Be Wise › Pet Wise guides › Dogs › French Bulldog
French Bulldog: temperament, health and care
French Bulldog: temperament, exercise and grooming needs, common health problems and who this dog suits.
This is general information for the UK. It is not veterinary or legal advice, and every animal is different. Speak to a vet about your pet's health. The Be Pet Wise app can also show rules for other countries.
At a glance
| Size | Small, about 8–14 kg |
|---|---|
| Typical lifespan | 10–12 years |
| Exercise | Low to moderate: short walks, avoid heat and exertion |
| Grooming | Short coat; clean facial folds regularly |
Temperament and who it suits
Affectionate, playful and sociable, sometimes stubborn.
Often suits: owners who accept high veterinary needs and can keep them cool.
Many need caesarean births and may need corrective surgery; think hard about breed health before buying.
Health problems to know about
- Breathing problems (BOAS)
- Skin-fold infections
- Spinal problems
- Heat intolerance
Individuals vary. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks, vaccination and weight control.
Before you get a French Bulldog
- See the puppy with its mother, where it was born
- Ask about health tests on the parents for the conditions above
- Check it is microchipped and registered by eight weeks old
- Consider adopting: breed rescues and rehoming centres often have dogs of this breed looking for homes
See buying a puppy or kitten: Lucy's Law and your rights.
Care, law and costs
See our general guide to dogs for feeding, the law in the UK, what it costs and emergencies, and our guides to microchipping law and toxic foods and plants.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a French Bulldog live?
A French Bulldog typically lives 10–12 years. Individual health, diet and weight all matter.
How much exercise does a French Bulldog need?
Low to moderate: short walks, avoid heat and exertion.
What health problems are common in a French Bulldog?
Common concerns include breathing problems (BOAS), skin-fold infections, spinal problems and heat intolerance. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks.
How much grooming does a French Bulldog need?
Short coat; clean facial folds regularly.
Who does a French Bulldog suit?
It often suits owners who accept high veterinary needs and can keep them cool. Many need caesarean births and may need corrective surgery; think hard about breed health before buying.
Similar dogs
Sources
- The Royal Kennel Club: breed information and health schemes
- BSAVA: Microchipping legislation in the UK
- Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council: Lucy's Law
Want answers for your situation?
The Be Pet Wise app lets you choose your country and pet, and ask PetBot follow-up questions.
Open Be Pet WiseBrowse all guidesReviewed 2026-09-23. General information for the UK, not veterinary or legal advice. See how we check.