frenchielogo13
Author: Johnny
February 2, 2023
JohnnyBlog

Why Are My French Bulldog’s Eyes Bloodshot? Should I Be Concerned?

Your Frenchie’s eyes are as sensitive as yours. Therefore, they are prone to irritation, allergic reaction, some illness, or trauma.

That said, do your French bulldog’s eyes seem different than usual?

Don’t worry. 

If you’re looking for an answer to “Why are my French bulldog’s eyes bloodshot?” you are at the right place.

We know that you’re worried and that you want quick answers. So, let`s start right away! 

french bulldog red eyes

Why Do French Bulldogs Have Red Eyes?

Our beloved Frenchies are very sensitive – especially their eyes. So, it should not surprise you that these cute pooches often develop bloodshot, red eyes. The real question is: 

Why does this happen?

There are numerous possible reasons for your pet’s bloodshot eyes, such as:

  • Cherry eye
  • Allergies
  • Conjunctivitis 
  • Dry eye syndrome
  • Corneal ulcers
  • Fever
  • Glaucoma

Let’s talk about each condition in more depth!

Cherry Eye

Red and bloodshot eyes in French bulldogs are often the result of a cherry eye. This condition is characterized by red tissue protruding from the inside corner of a dog`s eye.

Symptoms:

  • Prolapsed gland of the eyelid
  • Watery eyes 
  • Discharge
  • Redness

Treatment

Even though this condition can seem quite scary and hurtful, it’s not. Nevertheless, you have to visit the vet ASAP. 

If you fail to treat your Frenchie`s eyes properly, you risk various complications.

Treatment usually includes surgical intervention so that the gland can be sutured back in place – or removed. You might also receive some eye drops for your best friend. 

Allergies

Your Frenchie can develop allergies – just like you. 

The most common canine allergies are seasonal or food allergies. Many dogs are also allergic to mold, dust, or some chemicals used around the house.

Symptoms:

  • Redness
  • Tears 
  • Watery discharge
  • Itchiness and scratching
  • Excessive licking 
  • Sneezing
  • Inflamed skin
  • Hair loss

Treatment 

The treatment depends on the type of allergy your Frenchie has. Only your vet can tell you what to do to help your pup get better. 

Be patient, though; pinpointing allergens can take a lot of time. 

red eyes french bulldog on the grass

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis or pink eye can be both infectious and non-infectious. 

Infectious conjunctivitis is a  result of a virus or bacterial infection, while the non-infectious pink eye is usually caused by irritation, allergy, injury, illness, or a congenital condition.

Symptoms:

  • Redness
  • Puffy eyes
  • Itchiness
  • Eye discharge
  • Eyelids stuck together
  • Squinting
  • Swelling of the eyelid lining (conjunctiva)

Treatment 

The vet will first determine the underlying cause of your Frenchie`s pink eye and prescribe the proper treatment accordingly. Infectious conjunctivitis is treated with antibacterial or antifungal medicines. The therapy usually includes anti-inflammatory medications, as well.

Dry Eye Syndrome

If your French bulldog’s eyes appear dry, the problem might be the lack of tears. This condition is called keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), or simply the dry eye.

KCS occurs when your dog’s tear glands fail to produce enough moisture. It can result from eye trauma or some underlying health condition.

Symptoms:

  • Redness
  • Itchiness
  • Pain
  • Thick, yellow-green discharge
  • Excessive blinking

Treatment 

The vet will most probably prescribe eye drops that will help keep your Frenchie’s eyes moist. You will have to make sure the eyes are always clean, too. Since dry eye can be a chronic condition, the treatment might be lifelong.

Corneal Ulcers

Corneal ulcers are one of the most severe eye conditions your Frenchie can have. It can result from untreated dry eye syndrome, physical trauma, or chemical burns caused by the grooming products you use – or other substances that got into your pup’s eyes. 

It’s a painful condition – and it can lead to blindness. Take your Frenchie to the vet immediately! 

Symptoms:

  • Cloudy, bloodshot eyes
  • Visible crater
  • Closed eye
  • Squinting
  • Watery discharge
  • Excessive blinking
  • Scratching the eye
  • Avoiding bright light

Treatment

The treatment of corneal ulcers usually involves some type of antibiotic and dog-friendly pain medication. If your French bulldog has a severe case of this condition, it may require surgical intervention to prevent blindness.

Fever

Bloodshot eyes can be caused by fever, too. You should always check your French bulldog’s temperature – especially if there are other symptoms present.

Symptoms:

  • Red, glassy-looking eyes
  • Warm nose and ears
  • Loss of appetite
  • Shivering
  • Panting
  • Lack of energy
  • Runny nose
  • Coughing

Treatment

There are a few things you can do to help reduce your Frenchie’s temperature. 

First, apply cool, soaked towels around your friend’s paws and ears. Make sure your Frenchie’s hydrated, too. Your vet will prescribe medications to bring down the fever and proper therapy to treat the actual cause of the increased bodily temperature. 

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is caused by fluid buildup in your French bulldog’s eyes. It’s a rather painful condition characterized by swelling and pressure. 

If left untreated, glaucoma could lead to damage of the optic nerve – or even blindness.

 

Symptoms:

  • Pain
  • Cloudy bloodshot eyes
  • Swollen eyes
  • Receding eyeballs
  • Dilated pupils
  • Unresponsive pupils
  • Impaired vision

Treatment 

Take your French bulldog to the vet as soon as you notice any signs of glaucoma. It’ll give your pooch the best chance of full recovery. Treatment usually consists of topical medicine or laser surgery. 

A word of caution: 

Wait too long, and the chances are the vet will have to remove one (or both) eyes surgically.

Other Possible Reasons For Bloodshot Eyes In French Bulldogs

In addition to all the above-listed causes, bloodshot eyes in French bulldogs can be a sign of an eye injury – or a chronic condition, such as diabetes or hyperthyroidism. It might also result from an illness, such as distemper. 

And in some cases, red eyes could indicate certain types of cancer. 

How To Reduce The Risk Of French Bulldog Red Eyes

Unfortunately, flat-faced dog breeds – such as French bulldogs – have a genetic disposition for eye problems. So, you’re likely to encounter eye-related health issues sooner or later.

Here are some things that might reduce the risk:

  • Use only gentle dog shampoos and make sure the soap doesn’t get into your Frenchie’s eyes.
  • Try to minimize the risk of an eye injury by keeping sharp objects away from your pet.
  • Do not use harsh chemicals around your house.
  • Examine your dog’s eyes regularly and check for dry eye, unusual discharge, or marks.
  • Clean your Frenchie’s tear stains regularly to prevent infection. Use only sterile eyewash and eyewash pads.

Finally – and please remember this – do not try to treat your French bulldog on your own! Do not buy over-the-counter medications without consulting your vet first. 

Contact your vet as soon as you notice bloodshot eyes. It’s the only proper way to deal with this problem.

The vet will determine the underlying cause and prescribe the meds that your furry friend needs! Do not risk your Frenchie’s health by playing doctor yourself!

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February 2, 2023
JohnnyBlog

French Bulldog Life Span – Want To Know How Long Frenchies Live? Find Out!

We all know that there’s one sad fact about owning dogs – and that’s the limited amount of time that we get to spend with them. If only our pooches could live longer!

And on that note, you’ve probably wondered about the French bulldog life span.

One must consider several things when talking about how long a Frenchie will live, so we have a lot of things to cover here.

With that said, let’s dive right in – and see what we have in store for you!

 

young-french-bulldog-white

Why Do French Bulldogs Live For As Long As They Do?

French bulldogs live 10 to 14 years on average, the “golden middle” for most dog breeds.

There are some breeds that live shorter than that – up to 10 years – and then there are others that may live up to 19 or 20 years of age.

But why do Frenchies generally live 10 to 14 years?

Well, a few factors are at play here.

First of all, they are a small breed that often doesn’t get enough exercise due to the stigma that they are lazy. Inexperienced owners often feed into the idea that their French bulldogs don’t like to run. So, why would they make them run?

That’s the first mistake that inexperienced Frenchie owners make.

Unfortunately, this shortens the lifespan of your French bulldog in the most harmful manner. The thing is, physical exercise is something that every dog needs – including Frenchies!

If you don’t pay attention to your dog’s fitness, you are directly impacting their lifespan – and might even “cut” it down to 10 rather than 14 years.

And we know that would be your worst nightmare.

Also, when there’s no exercise and the diet of your Frenchie is poor, that shortens their lifespan, too.

French bulldogs are prone to certain heart-related conditions and are more susceptible to heart murmurs and heart or valve disease.

So, the shorter average lifespan of French bulldogs is linked to stereotypes that the owners are feeding into and some genetic factors that need to be considered.

But, you’re in luck:

There are various ways for you to lengthen the lifespan of your Frenchie with little to no effort – and we’re going to tell you all about it below!

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Improving Your French Bulldog’s Lifespan

As we’ve mentioned earlier, there are some things that, if done correctly, can ensure a longer life span for your Frenchie. And that means you get to spend more time with your pet!

Now, before we get into the specifics of lengthening your Frenchie’s life span, you should know that there are still things that you can’t influence.

Mainly, these things are genetic and can’t be prevented.

Again, French bulldogs are prone to some conditions – although nothing too drastic or unusual for other dog breeds. They can be as healthy and energetic as any other dog around them.

