9 Ways You Might Be Shortening Your Frenchie’s Life

Sharing your life with a French Bulldog is an experience filled with joy, laughter, and unconditional love. With an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years, we all hope to keep our Frenchies happy and healthy for as long as possible. However, some common mistakes—often made unintentionally—can affect their longevity and quality of life. From proper nutrition and exercise to regular check-ups, the care we provide has a lasting impact on their well-being. In this article, we’ll delve into 9 everyday habits that might unknowingly harm your Frenchie and share practical tips to help you avoid them. Small changes can make a big difference in ensuring your furry friend thrives and stays by your side for many wonderful years!

1. Overfeeding and Obesity

One of the most common health issues among Frenchies is obesity, which can significantly shorten their lifespan. French Bulldogs are small dogs with a stocky build, so even a few extra pounds can put unnecessary strain on their joints, heart, and overall health. Obesity increases the risk of serious conditions like diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

What’s surprising is that many owners don’t realize their Frenchie is overweight. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, 59% of dogs in their study were overweight or obese, yet only 17% of their owners recognized their pets’ weight issues, with 84% believing their dogs were at a healthy weight. It’s a subtle issue that often goes unnoticed until it’s too late.

The solution? Work with your vet to create a diet plan tailored to your Frenchie’s age, size, and activity level. Portion control is key, as is limiting treats—even when those puppy eyes are hard to resist! If your Frenchie is already carrying extra weight, gradual lifestyle changes are essential. Combine a balanced diet with controlled exercise to help them shed pounds safely. For more tips, check out our blog post: Fat French Bulldog? Tips to Help Your Frenchie Lose Weight.

2. Skipping Regular Vet Visits

Routine vet visits are a cornerstone of keeping your Frenchie healthy. Regular check-ups can help identify potential health issues—like heart disease, cancer, or organ problems—early, when they’re often easier and less costly to treat. 

For young and healthy Frenchies, an annual vet visit is recommended. However, as your pup ages or if they have chronic health conditions, biannual check-ups are a better choice. These visits not only monitor your Frenchie’s overall health but also ensure they stay up-to-date on vaccinations and parasite prevention.

Neglecting regular vet care can lead to undiagnosed illnesses that could have been prevented or managed. So, think of vet visits as an investment in your Frenchie’s long and happy life. If you’re currently searching for the right vet you can trust your baby’s health with, this article is for you: 7 Tips to Find the Best Vet for Your Frenchie.

3. Lack of Exercise

French Bulldogs may not be the most active breed, but regular exercise is essential to their physical and mental well-being. Without enough activity, your Frenchie could become overweight, develop behavioral issues, or experience joint stiffness over time.

It’s important to strike a balance though—Frenchies are prone to overheating, so over-exercising can be harmful, especially in hot weather. Instead, focus on daily moderate activities like short walks, gentle playtime, or interactive toys that stimulate their minds. Every Frenchie is unique, so tailor their exercise routine to their age, energy and health level. Consistency is key, and even 20-30 minutes of activity a day can make a big difference.

Want more ideas? Check out our blog post: How Much Exercise Does a French Bulldog Need?

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4. Overexertion or Heat Stress

Frenchies are incredibly lovable flat faces, but their brachycephalic anatomy makes them more vulnerable to overheating and overexertion. Their short snouts can make breathing less efficient, especially in hot or humid weather, putting them at a higher risk of heat exhaustion or even heatstroke.

Signs of heat stress in Frenchies include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, or difficulty breathing. In extreme cases, their gums may turn pale or blue. To prevent this, avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day, provide plenty of water, and ensure your Frenchie has access to shaded or cool areas.

Keep walks short and gentle in warm weather, and consider using cooling vests or mats to help regulate their body temperature. Indoors, air conditioning or a fan can work wonders during the summer months. Always keep a close eye on your Frenchie during playtime to make sure they don’t push themselves too hard.

