Dog breed · Non-sporting / Utility
French Bulldog
A compact companion bred purely for company. Frenchies are easy-going indoors but their flat face brings real welfare considerations that every owner should understand before buying.
Small10–12 yearsEngland and FranceCan suit apartments
Breed characteristics
- Group
- Non-sporting / Utility
- Origin
- England and France
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 8–14 kg (18–31 lb)
- Height
- 28–33 cm
- Lifespan
- 10–12 years
- Coat
- Short, smooth and fine
- Temperament
- CompanionableComicStubbornPeople-oriented
History
Descended from small bulldogs taken to France by Nottingham lace workers in the 1800s and developed there into a distinct bat-eared companion.
Appearance
Cobby body, heavy bone, upright bat ears and a short muzzle, in brindle, fawn, pied and cream.
Exercise and activity
Two or three short, gentle walks in cool parts of the day. Never exercise hard in heat or humidity.
Care and grooming
Clean and dry facial and tail-pocket folds regularly, and keep the dog lean — even modest excess weight worsens breathing.
Health considerations
- Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome
- Intervertebral disc disease
- Skin-fold dermatitis
- Heat intolerance
- Eye ulcers