Frenchies 101

Non-Sporting

Thanks in large part to celebrities and social media influencers, the French Bulldog has quickly gone from an obscure breed to an undeniable status as one of the most popular of all breeds. Compact and sturdy, Frenchies are well-suited to city life, where they delight their families with an outsized and playful personality. They are bright dogs who learn quickly, although they can be stubborn. As with other short-snouted dogs, Frenchies need families keenly aware of the breed's heat intolerance and other related issues.

What we love about Frenchies

Big dog attitude in a compact body

Energy level

50% energy level

Energy level: 50% (Moderate)

Bark level

  • Very vocal
  • Talkative

Bark level: As needed. This breed only barks when necessary

Size

11 to 13 inches tall
Small breed size

Size: 11 to 13 inches tall. This is a Small sized Dog.

Lifespan

10 to 12 years

Lifespan: 10 to 12 years average

Weight

15 to 28 lbs

Weight: 15 to 28 lbs typical range

Energy level
Moderate (50%)
Bark level
As needed
Height
11 to 13 inches
Lifespan
10 to 12 years
Weight
15 to 28 lbs

The French Bulldog stands 11 to 13 inches tall and weighs 15 to 28 lbs. French Bulldogs have a lifespan of 10 to 12 years. They are known for a moderate (50%) energy level and a as needed bark.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big do French Bulldogs get?
French Bulldogs stand 11 to 13 inches tall and typically weigh between 15 and 28 pounds.
How long do French Bulldogs live?
The average lifespan of a French Bulldog is 10 to 12 years.
Are French Bulldogs good for first-time dog owners?
French Bulldogs have moderate energy levels and can be suitable for first-time owners who are committed to regular exercise and training.
Do French Bulldogs bark a lot?
French Bulldogs typically only bark when necessary — they are not known to be excessive barkers.

We want to see pictures of your Frenchie!

Tag @NationwidePet on social media!

My pet’s health plannerSM

This French Bulldog health planner outlines the most common medical conditions at each life stage — from puppy through senior — along with their relative risk levels. Understanding these risks can help owners plan preventive care and choose the right pet insurance coverage.

Mature adult Frenchie

4 years to 6 years

Risk level for common Frenchie conditions

Mid-life French Bulldogs should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health. Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) poses very high risk. Intervertebral disc disease is at high risk.

80% on risk scale
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)
Very High Risk
70% on risk scale
Intervertebral disc disease
High Risk
40% on risk scale
Corneal (eye) ulcer
Above Average Risk

Senior Frenchie

7+ years

Risk level for common Frenchie conditions

Senior French Bulldogs face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) and Corneal (eye) ulcer pose very high risk.

80% on risk scale
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)
Very High Risk
80% on risk scale
Corneal (eye) ulcer
Very High Risk
60% on risk scale
Intervertebral disc disease
Moderate Risk

Frenchie puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Frenchie conditions

French Bulldog puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) and Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid) pose very high risk.

80% on risk scale
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)
Very High Risk
80% on risk scale
Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid)
Very High Risk
60% on risk scale
Gastritis
Moderate Risk

Young adult Frenchie

7 months to 3 years

Risk level for common Frenchie conditions

As French Bulldogs grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant. Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) poses very high risk.

80% on risk scale
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)
Very High Risk
60% on risk scale
Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid)
Moderate Risk
40% on risk scale
Skin allergies
Above Average Risk

Mature adult Frenchie

4 years to 6 years

Risk level for common Frenchie conditions

Mid-life French Bulldogs should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health. Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) poses very high risk. Intervertebral disc disease is at high risk.

80% on risk scale
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)
Very High Risk
70% on risk scale
Intervertebral disc disease
High Risk
40% on risk scale
Corneal (eye) ulcer
Above Average Risk

Senior Frenchie

7+ years

Risk level for common Frenchie conditions

Senior French Bulldogs face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) and Corneal (eye) ulcer pose very high risk.

80% on risk scale
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)
Very High Risk
80% on risk scale
Corneal (eye) ulcer
Very High Risk
60% on risk scale
Intervertebral disc disease
Moderate Risk

Frenchie puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Frenchie conditions

French Bulldog puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) and Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid) pose very high risk.

80% on risk scale
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)
Very High Risk
80% on risk scale
Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid)
Very High Risk
60% on risk scale
Gastritis
Moderate Risk

Young adult Frenchie

7 months to 3 years

Risk level for common Frenchie conditions

As French Bulldogs grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant. Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) poses very high risk.

80% on risk scale
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)
Very High Risk
60% on risk scale
Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid)
Moderate Risk
40% on risk scale
Skin allergies
Above Average Risk
French Bulldog standing — health planner for puppies through senior dogs

Nationwide can help you save on your French Bulldog's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.

Puppy (0 to 6 months)
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS): Very High Risk, Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid): Very High Risk, Gastritis: Moderate Risk
Young Adult (7 months to 3 years)
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS): Very High Risk, Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid): Moderate Risk, Skin allergies: Above Average Risk
Mature Adult (4 years to 6 years)
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS): Very High Risk, Intervertebral disc disease: High Risk, Corneal (eye) ulcer: Above Average Risk
Senior (7+ years)
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS): Very High Risk, Corneal (eye) ulcer: Very High Risk, Intervertebral disc disease: Moderate Risk
French bulldog puppy GettyImages-1252603903

Gary Fisher, the French Bulldog who belonged to the late Carrie Fisher, had a cameo appearance in “Star Wars: The Last Jedi.” Gary and Carrie were inseparable, and after her death he retired to Florida with her assistant, who adopted the dog.

French Bulldog coat care and colors

The French Bulldog comes in a wide variety of colors, patterns and marking, some recognized by breed clubs, others not. They have a smooth, easy-care coat. Brushing a couple of times a week will reduce shedding almost to nothing, and no professional grooming is required. Most Frenchies have prominent skin folds especially above the nose, which should be cleaned regularly and checked often to prevent infections.

The Frenchie can be a little testy when it comes to nail trims. Avoid this in adult dogs by acclimating puppies to having their feet handled and nails clipped. Some dogs better tolerate nail grinding rather than trimming, so experiment with which method works best.

Frenchie exercise & training

Exercise level

Exercise level

A good walk, ideally in cool weather, should take care of the French Bulldog’s daily exercise needs. Pet parents should be vigilant in preventing overheating, which can be deadly.

Trainability

Trainability

French Bulldogs love their families, but they may have their own thoughts on what they want to do. Encourage good behavior with praise and tiny treats.

Group 7456

Frenchie fun facts

Top girl names for Frenchies

100%

of Frenchies are female

0%

of Frenchies are male

Top boy names for Frenchies

Nationwide loves French Bulldogs of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

French Bulldog gender distribution
GenderPercentage
Male0%
Female100%

Among French Bulldogs insured by Nationwide, 0% are male and 100% are female.

French Bulldog statistics: Gender ratio is 0% male and 100% female.

Other breeds like Frenchies

Best. French Bulldog insurance. Ever.SM

  • Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
  • Visit any licensed veterinarian, anywhere
  • Cancel at any time, risk-free