That said, let’s look at some genetic problems that may lead to diseases and shorten your pup’s lifespan.

First of all, the condition that’s well-known in the world of dog owners doesn’t directly influence your dog’s well-being, but it drastically shortens the list of what your dog can and can’t do – hip dysplasia.

If your Frenchie develops hip dysplasia, they won’t be able to exercise regularly – and will, most likely, gain weight.

That directly puts them at a higher risk of developing heart murmurs or valve disease. But luckily, that’s where potential genetic problems end with Frenchies – for the most part, anyway.

Some simple methods can make a massive difference if you’d like to improve your French bulldog’s life span.

For starters, regular exercise. Contrary to popular belief that French bulldogs are lazy and don’t like physical exercise, they actually enjoy it very much.

Daily walks will be highly beneficial to your pup. But, that is fruitful only if you pair it with a good, high-quality diet.

Your best friend deserves an excellent nutritional plan – and there are two ways to go about this:

  • Raw diet
  1. Quality dog food (+supplements)

Let’s see what you can do in this department!

Health & Exercise

running-french-bulldog

As we’ve said, health and exercise are essential to your dog’s well-being.

If you train your Frenchie regularly – and you should – remember that an active lifestyle requires a highly nutritious diet.

Some people love to give their dogs the best food around, including quale eggs, raw meat, bone marrow, and the like.

If you go down that road, your Frenchie might just outlive a lot of the dogs in the neighborhood.

The only downside to such a diet is that it’s pretty expensive; many people can’t afford to feed their pups these nutritious foods daily.

The majority of dog owners opt-out for the second option – dog food and supplements to go with it.

There are various commercial dog foods that are made from good quality blends that’ll give your dog all the nutrients they need. And if you pair that with, let’s say calcium – you’re all set!

The point is: 

The choice of diet can seriously lengthen your Frenchie’s life span and allow them to spend that time happy and healthy.

French Bulldog Life Span – Conclusion

 

french-bulldog-with-closed-eyes

People assume that Frenchies live shorter than bigger and more active dogs, and, sadly enough, Frenchies usually get labeled as a lazy breed of dogs.

That is entirely untrue, though.  

In fact, the average life span of a French bulldog is between 10 and 14 years.

As we mentioned, there are things that can undoubtedly shorten the French bulldog life span – but there are also things that can lengthen it.

It all comes down to a bit of luck when we’re talking about genetics and a bit of care when we’re talking about exercise and a healthy diet.

Again, your Frenchie is likely destined to live a long and happy life, but don’t forget that you are, in part, responsible for it!



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January 21, 2023
JohnnyFOOD

What Human Food Can French Bulldogs Eat? The Most Detailed List Ever

Every French bulldog owner must make sure that their pet receives the best possible care. One of the most critical tasks you have as a pet parent is to keep your Frenchie healthy – and that is why you have to be extra careful when feeding your pooch.

One of the first rules to remember is: 

Never feed your Frenchie your scraps!

It can be tempting to share your meal with your best friend, especially when you look in those big puppy eyes begging for a bite or two. It is perfectly reasonable that you’re going to give in sometimes. 

And for this reason, you must find out which food is safe and healthy for your French bulldog – and which is not.

So, what human food can French bulldogs eat?

Unfortunately, most human food is off-limits for canines, but that doesn’t mean Frenchies cannot enjoy some of the food you eat – you just have to make an extra effort to make sure it is safe. 

To make things easier for Frenchie parents, we’ve made a list of foods that are A-OK for our four-legged friends!

French bulldogs can eat everything from this list – as long as they don’t overdo it. And as you’ll soon find out, the list includes a variety of fruits, veggies, and meat products. 

Serving these “human foods” to your Frenchie could help make your dog’s diet more interesting. 

That said, it’s your responsibility to make sure the quantity is always within the allowed limits, as well. When it comes to human foods – even safe ones – too much can be dangerous for French bulldogs. 

They must maintain a protein-rich diet at all times. 

Besides, it’s crucial to note that French bulldogs are prone to becoming obese. 

So, you must watch their calories, too. More importantly, keep your Frenchie’s meals lean and avoid giving too many treats. Sure, it makes them happy – but it won’t do your pup any service. 

Okay, that’s enough of an intro. Let’s dive into the details, shall we?

Which People Foods Are Safe For French Bulldogs?

Which People Foods Are Safe For French Bulldogs?

Your French bulldog doesn’t have the same digestive system as you. For this reason, the food you eat and enjoy might not be safe for your little furry friend. 

Be careful – some food could easily make your Frenchie very sick!

Now, this guide is designed to help with that: 

To avoid dangerous foods and still be able to enrich your French bulldog’s diet with a variety of fruits, veggies – and other “human foods” – make sure you carefully read the list we’re about to share with you. 

The food on the list is not only safe for your Frenchie but can provide them with an abundance of valuable nutrients and numerous health benefits. 

So, let’s not waste any more time – let’s see which food is safe for French bulldogs!

The List Of Human Foods That Are Safe For French Bulldogs

Group #1: Fruits & Veggies

French Bulldog eating fruit
  1. Carrots

Your Frenchie might not look like a rabbit, but you can let them enjoy a carrot from time to time. Dogs usually enjoy munching on this healthy veggie because it’s crunchy and has a mild taste.

Plus, carrots are healthy for your Frenchie’s teeth. Chewing a carrot helps remove plaque from your dog’s teeth and thus promotes good dental health.

Carrots are also rich in vitamin A. This valuable vitamin strengthens your Frenchie’s immune system and helps keep their skin and coat in top condition. And it does wonders for the eyesight as well. 

Be careful, though: 

Too much vitamin A could end up being toxic for your Frenchie. You must feed carrots to your pet in moderation.

  1. Apples 

The famous “One apple a day keeps the doctor away” saying applies to dogs, as well. Namely, apples are packed with numerous vitamins valuable for dogs – such as vitamin A and C.

Apples are an excellent source of fiber, too. As such, they could help regulate your Frenchie’s digestion. 

If you overdo it, though, your furry friend could end up with an upset stomach. Make sure your French bulldog never eats a rotting apple – that can cause alcohol poisoning in dogs.

  1. Avocado

French bulldogs can consume small amounts of avocado – as long as you make sure to remove the seeds (pits), leaves, and skin. 

  1. Blueberries 

Your Frenchie can enjoy a few blueberries a couple of times a week. 

They’re a good source of fiber, phytochemicals, and antioxidants. Antioxidants are especially beneficial for elderly Frenchies because they help alleviate some age-related issues.

  1. Bananas 

Bananas are safe for French bulldogs as long as you provide them in moderation. They’re rich in magnesium, which helps improve your Frenchie’s bone health. 

Be extremely careful not to give your pet bananas too often since they have high sugar content. 

  1. Cucumbers

Cucumbers are not only safe but also highly recommended as a Frenchie-friendly snack. They are rich in numerous vital vitamins and minerals – one of which is vitamin K. 

Considering that they’re a low-calorie veggie, cucumbers are an excellent choice if your French bulldog is already overweight. 

  1. Green Beans

Plain green beans are safe for French bulldogs and can be served both cooked or raw – but always without seasoning. Green beans are a pretty good source of protein. They also contain iron, calcium, and vitamin K.

Yet, it would be best to chop the beans up before serving them to your Frenchie to prevent choking.  

  1. Watermelon

Watermelon is generally safe for your Frenchie – but the seeds and the rind can be dangerous and should thus be avoided at all costs. 

The seeds can block the intestines; that’s why you must make sure you remove them all. As for the rind, it’s likely to cause an upset stomach.

Watermelon is an excellent summer treat. It has a high water content that can help hydrate your Frenchie and will provide your pup with vitamins A, C, and B-6, too.

Group #2: Grains

Can French Bulldogs eat grains?
  1. Whole Wheat

Almost every commercial dry dog food formula contains wheat. It’s an essential component of the canine diet. So, yes, Frenchies can safely eat wheat, too. 

Since it’s rich in digestible carbohydrates, wheat provides your pup with the energy it needs.

Now, whole wheat contains intact grain kernels, so it is the best form of this grain for dogs. The outer layer of these kernels is high in fiber that acts like a prebiotic and stimulates the growth of the good bacteria in your dog’s digestive system.

Some Frenchies might be allergic to gluten – but it happens pretty rarely. For most Frenchies, whole wheat is essential for a balanced diet.

  1. Brown Rice 

Brown rice is pretty much like whole wheat: 

It contains the outer kernel layers rich in fiber and other valuable nutrients – such as vitamin B, vitamin E, magnesium, phosphorus, and selenium.

If your Frenchie has an upset stomach, brown rice can help. Your dog can easily digest rice, and it will help soothe its stomach and speed up the recovery.

  1. Barley

Barley is a safe cereal grain that provides Frenchies with the carbohydrates and energy needed to get through the day. It’s an excellent alternative to wheat since it boasts an exceptionally high energy content. 

If your French bulldog is very active, barley could help keep them energized. Plus, it’s rich in B vitamins, too.

  1. Oats

Oats are highly nutritious – high in protein and low in gluten. They are popular in commercial dog formulas made for canines that are sensitive to corn or wheat.

Due to its low glycemic index, this grain could help control your Frenchie’s blood sugar. Whole oats contain soluble fiber, too, and can assist in managing cholesterol levels.

