Reviewed by Dr. Fiona Lee
French Bulldogs are true companion animals, thriving on close contact with their owners.1 Their cute appearance and loving nature have earned them a well-deserved place as the most popular dog breed in the United States.2 But before you run out to adopt one, you'll want to understand the breed's unique characteristics to ensure they're a good fit for your home. These affectionate, quirky lovebugs have health needs that require close attention.3 Your Frenchie's not meant to be an outdoor-only dog or a wild adventuring companion. But if you're looking for a smart, loyal friend, this pup could be the right choice for you.
History and Origin
The English Bulldog from 200 years ago is the ancestor of today's French Bulldog. It was bred into a lighter, toy bulldog that was popular among artisans who migrated to France during the Industrial Revolution.4
The little dogs grew in popularity in France and then in the United States, with Americans preferring pups with erect, bat ears and the French preferring folded, rose ears. After U.S. breeders organized the French Bull Dog Club of America (FBDCA), the FBDCA made bat ears its breed standard around 1897.4
The breed dropped in popularity around the time of the Great Depression, and there were concerns in 1960 that the breed might even go extinct. But popularity began growing again in the 1980s, and the breed has since skyrocketed in fame.4
Physical Characteristics
The French Bulldog looks much like a tiny bulldog. They're smooth-coated pups with big ears that point up, wrinkles on their faces and short noses. The American Kennel Club (AKC) has specific breed standards for anyone who wants to show their dog.1
Size and weight range
The average height of Frenchies (measured to the base of the neck) is 11 to 13 inches. The weight of males and females should be under 28 pounds or they're disqualified by the AKC.1
Distinctive features
Frenchies have quite a few distinct features, such as:1
- Short, smooth coats
- Bat-like ears
- Compact, muscular build
Color variations and accepted breed standards
Breed standard colors for Frenchies include brindle (or certain variations of fawn or white with brindle), cream, fawn (aka tan), white or white and fawn. Frenchies that are black aren't accepted by the AKC.1
Breed standards also accept black markings, white markings, brindle markings, black masks or piebald.1
Temperament and Personality
Frenchies are very sweet, with an even and patient temperament that makes them suitable for families with children. They are gentle and friendly with other dogs (as long as they've been socialized properly as puppies).5
As for cats, Frenchies do have a high prey drive. If they've grown up with a kitty, then they should be OK, but they may chase smaller pets or cats they don't know.5
While Frenchies can adapt well to almost any environment (they even make great apartment pets because they don't bark much), they shouldn't be outdoor dogs. This is because their flat faces make them highly sensitive to heat.3
Exercise and Activity Needs
Frenchies love to play, and although their energy levels are lower than those of some breeds, they still need mental stimulation to stay happy.1
This means that a little exercise is good for them, but only in moderation. This pup isn't going to be running marathons with you. But they'll love short play sessions or even participating in agility or obedience classes. Daily short walks can be great for your little Frenchie.1
Just remember: Take extra care of your sweet pup when it's hot outside and don't overexert them, even in mild temperatures.6 Frenchies have flat faces that give them brachycephalic syndrome, which makes them susceptible to breathing problems when under stress.3 In the summer, take them out in the early morning or evenings when it's cooler.5
Grooming and Care
Frenchies have a low-maintenance coat, but they are still prone to shedding a little.1 Brushing them weekly is usually sufficient.5 Use a medium-bristle brush or a hound glove to promote new hair growth and remove all the shed hair.1
You'll also want to clean and dry the skinfolds around their face regularly so your pup doesn't develop skinfold dermatitis. Trim their nails regularly, too.5
Health Considerations
French Bulldogs are sweet pets, but they're prone to a number of health issues. If you think your pup might be dealing with any of these, see a veterinarian:
| Health issue | Details and symptoms |
| Breathing issues | Because of their short noses, most Frenchies will develop some form of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome. In some pups, this may require surgery that can help, but not cure, the issue.7 |
| Back issues | Frenchies commonly develop intervertebral disc disease (ruptured or slipped discs in the back). They may also be born with spinal deformities that can be seen in X-rays when they're young.3 |
| Brain or heart tumors | Frenchies may have an elevated risk of brain tumors like pituitary gland tumors, glial cell tumors or gliomas. They may also have an increased risk of heart tumors due to low blood oxygen.7 |
| Pulmonic stenosis | Frenchies are one of the breeds more prone to this inherited heart defect that may require surgery.7 |
| Dental disease | They need regular teeth cleanings because they're more prone to dental issues than many other breeds.3 |
| Obesity | Obesity is a big concern that can worsen joint and back problems to which the breed is already prone.3 |
| Digestive issues | Inflammatory bowel disease is common in Frenchies and may require special diets or medicines.3 Young Frenchies are also more prone to colitis, which may lead to chronic diarrhea.7 |
| Eye issues | Because of their flattened faces, Frenchies are prone to eye problems7 like cataracts, extra hairs in the eyelid (distichiasis), eyelids that roll inward (entropion, which can lead to blindness),3 progressive retinal atrophy6 or other injuries.3 |
| Elbow and hip issues | Frenchies have an eight times greater risk of elbow fractures than mixed-breed pups.7 Frenchies are also prone to hip dysplasia.6 |
| Skin issues | Because of the folds in their skin, they can develop inflammation or sores under their wrinkles.5 |
| Allergies | Frenchies are prone to environmental and food allergies.6 These can cause a host of symptoms, including skin and stomach issues.7 Your veterinarian can help you identify triggers. |
In addition to the issues listed above, Frenchies are prone to the same issues other breeds face, like parasites, fleas and viruses. It's important to keep up with your Frenchie's vaccinations and to administer the flea and tick preventive recommended by your veterinarian.3
Because of all the health issues Frenchies may face, investing in pet insurance can be a big help for Frenchie owners. Read the fine print to make sure the insurance policy doesn't preclude issues Frenchies might face.
