The Ultimate French Bulldog Care Guide

Taking care of a French Bulldog is pure joy! They’re a fun-loving breed that loves to play and cuddle. A balanced diet, regular exercise, proper grooming, and regular vet check-ups will keep them healthy and happy. Don’t forget to give them lots of love and attention, and you’ll have a lifelong friend who brings joy to your life. French Bulldog care is a delightful experience that brings so much happiness! In this article, we have collected all the most important tips covering the ultimate Frenchie care!

Are Frenchies easy to take care of?

French Bulldogs, also known as Frenchies, are a popular breed of dogs known for their charming personalities and adorable wrinkled faces. When it comes to taking care of them, Frenchies are relatively low-maintenance dogs. They have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming, and they are not known to be heavy-shedder. They also have a low exercise requirement, making them suitable for apartment living.

However, Frenchies are prone to breathing difficulties due to their short snouts, so they may require special attention during hot weather or heavy physical activity. Additionally, they are prone to certain health issues such as skin allergies, hip dysplasia, and eye problems, so regular veterinary check-ups are important. A responsible dog breeder filters these very strictly so that the chances of occurrence can be kept to a minimum. Responsible breeders also help to identify and treat illnesses. Overall, Frenchies can be a great addition to any household with the right amount of care and attention.

Tips to keep your French Bulldog healthy

1. Frenchies are sensitive to heat

French Bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed, meaning they have short snouts, which can make it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature, especially in hot weather. Here are some tips to keep your Frenchie safe from heat:

Provide shade

Make sure your Frenchie has access to shade, whether it’s in the form of a canopy, an umbrella, or a shady tree.

Offer plenty of water

Keep your Frenchie hydrated by providing them with plenty of fresh water, and consider investing in a self-waterer if you’ll be away from home for an extended period.

Limit exercise

Avoid strenuous exercise during hot weather and opt for early morning or late evening walks instead.

Use cooling products

Invest in cooling products, such as cooling mats, cooling vests, or fans, to keep your Frenchie comfortable.

Avoid overheating

Be mindful of signs of overheating, such as heavy panting, red gums, and a lack of energy, and take steps to cool your Frenchie down immediately if you notice these signs.

By taking these steps, you can help protect your Frenchie from the dangers of heat and keep them healthy and comfortable during hot weather.

2. Keep your Frenchie fit

Keeping a French Bulldog fit and healthy requires a combination of proper diet, exercise, and preventive health care. Here are some tips to help keep your Frenchie in shape:

Provide a balanced diet

Feed your Frenchie a high-quality, well-balanced diet appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Avoid overfeeding, as Frenchies are prone to weight gain.

Regular exercise

Frenchies are a low-energy breed, but they still need regular exercise to maintain their health. Offer daily walks, playtime, and other forms of physical activity to keep them fit.

Preventative health care

Regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care, such as vaccinations and parasite control, are essential for maintaining your Frenchie’s health.

Avoid obesity

Frenchies are prone to obesity, so it’s important to monitor their weight and avoid overfeeding. Offer healthy treats in moderation and avoid giving in to those puppy-dog eyes at the dinner table.

Provide mental stimulation

Frenchies also need mental stimulation to keep them fit. Offer interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and other forms of mental stimulation to keep them mentally and physically fit.

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3. Don’t forget the grooming

Grooming a French Bulldog is an important aspect of maintaining its health and appearance. Here are some tips for grooming your Frenchie:

Brush regularly

Frenchies have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming, but regular brushing can help remove loose hair and prevent shedding.

Bathe occasionally

Frenchies don’t require frequent baths, but when necessary, use a gentle dog shampoo to avoid drying out their skin.

Clean their wrinkles

Frenchies have wrinkles on their face that can trap moisture and bacteria, so it’s important to clean them regularly with a damp cloth or wipes made specifically for dogs.

Trim nails

Regular nail trims are important to avoid painful cracks or splits. If you’re not comfortable trimming your Frenchie’s nails, consider having a professional groomer or veterinarian do it.

Clean their ears

Frenchies have floppy ears that can trap moisture and bacteria, so it’s important to clean them regularly with a damp cloth and a gentle, pH-balanced cleaner.

Brush their teeth

Regular teeth brushing can help maintain your Frenchie’s oral health and prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

4. Watch out for common Frenchie health issues

French Bulldogs, like all breeds, are prone to certain health issues. A responsible dog breeder will always screen the parent dogs before including them in their breeding program. By doing so, they can largely reduce the chance of passing over genetic diseases that may affect the French Bulldog lifespan. Here are some of the most common health problems seen in Frenchies:

Breathing difficulties

Frenchies are a brachycephalic breed, which means they have a short snout, and this can lead to breathing difficulties, especially in hot weather or during physical exertion. Loud breathing, snoring, and grunting are completely normal in French bulldogs. You should take your dog to a doctor if it is visibly bothering him.

