French Bulldog puppy price varies widely by breeder, region, health testing and pedigree, and it’s typically among the higher prices for a companion breed. Get written quotes from several responsible breeders and ask what’s included. Health testing and a breeder who focuses on breathing and soundness matter far more than color or a low price.
Quick takeaways
- Prices vary a lot, so get quotes and compare what’s included.
- A very low price or pressure to pay by wire is a scam warning sign.
- Frenchies are flat-faced and need protection from heat and water.
- AKC lists patella, hip, cardiac and eye evaluations for the breed.
- Frenchies are prone to obesity, so measure food and limit treats.
In this guide
- What is the French Bulldog breed like?
- What affects French Bulldog puppy price?
- How can I avoid French Bulldog puppy scams?
- What health problems should I ask about?
- How do you train a French Bulldog puppy?
- How should I feed a French Bulldog puppy?
- How do you care for a Frenchie puppy day to day?
- Is a French Bulldog right for you?
- Frequently asked questions
French Bulldogs are everywhere these days, and it’s easy to see why. They’re compact, funny and love their people. If you’re looking at Frenchie puppies, you’ve probably noticed that prices can be eye-popping. Here’s what affects cost, what to ask before you pay anything and how to care for your puppy once they’re home.
What is the French Bulldog breed like?
The American Kennel Club’s French Bulldog breed page ranks the Frenchie No. 1 of 210 breeds in popularity. Here are the basics:
| Trait | AKC info |
|---|---|
| Height | 11 to 13 inches |
| Weight | Under 28 pounds |
| Life expectancy | 10 to 12 years |
| Coat | Short, smooth, sheds minimally |
| Exercise | A short walk or play session daily |
Frenchies are affectionate, playful and adaptable, which makes them popular with apartment dwellers. For other options, see our list of the best dog breeds for first-time owners.
What affects French Bulldog puppy price?
French Bulldog puppy price varies widely, and we won’t quote a number because it changes by region and breeder. Instead, ask for written quotes and compare what each breeder includes. Common factors:
- Health testing on the parents
- Pedigree and whether the puppy is AKC registered
- Region and local demand
- What’s included, such as vaccines, deworming, a microchip, a vet exam, a health guarantee and a take-back promise
Be careful with colors marketed as “rare.” Ask whether the color is accepted in the breed standard, and remember that color has nothing to do with health or temperament. Pay for health and soundness, not looks.
How can I avoid French Bulldog puppy scams?
Popular, pricey breeds attract scammers. Watch for:
- Prices far below what other breeders quote
- A seller who won’t video chat or let you visit
- Pressure to pay a deposit fast by wire, gift card or payment app
- Requests for extra fees for “shipping,” “insurance” or “crates” after you pay
- Photos that show up on other websites
Humane World for Animals (formerly the Humane Society of the United States) advises against buying a puppy from a pet store or a website you can’t verify. Its guide on how to find a responsible dog breeder suggests meeting the breeder and the puppy’s mother in person. Our checklist of questions to ask a breeder before buying a puppy can help.
What health problems should I ask about?
AKC notes that, like all flat-faced breeds, Frenchies are prone to breathing problems and do poorly in hot or humid weather. AKC also says:
- Their short face makes breathing less efficient, so they tolerate heat, exercise and stress less well.
- If a Frenchie overheats easily or breathes noisily, a vet should evaluate the airway for pinched nostrils or an elongated soft palate.
- Anesthesia carries more risk in flat-faced breeds, so choose a vet experienced with them.
- Because of their front-heavy build, Frenchies can’t swim and should never be left alone near a tub, pool or other water.
- Eye conditions like cherry eye, juvenile cataracts and entropion occur, along with skin allergies.
- Back problems, mostly from disc disease, can occur.
AKC lists four recommended health evaluations for breeding dogs: patella, hip, cardiac and ophthalmologist evaluations. Ask the breeder for results on both parents. You can look up many results through the OFA CHIC program. It’s also fair to ask how the parents breathe, how they handle exercise and whether either has needed airway surgery.
