Are French Bulldogs Good for First-Time Owners? The Honest Answer

The French Bulldog is the most popular dog in the world for a reason: a small, affectionate clown who is happy in a flat, doesn't need a marathon, and gets on with almost everyone. If that were the whole story, they would be the perfect first dog.

It isn't the whole story. A Frenchie is also a body built for a look, not for function, and the person who takes one on is signing up to manage that body for a decade. Here is the honest version.

What makes them a good first dog

• Temperament. Steady, affectionate, playful without being manic. Most love people, most love other dogs, most love children who are gentle with them.
• Size and exercise. Ten to fourteen kilos, two or three short walks a day and a nap. A flat is fine. A garden is a bonus, not a need.
• Noise. They are not big barkers. They grumble, snort and talk, but a Frenchie is rarely the reason the neighbours complain.
• Grooming. A short coat that needs a weekly mitt. The folds and ears need more, but none of it is difficult once it's a habit.

What makes them a hard first dog

• The breathing. Most Frenchies have some degree of narrowed airway, and some need surgery to breathe comfortably. Every walk, every warm day and every excited moment runs through that airway.
• Heat. A French Bulldog cannot cool itself like a normal dog. Heatstroke kills Frenchies every summer, often on ordinary walks. If you live somewhere hot without air conditioning, think very hard.
• The skin. Allergies, itchy paws, ear infections and fold infections are common, often lifelong, and need a plan rather than a bottle of cream.
• The spine and joints. A dachshund-style back in a heavier dog, plus slipping kneecaps. Ramps, a harness and lean weight are not optional.
• Alone time. Bred for company, and it shows. Separation problems are the breed's number one behaviour issue.
• Cost. One of the most expensive breeds to buy, to insure and to treat. Airway surgery, allergy management and the odd emergency add up to thousands over a lifetime.

The questions to ask yourself

Can you keep your home cool in summer and walk at dawn and dusk? Are you home most of the day, or able to arrange company? Can you afford good insurance and a possible surgery? Are you happy to wipe folds and check ears every week for twelve years? Do you want a dog for walks and company rather than hikes and swims?

Five yeses, and a Frenchie could be a wonderful first dog. Two or three noes, and you would both be happier with a different breed, however good the photos look.

If you go ahead

Buy from a breeder who health-tests and can show you the parents' breathing grades, or adopt from a breed rescue. Insure before the first vet visit. Read our breathing guide before the puppy comes home, and set up the first thirty days so the habits that protect a Frenchie are the only habits your puppy ever knows.