French Bulldog
Male: 9-12.5 kg, Female: 8-11 kg
27-33 cm at the shoulder
10-14 years
France
About the French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is a sturdy, compact 'multum in parvo' (much in little) dog. Characterised by its large 'bat ears' and naturally short tail, this breed possesses a heavy-boned, muscular physique that belies its small stature. Despite their somewhat grumpy expression, they are exceptionally affectionate companions that bond deeply with their families. Historically emerging from the toy bulldogs of 19th-century England, the breed was refined in France where it became a fashion icon of Parisian society. Today, they are one of the most popular breeds in Australia, prized for their adaptability to urban living and their expressive, clown-like personalities that bring constant entertainment to a household.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the French Bulldog is judged on its unique 'bat ears,' which must be wide at the base and rounded at the top, and its distinctive 'roach back' (slight arch over the loin). The movement should be free and vigorous with a characteristic 'rolling' gait. Their structural balance—wide chest, deep brisket, and compact loin—creates a silhouette that is both powerful and elegant in its own quirky way.
In Australia
Following the breed's development in Europe and the UK, the French Bulldog was first introduced to Australia in the late 1940s. Official imports were conducted by Mrs. G. J. Coles, and the presence of the breed in Australia became significant in the 1950s according to Dogs Australia and the French Bulldog Club of NSW.
Bred For
Originally bred as a companion animal and lapdog for lace workers in Nottingham, England, who later moved to France during the Industrial Revolution.
Temperament
Vivacious, affectionate, intelligent, and steady. They are known for being particularly sociable and alert without being overly boisterous.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
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Exercise Needs
Low to moderate; short daily walks and indoor play are sufficient. They are prone to overheating, so exercise should be limited during warm weather.
Grooming Needs
Low; weekly brushing to manage shedding and daily cleaning of facial wrinkles to prevent infection.
Living Suitability
Excellent for apartment living or homes with small yards. They are indoor dogs that require climate-controlled environments due to their sensitivity to temperature extremes.
Good with Kids
Very good with children; they are patient and sturdy enough for supervised play with respectful kids.
Good with Other Pets
Generally good with other pets, though some males can be territorial. Early socialisation is key to ensuring harmony with other dogs and cats.
Trainability
Moderately easy; they are intelligent but can possess a stubborn streak. Positive reinforcement and treats are highly effective.
Coat & Colours
Short, smooth, lustrous, and fine.. Fawn, Brindle, or White with Brindle patches (Pied).
Breed Health Concern Ratings
How commonly these health areas need attention in this breed (1 = rarely, 5 = a defining consideration)
Atopic dermatitis is a very common issue for this breed, often requiring lifelong management of skin allergies and folds.
The breed is highly predisposed to serious spinal issues like IVDD and hemivertebrae, as well as hip dysplasia and patellar luxation.
As a brachycephalic breed, BOAS is a defining health concern that significantly impacts their ability to breathe, exercise, and regulate body temperature.
Due to their high prevalence of skin allergies and potential digestive issues, many French Bulldogs require specialized, hypoallergenic diets.
Cherry eye is a common ailment in French Bulldogs, requiring monitoring and sometimes surgical intervention for eye health.
Given their low activity levels and susceptibility to joint and breathing issues, maintaining a lean weight is critical to avoid exacerbating their health concerns.
While not a primary breed-defining health issue, heart conditions are monitored as part of overall wellness, but are less common than respiratory or spinal concerns.
Ratings reflect typical breed prevalence and do not mean your individual dog will develop these issues. Always discuss your dog's health with your veterinarian.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
French Bulldogs are predisposed to Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), which means they can experience breathing difficulties and are highly susceptible to heatstroke. It is vital to keep them cool and avoid strenuous exercise in the heat. They are also prone to spinal issues like IVDD; while they love to jump, using ramps for sofas can help protect their backs. This breed is famously flatulent, often due to their short snouts swallowing air while eating—switching to a fresh Majestik raw diet can often significantly improve this. Many Frenchies are more likely to develop skin fold dermatitis if their wrinkles aren't cleaned daily, and they can be prone to skin and digestive sensitivities on standard commercial kibble. While they may require extra care in these areas, their devoted and loving nature makes every bit of maintenance worthwhile for a dedicated owner.
Feeding Guide for Your French Bulldog
Healthy Weight
8-12.5 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
200-315 grams
For a healthy adult Frenchie, we recommend feeding 2-3% of their ideal body weight daily in fresh food. For a 10kg dog, this equates to approximately 200g to 300g per day, split into two meals. Adjust based on activity level and body condition to ensure they remain lean, as excess weight significantly exacerbates joint and breathing issues.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-quality, nutrient-dense diet with controlled calorie intake to prevent obesity. Many French Bulldogs thrive on fresh or raw diets that avoid common fillers and artificial additives which can trigger skin and digestive sensitivities.
A balanced raw diet for a Frenchie should focus on lean, high-quality proteins to prevent weight gain. Majestik's Kangaroo or Beef blends are excellent choices. Including omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil or green-lipped mussels can support their skin health. Avoid high-carb fillers to reduce flatulence and skin inflammation.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
French Bulldog Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your French Bulldog? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
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Made in Two Wells, South Australia
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Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
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Locally owned and operated
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Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
3-5 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.