According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), French bulldogs are now the most popular dog breed in the United States. We can understand why. With their distinctive bat ears and charming personalities, French bulldogs, or “Frenchies,” have captured the hearts of dog lovers worldwide. These compact and affectionate companions make wonderful pets, but they require specific care to ensure they live happy, healthy lives. Our Twin Lakes Veterinary Hospital team explores essential aspects of French bulldog care, covering the spectrum from diet and exercise to grooming and health maintenance.

A unique breed: The French bulldog

French bulldogs are miniature versions of English bulldogs, which were initially bred in England for their aesthetics and amiable nature. Frenchies were introduced in France in the late 1800s as a status symbol for wealthy Parisians. French bulldogs, like other brachycephalic breeds (e.g., pugs, boxers), have unique traits, including their smooshed faces. This abnormality, while adorable, causes specific health concerns that most often affect their respiratory abilities, and Frenchie owners must understand their pet’s special needs to provide optimal care.

Caring for your French bulldog

Like any pet, French bulldogs require regular daily care to thrive, and you will need to make important decisions about their diet and other care tasks. The following are some components of excellent Frenchie care:

  • Nutritious diet — A balanced diet is the foundation of your French bulldog’s good health. They need high-quality dog food formulated for small breeds that meets their nutritional needs based on their age, lifestyle, and health status. You can consult with our Twin Lakes Veterinary Hospital team to ensure the diet is appropriately nutritious. For example, puppies require additional vitamins and nutrients for growth, while adult dogs need their food amount monitored to prevent overfeeding. Frenchies easily gain weight and obesity can cause several health problems, so be judicious with their treats and ensure they do not eat table scraps. 
  • Exercise and play — French bulldogs may not require the high-impact exercise of a large dog, but they do need exercise and playtime. Frenchies enjoy exercise, but with the caveat that they’re brachycephalic and likely suffer from heat intolerance and respiratory issues. Your Frenchie requires only short walks and playtime sessions, and should not be exercised outside in warm weather.
  • Mental stimulation — Enriching toys, games, and interactive activities are all necessary to prevent your pet from being bored. Because Frenchies are social creatures, you should play interactive games together and ensure your pet often has new toys that will pique their interest and encourage play. 
  • Grooming — Frenchies have a short coat that requires minimal grooming compared with many other breeds. However, regular brushing helps remove loose hair and reduces shedding, and you must pay special attention to keep their facial wrinkles and ears clean to prevent infections.
  • Dental care — French bulldogs, like most small breeds, are susceptible to dental problems related to their small oral cavities and closely formed teeth, and their teeth need daily brushing with a pet-formulated, pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrush. Also, ensure that they receive regular veterinary dental exams and cleanings to prevent periodontal disease and other dental issues.
  • Training and socialization — Start training and socializing your French bulldog from a young age to instill good behavior and manners. Positive reinforcement techniques work well with this breed, and consistency and repetition are key to successful training. Expose your dog to a variety of people, animals, and environments, so they feel familiar and confident in different situations.
  • Veterinary care — French bulldogs are prone to skin allergies and joint issues, as well as their respiratory difficulties, so regular veterinary exams are essential for early detection and treatment of potential health issues Stay up-to-date on their vaccinations, flea, tick, and heartworm prevention regimens, and blood work to protect them from common parasitic illnesses, such as heartworm and Lyme disease.
  • Traveling with your Frenchie — When you travel by car with your French Bulldog, ensure they enjoy the ride in a comfortable, secure travel crate or carrier. Plan your journey ahead of time and include rest stops so they can stretch their legs and relieve themselves. Always carry essential items, such as food, water, leash, and identification tags, and never leave your pet in a parked car for any amount of time. 

Caring for a French bulldog involves understanding their unique qualities, providing the proper care for their specific needs, and of course, giving them lots of love and attention. Contact our Twin Lakes Veterinary Hospital team for information or advice on top-notch Frenchie care. We will help ensure your French bulldog not only looks special but also stays healthy.