Oatmeal is often found on dog food labels. It’s a premium ingredient ideal for owners who prefer a non-GMO diet for their Frenchie.

  1. Millet 

Millet is mainly used for bird food – but can sometimes be a part of the canine diet. It is suitable for French bulldogs that are allergic to gluten since it’s a gluten-free grain. 

Millet is an excellent source of antioxidants that will strengthen your Frenchie’s immune system, while the higher fat content provides your pup with slow-burn energy.

  1. Quinoa

Quinoa is a healthy grain that your Frenchie can eat in moderate amounts. Many premium dog food formulas contain this seed instead of corn or wheat.

Quinoa is nutrient-dense, but more importantly, it is packed with calcium which has a significant role in your Frenchie’s bone development. 

Now, saponin found in quinoa can irritate dog intestines. But you shouldn’t worry as long as you serve your Frenchie moderate portions.

  1. Sorghum 

Sorghum is an ancient grain that is now often found in the so-called “superfood” pet formulas. If your Frenchie is gluten-intolerant, you can include this highly nutritious grain in their diet.

It’s easily digestible and boasts a low glycemic index, making it suitable for French bulldogs that have diabetes, too. Sorghum is rich in phosphorus, copper, magnesium, and zinc. The essential fatty acids present in sorghum have an antioxidant effect.

  1. Rye

Rye is often found in weight-control dog food formulas, making this grain an excellent choice for overweight Frenchies. Be careful if your pooch has celiac disease or gluten intolerance, though; rye contains gluten. 

That said, rye is rich in B vitamins and fiber. Besides promoting weight loss, it also helps control blood sugar levels and improves your Frenchie’s heart health.

  1. Corn 

Even though corn is often present in grain-inclusive dog foods, be careful when introducing it to your Frenchie. Many pups have corn allergies.

On the plus side, it boasts substantial levels of vitamin E and beta-carotene, and essential fatty acids that promote a healthy coat. 

  1. White Rice 

As with the previously mentioned brown rice, white rice is a great choice to help a Frenchie with an upset stomach. It’s easily digestible and helps bind the stool.

However, white rice could lead to blood sugar spikes – and should be consumed in moderation. So, be extra careful if your Frenchie suffers from diabetes.

Group #3: Dairy Products

French Bulldog drinking

Most dairy products are safe for French bulldogs – but only in small quantities. So, your Frenchie can generally enjoy:

  • Milk
  • Cheese
  • Yogurt

If you overdo it, though, your pet will most likely have digestive problems since dogs have much lower lactase levels than humans. The role of this enzyme is to break down the sugars in milk – and your dog’s body might not be able to do it as efficiently. 

If your Frenchie is lactose-intolerant, avoid dairy products altogether. If you are unsure, look for signs such as diarrhea or vomiting after eating any dairy products.

Group #4: Meat

Can French Bulldogs eat meat?
  1. Fish

Not all fish is suitable – or safe – for your Frenchie, but your pup can generally consume:

Fish is generally an excellent source of protein. Both salmon and tuna are also rich in Omega-3 fatty acids that boost your French bulldog’s immune system and help maintain its coat and skin healthy.

Always cook fish before offering it to your Frenchie, though. Raw fish could contain dangerous parasites that can endanger your pup’s health. 

Sushi is surprisingly not off-limits – as long as you take some precautions.

  1. Chicken 

Chicken is an excellent protein choice for your French bulldog’s diet. Make sure that your dog eats a good portion of poultry every week. 

If you choose to prepare chicken yourself, you should boil it and serve it without seasoning. It can help if your dog has an upset stomach, too.

  1. Pork

Your Frenchie can have pork – but only in moderation. Pork has high-fat content that Frenchies have a problem digesting, and it can thus cause inflammation or even a serious condition called pancreatitis. 

Just like chicken, pork is best served cooked and with no seasoning. Do not feed your Frenchie bacon or processed ham since both contain dangerous levels of salt.

  1. Turkey

Turkey is safe for Frenchies – and many commercial dog foods contain it, as well. It is best to remove the fat before preparing turkey meat since it can induce pancreas issues. 

And again, your pet should only be allowed to eat cooked and unseasoned turkey meat.

  1. Beef

Beef is a common ingredient in commercial dog food. You can serve your Frenchie lean beef as long as you don’t add any sauce or seasoning.

Beef is one of the best animal-based protein sources for dogs in general. Even more so, it’s rich in numerous vitamins and minerals your French bulldog needs to stay healthy. 

Warning! 

Never serve your Frenchie raw or undercooked meat; it’s a health risk that isn’t worth taking!

Raw meat may contain dangerous bacteria such as Escherichia coli or Salmonella – and both can cause food poisoning in dogs.

Some people claim that a raw meat diet can be beneficial for dogs. We respectfully disagree – it poses a health risk and does not ensure complete nutritional balance.

What Else Should Your Frenchie Eat?

  1. Eggs

Cooked eggs are perfectly safe for French bulldogs. Better yet, they’re highly nutritious:

A single egg contains almost every vitamin and mineral your Frenchie needs – and includes lots of protein, too. 

Serve only cooked eggs, though! 

As with meat, feeding your Frenchie raw eggs is risky; they could contain a dangerous bacteria called Salmonella.

  1. Peanut Butter

As long as you give your French bulldog the unsalted version of peanut butter with no added sugar or sweeteners – especially xylitol – it can be an acceptable once-in-a-while treat. 

It contains numerous beneficial nutrients, including vitamin E, vitamin B, and niacin, and it’s rich in healthful fats and protein.

  1. Plain Popcorn 

We’ve already established that corn is safe for Frenchies; it’s only logical popcorns are safe to eat, too. 

That said, you cannot share your popcorns with your pet. Your Frenchie can eat ONLY plain popcorns with no salt, butter, or sugar. 

Why should you give your dog some popcorns from time to time? 

Well, they are packed with beneficial minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc. Be careful to remove any unpopped kernels, though; they represent a choking hazard!

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Which Human Foods Can Harm Your Frenchie?

Which Human Foods Can Harm Your Frenchie?

Even though this wasn’t our subject – at least not initially – we thought it would be wise to warn you about human foods that could harm your French bulldog, too. 

If you ever suspect your Frenchie’s ingested any foods from the following list, contact your vet as soon as possible. 

On that note, NEVER give your Frenchie:

  1. Cherries

French bulldogs can be poisoned by cherries since their pits contain cyanide. They’re also a considerable choking hazard! 

All in all, cherries are something to avoid.

  1. Chocolate, Coffee & Caffeine

Caffeine is bad for your dog, no matter the form it comes in: 

The chocolate and coffee you consume both contain chemicals called methylxanthines. They’re highly toxic for your Frenchie and could cause issues such as vomiting, an abnormal heart rate, and seizures. 

In the worst-case scenario, your Frenchie might even die.

If you want to reward your French bulldog, you can buy special chocolate treats made for dogs. They contain a safe chocolate substitute that your Frenchie can eat.

  1. Raisins & Grapes 

Grapes and raisins are highly toxic to French bulldogs. They can cause kidney failure – or even death. 

On that note, avoid any foods that might contain even traces of the two – such as fruit cake and malt loaf.

  1. Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits – such as oranges and lemons – contain citric acid that could upset your Frenchie’s stomach. If consumed in large quantities, citric acid can cause nervous system depression, as well.

  1. Cinnamon 

Cinnamon is not toxic per se but often causes digestive issues such as vomiting or diarrhea. It can also cause liver disease, especially when consumed in larger quantities. 

  1. Coconut 

No coconut products are safe for your French bulldog, period. Coconut water contains too much potassium, while its flesh and oil can cause upset stomach or diarrhea.

  1. Nuts 

You should avoid all nuts. 

For starters, they represent a choking hazard for your Frenchie. Moreover, some nuts – such as macadamia nuts – can cause some pretty severe health problems, too, and make your Frenchie weak, hyperthermic, and lethargic.

  1. Ice Cream 

Ice cream contains too much sugar for your French bulldog. Besides, many dogs are lactose intolerant, so giving them ice cream might be a bad idea. 

  1. Onions, Garlic & Chives

Onions, garlic, and chives all contain substances known as organosulfur compounds or OSCs. They’re highly toxic for all canines, Frenchies included. 

Vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain are the most common symptoms – but OSCs can cause anemia, too.

  1. Salty Foods

If your Frenchie consumes too much salt, they might be thirsty all the time or urinate more than usual. But if the problem persists, your pet could end up with sodium ion poisoning. 

The symptoms you should be on a lookout for are:

  • Vomiting and diarrhea
  • Involuntary shaking and tremors
  • High temperature
  • Seizures
  1. Xylitol

Xylitol is extremely dangerous for dogs. It’s a common sugar substitute in human foods, though, so be careful and always read the labels.

Xylitol can cause liver failure or reduce your Frenchie’s blood sugar levels; both can be deadly.

  1. Bread Dough 

Bread is generally safe for Frenchies to eat – but bread dough, as harmless as it might seem, is off-limits. The yeast in dough is very dangerous for canines: 

It can keep expanding inside the dog’s stomach and cause bloating. Plus, there are often some severe complications, too. 

  1. Alcohol

Your French bulldog should never – ever – be allowed to consume alcohol or anything that might contain it! Alcohol is extremely dangerous for dogs and could even lead to coma and death.

