French Bulldog
Affectionate Alert Apartment-friendly Athletic Bright Easygoing Great with kids High energy dog Keen Lapdog Lively Non-Sporting Patient Playful Sheds a lot Sociable

French Bulldog

Height 11 - 12 in (28 - 30 cm)
Weight 28 lbs (13 kg)
Lifespan 9 - 11 years
Origin Unknown

Is a French Bulldog Right For You?

Answer these quick questions to find out:


Do you need a dog that’s comfortable living in an apartment?

Will the dog need to thrive in small living spaces?

Will the dog need to stay alone at home for long hours?

Are you looking for a dog suited for urban life?

Do you live in a hot climate?

Breed Characteristics

The majority of sources suggest that French Bulldogs need around 30-60 minutes of exercise per day, with some variation based on age and individual needs. The consensus leans towards a moderate to high level of exercise for this breed.

How much exercise does French Bulldog need?

Low High
The consensus is mixed, with some sources stating that French Bulldogs are easy to train due to their people-oriented nature and ritualistic behavior, while others mention challenges due to their wilful and stubborn streak. Overall, the average rating leans towards moderate difficulty in training.

Is French Bulldog easy to train?

Low High
The consensus from the sources indicates that French Bulldogs require regular grooming, including weekly brushing, monthly shampooing, and occasional spot cleaning. Some sources also mention the need for consistent trimming and bathing once a month. Overall, the grooming needs are considered moderate to high, warranting a rating of 4.

How much grooming does French Bulldog need?

Low High
French Bulldogs are described as moderately intelligent, ranking 58th out of 138 dog breeds in intelligence tests. While they may not excel in obedience or complex tasks, they are aware of their surroundings and possess high instinctive intelligence.

How intelligent is French Bulldog?

Low High
There is a mix of opinions, with some sources stating that French Bulldogs do not bark much while others mention instances of excessive barking. Overall, the consensus leans towards French Bulldogs being moderate barkers rather than very low or very high.

Does French Bulldog bark a lot?

Low High
The majority of sources indicate that French Bulldogs are stubborn and independent, which aligns with a rating of 4 on the scale.

Is French Bulldog stubborn or independent?

Low High
The consensus suggests that adult French Bulldogs should have around 30-60 minutes of exercise daily, with some sources recommending shorter sessions and others suggesting longer playtimes. The range of recommendations falls in the middle, warranting a rating of 3.

How much playtime does a French Bulldog need daily?

Low High
The consensus suggests that French Bulldogs do not need long walks or intense workouts but benefit from spending time with their owners and short walks. They can be kept active indoors with short walks and normal inside activities. It is recommended to gradually increase walk times and ensure they get enough exercise throughout the day.

Can French Bulldog stay indoors with limited walks?

Low High
Based on the multiple sources mentioning the French Bulldog's protective instincts towards their owners and territory, as well as instances of overprotectiveness and territorial behavior, the consensus indicates a high level of protectiveness and territoriality in French Bulldogs.

Is French Bulldog protective or territorial?

Low High
French Bulldogs are consistently described as affectionate, loyal, and great companions for families and children in multiple sources, with specific mentions of being loving, gentle, and perfect for kids. The overall consensus is very high on their affection towards family members.

Is French Bulldog affectionate with family?

Low High

Health Wellness

Is French Bulldog a hypoallergenic breed?

The consensus among various sources is that French Bulldogs are not considered hypoallergenic. They are moderate-to-heavy shedders and can produce allergens such as dander, making them likely to trigger allergies in susceptible individuals. While some sources mention that French Bulldogs may shed less fur compared to other breeds, they still do shed moderately and are not recommended for allergy sufferers. It is emphasized that there is no completely hypoallergenic breed, as even dogs with minimal shedding can still cause allergic reactions due to saliva. Overall, French Bulldogs are not classified as hypoallergenic due to their shedding and production of allergens, making them potentially unsuitable for individuals with allergies.


Is French Bulldog prone to allergies?

French Bulldogs are not hypoallergenic and can trigger allergies in both humans and themselves. They are genetically predisposed to allergies, often manifesting as skin issues like dermatitis and itching. Common allergens for French Bulldogs include flax, canola, fish oil, yucca, pollen, and food ingredients. Skin allergies can be caused by fleas, food, or other environmental factors. The breed is prone to food allergies, with inflammatory reactions affecting the skin. Additionally, French Bulldogs are sensitive to environmental allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and mold, leading to symptoms like sneezing and watery eyes. Atopy, an allergy to dust mites, pollen, and certain molds, is a common cause of allergies in French Bulldogs. Overall, it is important to identify and address allergies promptly to provide relief for both the dog and their owner.


What are common health issues in French Bulldog?

French Bulldogs are prone to various health issues, with common problems including spinal issues like Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) after the age of 2-3 years, Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome, allergies, food allergies leading to diarrhea, skin problems, ear infections, conjunctivitis, breathing difficulties due to their flat-faced structure, and joint problems. Other frequently mentioned health concerns are cherry eye, eye ulcers, overheating in warm weather, hip dysplasia, and birthing issues. It is essential for French Bulldog owners to monitor their pet's weight, provide a balanced diet, and schedule regular veterinary check-ups to manage and prevent these health issues effectively.


How often should a French Bulldog visit the vet?

French Bulldogs should visit the vet regularly for routine check-ups and preventive care. Most veterinarians recommend yearly wellness visits for adult and senior dogs, with older dogs ideally seeing the vet at least twice a year. For French Bulldog puppies aged 0-12 months, vaccinations should be administered once every 3-4 weeks until they are 16 weeks old. It is important to be aware of common health conditions that French Bulldogs may be prone to and to monitor their health closely. Crate your Frenchie and limit their movement before the vet appointment. Additionally, heartworm prevention medication should be given monthly. Regular veterinary visits are crucial for maintaining the health and well-being of French Bulldogs.


What is the average vet bill for a French Bulldog?

The average annual veterinary care cost for a French Bulldog ranges from $500 to $1,200, with routine check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive care included. Additional grooming expenses can amount to $100 to $300 per year. The initial cost of buying or adopting a French Bulldog puppy can vary from $50 to $10,000, with vet care for routine and preventive measures estimated at $400 to $600. Specific medical procedures like Cherry eye surgery can range from $300 to $1,900, and treatment for Brachycephalic syndrome may cost between $500 and $1,000. Overall, French Bulldog owners should anticipate spending between $600 to $1,200 annually on veterinary care, with potential additional costs for specific health issues or emergencies.


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