Fetch Finder
At a glance
| Energy level | |
|---|---|
| Shedding | |
| Grooming needs | |
| Apartment-friendly | |
| Handles cold | |
| Affectionate / cuddly | |
| Good with kids | |
| Good for first-time owners | |
| Easy to train | |
| Good with other dogs | |
| Good with cats | |
| OK being left alone | |
| Reliable off-leash | |
| Protective / watchdog | |
| Barking | |
| Drooling |
Great for
- Apartments
- Less active owners
- People who want a quiet dog
Watch out for
- Breathing problems are common in flat-faced breeds
- Can't handle heat or extreme cold
- Vet bills tend to be higher than average
Daily care
Exercise: 20–40 minutes a day of short walks and play.
Grooming: Minimal. Wipe face folds clean a few times a week.
Cold weather: Needs a coat for cold winters and short outdoor trips on very cold days.
*Yearly cost covers food, routine vet care, preventatives, toys and supplies. It doesn't include the purchase or adoption fee, emergencies or grooming beyond basics.
Gear for a French Bulldog
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- FoodSmall breed dog food
Formulas made for small breeds match their energy needs and kibble size. Look for "complete and balanced" (AAFCO) on the bag, and ask your vet what's right for your dog.
See options on Amazon - Crate30-inch dog crate
A 30" crate fits most adult French Bulldogs (up to about 28 lb). Choose one with a divider so it grows with a puppy.
See options on Amazon - HarnessFront-clip harness
Flat-faced breeds breathe more easily in a harness than a collar that presses on the throat.
See options on Amazon - ToysPuzzle and snuffle toys
Food puzzles keep a calmer dog's mind busy without a lot of running.
See options on Amazon - GroomingBristle or rubber grooming brush
A quick weekly brush keeps the coat clean and shiny.
See options on Amazon - WinterInsulated dog coat and boots
French Bulldogs get cold quickly; a coat and boots make winter walks safer.
See options on Amazon - BedWashable dog bed
A washable cover makes life easier, especially with a puppy.
See options on Amazon
Find a French Bulldog near you
We're building a list of trusted French Bulldog rescues, breeders and trainers. Rescues are listed first.
Listings coming soon. In the meantime:
- Search adoptable dogs near you on Petfinder
- AKC's French Bulldog page, which links to breed club rescue networks
Run a French Bulldog rescue, training or grooming business? Get listed free.
Not sure a French Bulldog is right for you? Take the 3-minute quiz to see which breeds fit your home and lifestyle.
Take the breed quizSimilar breeds
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Small · 17–23 lbBetter with adults or older kidsShiba InuClean, confident and independent, with a thick coat built for cold. Shibas fit apartments well but are stubborn and hard to train.
Small · 20–30 lb👪 Great family dogBeagleCheerful, curious and great with kids. Beagles are a manageable size but follow their nose everywhere and are known for howling.