Final Words

Knowledge is power. So, read the provided lists until you’re sure you will never jeopardize your Frenchie’s health by feeding them the wrong foods. 

You can bookmark this guide and check it whenever you’re not sure if a specific food is safe for your pet or not.  

And remember: 

Even if some human foods are not toxic or dangerous, that does not mean you should make it a habit of yours to feed them to your pooch.

You should generally feed dogs human foods in moderation. Your French bulldog should have a diet based on dog-friendly food formulas. 

That becomes even more important if your Frenchie has diabetes, weight issues, liver or kidney issues, or any food sensitivities. You should consult the vet before letting them consume human foods. 

And, most importantly, consult a vet if your Frenchie has ingested something potentially harmful, too. 

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January 16, 2023
JohnnyBlog

French Bulldog Crying – What Does It Mean?

French bulldogs didn’t get popular as pets because they like to be left alone – they are all about being with their people. While Frenchies don’t bark as much, they can be vocal whenever they feel the need – and one particular sound that French bulldogs make a lot is crying.

Did you hear your French bulldog crying for the first time? What does it mean?

There are a couple of reasons for this – some of which are that your Frenchie wants attention, needs a potty break, or is feeling anxious. If you’re certain that none of these are the reasons behind your pup’s crying, then it could be a health-related issue.

In this article, we’ve covered possible reasons as to why Frenchies cry. So, without further ado, let’s dive in!

Is Your French Bulldog’s Crying Normal?

If you have been a bit frustrated by this behavior of your little friend, rest assured that it’s normal – and you’re not alone.

On the one hand, it’s good to know that crying is normal behavior that many French bulldogs will display. On the other hand, it can sometimes be tiring to be followed around by a crying dog.

When it comes to French bulldog puppies, crying for the first few weeks after you get a new pup is to be expected. Your dog is adjusting to all sorts of changes – and a whole new environment – at a breakneck pace.

From learning to sleep without its mom to teething to learning the basic obedience commands, your Frenchie puppy is going to feel a bit overwhelmed. Thus, it’s going to cry. 

We get that it might concern you, but crying is an entirely natural part of this process.

When it comes to adult dogs, French bulldogs are a somewhat noisy breed. They don’t just cry and whine – they also snore, and some have even been known to make screaming sounds. 

Yup, Frenchies can scream. 

With this wide range of sounds in a Frenchie’s regular communication repertoire, the fact that your French bulldog isn’t barking a lot might go unnoticed. It’s funny; the one thing you would expect from a dog, Frenchies don’t do that often. 

Why Do French Bulldogs Cry?

Photo of a Gray French Bulldog Walking on the Grass

Understanding why French bulldogs cry will be a major step towards dealing with this somewhat troublesome behavior. And the sooner you figure out the “issue,” the faster you can work toward finding a solution.

With that said, let’s discuss several reasons behind your Frenchie’s crying.

#1 Your Frenchie Is Feeling Lonely

French bulldogs are a created breed. They were bred down from larger bulldogs to their current small size. French bulldogs have a long history of accompanying people around town, lounging in coffee shops, and bellying up to the bar in saloons and dance halls.

So, a Frenchie spending time home – and alone – will feel pretty lonely, sometimes to the point of crying. 

#2 Your Frenchie Is Anxious

Just like many other dog breeds might bark due to anxiety or fear, your Frenchie is equally likely to cry and whine when they feel unsettled.

You can test that assumption by observing what your Frenchie does when it hears fireworks or thunderstorm rolls.

However, it doesn’t take a big event to trigger anxiety in your French bulldog. Just realizing that you might be going out without them – and leaving them alone – could result in anxious crying.

Other signs of separation anxiety in French bulldogs include:

  • Destructive chewing
  • Shaking or shivering
  • Excessive sleeping
  • Aggression
  • Excessive licking
  • Hiding
  • Excessive scratching
  • Growling

#3 Your French Bulldog Is Cold

French bulldogs are rather small dogs – most weigh less than 20 pounds. They also have short and fine coats, which make for a refined and neat appearance.

However, this can cause your Frenchie to get cold in winter – or even when the air conditioning is in full-blasting mode during the summer.

For French bulldogs – and some other dog breeds – buying canine clothing isn’t just for the sake of cuteness. It’s also a way to help your little friend stay warm. 

That’s especially important for French bulldogs, which are considered to be an indoor breed.

#4 Your Frenchie Isn’t Feeling Well

Just like babies cry when they aren’t feeling well, your French bulldog is pretty likely to express feelings of sickness by crying, too.

Dental problems, poor medication reactions, allergies, inappropriate diet, major changes in their environment – and other difficulties – can cause your Frenchie to cry.

Unfortunately, Frenchies run a higher risk of suffering from allergies. Crying could be your pup’s way of saying, “Something’s not right” – and usually goes hand in hand with redness and itching.

In most cases, dust and pollen are the ones causing the problem. You could get corticosteroid drops from your vet to ease your pup’s discomfort.

#5 Your Frenchie Wants Attention

Sometimes French bulldog owners unintentionally reinforce the very behavior they’re trying to stop by rushing to see what’s wrong when their dog starts crying.

You can bet that your Frenchie will quickly figure out that crying equals attention – and will use it to their advantage. 

#6 Your Frenchie Is Bored

Frenchies aren’t the most energetic of dog breeds. That’s mainly due to their short muzzle type, which makes breathing a bit difficult for them.

Additionally, French bulldogs aren’t that good at entertaining themselves. 

Their concept of entertainment is tied to you – doing whatever you’re doing. So, when you’re not around, your little friend might start crying to express the feeling of boredom.

#7 Your French Bulldog Is Confused

French bulldogs are sensitive dogs – they can pick up on the subtlest of your expressions and can sense conflict. That’s one reason why they might be confused.

Even more so, like all dogs, Frenchies thrive on routine. Changes to their daily schedule might result in confusion regarding what’s supposed to happen – or when.

And if your French bulldog is confused, you can expect some crying instead of typical barking. 

How To Stop Your Frenchie From Crying

french bulldog hair loss

A few minutes of your Frenchie crying can be cute, but a few hours? Not so much. 

So, is there anything you can do to stop your French bulldog from crying? 

As a matter of fact, yes – there is.

The very first step is to check your French bulldog’s health. Be sure to take your little friend to the vet so they can verify all is good health-wise.

Once health concerns are ruled out, you can start looking at behavioral issues that may be the reason for your French bulldog’s crying.

Since Frenchies are known for being a breed that cries and whines instead of barking, some of this behavior is expected – no matter what you do.

However, you can minimize it by providing adequate socialization, exercise, and playtime.

You can also try to eliminate or minimize your behaviors that might reinforce the crying so that your Frenchie learns that it doesn’t equal attention.

Conclusion: French Bulldog Crying – What Does It Mean?

As you can see, there are many reasons behind your French bulldog’s crying. 

Whether your Frenchie is feeling lonely, anxious, confused, or isn’t feeling well, they will express those feelings through crying.

Be sure you’ve met your French bulldog’s primary needs – meaning food, water, potty breaks, and playtime. And if you suspect that your Frenchie isn’t feeling well, take the pup to the vet for a professional examination.

Do you have a crying Frenchie at home? Feel free to share your tips on how to keep Frenchies quiet and content!

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February 10, 2022
JohnnyBlog

What Causes Seizures In French Bulldogs? General Info & Tips For Treatment

You should know one thing: 

Your Frenchie’s health can take a turn for the worse at any moment.

Okay, that sounded scary, but here’s the thing: 

One minute, you’re playing fetch, and in the next, your Frenchie is flopping around the floor uncontrollably. 

It’s a tricky situation, no doubt.

We’re here to discuss one potential cause of those sudden and uncontrollable movements your Frenchie is making. It might be having a seizure.

Canine epilepsy is not uncommon at all – and it’s a pretty serious matter.

If you’re worried about your French bulldog’s health, or you’ve already witnessed seizures before you stumbled upon our article, this is your sign to keep on scrolling.

We’re going to talk about what causes seizures in French bulldogs – and we’ll even throw in some possible treatment tips.

Don’t go anywhere!

What Are Canine Seizures?

frenchie stand in the grass

If you’re unfamiliar with canine epilepsy, here’s a chance to catch up.

Canine epilepsy is a neurological condition in dogs. It’s a sudden and temporary nerve cell disorder that results in involuntary muscle movement.

Epilepsy is a term that denotes repeated seizures. However, their repetition depends. Some of them are frequent and happen in regular intervals, while others are challenging to predict.

One thing’s certain, though – they’re dangerous, either way.

To bring the importance of this health issue closer to pet parents, here are some statistics:

The percentage of dogs that have recurrent seizures is close to 60%. What’s more, this can shorten their life expectancy to 8 years – down from the average of 11 years.

Leading Causes Of Seizures In French Bulldogs

frenchie laying in the house

The fact that your French bulldog is having a seizure tells you something’s wrong with their health; there’s no doubt about that. But what could it be? 

There’s certainly more than one possible cause – so, let’s start by listing them.

#1 Infections

If you’re a pet parent, then your vet has probably warned you many times about the dangers of infections in dogs – specifically the ones affecting the ears.

