Like other puppies, a French Bulldog requires a series of core vaccinations during its first few months. Starting at 6-8 weeks, they’ll receive shots every 3-4 weeks until they’re 16-20 weeks old. This includes vaccines for parvovirus, distemper, adenovirus, and parainfluenza. Additionally, they’ll need rabies vaccination around 12-16 weeks. After the initial series, boosters are generally required at one year and every 1-3 years, depending on the vaccine and local regulations. Always consult a veterinarian to determine the best vaccination schedule for your pet’s needs and locale.
Purpose of French Bulldog Vaccinations
- Protect the Individual Dog: Vaccinations prime the dog’s immune system to fight off specific diseases, reducing the risk of severe illness or death if exposed to the disease.
- Prevent Disease Outbreaks: When a significant portion of the dog population is vaccinated, it creates herd immunity. This makes it harder for the disease to spread, even to unvaccinated individuals.
- Public Safety: Some diseases, like rabies, can be transmitted from dogs to humans. By vaccinating dogs against such diseases, we’re also safeguarding human health.
- Reduction of Veterinary Costs: Vaccination prevention is generally more cost-effective than treating the disease once contracted. This can save pet owners significant amounts in potential vet bills.
- Promote Longevity and Quality of Life: Vaccinations help dogs live longer, healthier lives by reducing the risk of preventable illnesses.
- Travel and Boarding: Many kennels, doggy daycares, and French Bulldog air travel regulations require them to be up-to-date on certain vaccinations to ensure the safety of all animals involved.
French Bulldog Vaccination Schedule
| Age | Vaccine | Notes |
| 6-8 weeks | Parvovirus, Canine Distemper | First in a series of vaccines |
| 10-12 weeks | DHPP (Distemper, Adenovirus, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza) | Second in the series. Some vaccines may also include Leptospirosis. |
| 12-24 weeks | Rabies | Given once between 12-24 weeks depending on local laws. |
| 14-16 weeks | DHPP | Third in the series. |
| 12-16 months | DHPP, Rabies | Boosters. Rabies is often given every 1-3 years based on local regulations. |
| Every 1-3 years | DHPP | Boosters. Some vets recommend every year, others every three years. |
| Every 1-3 years | Rabies | Based on local regulations and the specific vaccine used. |
| Annually/Bi-annually | Bordetella (Kennel Cough), Leptospirosis, Lyme disease | Optional vaccines based on risk factors such as exposure and regional prevalence. |
Important Vaccines for French Bulldogs
Vaccinations for Puppies
- Distemper: A severe and contagious viral illness with no known cure. The virus, spread through the air and by direct or indirect contact with an infected animal, initially attacks a dog’s tonsils and lymph nodes and replicates itself there for about a week. Then, it attacks the respiratory, urogenital, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems.
- Hepatitis: Canine adenovirus type 2 leads to kennel cough, but it’s the adenovirus type 1 that causes contagious hepatitis. This is a viral disease that affects the liver.
- Parainfluenza: A highly contagious respiratory virus and is one of the most common pathogens of infectious tracheobronchitis, also known as canine cough.
- Parvovirus: A highly contagious virus that affects all dogs, but puppies under four months old are the most at risk. The virus affects a dog’s ability to absorb nutrients, and an infected animal will quickly become dehydrated and weak from a lack of protein and fluid absorption.
Vaccinations for Adult Frenchies
- Canine Parvovirus (CPV) Vaccine: This protects dogs against a highly contagious viral illness that affects dogs’ intestines. Without protection, the disease can be deadly, especially for puppies.
- Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) Vaccine: Distemper is a severe and contagious disease. It affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and central nervous systems, potentially leading to severe complications or death.
- Canine Adenovirus Type 2 (CAV-2) Vaccine: This vaccine protects against both canine infectious hepatitis and respiratory disease (kennel cough) caused by the adenovirus.
- Rabies Vaccine: Rabies is a fatal viral disease affecting the central nervous system. It’s transmissible to humans, so many jurisdictions legally require this vaccine for all dogs.
- Bordetella Bronchiseptica Vaccine: Often called the “kennel cough” vaccine, it protects dogs against a significant cause of bronchitis and pneumonia in canines.
- Leptospira Bacteria Vaccine: Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that affects the kidneys and liver. It can be transmitted to humans and animals, leading to severe health complications.
- Canine Influenza (Dog Flu) Vaccine: This protects against the canine influenza virus, which causes respiratory illness in dogs. In some cases, this flu can turn severe.
- Lyme Disease Vaccine: Lyme disease is a tick-borne illness that can cause joint inflammation and other symptoms in dogs. The vaccine is recommended for dogs living in or traveling to high-risk areas.
French Bulldog Vaccination Cost
The cost of vaccinating a French Bulldog varies based on location, clinic, and the specific vaccines required, often ranging from $50 to $400 annually in the U.S. Urban areas with a higher cost of living typically charge more than rural locales.
The price might also depend on the clinic’s reputation or the services offered. Additionally, core vaccines could have different prices compared to non-core options. It’s essential to consult local veterinary clinics for precise costs in your area.
Are there any Side Effects of Vaccination?
- Mild Reactions: These are the most common and include swelling or tenderness at the injection site, mild fever, lethargy, and reduced appetite. These usually resolve on their own within a day or two.
- Allergic Reactions: Less common but more serious are allergic reactions. Symptoms might include swelling of the face, skin itching, hives, diarrhea, vomiting, or difficulty breathing.
- Vaccine-induced Diseases: Very rarely, vaccines can cause the disease they’re meant to protect against, especially with modified live vaccines.
- Tumors at Injection Site: In very rare cases, certain vaccines have been associated with developing tumors called fibrosarcomas at the injection site.
FAQs
When do Frenchies Get their First Vaccination?
French Bulldogs should receive their first vaccinations between 6 to 8 weeks old. This early immunization is critical in building a puppy’s immune defense against common canine diseases.
How often should I vaccinate my French Bulldog puppy?
Starting from the initial dose at 6 to 8 weeks, French Bulldog puppies are typically administered booster shots every 3 to 4 weeks. This series continues until they reach around 16 weeks, building their immunity step by step.
What happens if you miss any of the vaccinations?
If a scheduled vaccine is missed, your French Bulldog might be at risk for certain diseases. It’s crucial to consult your veterinarian immediately to realign the vaccination plan and ensure optimal protection for your puppy.