April is Active Dog Month
The month of April is Active Dog Month. This month-long…
French Bulldog
Life Expectancy: 11 – 14 years
Dog Breed Group: Companion Dogs
Weight: 16 – 28 lbs.
Height: 11 – 13 inches
Where Does the Frenchie Rank?
See where this beloved breed ranks in comparison to other breeds in 7 key categories.
Trainability
Frenchies are generally responsive to training using positive reinforcement but do have a stubborn streak.
Shedding Friendliness
French Bulldogs are moderate shedders.
Ease of Grooming
With daily ear and skin fold ablutions, frequent bathing, routine eye care, as well as brushing, caring for a Frenchie isn’t for those that are time-pressed.
Health
The French Bulldog’s cute, squishy face can also compromise their airway causing respiratory issues like Brachycephalic Syndrome and airway deformities. This breed also commonly suffers from heatstroke, allergies, skin conditions and orthopedic issues.
Exercise Needs
The French Bulldog does not require a significant amount of exercise; however, you should attempt to get at least one walk in per day to prevent obesity.
Good with Children
The Frenchie is an extremely social dog and is very good with children.
Barking Restraint
Excessive barking is generally not a problem in this breed.
What You Need to Know About French Bulldogs
Behavior
Frenchies are extremely loving companions who require human contact. The Frenchie thrives on love and expects to be near his pet parent at all times. The Frenchie does not often prefer one member of the family but rather loves the entire family equally. They are known to be possessive over their family and may become aggressive toward other dogs outside of their family.
The French Bulldog enjoys a good play session but also appreciates plenty of cuddle time as well. They have an easy-going personality which makes them desirable to laid back families.
Training
French Bulldogs are a relatively easy-to-train breed. They do have a stubborn streak; remember, be patient at all times throughout training. House training can be difficult when training this breed.
Grooming
Frenchies are easy to groom as they only need brushed occasionally to keep a healthy coat. They are average shedders.
Health Problems
Hip Dysplasia – Hip dysplasia occurs when the femur does not properly fit into the pelvic socket.
Brachycephalic Syndrome – This health condition is found in dogs with short snouts which results in narrowed nostrils and elongated soft palates. Brachycephalic Syndrome results in difficulty exercising, difficulty with heat, difficulty breathing and sometimes the collapse of the airway.
Hemivertebrae – Malformation that causes a vertebrae to be shaped abnormally.
Patellar Luxation – This health condition is common in small dogs and involves the patella not lining up correctly.
Heatstroke – Because of the Frenchies compromised respiratory function, they have poor heat and exercise tolerance, which can lead to this life-threatening illness.
Top 10 Most Common Health Issues for French Bulldogs
- Otitis – ear infection
- Dermatitis
- Gastritis
- Colitis – inflammatory reaction in the colon
- Corneal Ulcers
- URI – upper respiratory infection
- Allergies
- Brachycephalic Syndrome
- Conjunctivitis – pink eye
- UTI – urinary tract infection
Nothing in this article should be construed as financial, legal or veterinary advice. Please consult your own advisors for questions relating to your and your pet’s specific circumstances.
