big is the French Bulldog?
The average weight varies slightly between 16 to 28 pounds. Their height rangelands at no more than a foot at their shoulders. The French bulldog is the smallest of all bulldog breeds, and the AKC classifies them as small dogs.
How Many Coat Colors Do They Come In?
- Brindle
- Fawn
- White
- Black/blue
- A mix of these
Do French Bulldogs Have Health Problems?
Frenchies do have some serious health-related issues associated with their breed. Here's a small list, according to the experts at Vet Street that you should be aware of before adopting, rescuing, or purchasing a French bulldog.
- Skin and ear diseases: demodectic mange and allergic skin disease
- Respiratory issues: brachycephalic syndrome
- Heat intolerance: extremely susceptible to heatstroke
- Spinal disease: intervertebral disk disease
Some could have health conditions not listed. Each dog is different. Their lineage can either increase or decrease the likelihood of these and other health issues.
Does the French Bulldog Have a Good Temperament?
Frenchies have a sweet but tenacious at times disposition. They're not known for biting or nipping. They are extremely stubborn though.
This breed is exceptionally intelligent, but they can get in their own way from time to time as you can see in the hilarious video below. We don't recommend telling your Frenchie no to Cheerios.
We should also add that in addition to their adorable tantrums, Frenchies will not do anything they don't want to do.
This could mean not wanting to walk anymore, forcing you to carry them back, or like the video showed us, throwing a tantrum when they don't get their way.
Just remember no amount of scolding will work, but a treat or kind words might be enough to entice them.
Are They Good With Kids?
Generally speaking, yes, they can be a great fit for families with school-age and older children. Frenchies are sturdy, so your small children won't easily harm your dog if they crawl or lean on them. However, they might not be a great fit if you have babies.
You'll find this true with many breeds though. Small children aren't capable of understanding or recognizing that a dog has feelings and boundaries too. We recommend close supervision until children are old enough to handle a dog properly.
Providing a safe place your Frenchie to retreat can help and keep them and your little one safe.
Will They Get Along With Other Cats and Dogs?
Overall, the French bulldog has a low to average prey drive, which makes them ideal companions for small animals. This includes birds, full-size rabbits, and ferrets if properly introduced.
Each Frenchie will react differently toward other dogs and cats. Early socialization might be a good idea if you plan to adopt more animals in the future.
Otherwise, you should take steps to introduce them correctly and slowly. Some animals will never get along no matter what you try, and you should respect their wishes.
Will a Frenchie Make a Good Guard Dog While I'm at Work?
French bulldogs are fond of humans, so they're unlikely to be good protectors or scare away intruders. They're not big on barking or vocalizing either, according to Vet Street. Pay attention when they do because they will alarm you to visitors when you are home.
Is There a Difference Between Male and Female French Bulldogs?
Some owners believe some personality traits are more common between the sexes. Of course, not every Frenchie will display unique or predominant traits, so it really is up for interpretation.
How Hard is a French Bulldog to Train?
Training any breed requires commitment and consistency. You can teach them tricks and commands, but you should expect some resistance due to their stubbornness.
They tend to respond well to a reward system, and positive reinforcement goes farther than punishment due to their sensitive disposition. This is large because they want to be pleased, and your positive tone and rewards provide that for them.
Does a French Bulldog Require Heavy Maintenance?
While any breed should have access to routine healthcare, some require extensive upkeep such as grooming, additional medical care, and more.
One thing to note is reproduction. Frenchies require human intervention to have puppies due to the male's body structure and inability to mount. They also require c-sections for delivery.
According to ASPCA, If you don't intend to breed, you should spay or neuter for health and longevity benefits.
How Often Does a French Bulldog Need Exercise?
Most Frenchies are fine with one walk a day. Keep in mind these walks are for exercise and no bathroom breaks. Provide plenty of potty breaks for your dog as needed.
Do be careful if you live in a warm or hot climate and in the summer months regardless of location. It might be a better idea to have multiple short walks when the weather turns warm. You don't want them to overheat.
You can also exercise them indoors with fun games or create obstacle courses to keep your Frenchie entertained safely when it's hot.
Do They Require A Lot of Grooming?
An occasional washing and routine nail clipping are all they really require. Be sure to dry the wrinkles around their face though. Other than that, you can brush them daily or as they need it.
Does a French Bulldog Drool?
Any dog can drool, but the French bulldog isn't big on it.
We Swim. Do Frenchies Enjoy Water?
Because they're top-heavy dogs, they're not strong swimmers. Their body makes them more inclined to sink. You can certainly give them access to a small kiddie pool with only a little bit of water to cool them off, but they're not made for big water adventures without protection.
Take precautions when on or near water, including boats, shores, and anywhere they'll come in contact with water. We strongly recommend a life vest for your dog and constant supervision. Otherwise, leave your Frenchie at home.
In addition, you'll have to monitor them for signs of overheating and exertion when spending prolonged time outdoors. Be sure to offer shaded areas where your dog can retreat and rest along with fresh water.
If you have a pool or live on a lake, you should consider a fenced area for exercise and potty breaks for their safety. Just because a dog shouldn't swim doesn't mean they won't try.
Do French Bulldogs Thrive in Condos and Apartments?
They certainly can do well in small spaces. They also won't bark much, which makes them ideal for close neighbors.
Their size and weight also make them a good choice for places with weight limits. Most caps are between 35-50lbs, and a healthy Frenchie weighs 28-lbs tops. Because they're social dogs, they aren't prone to nipping or biting like other small breeds.
I'm Hardly Home. Is a Frenchie a Good Fit?
Not unless you can bring your dog with you. While they can do all right when left alone for a while, such as when you're at work, they do require social interaction for happy, full-filling lives. We could say this about nearly any dog.
Are French Bulldogs One-Owner Dogs or Family Dogs?
They're family dogs in general; although they might show preference to one or more people in the household. Their main goal is to be pleased, and the more the merrier. Every person in the house is a chance for positive attention, pets, and treats.
Do Frenchies Have Weight Problems
According to AKC, You might not want to give your Frenchie a complex, but yes, they can easily become overweight.
Their size and respiratory issues work against them, so do your best to keep them trim. Pick high-quality food and low-calorie treats.
Do They Require Special Food?
Unless they show signs of an intolerance or food allergy, they'll do well with a complete diet formula for their age. Some companies sell specialty breed formulas too. Just be sure there are no nutritional gaps.
Wet or dry is up to you too. Both have pros and cons that can vary between manufacturers. Honestly, your pet's life stage is more important, such as puppy, adult, or senior, than the texture of food.
Final Thoughts on Whether Owning a French Bulldog Will be a Good Fit
Between their winning personalities and their handsome good looks, it's hard to say no to a French bulldog. If you do, we recommend recording it too because that classic Frenchie attitude might make your new companion internet famous too.
These rambunctious lovable dogs do well in many living situations, including large families with small children and apartment life. They enjoy exercise but don't need a lot, and they're happy lounging around too.
If you're looking for a small dog that breaks the yappy, nippy stereotypes, you should consider opening your home and heart to a French bulldog. You won't regret a moment of life with them.
As a freelance pet writer and blogger, Shannon is passionate about crafting knowledge-based, science-supported articles that foster healthy bonds of love and respect between people and animals. But her first and very most important job is as a dog auntie and cockatiel, tortoise, and box turtle mama.
