French Bulldogs are some of the most recognizable, friendliest pups around, and these dogs are a popular companion to many. However, French Bulldogs are predisposed to certain health issues and complications due to their breeding, appearance, and size, which can negatively impact their lifespan.
If you have a French Bulldog or you are thinking about adding one of these wonderful pups to your life, you may be wondering what you can do to keep them healthy and happy.
Our guide gives you the top seven tips you can follow to help your beloved Frenchie live longer and enjoy their life at your side.
What Is the Average French Bulldog Lifespan?
The average French Bulldog lifespan tends to be between 10 to 12 years. This is about an average lifespan for dogs of this size, with similar breeds like the Boston Terrier having a matching lifespan. In general, you can expect your Frenchie to live around this long, barring any health complications that affect their lifespan.
Common Health Complications for French Bulldogs
French Bulldogs may be prone to certain health issues or complications. In fact, one study of French Bulldogs in the U.K. found that the health of the breed was much poorer than the health of other dog breeds [1].
Notable health problems for Frenchies come from their flatter face, which can make it harder for these dogs to breathe.
Common health issues to keep an eye out for in your French Bulldog include:
- Heatstroke – French Bulldogs are more susceptible to heatstroke due to their inability to pant or breathe properly with a flat face, making it harder for these dogs to cool down when overheating.
- Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) – This is caused by the smaller windpipes and narrow nostrils that flat-faced dogs have, and it may result in fatalities if not treated. Surgical corrections may be necessary for this condition [2].
- Hemivertebra – Also called butterfly vertebra, this is a health condition in which the spinal cord is compressed, leading to weakness and the potential for incontinence.
- Pulmonic Stenosis – This is a congenital heart disease that makes it difficult for the heart to pump blood.
In addition to the conditions listed above, French Bulldogs may be prone to obesity. This is due to their smaller size and compact nature, making a healthy diet and plenty of exercise essential to keeping your Frenchie looking and feeling their best.
Increase a French Bulldog Lifespan: Tips to Help Your Frenchie Live Longer
The following tips are all incredibly beneficial when it comes to helping your Frenchie live a long, healthy, and happy life.
Choose an Ethical Breeder
If you are planning to welcome a purebred French Bulldog into your family, chances are that you are purchasing them from a breeder. It is important to choose an ethical and reputable breeder at this step, as improper breeding practices and inbreeding can lead to further breathing issues for this flat-faced dog.
You can check a breeder before adopting by asking to see any licenses or certifications, asking for a visit to where the breeder practices, and meeting the puppies and parent dogs. Try to avoid questionable breeders from online websites (such as Craigslist) or backyard breeders, as they are likely not practicing ethically.
Regular Exercise
Regular exercise is essential when owning a French Bulldog, as exercise helps to keep your pup both physically and mentally stimulated. Even though your Frenchie is on the smaller side for dog breeds, they will still need two to three medium-length walks per day and lots of dedicated playtime.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that strenuous, outdoor exercise should be avoided during very warm weather, as Frenchies are at an increased risk of heat stroke.
Proper Diet and Nutrition
Proper diet and nutrition are key when caring for your Frenchie, and you shouldn’t underestimate the power that a good diet can have on your French Bulldog’s health. Make sure that you don’t overfeed your French Bulldog and that you are providing them with high-quality wet or dry dog food. Talk to your vet about the ideal calories, food serving size, and weight for your dog
Always have fresh water available, and work with your vet if you discover that your Frenchie needs to be put on a special diet due to certain health issues, such as joint or urinary problems.
Dental Health
Though dental health is often overlooked when it comes to caring for our dogs, it is another vital item to pay attention to. Keeping your Frenchie’s teeth clean reduces their chances of developing a serious tooth or gum disease, and it might lower the chances of your dog needing any kind of oral surgery.
Clean your dog’s teeth regularly through daily brushing and provide them with chew toys or treats that help to keep their teeth clean and their breath fresh.
Training Time
You might not realize it, but your French Bulldog needs mental stimulation as much as they need playtime and physical stimulation. Training time spent with your dog teaching them new tricks and tasks is a fun way to build a bond between you and your pup, and this activity allows them to exercise their mind.
Frenchies can also experience mental benefits from feeding enrichment. Consider puzzle feeders, stuffable treat toys, snuffle mats, or lick mats to keep your French Bulldog’s brain working during dinner time.
With a sharpened mind from lots of training and enrichment activities, your Frenchie might be able to live a longer and more fulfilling life.
Regular Grooming
Regular grooming and skincare routines can help to contribute to a better overall appearance for your French Bulldog, as well as better overall health. When your dog is bathed and brushed, they are at a lower risk for skin conditions and other itchiness or irritations.
Additionally, regular grooming, skincare, and nail trimming can help you catch any skin problems such as allergies or irritated spots before they become serious and start affecting other areas of your Frenchie’s health.
Preventative Healthcare Measures
As we mentioned above, French Bulldogs are prone to certain types of healthcare issues. You can work to expand your Frenchie’s lifespan by employing preventative healthcare measures such as taking them to the vet for check-ups every six months to a year, ensuring they receive vaccinations as necessary, and keeping an eye out for any emergency medical signs.
If you have questions about your Frenchie’s health, you can take them to your local veterinarian for guidance and advice about keeping them healthy.
When Do I Need to Take My French Bulldog to the Vet?
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, our canine companions need to be taken to the veterinarian and evaluated. It’s important to do this promptly if you notice any of the following emergency medical issues that may indicate your Frenchie is suffering from a potentially serious health condition or disease.
- Labored breathing or excessive panting
- Unexplained lethargy or laziness
- Vomiting, nausea, or diarrhea
- Seizures
- Extreme itching or inflamed skin
- Weakness in the legs or noticeable pain
- Urinary or bowel incontinence
Seeking out prompt and experienced medical treatment as soon as you notice something amiss with your French Bulldog is key to ensuring their lifespan stays long and your dog stays as happy and comfortable as possible.
Giving Your Frenchie a Long, Happy Life
French Bulldogs are among the most distinctive and happiest canine companions, whether they’re at home exercising with their humans or simply cuddling up on the couch.
You can follow the tips in our guide to help give your Frenchie a long and happy life, hopefully extending their lifespan for as long as possible.
References:
- O’Neill, D.G., Packer, R.M., Francis, P. et al. Canine Genet Epidemiol 8, 13 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40575-021-00112-3
- Author Collins, Brian, DVM, “Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS),” Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
