Featured Breed

French Bulldogs, or Frenchies for short, are sometimes confused with other breeds like English Bulldogs and Pugs.

Though Frenchies share similar traits with these other well-known breeds, you can always identify a Frenchie by its adorable, bat-like ears. It’s not surprising that French and English Bulldogs are often confused, as the Frenchie descended from its stocky British counterpart.

During the Industrial Revolution, lace makers left the U.K. and headed to France in search of work and many of them brought their small English Bulldogs with them. The tinier version of the English breed—especially the ones with erect, bat-like ears—quickly became popular among the people of France. By 1896, the dogs that had become known as “Bouledogues Français” were being shown at the Westminster Dog Show. Frenchies have soared in popularity since their debut over two hundred years ago, becoming one of the most popular dogs, not just in the United States but all over the world.

A fluffy pup

If you’re a couch potato, then you found your spirit animal!

Frenchies are the consummate lap dog, and they love lounging around with their humans. But don’t confuse their penchant for snoozing with a boring temperament. Frenchies are known for their playful, fun-loving personalities, and they get along well with children and other animals.

The Frenchie’s coat comes in a variety of colors, including fawn, cream, black, and white. Since they’re short and fine, it doesn’t require much maintenance beyond a weekly brushing. The same cannot be said about a Frenchie’s teeth. This breed is prone to dental issues, so brushing a Frenchie’s teeth at least three times a week is recommended. Frequent dental checks by a veterinarian are also important so any problems can be addressed quickly.

Frenchies don’t require much exercise, making them ideal city dogs. In fact, too much exercise, especially in extreme temperatures, can be dangerous for them. Frenchies have a hard time keeping themselves cool due to their short snouts, which cause them to wheeze and snort frequently. So, it’s very important to keep Frenchies inside when the weather gets hot.

Owning a French Bulldog

Unfortunately, French Bulldogs are prone to a host of breed-specific ailments.

Major health concerns include hip dysplasia, intervertebral disc disease, and brachycephalic syndrome. This syndrome affects smoosh-faced, short-nosed dogs and can cause issues like labored breathing, narrowed nostrils, obstructed airways, and collapsed voice boxes. Minor health concerns include patellar luxation, skin allergies, hemivertebra, and congenital spinal malformation.

At a glance

Covering your French Bulldog

French Bulldogs have a lifespan of 9 to 11 years.

Because they’re prone to many major and minor breed-specific health issues, it’s important to have them checked by a veterinarian at least once a year. Pet insurance for French Bulldogs is generally slightly more expensive than pet insurance for mixed breed dogs.

Since this breed is likely to have hereditary issues, it is important to get pet insurance for French Bulldogs within the first 1-2 years.

Rescue a puppy

Looking to rescue a French Bulldog? Here are some of the top French Bulldog rescues in the country: