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French Bulldog Dogs Overview

French Bulldogs, often called Frenchies, are playful, sociable and full of personality in a small, sturdy body. Their flat face is part of their look, but it also brings real health risks that every owner should understand before buying one.

At a Glance

Size figures are from the American Kennel Club standard. Other kennel clubs' standards can differ slightly.

Temperament and Training

Frenchies have big personalities and can be stubborn, but most want to please their people. Food rewards and making training into a game work well. Early socialization and puppy classes help them grow into well-mannered adults.

Breathing, Heat and Water

French Bulldogs are a brachycephalic (short-skulled, flat-faced) breed. This skull shape is often linked with a blocked upper airway, known as brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). Like other flat-faced breeds, Frenchies are prone to breathing problems and cope poorly in hot or humid weather. They should never be allowed to overexert themselves in heat.

Flat-faced breeds are also more sensitive to anesthesia, so make sure your vet knows your dog's breed history before any procedure.

Because of their front-heavy build, French Bulldogs cannot swim. Never leave one unattended near a pool, bath, pond or other water.

Exercise and Space

A short walk or outdoor play session each day is usually enough exercise, which means a Frenchie can suit an apartment or flat. In warm weather, keep walks short and go out in the cooler parts of the day.

Grooming and Weight

The short coat needs a weekly brush. Keep the facial folds clean and dry and trim the nails regularly. Frenchies are prone to obesity, which strains their body and raises the risk of breed health problems, so watch their food and treats carefully.

Health Checks to Ask About

As well as breathing problems, French Bulldogs sometimes have eye conditions such as cherry eye, juvenile cataracts or entropion (an inward-rolling eyelid), along with skin allergies and autoimmune skin disorders.

In the US, the national breed club recommends a patella (kneecap) evaluation, hip evaluation, heart (cardiac) exam and eye exam for breeding dogs. Ask the breeder about the parents' breathing too, including how they cope with exercise and warm weather, and whether they have had any airway assessment or surgery. Ask to see all results.

Who the French Bulldog Suits

People who want a small, affectionate companion and don't need a running or hiking partner. A Frenchie is not suited to hot climates without air conditioning, or to anyone who can't budget for possible vet care related to breathing, eyes and skin.

See also Feeding Puppies and Dogs by Age, Vaccinations and Finding a Puppy.

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