Looking for a petite pooch with character in spades? The French Bulldog, nicknamed the ‘Frenchie’, ticks all the boxes. From its enormous ‘bat’ ears and boxy face to its hilarious personality, it is impossible to mistake the Frenchie for any other type of dog. This compact breed is adored for being a friendly and companionable pet and needs minimal exercise, making it a popular choice for city living and families alike.

French Bulldog Facts

Breed Group: Utility

Size: Small

Sheds?: Yes

Coat length: Short

Exercise: up to an hour per day

Grooming required?: Once a week

A Brief History of the French Bulldog

Don’t be fooled by the name – the French Bulldog started life in 1800s England and is closely related to the Toy Bulldog. The lacemakers of Nottingham took their dogs with them when they went to work in France, where they were crossed with other bull-baiting dogs to bring out the sizeable upright ears that the French ladies found so appealing.

French Bulldog Health

The average lifespan of the French Bulldog is over 10 years.

Like other breeds with short muzzles, the Frenchie is prone to respiratory problems – wheezing, snoring and discomfort in hot weather. They’re prone to heatstroke and overfeeding can add to their difficulty breathing. Other problems can affect their heart, back and eyes. Overall, the French Bulldog is fairly high maintenance in terms of health.

French Bulldog Characteristics

The Jolly Roger

Frenchies buck the small dog trend and aren’t known for yapping. This breed is a quietly affectionate and easy-going clown who loves playing and human company. Often touted as a lap dog, the Frenchie is equally good among families, and it won’t take much to keep yours happy as Larry. Short, regular walks will provide sufficient exercise to keep yours fit as a fiddle.

Minimal downsides

If the thought of drooling, flatulance and shedding really puts you off, this might not be the best dog for you.

Small Dog Syndrome

As with all smaller breeds, it’s easy to fall into the trap of babying your French Bulldog. Beware though – if you let them boss you around, they’ll turn into quite a handful. They can also become aggressive towards other dogs without appropriate training

Training

French Bulldogs are reportedly easy to train and teach tricks. As with all dogs though, if you don’t show enough authority as an owner, you mind find that your Frenchie develops a stubborn streak.

Housebreaking

French Bulldogs are fairly easy to housebreak.

Where to find French Bulldogs

French Bulldog Groups

Keen to compare ears and swap comedy tales with other Frenchie fanatics? Find a French Bulldog breed group below.

French Bulldog Club of England

Midland & Northern Counties French Bulldog Club

The Pennine and Scottish French Bulldog Association

Adopt a French Bulldog

Want to adopt a French Bulldog in need of a loving home? Find a rescue centre below.

French Bulldog Rescue GB

French Bulldog Welfare Trust

Frenchie Breeders

Fancy bringing some Frenchie flavour to your life? Find an approved French Bulldog breeder below.
Kennel Club Assured Breeders

Do you own a French Bulldog?

If you own a Frenchie let us know in the comments below and upload your picture to our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram tagging @DogBuddyCo. Don’t forget to use the hashtag #dogbuddybreed so we can filter your images!