Ear infections can be caused by many things – starting with dust mites, allergies, bacteria, in-grown hair, etc. Whatever the underlying cause is, the point is: 

If you don’t treat the infection in time, it could grow into a bigger problem – epilepsy.

#2 Poisoning

Whether it’s food or chemical poisoning, unwanted substances can have a severe impact on your dog’s body. And some of them could lead to seizures.

That may happen easily if you’re not careful about your French bulldog’s diet – or avoid consulting with your vet.

#3 High/Low Blood Pressure

Abnormal – high or low – blood pressure is generally not a good sign for your pup.

If your Frenchie’s blood pressure is low enough, their body can react by going into a seizure, which can last for a couple of minutes. It’s worth noting that, during that time, their bodies are also experiencing low levels of oxygen. 

It’s the same with high blood pressure, and it’s called systemic hypertension.

A piece of advice:

Check your dog’s blood pressure, just as you would check yours – regularly!

#4 Anemia

Make sure your French bulldog eats everything in the food bowl!

Why are we emphasizing this? 

Because dogs that don’t eat their vitamins become anemic – and therefore more prone to seizures.

In short, canine anemia is followed by sudden weight loss, lack of energy, and faster heart rate. That can cause recurrent seizures – and once they get there, it can be hard to bounce back.

#5 Stroke

Strokes are almost identical in humans and dogs. Namely, when the blood flow to the brain is interrupted – or when blood vessels burst – the brain cells become deprived of oxygen and begin to die off quickly.  

That’s when seizures might happen.

Strokes are a medical emergency. However, they’re much more common in older French bulldogs who already have a medical history of blood clots.

Note that severe seizures can cause permanent blindness.

#6 Liver Disease

This one’s different. It’s a bit more serious than some of the previous ones we’ve mentioned, and you shouldn’t take it lightly – especially if you want to avoid permanent consequences.

The liver is a crucial organ in your dog’s body. It regulates digestion, removes toxins, and is in charge of keeping blood clotting in check. 

So, if something goes wrong, your Frenchie could be looking at severe side effects.

Liver diseases can happen with age, or it can be genetic – but it’s generally treatable. The problem arises when you skip regular checkups. 

That leads up to seizures, which eventually cause liver failure. At that point, a fatal outcome is not impossible – so, you ought to be careful with this one.

What Are The Red Flags?

frenchie laying with the owner

We’ve said it more than once – timing is vital. The faster you notice the red flags, the better. You’ll be able to help your Frenchie without seeing the ugly side of epilepsy.

Here are some warning signs that your French bulldog might be having a seizure:

  • Constantly running in circles
  • Suddenly falling on the floor
  • Being unable to look around the room
  • Excessive drooling
  • Going unconscious
  • Biting 
  • Stiff muscles
  • Urinating uncontrollably
  • Twitching

How To Help Your Frenchie?

Treating seizures involves medical assistance, but there are a few things you can do for your Frenchie.

First things first, be by your dog’s side. If this is the first time your Frenchie’s going through a seizure, don’t leave its side until the episode has passed completely.

It would also help if you could time the seizures. It may not be of much help to you, but it will undoubtedly help the vet determine the possible cause.

Once it’s over, keep your dog calm, and move it to a safe location. 

Try offering your Frenchie some food and water. Their body has suffered tremendous stress; they need some high-energy, nutrient-dense food.

And most importantly, don’t panic or raise your voice. That will only add pressure.

Seizures In Frenchies: Treatment Options

frenchie in red blanket

While some French bulldogs might experience two to three seizures during their lifetime, others struggle with regular episodes.

For dogs who suffer from recurrent seizures, many AEDs (anti-epileptic drugs) are designed for this purpose. You can’t buy them over the counter, of course. Your vet will prescribe the best option for your Frenchie – and it’s up to you to follow the instructions.

It’s also important to mention that your Frenchie might be showing some side effects within the first few weeks, but it’ll get used to it with time.

The goal here is to reduce seizure frequency by 50%. 

If you manage to accomplish that – well, kudos to you and your French bulldog!

Summing Up

From everything that you’ve read so far, we hope that one thing stuck – canine seizures can be serious.

There are a lot of causes for this disorder, and most of them are health-related. You’ve seen how quickly low or high blood pressure, anemia, and other conditions can cause your dog to have a seizure.

Whatever the cause, it’s your job to help your Frenchie get through it!

Oh yeah, one last thing:

We’re always looking for a way to improve. So, if you’d like to add something or share your own experience, feel free to do so.

Comment down below – we’d love to hear it!

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February 10, 2022
JohnnyBlog

French Bulldog Shedding And How To Prevent It? – Everything You Need To Know About It!

French bulldog shedding and how to prevent it is quite a popular topic. Why? Well, French bulldogs are notorious for shedding all over the place – despite their short hair. 

Now, here’s the thing:

Shedding is unavoidable; it’s part of being a pet parent. And yes, it can undoubtedly cause quite a few problems around your home – but the sooner you make peace with it, the better. 

It’s not like you can stop your Frenchie from shedding, anyway.

However, there are still things you can do to minimize it – at least to an extent. That’s what we’re going to talk about today: 

How you can slow down the shedding, keep it under control, and, well, make it more “bearable.”

Are you ready? Let’s get to it, then!

Why Do French Bulldogs Shed?

french bulldog laying on the carpet

French bulldogs are known to have a fantastic coat that’s silky, smooth, and easy to groom. But they aren’t that different from any other short-haired dog breed when it comes to shedding. 

All dogs shed – some more than others. And having dog hairs all over the place – your furniture, your clothes, carpets, and floors – is just a part of it. 

French bulldogs shed for the same reason as other dogs; it’s seasonal and part of their nature – but there are a few reasons behind it. 

First off, their coat is what’s keeping them warm during the winter. And when spring comes, they have to trade in their “winter clothes”  for something more appropriate for warmer weather – and that means spring-time shedding galore. 

It’s all about avoiding overheating during the summer. 

Then, as the weather starts changing and temperatures begin to drop, your Frenchie will, once again, switch its coat – now trading in the summer one for a thicker, warmer coat suitable for the colder months. 

And even if all the other conditions are right, your Frenchie went through the seasonal shedding cycle, and you know that there’s no underlying cause to the shedding; you’ll still find dog hair all over the place. 

Why? 

Because, even if nothing else is going on, your French bulldog will still have to shed its old and damaged hairs. That’s the second reason why your Frenchie sheds, by the way: 

To renew its coat and keep all of its “properties” intact.

What we mean by “shedding to renew their coat” is that the follicles of their coat don’t stay as strong forever. And if the hair follicles aren’t renewed regularly, the old coat will become weak and won’t serve the initial purpose of protecting your Frenchie’s sensitive skin and helping with thermoregulation.

Shedding will occur two times a year no matter what you do – because your dog’s hair follicles will enter the anagen phase and grow new hair, pushing out the old ones. It’s what they do!

For the most part, though, Frenchies shed year-round, which isn’t uncommon for dogs that have short coats. It’s just not as bad as with long-haired dogs. 

We’d like to add one thing: 

These occurrences are natural. You shouldn’t be frightened if you see your Frenchie’s shedding more than you’re used to during certain times of the year.

How To Decrease Shedding With Frenchies?

white and black frenchie

The fact is that you can’t stop your dog from shedding completely.

There are some ways you can decrease shedding – but to completely stop it is, well, practically impossible.

But before we get into that, we need to emphasize one thing: 

If you see your Frenchie shedding excessively at the time of the year when it’s not “normal” nor expected, go to a vet. That could be a sign of a health-related problem.

Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, let’s see what you can do for your French bulldog if you want to decrease the shedding.

#1 Good Skincare Routine And Regular Bathing

A good skincare routine could be crucial to your French bulldog’s skin and coat. Like humans, Frenchies can also get irritated by something in their surroundings – which could, in turn, trigger shedding.

A proper skincare routine could prevent this and ensure that your Frenchie won’t experience this issue.

Granted, there aren’t as many skincare products for dogs as there are for humans, but you can still find a good shampoo, conditioner – and some creams.

So, pick something reliable and stick with it since adapting to a new product may be stressful for their skin – as well as for their coat.

Upping your Frenchie’s skincare could help decrease the shedding a bit by allowing the follicles to remain healthier for more extended periods.

Cremes are reserved for skin irritations and similar short-term problems – but it’s always good to have them around.

#2 Use De-Shedding Tools (Brushes) Regularly

Grooming is sometimes overlooked; people assume that short-coated dogs generally don’t shed as much – until they see their Frenchie shedding first-hand.

So, hear us out: 

A de-shedding brush – or any other de-shedding tool – can be a complete gamechanger!

Invest in a good tool that will help both you and your dog go through seasonal shedding with as little stress as possible.

Regular brushing with a de-shedding brush is a good habit of responsible dog owners. However, keep in mind that it might still cause some skin problems when done too often.

So, aim for the golden middle – meaning two to three times a week at max.

That’ll allow your Frenchie to shed most of its hairs while you’re brushing it, not leaving much to fall out while your pet is walking around.

It won’t stop or decrease shedding per se, but it could prevent the “outcome” – finding their hairs all around the house.

#3 Water Intake And Proper Diet

Another thing humans and dogs share is a bad reaction to dehydration and poor eating habits. We are what we eat – and the same is true for our Frenchies. 

