Whether you’re a first-time owner or a lifelong pet person, this is your happy place. Pick your pet, meet the breed, and pick up care tips, fun facts and the right food to keep them thriving.
- 1Choose your pet
- 2Choose a breed
- 3Meet your pet
Dog breed guide
French Bulldog
The clown of the couch with bat-like ears.
- OriginEngland and France
- SizeSmall, 8 to 14 kg
- Lifespan10 to 12 years
- EnergyLow to moderate
- GroomingLow, wipe face folds
About the breed
Small bulldogs were popular with lace workers in Nottingham, England, and travelled with them to France in the 1800s, where the breed became fashionable. Today the Frenchie is a much-loved companion dog.
Personality
Playful, affectionate and a bit of a clown. Frenchies love company, dislike being left alone for long, and can be stubborn during training.
Care tips
Exercise
Short walks and play sessions. Avoid strenuous exercise, especially in hot weather.
Grooming
Wipe the skin folds on their face regularly and brush weekly. Keep ears and nails clean and trimmed.
Health
Flat-faced (brachycephalic) dogs can struggle to breathe and overheat easily, so keep them cool and never leave them in a hot car. Watch for skin, eye and back problems.
Recommended food
Weight control matters, as extra kilos make breathing harder. Choose a portion-controlled, easily digestible food, introduce changes gradually, and try a slow-feeder bowl if they gulp their meals.
Fun facts
- Their upright bat ears are the breed's trademark.
- Most Frenchies are poor swimmers, so supervise them near water.
- They are known for snoring, snorting and other comical noises.
This guide is general information to help you get started. It isn’t a substitute for advice from your vet, who knows your animal best.