Skin allergies

Frenchies are prone to skin allergies, which can cause itching, rashes, and other skin problems. French bulldogs are often allergic to chicken meat or various detergents, so it’s a good idea to substitute these if your dog scratches a lot.

Eye problems

Frenchies can develop various eye problems, including cherry eye, dry eye, and cataracts. Cherry eye is common in bulldogs, but it can be reversed with massage and can be easily cured even when it’s more severe.

Hip dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a common genetic problem in many breeds, including Frenchies. It is a congenital abnormality that can cause arthritis and other joint problems. Hip dysplasia is always filtered by responsible breeders, and our puppies get tested too.

Intervertebral disk disease

Frenchies are also prone to Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD), which is a condition that affects the disks in the spine and can cause back pain and paralysis. 99% of French Bulldogs carry the predisposition to IVDD due to their short stature. It can be prevented by not letting them jump from high places or climb stairs too much.

Gastrointestinal issues

Frenchies can also suffer from a variety of gastrointestinal problems, such as constipation, bloat, and megaesophagus.

It’s important to work with a veterinarian to monitor and treat any health problems as they arise. Regular preventive care, including vaccinations, routine exams, and a balanced diet, can also help maintain your Frenchie’s overall health and well-being.

5. Provide the right diet

The right diet for a French Bulldog will depend on its age, size, and activity level, as well as any individual health concerns. Here are some general guidelines to help you choose the right diet for your Frenchie:

A high-quality, balanced diet

Feed your Frenchie a high-quality, balanced diet that is appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Look for a diet that meets the nutritional requirements set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

Avoid overfeeding

Frenchies are prone to weight gain, so it’s important to avoid overfeeding and provide regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight.

Watch the protein content

Frenchies can be prone to food allergies, so it’s a good idea to choose a diet that contains a variety of protein sources and watch for any signs of food intolerance.

Consider small, frequent meals

Frenchies can also suffer from a variety of gastrointestinal problems, such as bloat and reflux, so consider feeding smaller, more frequent meals to help minimize any digestive issues.

Avoid table scraps

Table scraps can be high in fat and calories, and can also lead to digestive problems and food intolerance. Instead, stick to a balanced, nutritionally complete diet for your Frenchie.

By following these guidelines and working with your veterinarian, you can help ensure that your French Bulldog is getting the proper nutrition to maintain optimal health and well-being.

6. Prevent any ear problems

French Bulldogs are prone to ear problems due to their floppy ears, which can trap moisture and bacteria. Here are some tips to help prevent ear problems in Frenchies:

Keep the ears clean and dry

Clean your Frenchie’s ears regularly with a damp cloth or dog-specific ear cleaner to remove any dirt, debris, or wax buildup. Be sure to dry their ears thoroughly after each bath or swim to prevent moisture from accumulating.

Avoid exposing their ears to water

Try to avoid exposing their ears to water, especially during baths and swims. Consider using ear protection, such as ear muffs or earplugs, to keep their ears dry.

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Avoid over-cleaning

Over-cleaning can irritate your Frenchie’s ears and disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and yeast, so be gentle and avoid using cotton swabs or anything that can reach deep into the ear canal.

Watch for signs of infection

Signs of a French Bulldog ear infection can include redness, swelling, discharge, odor, and excessive scratching. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian for an evaluation.

Regular vet check-ups

They can help identify any potential ear problems early on and prevent them from becoming more serious.

7. Regular bathing is key

Regular bathing is important for French Bulldogs for several reasons: 

Hygiene

Regular bathing helps keep your Frenchie clean and fresh, removing any dirt, debris, and oils that can build up on their skin and coat. This can also help prevent skin infections and odors.

Allergies

Frenchies are prone to skin allergies, and regular bathing can help soothe any itching and irritation, as well as remove any allergens that may be present on their skin and coat.

Coat maintenance

Regular bathing can also help maintain the health and appearance of your Frenchie’s coat, keeping it shiny and soft.

Skin health

Bathing can also help improve your Frenchie’s skin health by removing any dead skin cells and promoting new skin cell growth.

Bonding

Regular baths can also be a great opportunity for bonding with your Frenchie, providing a chance for some one-on-one attention and playtime.

The frequency of bathing a French Bulldog depends on several factors, including the dog’s age, lifestyle, and skin condition. Generally, Frenchies can be bathed every 4-8 weeks. However, if your Frenchie has skin allergies or other skin conditions, you may need to bathe them more frequently with a medicated shampoo recommended by your veterinarian.