A healthy diet and adequate water intake mean healthier and stronger hair follicles – which, in turn, means less shedding. 

If you love your Frenchie – and we know that you do – you’ll be aware of their water intake and make sure they’re eating properly.

Oh, and one more thing: 

Test your Frenchie for food allergies – just in case.

It wouldn’t be uncommon to notice increased shedding and other skin-related diseases in dogs with allergies. So, rule that out first. 

If you love your French bulldog, you’ll treat their eating and drinking habits as your own.

Final Word: French Bulldog Shedding And How To Prevent It?

black frenchie in the park

Now that we’ve discussed French bulldog shedding – and how to prevent it – it’s time to sum it all up.

First off, you need to be aware that you can’t stop the natural shedding process of any dogs – including French bulldogs. You can decrease the shedding intensity of your Frenchie in multiple ways, but you can’t – and shouldn’t – stop this natural process.

There are three distinct things you can do to decrease your Frenchie’s shedding – and they are:

  • Introducing a good skincare routine and regular bathing
  • Using a de-shedding tool to catch loose hairs 
  • Feeding your pup a healthy diet and keeping them hydrated 

A good skincare routine makes the most difference. However, using a de-shedding brush might eliminate almost all the hairs from your living space.

The crucial step is to keep track of your Frenchie’s water intake, diet, and test them for allergies, though.

That’s not only important shedding-wise; it makes a world of difference to your Frenchie’s health and wellness, too. 

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February 10, 2022
JohnnyBlog

What Is The Mini French Bulldog? – Miniature Versions Of Your Favorite Bulldogs!

We’ve all seen bigger and smaller French bulldogs around, but what’s the difference between them?

It seems like more and more of you are taking an interest in the so-called teacup Frenchies, so we’ve decided to answer the question, what is the mini French bulldog?

The simple answer would be that mini Frenchies are just regular French bulldogs bred down to a smaller size. But that’s the oversimplified version. 

A lot is going on here, from planning to genetics, so the answer isn’t as simple as it seems.

You don’t have to worry, though! We did the research – and we’re ready to walk you through it.

So, without further ado, let’s jump straight in and see what’s the deal with miniature Frenchies!

How Did Mini Frenchies Come About?

Well, this is an interesting question. The thing is, we can’t tell for sure where this tiny variation of French bulldogs originated. 

What we can tell you, though, is that, much like other miniature dogs, teacup Frenchies are the result of specific breeding processes: 

  • Crossbreeding French bulldogs with a smaller dog breed, such as the Yorkshire Terrier or miniature poodles 
  • Introducing the genetic mutation that causes canine dwarfism
  • Breeding the smallest dogs in the litter with the idea of passing their smaller size onto the next generation 

There’s one more thing you should know: 

Mini Frenchies – miniature or teacup Frenchies, as they’re also called – aren’t recognized by the American Kennel Club as a genuine breed.

That shouldn’t come as a shock, though. The AKC generally doesn’t acknowledge “teacup” as a distinct trait of any breed – not just French bulldogs. 

Why? 

Well, technically speaking, these are just French bulldogs that are smaller in size – and not an entirely different breed. 

Teacup French Bulldogs are just that – French bulldogs, only more miniature. 

What Are Teacup Frenchies?

little french bulldog walk on the street

Mini Frenchies – or teacup Frenchies – are essentially French bulldogs crossed with a smaller breed, preferably one with weaker genes, so that the dogs don’t change appearance. 

Now, that might sound harmless at first, but these practices bring about several issues, most of which have to do with ethical principles and medical problems. 

Think about it; “regular” French bulldogs are already pretty small as is, and shrinking them more can only spell trouble for the pups. 

For instance, if breeders rely on cultivating canine dwarfism to achieve the miniature size, that essentially means they’re also introducing several health issues linked to this genetic condition. 

Mini Frenchies are undoubtedly one of the cutest things out there, but the fact that breeding them with smaller dog breeds leaves them with dwarfism isn’t something to be proud of as a dog breeder. 

And the effects of it aren’t only seen on the outside, either. The lack of growth hormones could also lead to a whole host of accompanying problems, including underdeveloped internal organs and underactive thyroid glands, which might pose a threat to your Frenchie’s long-term health.

Nobody wants to see their dogs suffer. So, you need to remember these things and keep them in mind if you’re seriously considering getting a teacup Frenchie.

We hate to be so negative, but here’s the thing – there are too many potential complications with mini Frenchies. We felt obligated to keep you informed!

Oh, and one more thing: 

Since nobody approved and registered teacup Frenchies as a genuine breed, there’s still room for additional genetic problems that aren’t easily predicted.

We all agree that seeing these mini French bulldogs carried in bags around town is hilariously cute, but that doesn’t cancel out the fact that they might have serious health problems down the road.

How Big Are Mini Frenchies? 

People seem to be confused about how big – or small – these Frenchies can be. So, we figured we’d take a moment to discuss the actual numbers. 

Let’s look at the information available:

Your mini French bulldog shouldn’t be higher than 11 inches and heavier than 24 pounds. With that said, these are unofficial rules – loose guidelines that breeders will follow when attempting to achieve the “mini” size in their litters.

Medical Problems With Mini French Bulldogs

pet health monitor

As we’ve said earlier, there are many potential health-related problems teacup French bulldogs might suffer due to their miniature size and genetics.

Again, we don’t mean to scare you, but you should be aware that teacup Frenchies are prone to several conditions, including: 

  • Hip Dysplasia – Don’t get us wrong; even your regular-sized French bulldogs could end up suffering from hip dysplasia. The same goes for much larger dog breeds, too – which, by the way, are more prone to developing this condition. Still, keep an eye on your mini pup; you never know. 
  • Brachycephalic Syndrome – Brachycephalic syndrome is a combination of primary and secondary upper airway abnormalities that cause partial obstruction to a dog’s breathing. That’s why short-headed, flat-faced breeds, like French bulldogs, sometimes have those recognizable “snoring” moments.
  • Hemivertebrae – Hemivertebrae is a severe spinal deformity seen in screw-tailed dogs. This congenital condition is characterized by several fused or wedge-shaped vertebrae, leading to a twisted spine and, in turn, incontinence, pain, weakness in the limbs, and inability to walk. In severe cases, it requires euthanasia. 
  • Underdeveloped Internal Organs – We’ve briefly mentioned this when we discussed the practice of introducing dwarfism as a means of getting miniature Frenchies. Because the dog’s growth hormone levels are affected, their small size could indicate issues with the internal organs. 

Should You Buy Mini Frenchies?

french bulldog walking on the grass

Okay, given all of this talk about problems with this “sub-breed” of French bulldogs, we imagine that some of you who came here with the idea of getting a mini Frenchie aren’t so thrilled about it anymore. 

And we get it; there are a lot of unethical practices – and potential health conditions – that would put many dog lovers off the idea of getting a teacup Frenchie. 

But, there is a bright side to mini French bulldogs:

They keep all the mental characteristics of Frenchies, which means you’ll have a miniature ball of joy and happiness – all the cuteness, but in a smaller body.

If you’re struggling with living space right now and think that a regular-sized Frenchie won’t have enough room, then sure, a mini French bulldog might be the solution.

These dogs are also well-behaved, relatively easy to train, they don’t need a lot of exercise, and you can carry your pup around with you all the time.

One thing to note is that teacup Frenchies are extremely expensive; we’re talking $2000 – or up to $8000 in some cases. 

What Is The Mini French Bulldog? – Conclusion

“What is the mini French bulldog?” 

That’s such a simple question, but it requires such a complex – and pretty gloomy – answer. But in short, they’re still French bulldogs, only smaller. 

We all know how miniature Frenchies look. One word – adorable. 

And the fact that teacup Frenchies keep all the mental characteristics of “regular-sized” French bulldogs makes it even more tempting to get one. Getting a miniature version of this lovely dog doesn’t seem so bad, does it?

However, these teacup pups can have many health problems, which is why we’re not entirely comfortable with recommending that you get one.

Sure, these dogs can be great companions. But no matter how much love and effort you put into taking care of your teacup Frenchie, the truth is, you probably won’t be able to avoid some of the problems listed above.

Please remember this if you’re still considering getting a mini Frenchie.

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February 10, 2022
JohnnyBlog

How Do French Bulldogs Get Blue Eyes? – Find Out Here & Now

Gray French bulldogs with blue eyes are one of the most-searched-for dog breeds out there.

So, it’s not uncommon for people to wonder how do French bulldogs get their blue eyes?

And, well, that’s why we’re here today – to answer that question!

Now, there are several factors that need to be present for a dog to have blue eyes – but the most crucial role is played by the M-locus and S-locus genes in Frenchies.

That may sound confusing since the majority of French bulldog puppies are born with blue eyes, but that’s the catch: 

It doesn’t mean that they’ll keep that eye color after they grow a little.

It’s much like human babies born with blue eyes; they’ll eventually develop different eye colors, usually after a few months.

That’s why the M-locus and S-locus genes are essential here; they are in charge of keeping the characteristic blue color of your Frenchie’s eyes.

But enough of the intro – let’s jump into the detailed explanation and see what else hides behind those unique blue eyes!

Blue Eyed Frenchies – How Do They Happen?

blue eyes dog

Generally speaking, the only determining factor for your Frenchie puppy keeping its blue eyes is if they carry a gene connected to the Merle French bulldogs or not.

