FAQ

THE FRENCH BULL DOG CLUB OF AMERICA

COMMON FRENCH BULLDOG BREED QUESTIONS

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?

Wonderfully.  This is one reason the French Bulldog has been popular throughout the history of the breed.  Frenchies like to be where you are and don't take up too 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?    

All dogs seem to do better with exposure to other aspects of life, other dogs, and 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.

Your Frenchie should NEVER be penned up for long stretches of time.  He or she needs to be a part of your life.

Are French Bulldogs good with children?   

All young children need supervision around dogs, especially puppies.   This is often for the puppy’s sake as well.   That said, French Bulldogs are typically good around children.

Are French Bulldogs good with cats?  

That very much depends on the individual dog and whether the dog or the cat was introduced first to the household.  If you already have a cat be prepared for possible failure.

Are French Bulldogs good with other dogs?

This is very much a matter of personality combined with experience.  For any individual dog, it is a question that must be tested to find the answer.  Be sure that the test is supervised at all times.

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 Frenchie’s 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 and some are rather loud at it.  Snoring is  also aggravated by breathing deficiencies.

What breathing problems?    

Sometimes you may find a Frenchie that is noisy or has labored breathing.  They may have a longer tongue or an excessive soft palate that is obstructing their airway.  Smaller nose openings can exaggerate their already noisy breathing characteristics.

Note:  Other symptoms of elongated soft palate are spitting up or regurgitating food or foam frequently.  Consult your veterinarian for corrective alternatives.

What about feeding?    

Use consideration to feed 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 dog’s needs best.  Consult your veterinarian if your dog experiences food allergies.  Food allergies are not uncommon in Frenchies.

A healthy Frenchie is not overweight.  Too many pounds can damage their physical structure and shorten their lifespan.

Note: Wheat products are known to be flatulence producing in some French Bulldogs.  Corn products and fillers that are an additional source of protein may cause hives (skin rashes or irritations).

Potty training?   

Some dogs are harder than others.  Crate training is very helpful in house breaking.  A dog perceives it as their “den” and will not soil it.    Develop a routine after they eat, before bed and first thing in the morning, and be consistent.  A minimum of three potty breaks a day are necessary.

For puppies, potty breaks should be every two hours.  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 these dogs are single coated and shed less most other breeds.

Are Frenchies easy to breed?     

It can be difficult to impossible for French Bulldogs to breed naturally.  They often require assistance from a veterinarian or reproduction specialist.

Whelping Puppies?

Due to the French Bulldog shape and large puppy heads, Frenchies are quite often born by c-section in a veterinarian hospital.  Educate yourself before deciding to breed French Bulldogs.

How do I find a vet familiar with French Bulldogs?  

We hope some day to offer a referral service for participating veterinarians familiar with the breed.  For now check with a breeder in your area.