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The French Bulldog is an enchanting looking little dog who looks like a miniaturised but bat-eared Bulldog, and has the same flat face, short tail and smooth, short coat – but in a much smaller package. While small, they are muscular with a heavy bone-structure and strong legs.
Sadly, the breed’s popularity has led them to be irresponsibly bred so prospective owners should make sure they buy their puppies from a reliable source.
| Lifespan: | 11–14 years |
| Weight: | 7.5–12.5kg |
| Height: | 30–31cm |
| Colours: | The French Bulldog can come in a variety of colours including fawn; cream; brindle or pied |
| Size: | Small |
| Kennel Club Group: | Utility |
| Family-friendly: | 4/5 |
| Exercise needs: | 2/5 |
| Easy to train: | 4/5 |
| Tolerates being alone: | 1/5 |
| Likes other pets: | 4/5 |
| Energy level: | 3/5 |
| Grooming needs: | 3/5 |
| Shedding: | 3/5 |
This is a friendly, good-natured, playful dog, who makes an ideal affectionate and fun companion or family dog that’s as happy living in towns and cities as in the countryside. This is a courageous breed who think they are many times bigger than they actually are - and can on occasions find themselves in conflict with other dogs who can’t read their flat face and lack of tail.
A French Bulldog would suit an owner who lives in a smaller space and who doesn’t want to have to give their dog a lot of exercise but enjoys plenty of games and interaction in the home. They probably shouldn’t object to snoring either…
The French Bulldog is originally descended from the Toy Bulldog, a miniaturised version of the British Bulldog, and a breed that was popular with the lace-makers of Nottingham. During the industrial revolution, many relocated to France and took their dogs with them. Here the breed changed, possibly with the inclusion of other breeds including the Pug and some terriers, resulting in the French Bulldog we know and love today.
The most common health problems encountered in the French Bulldog relate to their flat face, which may result in obstruction of their airways and a difficulty in breathing. Over-exercising and over-heating is therefore to be avoided. They are also prone to skin infections, eye problems, hip and elbow dysplasia (joint conditions that can be painful and lead to mobility problems) and spinal disorders. Pet insurance is a must for this breed - as is buying from a reliable and knowledgeable breeder.
The Frenchie doesn't require very much exercise compared with some breeds and about an hour's exercise daily should suffice. Do ensure that they are protected from the heat, as due to their flat face they can suffer heat exhaustion and respiratory distress if exercised in warm weather. Exercise them in the early morning and late evening in the summer.
The Frenchie doesn’t need a lot of space so is as happy living in a flat as in a house with a garden, as long as they have access to the outdoors for exercise and toileting.
Small dogs have a fast metabolism, meaning they burn energy at a high rate, although their small stomachs mean that they must eat little and often. Small-breed foods are specifically designed with appropriate levels of key nutrients and smaller kibble sizes to suit smaller mouths. This also encourages chewing and improves digestion.
The short, close, glossy coat requires minimal grooming – a weekly brush is more than enough. However, the facial wrinkles do need regular cleaning, too, and the ears can also be prone to problems and will need frequent checks and regular attention.
The French Bulldog is never going to be an obedience champion or excel in your local training class, but with patience and reward-based training they can easily master the basic exercises like sit, down, recall and walking on a lead and harness. They can also enjoy interactive enrichment games.
The French Bulldog can happily fit into family life and gets on well with older children, although may not be a great fit for an active sporty family or a family with younger children.
While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.
