French Bulldog Dog Breed Information

Group

Non-sporting

Weight

9-12.5 kg

Height

28-33 cm

Lifespan

9-12 years

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About the French Bulldog

Reviewed by:

Dr. Cristina Alice Vulpe

Veterinarian

With their charming personality and adorable bat ears, it’s no wonder the French Bulldog is a popular choice for dog lovers, young and old. If you’re considering adding a “Frenchie” to your family, you’re in luck! In this breed guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about French Bulldogs.

Whether you’re looking at French Bulldog puppies or you’re looking to adopt an older dog, you’re sure to find this guide useful. From their origins and history to training and potential health issues, you’ll find it all right here! If you’d like to know more, keep scrolling to learn about the super-cute French Bulldog.

What is the history & origin of the French Bulldog?

The “Bouldogge Français”, as they’re known in their adopted country of France, actually originates from Nottingham in England. The Miniature Bulldog was a popular choice of pet with lace workers, providing company and getting rid of rats in the workrooms.

In the aftermath of the industrial revolution, lace workers were made redundant as the profession became mechanised. Many of them moved to France, where their skills were needed, and, of course, they brought their much-loved dogs with them.

The dogs also became popular with French shop owners, and that’s how they earned their “Frenchie” nickname.

What is a French Bulldog breed?

With a small tank-like build, the French Bulldog is a small dog, part of the non-sporting group. Frenchies are in the same group as the Bulldog and Boston Terrier, which they can frequently be mistaken for.

Learn more about: French Bulldog Colours

Who is a French Bulldog best for?

French Bulldogs are very family-oriented, and they do best in a home where there’s someone at home all day. Frenchies are very affectionate companions who love human contact. If you want an outdoor-loving dog who can be left on its own for lengthy periods, unfortunately, a French Bulldog isn’t right for you.

Frenchies love to show affection to their humans and enjoy receiving the same in return. They usually get on well with others, including other pets and children, as long as they’re taught to treat the Frenchie respectfully. That said, they can be possessive of their humans, especially towards strange dogs.

French Bulldog Grooming & Shedding

Thanks to their short and smooth coat, a Frenchie will only shed minimally, so you won’t have to put up with copious amounts of dog hair covering your furniture! A weekly brush with a grooming mitt or brush will remove dead hairs and keep your pooch looking great.

Brushing helps the hair grow and distributes the skin’s oil through the coat, keeping it healthy.

Your Frenchie’s deep skin folds will also need to be kept clean and dry to prevent discomfort. A regular nail clip is also essential so he doesn’t develop painful issues.

Learn more about: French Bulldog Grooming Tips & Styles

Do French Bulldogs bark a lot?

If you’re looking for a guard dog that will alert you of approaching strangers, a Frenchie won’t be the right dog for you! They’re known for being very quiet and only bark very occasionally.

Because of this, they’re ideal if you’re living in an apartment as you can be safe in the knowledge that your neighbours won’t be disturbed by constant barking!

What is the average weight & height of a French Bulldog?

The French Bulldog is a small breed, only measuring around 28 to 33 cm to the withers.

There isn’t a huge difference in size between males and females, but typically males weigh between 9 to 12.5 kg, whereas females are between 7. 5 to 11 kg.

Learn more about: French Bulldog Size & Weight Chart

Are French Bulldogs easy to train?

Taking your new French Bulldog to puppy classes and socialising him well is essential. Exposing your Frenchie to plenty of different places, people, and other dogs will ensure he grows into a well-behaved adult dog.

Pupping training classes will count towards your Frenchie’s socialisation, encourage good behaviour, and help you know how to recognise and nip bad habits in the bud.

Learn more about: French Bulldog Training Guide – Crate, Toilet & More Tips!

How do French Bulldogs behave? A look at their temperament and personality

Frenchie lovers will say their best qualities are their adaptability and charm. The French Bulldog temperament is very cuddly and lovable. They love everyone they meet, especially if you’re willing to provide a lap for them to curl up on! This adorable breed is also known for its quiet attentiveness.