French bulldogs come in a million different variants, colors, and sizes. Some Frenchies are rarer than others, and the Merle Frenchies – which all have blue eyes – are one of them.

The primary reason why this variation of French bulldogs is so popular is their distinct blue eyes.

Although there’s no guarantee that the Merle French bulldogs would keep their blue eyes after the puppy phase, there’s a pretty good chance they’ll keep the authentic eye color if they carry the recessive gene.

There are other variations of Frenchies that also have a bigger chance of having blue eyes – but again, there’s no guarantee if it will “stick.”

The M-locus and S-locus genes play the most significant role in the answer.

Will French Bulldog Puppies Keep Their Blue Eyes?

puppy frenchie in the arms

Like we’ve already said, dogs (including French bulldogs) are often born with blue eyes or very light-colored eyes. Still, there’s no guarantee that those blue eyes won’t turn black, deep brown, or amber when the puppy phase is over.

That can be a pretty stressful period for some dog breeders; they’re all hoping for their puppies to keep the authentic blue eye color. 

Why? 

Well, for one, blue-eyed dogs are becoming increasingly popular. And two, dogs with genuinely blue eyes are pretty darn rare. 

This growing interest in blue-eyed dogs isn’t something new, though. Quite the contrary – it’s old.

People have been obsessed with dogs with blue eyes throughout history. So, the fact that these dogs are desirable is nothing new, honestly. And again, that’s because they’re so incredibly rare.

French bulldogs are one of those breeds where blue eyes are highly sought-after. We don’t know why exactly that is – but we can make some assumptions.

For example, regardless of what color your Frenchie is or what variation we’re talking about, all shades and hues of French bulldogs’ coats go well with blue eyes. 

Think about it – a gray Frenchie with blue eyes. That would look so adorable, wouldn’t it? 

Besides the aesthetics, there’s the feeling of prestige when you see a French bulldog with blue eyes, again, because they’re oh-so-unique and rare.

When it comes to Frenchie puppies, there’s a high possibility of them being born with blue eyes, but there’s always the question of will they keep them as they mature.

There’s no rule; claiming one or the other with absolute certainty is pretty much impossible.

The only number that we’re comfortable discussing here is that there’s about a 5% chance of your dog – including French bulldogs – having blue eyes.

We told you they’re rare.

Purebred Frenchies have a higher possibility of having blue eyes since Frenchie breeders do care about the DNA of their dogs and the genetic backgrounds of the dogs they’re breeding.

And that can sometimes result in the whole litter having blue eyes that they’ll keep even after the puppy phase.

Can You Influence Your Frenchies Eye Color?

french bulldog sits

There are some bold claims out there that, by manipulating the food or lifestyle of your dog, you can influence their eye color to a degree. Look, the Internet is a wild place – and not everything you read is true. 

The same goes for this claim: 

Saying something like this couldn’t be further from the truth. It goes against biology, DNA – and, well, science in general. 

Your Frenchie’s eye color might change slightly throughout your pup’s lifetime. However, it has nothing to do with the lifestyle or food that they’re eating.

Outside factors can’t influence your dog’s eye color in any way. That’s flat-out impossible since eye color is determined by DNA – and not lifestyle-related things.

Oh, and one more thing:

If you notice your Frenchie’s eye color changing, and it looks like they’re losing the eye color, it might be an indicator of an underlying medical problem. So, in that case, it’s wise to visit a vet!

Do Blue-Eyed Frenchies Cost More?

french bulldogs cost

Well, yes, the majority of dog breeders will likely charge more for blue-eyed puppies – provided that the puppies have outgrown the phase in which they might lose the distinct blue eye color, of course.

That brings us to the next point: 

You should keep in mind that some dog breeders also try charging more for very young puppies just based on their eye color.

That isn’t justified, though, since those dog breeders can’t guarantee that the puppy with blue eyes won’t change eye color in a matter of weeks or months.

Our advice is to do your research and determine the possibility for that dog breed – in this case, Frenchies – to have blue eyes even after they grow out of their puppy phase.

How Do French Bulldogs Get Blue Eyes? – Finalizing Our Thoughts

french bulldog look up

It seemed like a simple question – but as you can see, there were many sub-topics to cover to educate you on the subject completely.

Let’s recap some of the most important things and see what’s imperative to remember:

First, French bulldogs get their blue eyes from M-locus and S-locus genes found in their DNA.

If your Frenchie doesn’t have those genes, the chances of your pup having blue eyes after the puppy phase are slim to none.

Also, there are some variations of French bulldogs that are more prone to having blue eyes throughout their lifetimes, such as Merle French bulldogs with lighter coats – and lighter eye colors.

And make things clear, again, there’s no way of you influencing and manipulating your dog’s eye color in any way, shape, or form:

Regardless of what your dog eats and what kind of lifestyle it has, its eye color will change a bit throughout the years. But that’s not because of something you did; it’s because of biology.

One last thing to recap is that some French bulldog breeders will boost the price solely because some puppies have blue eyes.

Keep an eye out for that since there will be instances where you won’t be able to tell – at least not with absolute certainty – if the Frenchie puppy will have blue eyes when it grows up or not.

We wish you and your blue-eyed doggo a great day!

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February 10, 2022
JohnnyBlog

The Magnificent Appeal Of Rare Blue French Bulldogs – Why Are They So Special?

As you probably know, there are a lot of different variations of French bulldogs – but amongst them, there are some that are a bit more “special” than others.

Blue French bulldogs fall into that category of rare, special Frenchies; everyone will agree with us on that. So, we’ve decided to tell you all about the magnificent appeal of rare Blue French bulldogs!

This particular rare sub-breed of Frenchies is becoming quite popular and has gained popularity over the past few years. People seem to have noticed the appeal of these Frenchies and started buying them like crazy.

But why? Why are Blue Frenchies more appealing than the rest of them? 

These dogs aren’t the most expensive or the rarest French bulldogs out there – and yet, they are one of the most sought-after. Sure, they’re adorable – but is that all there is to it? 

Let’s take a look, shall we?

The Looks

French bulldog lying on floor and looking up

Considering how many variations of Frenchies are out there, there has to be something that’s drawing people towards the Blue Frenchies.

We firmly believe that a big reason – and possibly the biggest one – is their unique looks.

Blue Frenchies have a characteristic gray (blue) color that often comes with bright blue, green, or grey eye color. This combination of colors makes Blue Frenchies stand out from the crowd – and, while we’re at it, from most other color variations that you can get a French bulldog in.

Now, let’s point out the obvious:

These dogs are called “blue” when, in reality, they’re grey. We get how that can be confusing to some of you.

Here’s a short explanation: 

All dog breeds that have this variation in color – pit bull terrier, Stafford terrier, French bulldogs, and so on – are called blue for a good reason.

In the sunlight, their coat has a blue-ish color to it, and that’s why they are called Blue French bulldogs, blue Pitbull terriers, blue Staffords; you get the idea.

Unfortunately, this color comes from a genetic mutation, and that’s why a significant majority of French bulldog associations worldwide don’t – and more than likely, won’t ever – recognize the Blue Frenchie as a legitimate variation of this breed.

“What genetic mutation we’re talking about?” you might ask yourself.

They’re “suffering” from a condition known as color dilution, which essentially means that they’re black French bulldogs with pigmentation discoloration. That’s what leads to their coat being grey or silver – instead of black.

That means that Blue Frenchies are just black Frenchies with a lighter coat! How fascinating is that? 

This rare color draws the eyes of those looking to get a Frenchie – since Blue Frenchie puppies stand out from the others. The color is stunning and oh-so-unique!

Plus, when Blue French bulldogs are young, their coats are even lighter in color, and their eyes are brighter.

We suspect that that’s a big part of the reason why these Frenchies are as popular as they are currently.

Their coat darkens a bit as they grow up, and their eyes sometimes become brown or dark grey – even black. But they’re still easily recognizable and distinguishable from other, similar-looking French bulldogs.

These dogs also often have a big white spot on their belly and chest that’s quite bright. That is one of the features that they share with other Frenchies, but the whiteness on their chest is “a bit whiter” than the rest, as some owners described it.

All of this – and the phases their coat and eyes go through in life – is a major factor in why pet-parents-to-be are starting to buy rare Blue French bulldogs more and more.

People tend to pick out the most beautiful puppies to take home, and Blue Frenchies are – well, flat-out stunning. 

Of course, you’ll love your dog regardless of how it looks, but let’s be honest:

An aesthetically pleasing dog is always a plus – and Frenchies are not an exception to this rule.

Genetics & Health

three french bulldogs

Since we’ve mentioned genetic mutations quite a bit, some people might assume that these rare blue Frenchies might be more prone to some diseases more than other Frenchies.

Well, we’re pleased to inform you that that’s not the case:

Blue Frenchies aren’t more prone to hip dysplasia, kidney diseases, or respiratory issues than the rest of the pack!

You’re probably aware that dogs – particularly French bulldogs – tend to develop specific medical problems. But, there are a few examples where Frenchies are more prone to some conditions.

For example, teacup or mini Frenchies – which often come in a blue coat color – are more prone to certain diseases. They’re born with a type of dwarfism that makes them more likely to get hip dysplasia or respiratory problems, mainly affecting the upper airways.

