French Bulldog
A small, cheerful companion with bat ears and a big personality, best for relaxed homes in mild climates.
At a glance
- Size
- Small
- Height at the withers
- Males 27–35 cm · Females 24–32 cm
- Weight
- Males 9–14 kg · Females 8–13 kg
- Life expectancy
- 10–12 years
- Exercise
- 20–40 min a day
- Grooming
- Once a week
- Coat
- Smooth, short
- Colours
- Fawn, Brindle, Piebald
- Bred for
- Companionship
- Country of origin
- France
- FCI
- Group 2, no. 101 · Pinschers, molossers & mountain dogs
Breeders on Kuldo
- Kennel Bulleborg (Aalborg, Nordjylland)
Living with the breed
| Affectionate with family | 5/5 – Very high |
|---|---|
| Good with children | 4/5 – High |
| Good with other dogs | 3/5 – Moderate |
| Good with cats | 3/5 – Moderate |
| Open to strangers | 4/5 – High |
| Energy | 2/5 – Low |
| Playfulness | 4/5 – High |
| Needs mental stimulation | 2/5 – Low |
| Easy to train | 3/5 – Moderate |
| Prey drive | 2/5 – Low |
| Watchful and protective | 2/5 – Low |
| Barking | 2/5 – Low |
| Shedding | 3/5 – Moderate |
| Grooming effort | 1/5 – Very low |
| Drooling | 3/5 – Moderate |
| Good for first-time owners | 4/5 – High |
| Suits apartment living | 5/5 – Very high |
| Adaptability | 4/5 – High |
| Copes with being alone | 2/5 – Low |
| Copes with heat | 1/5 – Very low |
| Copes with cold | 2/5 – Low |
Kuldo's own guidance from the breed's typical traits. Every dog is an individual, so talk to the breeder.
Is it the right breed for you?
Great if you …
- live in a flat or small home
- want a sociable, affectionate companion
- have a relaxed daily routine
Think twice if you …
- live in a hot climate
- want a running or hiking partner
- are not ready for possible health costs
Care
Temperament
Affectionate, playful and sociable, often a bit stubborn. It likes to be close to its people and usually enjoys company. It is generally quiet but can be vocal.
Exercise
Short, gentle walks and indoor play are enough; avoid exertion in heat. Short games and light trick training suit it best.
Grooming
Brush weekly and clean facial folds and ears regularly. Shedding is moderate.
Training
Responds to short, fun, reward-based sessions. House training may take patience.
Health
Breathing problems linked to the short muzzle (BOAS), spinal malformations, skin and ear issues and heat sensitivity are common. Ask the breeder for the parents' BOAS grading, spine and eye results.
Health tests breeders usually do
- Breathing (BOAS)
- Spine
- Eye examination
DNA tests
- HUU (SLC2A9)
- JHC (HSF4)
Ask the breeder to show you the parents' results.
About the breed
The French Bulldog descends from small bulldogs that came from England to France in the 19th century, many with lace workers moving to Normandy. In Paris they became popular companions, and the upright 'bat ears' became the breed's signature.
It is affectionate, playful and adaptable, and it settles well in a flat. Its flat face means it can struggle in heat and with exercise, and many have breathing, skin or spine problems. Choose a breeder who selects for open nostrils, moderate build and good health results, and keep the dog lean.
Did you know?
Most French Bulldogs can't swim well because of their heavy front and short legs, so they need supervision near water.