It’s important to use a dog-specific shampoo and to avoid over-bathing, as this can strip the natural oils from your Frenchie’s skin and coat, leading to dryness and irritation. Always make sure to rinse thoroughly to remove all soap and shampoo, and be sure to dry your Frenchie thoroughly after each bath to prevent any moisture from accumulating in their ears. By following these guidelines, you can help keep your Frenchie clean, healthy, and happy.

8. Good dental hygiene 

Good dental hygiene is important for the overall health and well-being of French Bulldogs. Here are some tips to help keep your Frenchie’s teeth and gums healthy:

Brush their teeth regularly

Brushing your Frenchie’s teeth regularly with a soft-bristled toothbrush and dog-specific toothpaste can help remove plaque and tartar, preventing gum disease and tooth decay.

Provide dental chews and toys

Providing your Frenchie with dental chews and toys can help remove plaque and tartar through chewing, as well as provide mental stimulation and promote healthy chewing habits.

Offer a balanced diet

Feeding your Frenchie a balanced diet that is low in sugar and carbohydrates can help prevent plaque and tartar buildup, as well as maintain a healthy weight.

Avoid table scraps

Avoid feeding your Frenchie table scraps, as these can be high in sugar and carbohydrates and can promote plaque and tartar buildup.

Regular dental exams

Regular dental exams with your veterinarian can help identify any potential dental problems early on, allowing for prompt treatment and preventing more serious health issues down the road.

9. Choose a Frenchie-specialist veterinarian

Choosing a Frenchie-specialist veterinarian is important for the health and well-being of your French Bulldog. Here are some tips to help you choose the best vet for your Frenchie:

Look for a veterinarian with experience

Look for a veterinarian who has experience working with French Bulldogs, as they will be more familiar with the breed’s specific health needs and concerns.

Ask for referrals

Ask for referrals from other Frenchie owners, breeders, or your local Frenchie rescue group. They may be able to recommend a veterinarian who is knowledgeable and experienced in working with Frenchies.

Research online

Research online to find veterinary clinics in your area that specialize in French Bulldogs. Check their websites and read online reviews to get a better understanding of their level of expertise and experience.

Schedule a meet and greet

Schedule a meet and greet with the veterinarian and their staff to get a feel for their level of knowledge and experience with Frenchies, as well as their approach to pet care and overall demeanor.

Consider their location

Consider the location of the veterinarian, as you want to choose a veterinarian who is conveniently located and easily accessible in case of an emergency.

10. The most important advice: choose your Frenchie from a decent, legitimate breeder!

Choosing a French Bulldog from a decent, legitimate breeder is important to ensure that you get a healthy and happy pet. Here are some tips to help you choose the right breeder for your Frenchie:

Research breeders

Research French Bulldog breeders online, read reviews and consider reaching out to breed-specific clubs or organizations for recommendations. Read Google reviews or search the breeder on review pages like TrustPilot. Feel free to check out our TrustIndex page where you can read over a hundred reviews from real owners! 

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Ask for references

Ask the breeder for references from previous buyers, and consider reaching out to those individuals to ask about their experiences. You can always join our closed Facebook group where you can meet and talk to other Tomkings owners.

Health screening

Look for a breeder who health screens their Frenchies for common health issues, such as hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and breathing problems, to ensure you’re getting a healthy pup.

Ask about the puppies’ socialization

Ask the breeder about their socialization process and whether the puppies have been exposed to different people, animals, and environments to ensure that they will be well-adjusted and confident. We treat all of our Frenchies as family members, let them roam freely in our vast green garden, and rest with us in our house. Our Frenchie puppies can play as much as they want and we raise them by teaching all the good manners among dogs and people, including children.

Contract and guarantees

Review the breeder’s contract and any guarantees they provide, and make sure that you understand their return policy and any restrictions they may have. You can always contact us, and we will send you our health guarantee within a few hours!

Recommendations

Ask for recommendations from other Frenchie owners, your veterinarian, or local dog clubs.

By considering these factors and researching different breeders, you can increase your chances of finding a reputable breeder who produces healthy and well-tempered Frenchies. However, keep in mind that even the best breeder may not produce the perfect dog for everyone, so it’s important to do your own research and choose a breeder who aligns with your individual needs and preferences.

The article is based on the expert knowledge of the TomKings Puppies team who have been breeding French Bulldogs for 10 years on their farm. All the pictures in the post belong to them and their customers and show puppies from their breed. Check their available French Bulldog puppies, or if you have any questions or comments let us know below the article.