5 Things Nobody Tells You About Owning a French Bulldog

French Bulldogs, or “Frenchies,” have skyrocketed in popularity in recent years thanks to their adorable looks and playful personalities. While they make amazing companions, there are some lesser-known facts about owning a French Bulldog that might surprise you.

1. They Are Stubborn (But Lovably So)

French Bulldogs are known for being intelligent, but that intelligence often comes with a side of stubbornness. Training a Frenchie can sometimes be a challenge because they have a mind of their own. They love to do things on their terms and can be a little resistant to commands, especially when they’re not in the mood.

However, with patience and consistency, you can overcome their stubborn streak. Positive reinforcement works wonders, and most Frenchies will do just about anything for a tasty treat or a lot of praise. It’s important to start training early and stay firm but gentle. Their strong will just adds to their quirky, lovable nature!

2. They Can Be Prone to Health Issues

One of the most significant things new French Bulldog owners might not realize is the breed’s predisposition to certain health problems. Due to their flat-faced (brachycephalic) structure, French Bulldogs are prone to breathing difficulties. This means they can struggle in hot weather and are at risk for heatstroke, so it’s vital to keep them cool and avoid vigorous exercise, especially in warm conditions.

Frenchies also have sensitive skin and are prone to allergies, which can cause itchiness, rashes, or ear infections. You may need to work with a vet to find the right diet or grooming products to keep your Frenchie comfortable. Regular vet visits and proactive care are essential to keeping your French Bulldog healthy.

3. They Are Surprisingly High Maintenance

While French Bulldogs don’t require as much exercise as some larger breeds, they still have their fair share of maintenance needs. Between their unique skin folds, ear care, and occasional stubborn potty training, Frenchies require dedicated attention to stay in top shape.

• Skin folds: Their cute face wrinkles need to be cleaned regularly to prevent dirt buildup and infections.
• Ear care: As with their skin, French Bulldogs’ ears need consistent cleaning to avoid infections, as their bat-like ears tend to trap dirt and moisture.
• Potty training: Frenchies can sometimes be challenging to house-train due to their stubborn nature, so it’s essential to be patient and persistent.

Though French Bulldogs are small and may appear low maintenance at first glance, they demand time, care, and regular grooming.

4. They Are the Ultimate Couch Potatoes

While French Bulldogs can be playful and full of energy, they’re also notorious for being couch potatoes. Most Frenchies are content to lounge around the house and cuddle up with their owners. They are perfectly happy with short bursts of play followed by long naps on the couch.

However, this doesn’t mean you can skip exercise altogether. Like any dog, Frenchies need daily activity to stay healthy, but they don’t require hours of strenuous exercise. A few short walks and some indoor playtime usually keep them satisfied. Their low-energy nature makes them perfect companions for people who prefer a more laid-back lifestyle or live in smaller spaces like apartments.

5. They Are Velcro Dogs – Expect to Never Be Alone Again

One of the most endearing (but occasionally overwhelming) traits of a French Bulldog is how attached they become to their owners. Frenchies are known as "Velcro dogs" because they love to stick close to their humans. Whether you’re cooking in the kitchen or relaxing on the couch, you can expect your Frenchie to be right by your side.

This clingy nature makes them fantastic companions, but it also means they can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. They thrive on attention and human interaction, so if you’re away from home a lot, a French Bulldog might not be the best fit. However, if you’re looking for a devoted companion who will love you unconditionally, the Frenchie is perfect for you!