BREED QUESTIONS

Are you interested in this breed? Here are answers to the most common questions asked.

Are French Bulldogs good dogs to own?

 Absolutly, they are fun, usually sweet and very charming. They want to be your buddy and spend all their time with you. Most people can't stop with just one and end up with two or three. They are very unique dogs to own.
Do Frenchies bark a lot? Not more or less barkers compared to other breeds.  Frenchies are not typically excessive barkers.
Are Frenchies good watch dogs? Frenchies make good watch dogs and can become somewhat territorial and protective.
Are French Bulldogs good companion dogs? They are fantastic companion dogs.  They are fun, entertaining and loving.  The French Bulldog is delightful, easy to groom and requires little exercise.
How do Frenchies take to Apartment living? They do very well in apartments.  This is one reason the French Bulldog has been popular throughout history since they like to be where you are, they don't take up much space at all.  It is good to get in a good walk as much as possible for overall health and exercise.  If your Frenchie only gets the occasional walk to the grass outside, is at least something.
Are French Bulldogs sociable? Very much so. All dogs do better with exposure to other dogs, and other people too.  The French Bulldog should never be a mean, aggressive or a vicious animal.  It is often recommended and a good idea to take your Frenchie visiting and to various places.  This helps your dog be a better dog and not possibly overreact out of fear of the unknown.  It also builds confidence and character in your dog.  It gives you and the dog an easier time when separated or when traveling together.

If your Frenchie is penned up all the time consider he  needs to be a part of your life.
 

Are French Bulldogs good with children? All young children need supervision especially around puppies.   This is often for the puppies sake as well.   French Bulldogs are typically very good around children. 
Are French Bulldogs good with cats? Like with most dogs, but can do just fine with cats too.  A cat's claws can be hazardous to the French Bulldogs eyes, not having a nose to block the cats paw. It is better knowing if you have cats they either outside cats or perhaps as an option having their front paws altered.
Are French Bulldogs good with other dogs? Depending on the dog(s). 

They can get along just fine and would consider supervision at all times until you're sure. 

Try using the X-pen to introduce your new Frenchie to other dogs.  While they are protected get your other dog's reaction and the Frenchies response.  Sooner or later, a puppy may attempt to establish dominance in some cases with smaller or more submissive dogs.

Are French Bulldogs easy to Train? They can be very willing.  They can also be very stubborn and hardheaded too.  If you make it a game they'll want to play all the time.  Frenchies are often considered people pleasers and love to be the center of attention.
Do Frenchies Snore? Yes, Frenchies can snore. Some more than others if they are aggravated by breathing deficiencies such as an elongated soft palate or small nares (nose hole opening). They can make a rough throaty sound. Still there are some that hardly make a sound at all.
What breathing problems? Sometimes you may find a Frenchie that is noisy or has labored breathing.  They may have a longer tongue or excessive soft palate and is obstructing their airway.  Smaller nose openings can exaggerate their already noisy characteristics.

Note:  Other symptoms of elongated soft palate are spiting up or regurgitating food or foam frequently.  Consult  your veterinarian for corrective alternatives.
What about Feeding?

Use consideration when feeding a French Bulldog properly.  Be aware of artificial preservatives and excessive protein and fillers.  Some dogs may have allergic reactions to certain commercial foods.  Read the label and know what suits your dogs needs best.  Consult your veterinarian if your dog experiences food allergies. 

Food additive:

  • Yogurt (full fat or low fat)
  • Cottage Cheese (full fat or low fat)
  • Fresh Avocado
  • Flaxseed meal
  • Fresh meats - cooked or raw (consult your vet)
  • Soft cooked vegetables
  • Cooked Potatoes or Rice

Some French Bulldogs like fruits and melons too.

A healthy Frenchie is not overweight and can be damaging to their physical structure and shorten their lifespan.

Note: Wheat products are known to be flatulent producing in some French Bulldogs.  Corn products and fillers that are an additional source of protein may increase your dogs energy levels and cause hives (skin rashes or irritations).
 
How hard are Frenchies to potty train? This is a combined effort.  Some dogs are harder than others.  Try installing a dog door or at first you might start by crate training.  Develop a routine after they eat, before bed and first thing in the morning, and be consistent.  Remember a puppy's little bladders may not be under control as quickly as we'd like so be positive.
Do Frenchies shed? Yes, but are single coated and shed less compared to other breeds. You'll find at least twice a year their coat will change depending on the temperature. During those times is when you'll notice them shed more or less. A healthy dog has a healthy, short, shiny coat and sheds less.
Are Frenchies easy to breed? It can be difficult for French Bulldogs to breed naturally and may be assisted by a veterinarian or reproduction specialist. Due to the process of whelping puppies, you should be aware of the dates your Frenchie was bred. Quite often they are artificially inseminated "A.I.", to assure conception around a specified date. Check with a breeder or veterinarian before breeding your dog.
Whelping Puppies? Due to the French Bulldog shape and pups size of head quite often are born by C-Section in a veterinarian hospital.  Educate yourself before intending to breed French Bulldogs. It is very much a labor of love and committment.
How do I find a vet familiar with French Bulldogs?

Call around to vets in your area and ask if they have any French Bulldogs clients or if they can recommend a vet specializing in "Bull Dogs".

I can recommend in Riverside, southern California Dr. Butchko, of West Riverside Animal Hospital.  Also check with a breeder in your area.
What other cautions about French Bulldogs?

Heat, keep your Frenchie protected from extreme or moderate heat and cold. Hot weather can be hazardous and never leave your Frenchie in a car with the windows up or any dog for that matter. In colder states some French Bulldogs enjoy a romp in the snow. For the most part French Bulldogs are an in-door breed.

Take extreme caution around areas of water such as swimming pools or unfenced ponds deep enough to cover their heads. Some French Bulldogs can learn to swim but is not the norm due to their weight and build. Many become curious, lean over, fall in and sink. This is one of the more common reasons for loosing a French Bulldog even thought they generally seem to like water.