French Bulldogs

50 Questions French Bulldog Owners Ask

1. How often should I groom my French Bulldog?
   Frenchies have short coats and are low-shedding, but they still benefit from weekly brushing to remove dead hair and distribute natural oils. A raw diet like Poppy’s Picnic helps keep their skin and coat healthy.

2. Do French Bulldogs shed?
   Yes, though moderately. Regular grooming and a balanced diet with omega fatty acids reduce shedding.

3. How much exercise does a French Bulldog need?
   About 30 to 45 minutes a day. They enjoy short walks and play sessions but should not be overexerted due to their brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure.

4. Are French Bulldogs prone to health problems?
   Yes, they are susceptible to:

• Breathing issues (BOAS)

• Skin allergies

• Hip dysplasia

• Eye issues 

5. What is the average lifespan of a French Bulldog?
   8 to 12 years. Proper care, a healthy diet, and avoiding overheating can extend their lifespan.

6. How often should I bathe my Frenchie?
   Every 4-6 weeks, or when they get dirty. Use gentle, hypoallergenic dog shampoo.

7. How do I clean my Frenchie’s facial folds?
   Wipe daily with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly to prevent irritation and infection.

8. How do I know if my French Bulldog is overweight?
   You should see a defined waist and feel ribs under a slight fat layer. Poppy’s Picnic raw meals make it easy to portion correctly. Independent trade organisation, UK Pet food, has worked with vets to create a useful sizeometer for dogs so it's easier to track your dog's weight. Download it here 

5. What toys do French Bulldogs enjoy?
   Durable chew toys, soft squeakers, and puzzle feeders work well. Use Poppy’s Picnic meatballs in enrichment toys for added fun.

6. How do I keep my Frenchie’s coat healthy?
   Regular brushing, bathing, and a raw diet with omega oils promote a glossy, healthy coat.

French Bulldog Behaviour & Temperament: 40 More Common Questions

11. Are Frenchies good with children?
    Yes, they are gentle, playful, and love human interaction. Always supervise young children.

12. Do French Bulldogs get along with other dogs?
    Often yes, especially with early socialisation. Some may be stubborn or territorial.

13. Are French Bulldogs easy to train?
    They can be a bit stubborn, but respond well to positive reinforcement. Use tasty rewards like Poppy’s Picnic treats.

14. Do French Bulldogs bark a lot?
    No, they’re generally quiet but will alert you to visitors or strange noises.

15. Can French Bulldogs live in flats?
    Yes, they are well-suited to flat or city living, provided they get daily exercise and stimulation.

16. Do French Bulldogs like cuddles?
    Absolutely. They’re known for being affectionate lap dogs who love snuggling.

17. Can French Bulldogs be left alone during the day?
    They can suffer from separation anxiety. Use enrichment toys and build up alone time gradually.

18. Are French Bulldogs hypoallergenic?
    No, they shed and produce dander, though some allergy sufferers may tolerate them.

19. How do I socialise my French Bulldog?
    Expose them to people, dogs, and environments from a young age. Reward positive interactions.

20. Do Frenchies like water?
    They may enjoy splashing but are poor swimmers. Always supervise and use a life vest if near water.

21. Why does my Frenchie snort or wheeze?
    It’s due to their flat faces. Keep them cool and avoid overexertion.

22. Are Frenchies good first-time dogs?
    Yes, their small size and affectionate nature make them a popular choice for first-time owners.

23. Do Frenchies get bored easily?
    Yes, they need mental stimulation. Puzzle feeders and training games keep them engaged.

24. Can French Bulldogs do agility?
    They’re not built for intense agility but can enjoy light activities if healthy.

25. How do I calm an excited French Bulldog?
    Keep routines consistent, use enrichment toys, and provide relaxing downtime. Poppy’s Picnic treats can help them settle.

26. What are common Frenchie behavioural issues?

• Separation anxiety

• Stubbornness

• Attention-seeking behaviours. Training, structure, and enrichment can manage these effectively.

27. Why does my Frenchie stare at me?
    They may be seeking attention, food, or simply enjoying your company.

28. Do Frenchies need tasks to stay happy?
    Yes, they enjoy basic tasks, short training sessions, and games that reward interaction.

29. How do I stop chewing behaviours in a French Bulldog?
    Provide appropriate chew toys and keep them mentally stimulated. Chewing often stems from boredom.

30. Why is my Frenchie always hungry?
    They love food! Stick to measured meals and healthy treats like ours at Poppy’s Picnic to avoid weight gain.

31. Are French Bulldogs good for older adults?
    Yes, their calm nature and small size make them ideal companions for seniors.

32. Can Frenchies be therapy dogs?
    Yes, they make affectionate and intuitive therapy animals with the right training.

33. What are signs of stress in French Bulldogs?
    Panting, pacing, drooling, or hiding. Calm them with routine, reassurance, and quiet environments.

34. Why does my Frenchie dig the floor or furniture?
    It could be instinctual nesting behaviour or boredom. Redirect with toys or enrichment activities.

35. Why does my Frenchie nip when excited?
    This is often playful. Use consistent training and redirect with a toy.

36. How do I stop my French Bulldog jumping on guests?
    Teach them to sit when greeting and reward calm behaviour consistently.

37. Why is my Frenchie restless at night?
    Could be lack of exercise, hunger, or needing to go to the toilet. Try adjusting their routine and ensuring they’re settled.

38. Why does my Frenchie bark at noises?
    They’re alert and may react to unfamiliar sounds. Gradual desensitisation and reassurance help.

39. How do I stop my Frenchie pulling on walks?
    Train with positive reinforcement. Stop when they pull and reward calm walking with Poppy’s Picnic treats.

40. How do I keep my Frenchie mentally stimulated?
    Puzzle feeders, scent games, short training sessions, and enrichment toys with Poppy’s Picnic food are excellent.

41. Can French Bulldogs live with cats?
    Yes, if properly introduced. Supervise early interactions and allow time for adjustment.

42. How do I help with separation anxiety in French Bulldogs?
    Practice short departures and returns, use toys with frozen Poppy’s Picnic food, and avoid making a fuss.

43. Do Frenchies adapt to new homes well?
    Yes, if transitions are gradual and routines are kept consistent.

44. How do I introduce a new baby to my Frenchie?
    Let them adjust to new sounds and smells slowly. Reward calm, gentle behaviour.

45. Why does my Frenchie eat grass?
    It’s usually harmless. Ensure they’re on a complete diet like Poppy’s Picnic and monitor for signs of stomach upset.

46. Can I jog with my Frenchie?
    Not recommended. They can overheat quickly due to their brachycephalic build.

47. Should I crate train my French Bulldog?
    Yes, crates provide a secure space when introduced positively. Don’t use it as punishment.

48. How do I entertain my Frenchie indoors?
    Short games, enrichment toys, basic training, and puzzle feeding with Poppy’s Picnic meals are ideal.

49. Why does my Frenchie howl?
    It may be to seek attention or mimic noises. It’s usually harmless unless excessive.

50. What’s the ideal daily routine for a French Bulldog?

• Morning walk and breakfast 

• Midday nap or play

• Afternoon enrichment or training

• Evening meal and wind-down Frenchies thrive with structure, love, and gentle activity.