French Bulldog
Britain's most fashionable small dog — affectionate, low-exercise and flat-friendly — but a brachycephalic breed with substantial breathing, spinal and skin problems.
Key facts
Lifespan
9–12 years
Height
27–35 cm
Weight
9–14 kg
Exercise
~30 mins/day
Grooming
Low
Shedding
Moderate
Training
Moderate
First-time owners
Suitable
About the French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are companionable, comic and undemanding on exercise, which explains their popularity with urban owners. That popularity has driven widespread irresponsible breeding, smuggling and theft. The flat face causes BOAS in a large proportion of dogs; screw tails are linked to hemivertebrae; and many cannot mate or whelp naturally. Vet bills are among the highest of any breed and insurance reflects that.
Living with a French Bulldog
Flats suit well, but they overheat easily and most cannot swim.
- Good with children
- Good with other pets
- Suitable for first-time owners
Health
Conditions this breed is commonly predisposed to. This is general information, not veterinary advice — speak to a vet about any specific animal.
- Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)
- Hemivertebrae and intervertebral disc disease
- Skin fold dermatitis and allergies
- Eye ulcers; high rate of caesarean birth
Ask the breeder for
- KC/Cambridge Respiratory Function Grading Scheme for both parents
- DNA tests for hereditary cataract and degenerative myelopathy
- Spinal (hemivertebrae) screening; eye testing
Buying a French Bulldog
Demand Respiratory Function Grading certificates and walk away without them. Be sceptical of 'rare' colours such as blue, lilac or merle — these are not recognised by the Kennel Club and some are linked to coat and eye disorders. Very low prices often indicate illegal imports.
Read the full safe-buying guideFrench Bulldogs for sale
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All dogs for saleFrench Bulldog FAQs
How long do French Bulldogs live?
A French Bulldog typically lives 9–12 years.
How much exercise does a French Bulldog need?
Around 30 minutes of daily exercise for a healthy adult, plus mental stimulation. Puppies need considerably less until their joints have matured.
Are French Bulldogs good for first-time owners?
Yes — French Bulldogs are generally suitable for sensible first-time owners who will train and exercise them consistently.
What health tests should a French Bulldog breeder have done?
KC/Cambridge Respiratory Function Grading Scheme for both parents. DNA tests for hereditary cataract and degenerative myelopathy. Spinal (hemivertebrae) screening; eye testing.
Breed information is general guidance compiled by the PetHome team. Every animal is an individual — meet it, and its mother, before you commit. This is not veterinary advice.