French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are one of the better choices for a family with children. Expect a small dog that is low-energy, sheds a normal amount and needs very little grooming. The big catch is company: this breed genuinely struggles when the house is empty all day.
The numbers
| Height | 11–13 in |
|---|---|
| Weight | under 28 lb |
| Life expectancy | 10–12 years |
Source: American Kennel Club breed standard.
What French Bulldogs are actually like
The Frenchie began with Nottingham lace-makers who took small bulldogs to France during the Industrial Revolution, where the breed picked up its distinctive erect "bat" ears and became a Parisian favourite. It is now among the most popular dogs in the world, and popularity has been hard on it. Frenchies are charming, funny, low-exercise flat dogs that bond intensely to their people. They are also one of the most compromised breeds alive: the flat face causes serious breathing problems, most cannot swim because their front-heavy build sinks them, many cannot give birth naturally, and spinal problems linked to the screw tail are common. If you want one, a vet consultation before you choose a breeder matters more here than for any other breed on this list.
Day to day. Low-energy — short walks and a warm spot to sleep suit this breed fine, which makes it one of the easier dogs to fit around a busy family. On noise, it is quiet.
The coat, honestly. This breed sheds a normal amount and needs very little grooming. A brush a few times a week and the occasional tidy-up keeps it in good order.
Being left alone. Struggles on its own. If your house is empty from the school run until the evening, this is the breed most likely to be unhappy about it — and separation problems are one of the top reasons dogs end up back in rescue.
Training. Trains at an average pace. Consistent, reward-based training from day one does most of the work.
Get one if…
- You want a dog with a reputation for putting up with children
- Your idea of a walk is twenty gentle minutes, not five miles
- You want a dog whose coat looks after itself
- You are short on space and want a dog that fits your home
Think again if…
- Your house is empty from the morning drop-off until the evening
- A surprise vet bill would be a real problem this year
Health worth knowing about
Every animal is an individual, and plenty of French Bulldogs live long, healthy lives. This is here so nobody is surprised — ask a vet, and ask whoever you get the dog from what they have tested for.
What it costs to keep one
Rough running cost: $$$ (one of the pricier dogs on our list) — because the breed has known health issues that can mean extra vet visits.
Those are relative bands, not live prices. For real numbers across every pet we cover, see the pet cost study and the cost calculator.
Looking for one? Start at a shelter
Rescues do have French Bulldogs and French Bulldog crosses, usually adults whose size, coat and temperament you can see rather than guess at.
Often compared with
❓ Common questions about French Bulldogs
Is a French Bulldog good with kids?
Yes — French Bulldogs have a strong reputation with children. As with any animal, an adult should supervise young kids and the dog together, and children need to learn to leave it alone while it eats or sleeps.
Do French Bulldogs shed a lot?
A normal amount. Regular brushing keeps most of it off your furniture.
Can a French Bulldog be left alone during the day?
Not really. This is one of the breeds most likely to become distressed alone all day, and separation problems are a common reason dogs are given up.
Is a French Bulldog a good first dog?
It can be, with consistent reward-based training from the first day and realistic expectations about exercise.
Should I get a French Bulldog?
French Bulldogs suit a home that is fairly calm, is rarely empty, and is not fussy about coat care. Meet the dog itself before deciding. Get one if: You want a dog with a reputation for putting up with children; Your idea of a walk is twenty gentle minutes, not five miles; You want a dog whose coat looks after itself; You are short on space and want a dog that fits your home. Think again if: Your house is empty from the morning drop-off until the evening; A surprise vet bill would be a real problem this year.
📚 Where this comes from
We check our care advice against vets, animal charities, and government health guidance. Here is what this page is built on.
Vets, charities & official guidance
- Breed standards & vital statistics — American Kennel Club
- Preventing dog bites — AVMA
- Brachycephalic dogs policy — British Veterinary Association
- Puppy socialization position statement — AVSAB
- People foods to avoid feeding your pets — ASPCA
- Spaying and neutering — AVMA
Keeper & species-community guides
Checked August 2026. These are other people’s websites, and none of it replaces your own vet — if a pet seems unwell, call one.