5. Neglecting Oral Hygiene

Did you know that dental health is directly linked to your Frenchie’s overall well-being? Many owners overlook their dog’s oral hygiene, yet periodontal disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs, affecting nearly 80% of pups by the age of three.

Plaque buildup can lead to inflamed gums, tooth decay, and even tooth loss. Worse, untreated dental issues can allow bacteria to enter your Frenchie’s bloodstream, potentially causing problems with their heart, kidneys, or liver.

To prevent these issues, make brushing your Frenchie’s teeth a part of your regular routine. Use dog-safe toothpaste and a soft brush designed for pets. If brushing is a challenge, dental chews or water additives can help reduce plaque. Additionally, schedule an annual dental check-up with your vet, who can professionally clean your Frenchie’s teeth and check for any underlying issues.

Want to learn more about proper dental care? Read our blog: Everything you need to know about your Frenchie’s teeth.

6. Ignoring Parasite Prevention

Parasites like fleas, ticks, and heartworms may seem like minor nuisances, but they can pose serious health risks to your Frenchie. Fleas can cause skin irritation and allergies, while ticks carry dangerous diseases such as Lyme disease. Heartworms, transmitted by mosquito bites, can be life-threatening if left untreated.

French Bulldogs, with their sensitive skin and immune systems, are especially prone to complications caused by parasites. Prevention is much easier than treatment, so it’s essential to keep your Frenchie on a year-round parasite prevention plan. Speak to your vet about the best options, which may include topical treatments or oral medications.

In addition to preventive treatments, regular grooming and checking your Frenchie’s coat for signs of fleas or ticks is crucial. Catching these parasites early can save your pup from discomfort and potential health problems.

7. Feeding Inappropriate Foods

Frenchies are notorious for their love of food, but not everything that tastes good to them is good for their health. Many human foods are toxic to dogs, including chocolate and xylitol (found in sugar-free products), but also fruits like grapes and vegetables like onions. Even foods that aren’t toxic, like fatty or spicy table scraps, can lead to obesity, pancreatitis, or digestive issues.

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To keep your Frenchie safe, always stick to a balanced diet designed for their needs. Reserve snacks for training or special occasions, and opt for dog-friendly healthy treats like carrot sticks, apple slices (without seeds), or store-bought treats made specifically for dogs.

8. Skipping Spaying or Neutering

Spaying or neutering your Frenchie can have significant health benefits. It reduces the risk of certain cancers, such as mammary tumors in females and testicular cancer in males. Additionally, it can help prevent unwanted litters and reduce problematic behaviors like roaming or aggression.

While there are many benefits, the timing of the procedure matters. Consult your vet to determine the right age for spaying or neutering your Frenchie based on their health and lifestyle. For a detailed guide, read our blog: When to Neuter Your French Bulldog?

9. Exposure to Secondhand Smoke

Frenchies are particularly vulnerable to breathing issues due to their brachycephalic anatomy, and exposure to secondhand smoke can further exacerbate these problems. Cigarette smoke increases the risk of lung disease, cancers, and allergies—not just for humans but for pets as well.

If you’re a smoker, make it a habit to smoke outdoors, away from your Frenchie, and avoid exposing them to environments where smoking occurs. This small change can significantly improve their quality of life and help them breathe easier.

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Conclusion

Our Frenchies bring so much joy and love into our lives, and it’s our responsibility to ensure they live long, happy, and healthy lives. By avoiding these common mistakes and adopting better care habits, you can make a world of difference for your furry friend.

Remember, regular vet visits, a balanced diet, and the right amount of exercise are just the beginning. Stay informed, consult your vet when in doubt, and always prioritize your Frenchie’s well-being.

If you’d like to learn more about Frenchies, join our Facebook group called TomKings Frenchie Family to read our Frenchie parents’ experiences.

The article is based on the expert knowledge of the TomKings Puppies team who have been breeding French Bulldogs for 15 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.