Pros & Cons of Owning a French Bulldog: A Quick Guide

Author: Brett Gee | Reviewed by: Nancy George | August 05, 2023 | Updated August 21, 2023
easy going dogs, french bulldog, frenchie, frenchie health issues, low-maintenance dogs
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pros cons owning french frenchie bulldog

When I first considered getting a pet, I came across the French bulldog, an adorable, lovable and unique breed. These bundles of joy have an incredible fan club, and after looking for a French Bulldog Owner’s Guide for more information, I found some really fascinating things about them. In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of owning a Frenchie so you too, can decide if it's the right pet for you.

As a dog lover, I was drawn to the French bulldog's friendly and outgoing nature. They're known for being great with kids and their adaptable nature allows them to fit right into almost any living situation. Plus, since they're on the smaller side, they can make excellent apartment companions, too. But before getting too excited, it's essential to understand that owning a Frenchie is not all fun and games.

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While there are plenty of perks to having these cute canines, there are also a few drawbacks that are worth mentioning. As we continue, we'll go over both the positive and negative aspects of French bulldog ownership, providing a comprehensive view of this breed. So, join me on this journey to uncover the true essence of the Frenchie world!

Pros Of Owning a French Bulldog

Easygoing Nature

I must say, one of the first things I noticed about my Frenchie was their easygoing nature. They're known for being good with kids and other pets, which is a total bonus for families with fur babies! Their gentle and tolerant demeanor makes them perfect companions for homes with children or other animals.

Adaptability to Living Spaces

French bulldogs are incredibly adaptable when it comes to living spaces. They make excellent apartment companions due to their small size and low exercise requirements. What's great is that they don't bark much, making them perfect for keeping the neighbors happy in close quarters.

Low-Maintenance Exercise Requirements

Speaking of exercise requirements, Frenchies don't require as much activity as some other breeds. In fact, a short daily walk and some light playtime are typically enough to keep them happy and healthy.

Here's a simple exercise routine for a Frenchie:

  • Daily 15 to 20-minute walk
  • Occasional playtime with toys
  • Short bursts of indoor fetch

Affectionate Companions

As a Frenchie owner, one thing I simply adore about my pup is their affectionate nature. French bulldogs were bred to be companion animals and their loving personalities reflect that. They're extremely loyal and enjoy snuggling up with their humans. For Frenchies, life is all about love!

Comical Personality

Last but not least, French bulldogs have a comical and entertaining personality. I've never had a dull moment since bringing my Frenchie home. These quirky little canines are known for their goofy antics and general silliness. You'll find yourself laughing at their amusing behavior more times than you can count. And let's be honest, who doesn't need more laughter in their life?

Cons Of Owning a French Bulldog

Potential Health Issues

Ah, Frenchies. These adorable little dogs are certainly enchanting, but there's a downside to owning one. They're prone to several health issues that can affect their quality of life and your wallet. For example, they might suffer from hip dysplasia, spinal disorders or allergies. I guess it's true what they say—nobody's perfect, not even our four-legged friends!

Difficulty Breathing

Because of their squashed faces, Frenchies can have a tough time breathing. This condition is known as Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), which can lead to other complications. It's a bummer, really, knowing that our beloved pets could be just as out of breath as we are after climbing a flight of stairs.

Cost and Expenses

Let's face it, owning a Frenchie is not cheap. These dogs can be pricey when purchased from a reputable breeder. And don't even get me started on their medical bills. Their aforementioned health issues can result in frequent vet visits and treatments. It's essential to be prepared for the financial commitment that comes with having such a cute furball.

  • Initial purchase price
  • Medical bills for treatments
  • Regular vet check-ups

Training Challenges

I have to admit, these little guys can be quite stubborn sometimes. Training can be a challenge, but with patience and persistence, you can eventually teach them to obey. Remember that positive reinforcement works wonders with them, so grab those treats and rewards when you're ready for a training session!

Grooming and Shedding

Now, don't let their short and smooth coat deceive you. French bulldogs do shed and grooming is necessary to keep their skin and coat healthy. A regular brushing routine will help minimize shedding and keep your Frenchie looking fabulous and your Frenchie will appreciate the extra pampering too!