How do you train a French Bulldog puppy?
AKC says Frenchies can be stubborn but are people pleasers at heart, and food rewards and games keep them engaged. Tips:
- Keep sessions short. A few minutes at a time works best.
- Use food rewards wisely. Use tiny treats or part of their meal to protect their waistline.
- Start socialization early. AKC recommends early socialization and puppy classes.
- Mind the temperature. Train indoors or in the cool of the morning on warm days.
- Use a harness. A harness avoids pressure on the throat, which is especially sensible for a flat-faced breed.
How should I feed a French Bulldog puppy?
Feed a complete and balanced puppy food that suits your puppy’s age. AKC warns that Frenchies are prone to obesity, which can damage their structure and raise the risk of the breed’s health problems.
- Feed three or four small meals a day for young puppies, then move to two as they grow.
- Measure every meal and adjust with your vet based on body condition.
- Keep treats small and count them toward the daily total.
- Skip fatty table scraps and cooked bones.
How much should a French Bulldog puppy eat?
Start with the label’s feeding guide for your puppy’s age and expected adult weight, then fine-tune. You should be able to feel the ribs easily under a thin layer of fat. If your puppy gulps food, a slow-feeder bowl can help.
How do you care for a Frenchie puppy day to day?
- Grooming. AKC suggests weekly brushing with a medium-bristle brush, rubber mitt or hound glove. Keep facial folds clean and dry, and trim nails regularly.
- Heat safety. Keep your puppy in air conditioning on hot days, carry water on walks and never leave them in a car. Watch for heavy, noisy breathing.
- Cold safety. Their short coat doesn’t hold much heat, so a sweater can help on chilly walks.
- Water safety. Block pool access and stay close at bath time.
- Vet care. Keep up with vaccines and talk with your vet about airway, eye and skin health early.
Is a French Bulldog right for you?
A Frenchie can be a wonderful companion if you’re ready for a breed with real health needs. Budget for vet visits and consider pet insurance early. If you want to compare other small and medium companions, read our Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy guide. If you’re leaning toward a bigger, cold-weather breed, our Bernese Mountain Dog puppy guide covers what to expect.
Frequently asked questions
What do French Bulldog puppies cost?
There’s no single price. Cost depends on the breeder, location, health testing, pedigree and what’s included, like vaccines, a microchip and a health guarantee. Ask several responsible breeders for written quotes, and budget for ongoing costs like food, vet care and pet insurance. Rescue groups are another option with lower fees.
How do you train a French Bulldog puppy?
Use short, fun sessions with food rewards. AKC says Frenchies can be stubborn but are people pleasers, so motivation and games work well. Start socialization and puppy classes early, keep sessions brief and avoid training hard in warm weather.
How do you feed a French Bulldog puppy?
Feed a complete and balanced puppy food, split into three or four meals a day for young puppies. Measure portions and keep treats small. AKC notes Frenchies are prone to obesity, which can worsen breathing and back problems.
How much should a French Bulldog puppy eat?
Start with the feeding guide on your puppy food’s label for your puppy’s age and weight, then adjust with your vet based on body condition. You should be able to feel the ribs easily. Most Frenchie puppies do well on three or four small meals a day at first.
What does a French Bulldog puppy look like?
Frenchie puppies are small and compact with a short, flat face, large bat-shaped ears, a smooth short coat and a sturdy body. AKC lists adult height at 11 to 13 inches and weight under 28 pounds. Puppy ears may flop at first and stand up as they grow.
Vet note: This article is general information and is not a substitute for advice from your own veterinarian. If your puppy is having trouble breathing, collapses, has a seizure or may have eaten something toxic, call your vet or the nearest emergency animal hospital right away. ASPCA Animal Poison Control: 888-426-4435 (a fee may apply).