Expect to be followed around a lot and to receive a tap with a paw if you’re not giving your pup enough attention. The French Bulldog is a very laid back character and loves nothing more than snoozing on the couch, so don’t expect to do any vigorous activities or dog sports with a Frenchie!

Learn more about: French Bulldog Temperament & Personality Traits

Does the French Bulldog have any common health issues?

Like other flat-faced breeds, French Bulldogs are prone to problems with breathing and other genetic health problems, and they don’t cope well in humid or hot weather. Frenchies are also very sensitive to anesthesia. They can occasionally develop eye conditions such as:

Juvenile Cataracts: A condition leading to clouding of the lens, which can affect vision.
Cherry Eye: Prolapse of the third eyelid gland, which can cause discomfort and require surgical intervention.
Entropion: A condition where the eyelids roll inward, causing irritation and potential damage to the cornea.

As well as this, they can suffer from autoimmune skin disorders and allergies. Reputable breeders will screen all of their breeding stock for problems that could affect them. The Frenchie is also one of the breeds with short noses and compacted skeletons but normal ratios of soft tissue and skin.

This can cause some health conditions, including Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome (BOAS). This is a pathological condition that can cause respiratory distress. As a Frenchie owner, you must be aware of the signs and symptoms of this condition.

It’s also a good idea to discuss it with your vet, so you know what to do if your pooch starts to display symptoms of it.

Learn more about: Common French Bulldog Health Issues

What is the lifespan of a French Bulldog?

The American Kennel Club says that the average lifespan of a French Bulldog is from 9 to 12 years. This is quite an average lifespan for many dogs, but it is on the low end for a small breed such as a Frenchie.

For example, Chihuahuas have a life expectancy of around 17 years because they’re not prone to genetic health issues like Frenchies are. Sadly, many French Bulldogs can suffer from potentially life=threatening conditions, and it’s essential to do your research before you go out and buy one.

How much does a French Bulldog need to be fed?

Frenchies can put weight on very easily, and because of their small size, excessive weight gain can increase the risk of developing some of the typical health problems of the breed.

Because of this, you must monitor their calorie intake. You can give your pup the occasional treat, but this must be kept to a minimum. Your Frenchie will probably be happy to snooze on the couch all day, so daily exercise is a must to help your dog maintain a healthy weight.

Learn more about: What to Feed a French Bulldog? Diet & Feeding Chart

How much can you expect to pay for a French Bulldog in Australia?

They may be small dogs, but Frenchies come with big price tags! In Australia, you can expect to pay between $3500 and $4500 for your new companion. However, the price can increase if you choose one with exceptional breeding.

If the price tag of a Frenchie puppy is too much, French Bulldog rescues may be a good option for you. It will be a much more affordable option, and you’ll be giving a home to a dog in need. Just be sure that the dog doesn’t have any serious health or behavioural issues before you rehome him.

Learn more about: French Bulldog Prices In Australia

French Bulldog FAQs

Are French Bulldogs good family pets?

Yes, this flat-faced breed loves family life and will fit into most homes well. They’re known for being laid back, so they typically get along with children and other dogs and pets.

They can have playful streaks as well, so Frenchies should always be supervised around young children to ensure that playtime doesn’t get too rough.

How can I help a French Bulldog suffering from breathing difficulties?

The first thing you can do is look out for any signs of breathing problems. These signs may include heavy breathing and panting, even when the dog is resting or asleep. A dog that is having no trouble breathing shouldn’t be making a lot of noise.

Something else to be aware of is keeping your Frenchie cool in hot weather. Frenchies can’t handle heat very well, which can cause breathing problems. As well as keeping them cool, avoid exercising your pup in the middle of the day in summer when the weather is at its hottest.

Is a French Bulldog friendly with other breeds?

Yes, as long as they’re mixed with other dogs at a young age, your Frenchie should get along well with other breeds. They are very sociable and level-headed, so you shouldn’t have any issues with aggression towards other dogs.