The Ultimutt French Bulldog Handbook

During the Industrial Revolution, these charming companions were brought by English workers, searching for better opportunities, over to France. They became a popular breed there, and French breeders began selectively breeding them with other small dog breeds (including Terriers and Pugs), which ultimately created the modern French Bulldog. 

French Bulldogs grew particularly popular in Paris, where they were associated with an artistic and bohemian lifestyle. The French Bulldog’s popularity then spread beyond France, to the US and beyond. They have a playful temperament and make excellent companion dogs. Their small size and lower exercise requirements also make them ideal for urban living.

French Bulldogs have countless quirks, many of which contribute to their popularity, though it’s also good to know the more challenging aspects of this. They’re a playful breed and can be energetic, but these bursts tend to be shorter than other breeds. They’re very affectionate and will form a strong attachment to their humans. This may mean you’re followed around the house as they seek your attention and affection! They love to embrace a funny sleeping position, often flopping on their stomachs like a frog, with legs splayed out. 

French Bulldogs are also susceptible to temperature changes. In cold weather, they are quite sensitive, owing to their thin coats and compact bodies. Look out for any shivering - they may want to cosy up under a blanket. Similarly, be wary of your French Bulldog overheating. Their flat face makes panting less efficient and you should be conscious of avoiding too much heat exposure alongside excessive strenuous activity. In their older age, French Bulldogs love a good snore (even when they’re awake!). Due to their brachycephalic (short-nosed) anatomy, snorts, grunts and other nasal sounds are common.

Key to owning a French Bulldog is understanding that they are afflicted with BAS (brachycephalic Airway Syndrome), due to their short snout and flat faces. This can make breathing more difficult, and give less tolerance to heat. Keeping them cool in hot weather and avoiding strenuous exercise is important, and if you’re concerned at all about their respiration, speak to a vet. Due to their general sensitivity to heat, keep their temperature regulation in mind, and ensure they have ample water to stay hydrated.

Owing to their short bodies, French Bulldogs can also be prone to spinal or disc problems (IVDD - Intervertebral Disc Disease). The symptoms of this include back pain and difficulty walking. To manage this, avoid excessive rough play and, like all other conditions, ensure a healthy weight is maintained. Ultimately, French Bulldogs are more prone to several health conditions due to their build; these issues can be managed with proper care, but it’s important to be wary of the risks.

Due to their unique physical traits, exercising a French Bulldog does require some extra care. Short and moderate walks are the order of the day. Around 15-20 minutes is optimum, and two a day. The walks shouldn’t be intense and ideally stick to reasonably flat terrain. Short sessions are best as French Bulldogs can tire easily. 30-45 minutes is enough exercise each day, and is best done at a time when it isn’t too hot outside. You’ll be able to see how your pooch is faring with their exercise routine by listening to their breathing. Any heavy panting, gasping or laboured breathing is a sign you should reduce the intensity of exercise. A harness instead of a collar is advisable, as it reduces pressure on the neck and prevents choking or difficulty breathing during walks. French Bulldogs are also not renowned for their swimming ability, due to the composition of their bodies. Short, supervised water play is recommended, if your pup does wish to swim!

French Bulldogs have a short, smooth coat that fortunately only sheds moderately. They still benefit from a regular brush each week, to remove loose fur and reduce shedding. This will also help to distribute natural oils and keep their coat shiny and healthy. Shedding will likely increase seasonally (in Spring and Autumn) so brushing may need to be more frequent then. Every 4-6 weeks you can bathe your French Bulldog, or alternatively just when they’re particularly dirty. Use a mild, dog-friendly shampoo and don’t bathe too regularly, to avoid removing their natural oils and irritating their skin. 

The wrinkles and folds on a French Bulldog's face can be a trap for moisture, bacteria and dirt. Daily cleaning with a damp cloth (or a pet-safe wipe) can help reduce the risk of irritation and infections. If their wrinkles do become irritated or dry, speak to your vet about getting a specific ointment or wrinkle balm for soothing the area.

High-quality dog food is recommended for French Bulldogs, with brands that include real meat. Protein from a variety of sources is important to support muscle growth and general health. This should make up 20-30% of their diet, and good sources include chicken, turkey, beef, lamb, salmon and eggs. Fat should be given to French Bulldogs in moderation, though healthy fat sources are encouraged - fish oils, chicken fat, and flaxseed are examples of these. Carbohydrates are good for your French Bulldog’s energy, though it’s best to focus on ‘complex carbs’ that are easier on their digestive system. These include sweet potatoes, brown rice, oatmeal, barley, and whole grains. As ever, avoid fillers and artificial additives as they will not help with allergies or sensitivities. As for all pups, portion control is important for maintaining health and preventing obesity.