So, there you have it. The not-so-great aspects of owning a French bulldog. Just remember to weigh these cons against the pros before deciding if this breed is the right fit for you and your family. After all, they're incredibly affectionate and adapt well to various living situations—it's just a matter of whether the challenges are worth it for you. Good luck!

Making an Informed Decision

So, you're considering getting a French bulldog? That's great! But before you go ahead and welcome one into your home, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons. I've gathered some vital information to help make your decision-making process a breeze.

One big reason I adore Frenchies is their unique and charming personalities. They're hilarious, great around children and are simply delightful companions. Not to mention, they don't bark much and easily adapt to apartment living. These little bundles of joy are also rather low-maintenance when it comes to grooming.

However, all good things come with their downsides and Frenchies are no exception. These adorable pups are known to have some health concerns, which might lead to costly care in the long run. Despite that, their companionship, loyalty and snuggles often outweigh these drawbacks.

To review, here's a quick glance at the pros and cons of owning a French bulldog.

Pros

  • Delightful personalities
  • Great with children
  • Suitable for apartment living
  • Minimal barking

Cons

  • Health concerns
  • Potentially costly care
  • Stubborn personalities

Isn't it natural to wonder whether a Frenchie is the right match for your lifestyle? Well, it's worth noting that they have minimal exercise requirements and make excellent cuddle buddies. Moreover, they're generally good with other dogs and work well for elderly people or those with a relaxed lifestyle.

Just remember, it's crucial to be aware of what you're getting into before adopting or buying a French bulldog. It's essential to consider their health, your lifestyle and the costs involved. But once you've done your homework and weighed the pros and cons, the decision will be a breeze.

So, are you ready to embrace the snuggly, lovable, and goofy charm of a French bulldog? Think about it, and trust your instincts!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common health issues in French bulldogs?

Frenchies, like many other short-faced breeds, can suffer from respiratory issues due to their flat faces and short noses. Additionally, they're prone to ear infections, hip dysplasia and spinal issues such as intervertebral disc disease. It's always a good idea to have regular check-ups with your veterinarian to catch any potential health problems early on.

Do French bulldogs require a lot of grooming?

Luckily, Frenchies are relatively low maintenance when it comes to grooming. Their short coat doesn't require much attention, so a quick brush once a week should suffice. However, it's crucial to clean their facial folds regularly to prevent infections and irritations. And, of course, keep those nails trimmed, ears cleaned and teeth brushed!

Are Frenchies good with children and other pets?

I can confidently say that Frenchies make fantastic family companions. They adore children and usually get along well with other pets. Their loving and loyal nature makes them great playmates for kids, and they aren't overly energetic, which helps prevent overwhelming little ones. Just always remember to supervise interactions between pets and kids to ensure everyone's safety.

What are the exercise requirements of a French bulldog?

Though not the most athletic breed, French bulldogs do need a moderate amount of exercise to stay healthy. A daily walk is perfect for fulfilling their exercise needs. However, it's essential to be cautious in hot weather, as their shortened snout can make it difficult for them to cool down effectively. Indoor activities or playtime in a fenced yard are great alternatives for hot days.

How much do French bulldogs typically cost?

The price of a French  bulldog varies depending on various factors, such as breeder reputation, location and pedigree. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere around $4,500 to $5,500 for a well-bred puppy. Please remember that the initial cost is just the beginning—don't forget additional expenses like vet bills, food, toys and grooming supplies.

Are French bulldogs easy to train?

It’s an intelligent breed, but they can also be a bit stubborn at times. That doesn't mean they are impossible to train. With consistent and positive reinforcement training methods, they can learn commands and manners quite easily. It's crucial to use patience and start training early on to establish a solid foundation of lifelong learning.

About the Author

pros cons owning french frenchie bulldog

Brett Gee

Brett Gee is a marketing and advertising professional who has been working in advertising messaging, copy writing and content development for the better part of his 30+ year career. His experience spans across a variety of industries, markets and channels. Among his personal and professional interests is, of course, pets and animals. Aside from his[...] Author Details

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