French Bulldog Guide
Non-Sporting Dog Breeds
-
Don't let the name fool you: French Bulldogs (or “Frenchies” as their fans call them) are originally from England. One of their jobs was to keep industrial laborers, most especially lace-makers, company while they worked. Because this breed can't reproduce naturally and the mothers often need c-sections, French Bulldogs can be expensive. Nonetheless, they make great companions, and their bat ears, snorting, and noisy breathing make them unique and funny furry friends.
This small-sized and medium-energy breed grow to under 28 pounds and lives an average of 9-11 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Non-Sporting group.
FAST FACTS
AKC Recognized: Y
Breed's Original Pastime: Companion
Origin: England
Breed Group: Non-Sporting
Average Lifespan: 9-11 years
Size: Small
Bark Factor: Rarely barks, if ever
AKC RANKING 54
FAMILY companion, mastiff (bulldog)
AREA OF ORIGIN France
DATE OF ORIGIN 1800s
ORIGINAL FUNCTION lap dog
TODAY'S FUNCTION companion
AVERAGE SIZE OF MALE Height: 11-13 Weight: <28
AVERAGE SIZE OF FEMALE Height: 11-13 Weight: <28
OTHER NAME bouledogue Francais
Watch Video -
Energy level Medium energy
Exercise needs Low
Playfullness Moderately playful
Affection level Moderately affectionate
Friendliness toward other dogs Friendly
Friendliness toward other pets Very friendly
Friendliness toward strangers Shy
Ease of training Easy to train
Watchdog ability Medium
Protection ability Not very protective
Grooming needs Low maintenance
Cold tolerance Medium tolerance
Heat tolerance Low tolerance
Watch Video -
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A FRENCH BULLDOG'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
Your French Bulldog always wants to keep you company and is a lapdog par excellence. They crave attention, though they're not particularly eager to please. This breed can be playful and affectionate. They are adaptable, very smart, loyal to their chosen people, and laid back.
They make good family dogs but are also a great choice as a single's sidekick.
WHAT IS FRENCH BULLDOG BEHAVIOR LIKE?
This is not a particularly active breed. French Bulldogs don't require much exercise; a walk around the block a few time a day will probably do the trick or plan for romps and games in the backyard.
Don't expect your Frenchie to pull watchdog duty though: they're not especially protective and they don't bark much.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A FRENCH BULLDOG?
French Bulldogs are infamously stubborn. You'll need to be patient and consistent while training your pup. They respond well to food and game rewards.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO FRENCH BULLDOGS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
A French Bulldog's fine single coat is short and smooth. They don't require much grooming, but it's important to keep those face wrinkles dry to prevent infections. They are moderate, seasonal shedders.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO FRENCH BULLDOGS HAVE?
French Bulldogs have short, smooshed faces so often experience overheating and difficulty breathing. They are also prone to eye irritations, thyroid conditions, and spinal diseases and injuries.
This breed also tends toward pudginess, so be mindful about meals and snacks.
Watch Video -
This breed also tends toward pudginess, so be mindful about meals and snacks.
Breed history has moved while this section is under construction. Please check out the first tab for fun facts about this breed's history. You can also read on to learn about this breed's ideal family situation.
IDEAL FAMILY
ARE FRENCH BULLDOGS GOOD FOR PEOPLE WITH ALLERGIES?
The American Kennel Club doesn't list French Bulldogs among its breeds recommended for allergy sufferers.
You can reduce your furry friend's impact on your allergies with frequent baths and brushings to reduce loose hairs and allergy-aggravating proteins in your pet's dander. Use a damp cloth to wipe off your dog after playing outside. Smaller dogs have less surface area, so they produce comparatively less dander than larger breeds — definitely something to keep in mind with a dog as small as a French Bulldog! Remember that no breed is 100% hypoallergenic, and any breed can aggravate allergies.
WHAT'S A FRENCH BULLDOG'S BEST DAY?
Oh! What are you doing? Hello? Can I help? Can you sit down so I can sit on you? Hello? Rub my tummy! Rub my tummy! All-day petting and cuddles are perfect for them—maybe you'll want a break though.
SHOULD I ADOPT A FRENCH BULLDOG?
This dog will never train for a triathlon with you: they are too dense and heavy to be good swimmers, and they're not built to run long distances. Their smooshed faces make it hard for them to breathe while they're exercising or stressed. They're not great in the heat; it's important to moderate their play on warm days to avoid overheating. All this said, Frenchies are great apartment dogs: they're small, don't need much exercise, and aren't especially barky. They're devoted and affectionate with their chosen people or person. They'd don't require much grooming and won't drag you to the dog park for hours everyday. If you're looking for a funny and laid-back lapdog, a French Bulldog is a really good bet.
Have you decided that a French Bulldog is the perfect dog for you? Why not be your new best friend's hero and adopt a rescue! Be sure to check out our article on what to expect when you're adopting a dog or cat.
Watch Video