Training and Socialization
French Bulldogs are smart and eager to please, but they can also be stubborn. This is why positive reinforcement training works well with them, especially if you start when they're young. Some owners might benefit from professional dog training for their little willful pups.5
Frenchies tend to be playful and open to strangers, with just a mildly protective nature.1 However, you'll still want to socialize your Frenchie when they're young, exposing them to a variety of dogs, people and situations.5
How To Give Your Frenchie a Long, Healthy Life
The average life expectancy of Frenchies has traditionally been believed to be 10 to 12 years.1 However, recent research has found that the French Bulldog life span may be much shorter: just 4.5 years.8
You can help your dog live their fullest, happiest life by practicing healthy habits and seeing your veterinarian regularly. Try these practices:
- Get regular dental cleanings, since untreated dental disease can shorten a French Bulldog's life by one to three years.3
- Don't overfeed your pup, so you can reduce the chance of joint and back problems and even heart disease.3
- Avoid overly hot or cold temperatures or overexertion, as this can put them at risk of respiratory failure.6
- Walk your Frenchie on a harness rather than a collar to help avoid trachea collapse, which is an issue for any small dog breed.6
- Never leave your Frenchie unattended near any body of water, as their body structure prevents them from being able to swim.1
Pets Best Can Help You Keep Your French Bulldog Healthy
Before adopting any new pup, it's important to make sure you're adopting from a reputable breeder or rescue organization. You'll also want to learn all you can about the breed to ensure they're a good fit for your home. Frenchies make loving companions and fit in well with families who have children. But they're not die-hard outdoor adventurers. They need loving owners who will take them for regular veterinary checkups and provide them with lots of love and attention.
Investing in pet insurance is a great way to help you protect your Frenchie from diseases and illnesses. At Pets Best, our dog insurance plans can be customized for your pet's unique needs. In addition, Pets Best policyholders can speak to a veterinary expert anytime through a 24/7 Pet Helpline.
Sources/Citations
1. "French Bulldog," American Kennel Club, https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/french-bulldog/, accessed March 15, 2024.
2. "The Most Popular Dog Breeds of 2023," Melanie Haid (3/2024), American Kennel Club, https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/news/most-popular-dog-breeds-2023/, accessed March 22, 2024.
3. "French Bulldog," (4/2022), Vida Veterinary Care, https://www.vidavetcare.com/dog-breed/french-bulldog/, accessed March 15, 2024.
4. "History of the French Bulldog Breed," Jim Grebe, French Bull Dog Club of America, https://frenchbulldogclub.org/history/, accessed March 15, 2024.
5. "French Bulldog," The People's Dispensary for Sick Animals, https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/puppies-dogs/small-dogs/french-bulldog, accessed March 15, 2024.
6. "All About: French Bulldogs," (9/2022), Regal Animal Hospital, https://regalanimalhospital.com/all-about-french-bulldogs/, accessed March 15, 2024.
7. "Frenchies are #1 ... and veterinarians are concerned," Elizabeth Rozanski (4/2023), Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, https://vet.tufts.edu/news-events/news/frenchies-are-1-and-veterinarians-are-concerned, accessed March 15, 2024.
8. "Are dogs and cats living longer?" Meg St-Esprit (9/2023), Veterinary Information Network, https://news.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=210&Id=11631825&f5=1, accessed March 21, 2024