But that’s the thing we’d like you to remember: 

Just because these mini French bulldogs often come in a color that we’re discussing right now, that doesn’t necessarily imply that “regular-sized” Blue French bulldogs are also more prone to these conditions.

Teacup Frenchies experience these problems due to their size, not color – but somehow, people tend to forget about that.

As long as your Blue French bulldog comes from healthy parents, gets plenty of daily exercise, eats a good diet, and has a healthy lifestyle overall, you can avoid the majority of these potential medical issues.

Should You Get A Blue French Bulldog?

Due to the popularity of Blue French bulldogs, some of you reading might be considering getting a Blue French bulldog, too. And we get it. 

We should warn you about something, though: 

Some people are extremely against breeding these Frenchies since most accredited breeders – and associations – don’t recognize the Blue Frenchie as a legitimate variation of this dog.

If you don’t care about that, though, then there’s nothing stopping you from getting a Frenchie pup in whichever color you’d like!

The question of “should you” is totally up to you. 

The list of diseases that French bulldogs are prone to developing is widely available knowledge – and the same applies to Blue Frenchies, as well.

But, if you’re planning on bringing your Frenchie to any kind of dog competition or dog show, we highly suggest you pick another color other than blue – or grey if you want to get technical about it.

This color is considered a “disqualifying color” since none of the judges will approve of a French bulldog’s blue coat.

Dog shows aside, though, it’s okay to go with a blue French bulldog.

The Magnificent Appeal Of Rare Blue French Bulldogs – Summary

french bulldog laying on the grass

As you can see, there’s a lot to figure out when talking about the magnificent appeal of rare Blue French bulldogs.

But one thing that we can tell you is that they’re definitely unique-looking and that they’ll catch many looks on the street. And when is that a bad thing? 

These dogs have become popular in the last couple of years, and that’s why their appearance isn’t such a “taboo” topic as before.

Despite their unique looks, many breeders and associations don’t recognize Blue Frenchies as a breed standard.

But, their appeal isn’t in the official recognition, anyway.

The grey coat makes them stand out – not just from other dogs, but also from other Frenchies!

Also, Blue Frenchies come with a fantastic range of eye colors. These Frenchie pups can have blue, green (light), or grey eyes.

And in case you didn’t realize, these eye colors are pretty rare and aren’t something you’ll see in dogs that often.

In addition to that, you have to remember that any breed that comes in these colors – pit bull terriers, Staffords, and the like – also end up being the most sought-after color amongst those breeds.

The appeal is in the unusual color and coat – and that’s what the emphasis should be on when it comes to Blue French bulldogs, too.

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February 10, 2022
JohnnyBlog

French Bulldog Pregnancy Revealing – French Bulldog’s Pregnancy Guide

We can all put our hands up in agreement that there’s no greater joy for Frenchie breeders and owners than learning that their exquisite Frenchie female is expecting puppies. 

It’s undeniable that both the owner and the dog have come a long way and exerted a great effort to arrive at that delightful stage. 

Now, many people believe that all dogs give birth to puppies naturally. However, in the case of French bulldogs, things are a bit different.

When entering this enormous life chapter, the first thing every dog owner must do is prepare their female pooch for pregnancy. 

Pregnancy in a French bulldog necessitates various dietary adjustments and several medical procedures. 

So, let’s discuss French bulldog pregnancy revealing and everything that comes before – and after – shall we? 

The Health Concerns

french bulldog sitting on the floor

While a French bulldog is one of the loveliest animals around, they are prone to respiratory problems and a variety of other medical issues:

The narrowed noses of French bulldogs, known as stenotic nares, might be the most severe health risk. That’s because they’re a brachycephalic breed of dog. 

Because of their head, snout, and neck structure, they’re often prone to difficult, obstructive breathing.

Moreover, hip dysplasia, abnormal vertebrae, and early intervertebral disc degeneration are common health concerns for the breed, as well. 

Breeders must continue to seek ways to improve French bulldogs’ health and well-being due to these common health issues. One way to ensure healthy Frenchie puppies is for breeders to do the necessary genetic tests.

The Minimum Mating Age In Frenchies

The maturity age varies depending on the dog breed. It’s worth noting that small breeds, on average, mature faster than huge ones.

After roughly six months, male French bulldogs become reproductive. They’ll generally attain sexual maturity between the ages of 12 and 15 months. 

After six months, your dam’s first heat season, or estrus, occurs. However, in extreme cases, estrus can be delayed to 18 months or even two years. From there, your dam’s heat season should occur every six months until your Frenchie reaches old age.

It is, however, considered contentious and against the standards to breed your dam during her first heat season. That’s because they aren’t entirely mature at that age, and, in addition, the pregnancy might put the dog and the puppies at risk. 

Also, the American Kennel Club does not accept the registration of a litter out of a dam that’s less than eight months old or more than 12 years old.

The Frenchie’s Dam Cycle

Two cute sleeping French Bulldogs

It’s critical to understand your female Frenchie’s cycle. That’ll allow you to keep track of her reproductive cycles – which are divided into four stages:

  • Proestrus – When your dam has a bloody vaginal discharge and her vulva swells, she’s in her proestrus. That’s when she attracts males, and this period lasts around nine days.
  • Estrus – Estrus occurs after the proestrus and lasts roughly nine days. The female is fertile throughout this period and will allow breeding. Please remember that ovulation typically happens during the first 48 hours, which is vital for breeding purposes.
  • Diestrus – Also known as the “pregnancy” stage, this is the time when the hormone progesterone is in charge of the reproductive system. It lasts roughly 60 to 63 days and will happen whether or not your dam conceives. 

If your female Frenchie becomes pregnant in estrus, she’ll be in the diestrus stage until she gives birth or whelps. However, it’s possible to have a false pregnancy. In this case, your Frenchie may appear pregnant – even though she is not.

  • Anestrus – Anestrus is a three-to-four-month phase of infertility. There is no sexual activity at this time.

How Do You Know Your Frenchie Is Pregnant?

frenchie puppy on her belly

You must search for specific symptoms of pregnancy in your dam after the estrus phase. An increase in hunger, weight, or nipple size are examples of these symptoms. 

That, however, is not proof in and of itself.

Your dam could still present pregnancy indicators yet not be pregnant, as previously stated. Ultrasound and an examination of her abdomen palpitation at 28 days could confirm this for you.

Once you’ve determined that your dam is pregnant, you’ll need to consult your veterinarian about the specific considerations that come with breeding a French bulldog.

That will entail learning how to recognize emergency scenarios that demand rapid medical assistance. Details on your Frenchie’s labor and what to expect after she gives birth to the puppies should be part of the discussion, as well.

The Behavior

When it comes to pregnant French bulldog behavior, we must acknowledge that they have a lot in common with women. To put it another way, they’re all the same: 

During pregnancy, both female dogs and women undergo mood swings. 

Your adorable four-legged female might appear kind and cuddly one minute – and then turn violent the next. As a result, it’s not a good idea to let a pregnant French bulldog alone with children. 

Also, keep in mind that pregnant Frenchies dislike being touched on their “full bellies” during pregnancy; therefore, you should avoid it – no matter how cute they might look.

Nutrition During Pregnancy

In the case of a pregnant French bulldog, nutrition is crucial. 

Feeding your pregnant furry friend a diet rich in high-quality animal-based protein is strongly recommended. 

That’s why most Frenchie owners feed their four-legged beauties high-quality puppy kibble. Feeding the dam byproducts might cause major allergies, which is the last thing you want to happen. 

Because your pregnant Frenchie’s tummy swells by the day, it’s best to feed her several tiny meals throughout the day. She’ll have sufficient space for her babies and avoid stomach gas and discomfort this way.

The Lenght Of Pregnancy In Frenchies

French bulldog puppy sleep

When it comes to pregnancy length, French bulldogs are much like any other dog breed. 

The duration of this time should be between 58 and 68 days. The typical pregnancy lasts 63 days from conception to delivery, though, so it will take roughly two months in total.

Your dam may stop eating or have a diminished appetite a few days before giving birth. Your Frenchie might also begin to construct a “nest” where she intends to raise her puppies.

She should start the first stage of labor around 24 hours after her fever drops, as the cervix dilates and opens the delivery canal to allow the pups to come through. She’ll pant, strain, and seem agitated at this point. 

Her body temperature can drop to 99 degrees or lower in the minutes leading up to delivery. 

The actual abdominal straining and birthing stage follows this stage.

Bear in mind that, because of their breathing challenges and tiny hips combined with bigger puppy heads, vaginal delivery is not recommended for French bulldogs.

How Many Puppies Can You Expect?

French Bulldog puppy fed with milk from a bottle

French bulldogs only have a few puppies compared to other dogs, who typically have a large litter.

When you breed a French bulldog, you can anticipate a litter of three to five puppies. There have been a few uncommon cases where French bulldogs gave birth to as many as seven puppies – but these are exemptions, not the rule.

French bulldogs are petite dogs by nature. As a result, a reduced litter size would result in better circumstances for the puppies in the womb.

Conclusion 

You should not breed French bulldogs unless you are a qualified and experienced breeder. The issues that might emerge as a result of this will not only put the female in jeopardy, but they might also result in unnecessary birth abnormalities in the puppies.

That said, do everything you can to make your Frenchie’s pregnancy goes as smoothly as possible!

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