What you need to know about owning a French Bulldog

Are you looking to own a French Bulldog?

There's more to us than how we look. Did you know that it is common for us to experience lots of health complications that affect how happily we can live our lives? Take this quiz to test your knowledge of French Bulldogs and see if you’re prepared and ready to own one.

Key things you need to know before buying a French Bulldog

Dark brown french bulldog laying in his bed, his face is buried in the cushion

I will probably need BOAS surgery

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) is caused by our shortened skulls and affects our breathing. To make sure I can live comfortably, most of the time, I may need surgery to help with my narrow nostrils, longer palate, and extra tissues blocking my airflow.

A muscular golden brown french bulldog is stood amongst the grass, there are small yellow flowers around

I have trouble exercising

My breathing issues affect how much I can exercise, which means I can struggle to stay a healthy weight. Without managing my weight, my other health issues can become much worse.

Brown french bulldog laying on a cream bed on the floor looking at the camera

I have lots of allergies

Extreme breeding means that I have developed allergies to most foods and sometimes my environment. I can suffer from irritated and itchy skin, ears, paws and eyes, as well as stomach issues if I’m not fed a special diet. I might even need extra allergy support from the vets.

French bulldog on walk, he is leashed standing in front of a bench

I overheat easily

As a flat-faced breed, I have trouble cooling myself down, which can lead to heatstroke. This can be very serious and means walking me in hot temperatures can be dangerous, even life-threatening, for my breed.

Black french bulldog laying on grey fluffy carpet looking into the lens of the camera

My spine and joints are delicate

Jumping and bouncing around are part of being a happy healthy dog, but this is a big risk for breeds like me. I’m at higher risk of damaged joints or ruptured discs in my spine.

White and black patch french bulldog sat on the grass, large yellow bushes of flowers are behind him

The cost of my care is more than other breeds

Whether you choose to have insurance or not, the costs of my care are much higher than other breeds, and starting from my first years, my breeding affects these costs.

Our French Bulldog needed surgery to help her breathe, and that cost £1,500, but she still gags, snores and struggles with the heat.

french bulldog owner, surrey

Let's choose healthier breeds

The Healthier breeds, happier dogs campaign is here to help create a better future for flat faced breeds like French Bulldogs and pugs.

We want to raise awareness of the issues around owning a flat faced (brachycephalic) breed, and educate future owners on what caring for one of these breeds really costs. We’re here to help all prospective dog owners understand how to choose a healthy dog and what to look out for before they buy their new four legged friend.

What makes for a healthy dog?