Breed Spotlight: French Bulldog

Coat Type and Colors

Frenchies today come in a wide variety of colors, including lilac and blue, but these exotic colors are hard to find. Here are the standard colors for French bulldogs recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC):³

• Brindle
• Cream
• Fawn
• White
• Brindle and white
• Fawn and white

In addition to these colors, a French bulldog may have markings on their coat or face that are black, white, brindled, or piebald (irregular patches of two colors).

Ears

Frenchies have round, pointy ears that stand straight up, giving them an expressive face.

Ear infections are common in bulldogs due to the narrowness of their ear canals, which creates a warm, moist environment that yeast and bacteria love. Special care is needed to keep their ears clean so pet owners can avoid costly veterinary bills.

Shedding and Grooming

French bulldogs are moderate shedders who are easy to groom. Simply brush them with a medium-bristle brush once a week after a good bath.

Frenchies have tight folds around their ears, eyes, and noses that need special attention during bathing sessions to avoid skin infections. If you’re pressed for time, a wet washcloth will help to keep your dog’s skin free from bacteria. Make sure you dry their face and body thoroughly to avoid bacteria.

Drooling Level

Drooling isn’t a typical Frenchie trait, but some can be a bit drool-prone. If that’s a concern, this breed may not be for you.

Behavior

Frenchies have an easy-going personality and are great for laid-back families that can give them plenty of love and attention. The French bulldog temperament can also manifest as possessiveness over their family and they could become aggressive.

Exercise Needs

A French bulldog does not require a significant amount of exercise due to their size. You should walk them once per day to prevent obesity. They enjoy a good play session, chasing balls, and playing tug of war. Don’t expect this pup to keep up on morning runs but they will be happy at the dog park with you. Frenchies can become tiny couch potatoes if you leave them to their own devices, so make time to get them up and to move!

Note that Frenchies cannot swim and should never be left unattended near a tub, pool, or body of water as exercise. They can drown due to their short legs and their top-heavy body.

Good with Other Pets?

Socialization is key with French bulldogs and other pets. French bulldogs aren’t known to fuss with other dogs in public, but at home, they can become territorial if allowed. Take extra care to socialize your pets and you’ll have close fur buddies in no time.

Trainability

Positive reinforcement training works best for Frenchies because they are eager to please, but some do have a stubborn streak. Consider puppy training classes if you struggle to train your French bulldog.

Good with Kids?

The Frenchie is very good with children. These bundles of energy will keep up with the most rambunctious kid while being calm enough for solemn teenagers. As long as you take the time to socialize your Frenchie, they can make wonderful family dogs.

Barking Level

Excessive barking is generally not a problem in this breed. If your Frenchie barks, it is only to get your attention or to warn you someone is coming.

French Bulldog: A History

As their name suggests, French bulldogs are French dogs. These bulldogs were popularly sold by breeders from the United Kingdom to French upper-class women who enjoyed the smaller, toy-sized bulldogs because of their fashionability and upbeat attitudes.³ The variety became associated with wealth, the upper crust, and the bourgeois.

Nowadays, the Frenchie is still a relatively expensive puppy to purchase but it can be found in regular, working class homes. French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dogs owned in the United States. Their small size makes them wonderful pets to keep in apartments, townhomes, and generally small living spaces. Unlike other bulldogs, this breed looks less grumpy due to their large expressive eyes. No matter how much money you make, French bulldogs love their pet parents equally.