When bringing home a French Bulldog puppy, you’ll need a comfortable puppy-sized crate for safe containment and house training, appropriate puppy food as recommended by your vet, chew toys for teething, a soft bed, food and water bowls, and a collar with an ID tag. Additionally, it’s important to have puppy pads for accidents, a leash for walks, grooming supplies tailored for short-haired breeds, and access to a veterinarian for vaccinations and health check-ups. Start with these essentials to ensure your Frenchie puppy has a smooth transition into their new home.
12 Things to Shop for your French Bulldog Puppy
Puppy Food
Select a high-quality puppy food that’s appropriate for the nutritional needs of a French Bulldog puppy. It should be rich in protein to support muscle growth and have a balance of fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals to promote overall health. Consult your veterinarian for recommendations, especially since French Bulldogs can have sensitive stomachs and may require a specific type of diet.
Crate and Bedding
A sturdy crate provides a safe and secure environment for your puppy when you can’t supervise them. Inside, comfortable bedding is essential to keep your puppy warm and cozy. The crate also aids in-house training and provides your French Bulldog with a space they can call their own.
Water and Food Bowls
Invest in heavy-duty, non-tip bowls to prevent spills and messes during mealtime. Stainless steel bowls are durable, easy to clean, and can help avoid potential acne that plastic bowls may cause due to bacterial buildup.
Collar and ID Tag
A comfortable collar suitable for a small but strong-necked breed like a French Bulldog is crucial. Attach an ID tag with your contact information if your puppy gets lost. Remember to check the fit regularly as your puppy grows.
Harness and Leash
A harness is often recommended for French Bulldogs because it distributes pressure evenly across the body and can prevent neck strain. Pair the harness with a strong leash for safe and enjoyable walks.
Chew Toys
Puppy chew toys can provide relief during teething and help keep your French Bulldog’s teeth clean. Choose durable toys for puppies to withstand sharp teeth and prevent choking hazards.
Grooming Supplies
Grooming essentials include a soft bristle brush, nail clippers, and canine toothbrush and toothpaste. Regular grooming sessions not only keep your puppy looking good but also provide an opportunity to check for any skin issues or parasites.
Puppy Pads and Cleaner
Puppy pads are helpful for housebreaking, and an enzymatic cleaner can address accidents by eliminating odors and stains. Training your puppy to use pads initially can ease the house training process.
Training Treats
Small, low-calorie treats are great for training sessions. They should be tasty to motivate your puppy but also healthy to avoid any unnecessary weight gain.
Safety Gates
Safety gates can confine your puppy to safe areas of your home and prevent them from accessing dangerous spots, such as stairs or rooms with hazards.
Health Supplements
Consult with your veterinarian about any recommended health supplements for a growing French Bulldog puppy, particularly those that support joint health, given the breed’s susceptibility to common issues.
Climate-appropriate Clothing
Depending on your climate, your French Bulldog puppy may require clothing to keep warm during cold months, as they can be sensitive to low temperatures due to their short coats.
How to Keep Your Frenchie Puppy Happy?
Consistent Training and Socialization
Begin training and socialization early to help your Frenchie understand boundaries and become comfortable with different people, animals, and environments. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, make learning enjoyable and rewarding, promoting a well-adjusted and happy dog.
Regular Exercise and Playtime
French Bulldogs don’t require extensive exercise but do need regular, moderate activity. Ensure your puppy gets daily playtime to stimulate their mind and body. Interactive toys and games like fetch can help them expend energy and stay content.
Quality Nutrition
Feed your puppy a balanced diet appropriate for their breed, size, and age. Consult your veterinarian to determine the best food options, ensuring your Frenchie gets all the necessary nutrients to grow healthy and happy.
Frequent Affection and Attention
Frenchies thrive on human interaction and love being part of the family. Show affection through petting, cuddling, and spending quality time together. This close bond is essential for their emotional well-being.
A Comfortable Living Space
Create a cozy and safe space for your Frenchie with access to their bed, toys, and personal area. They’ll appreciate having a retreat where they can relax and feel secure.
Routine Veterinary Care
Regular check-ups with the vet help maintain your puppy’s health. Preventative care, including vaccinations, flea and tick control, and routine screenings, will keep your Frenchie in good spirits.
Mental Stimulation
Keep your Frenchie’s mind sharp with puzzle toys, new tricks, and obedience skills. Mental stimulation is as important as physical exercise in keeping your puppy happy.
Adequate Rest
French Bulldogs love their sleep, so ensure your puppy has plenty of opportunities to rest throughout the day. A tired Frenchie is a grumpy Frenchie.
Social Outings
Once fully vaccinated, take your Frenchie to pet-friendly stores, parks, and outdoor events. Exposure to new sights and sounds can be exciting and enriching.
Grooming Sessions
Regular grooming keeps your Frenchie looking and feeling their best. Brushing helps to reduce shedding and is also a pleasant way to bond with your puppy.
Things not to do with a French Bulldog Puppy
- Over exercise: French Bulldogs are brachycephalic (short-headed) and can have difficulty breathing, especially during strenuous activity. It’s essential not to over exercise them to avoid respiratory distress and overheating.
- Ignore Heat and Humidity: Due to their respiratory system’s structure, Frenchies are highly susceptible to heatstroke. They should be kept in a relaxed, climate-controlled environment during hot weather and not left outside for extended periods.
- Skip Regular Veterinary Checkups: Neglecting regular veterinary care can lead to undetected health issues. French Bulldogs are prone to specific genetic health problems, so routine check-ups are essential for early detection and management.
- Delay Socialization and Training: Waiting too long to begin socialization and training can lead to behavioral problems. Early and positive training sessions help prevent the development of unwanted behaviors and aid in social development.
- Overfeed: French Bulldogs can quickly become overweight, leading to additional health issues like joint problems, diabetes, and respiratory distress. Avoid overfeeding and be mindful of their calorie intake.
- Neglect Dental Care: Dental disease can lead to serious health complications. Regular tooth brushing and dental checks are necessary to maintain oral health and prevent dental issues.
- Force them to Swim: Many French Bulldogs cannot swim due to their compact build and heavy torso. Never leave them unsupervised near water, and be cautious with activities involving swimming.
- Ignore Their Breathing: If your French Bulldog is snorting or struggling for air, don’t consider it ‘normal’ just because of their breed. Any signs of labored breathing should be checked by a vet.
- Expose to Cold Weather: Just as they are sensitive to heat, Frenchies can also be sensitive to cold. They may require a jacket or sweater during chilly walks.
- Leaving Alone for Long Periods: French Bulldogs are companion animals that crave human interaction. Leaving them alone for extended periods can lead to separation anxiety and destructive behaviors.
- Allow Rough Play: Due to their stout build, French Bulldogs may be prone to injuries. Avoid overly rough play or activities that might put too much strain on their joints.
FAQs
What do French Bulldog puppies like to play with?
French Bulldog puppies typically enjoy playing with soft, plush toys they can chew on, as well as interactive toys that stimulate their minds and engage them in active play. Puzzle toys that dispense treats are also great for keeping them entertained.
How do you keep your French Bulldog puppy healthy and active?
To keep your French Bulldog puppy healthy and active, provide them with short, daily walks, play sessions with appropriate toys, and a balanced diet. Avoid extreme temperatures and monitor their breathing during exercise to ensure they don’t overexert themselves.
How much attention does a French Bulldog puppy need?
A French Bulldog puppy needs a considerable amount of attention. They thrive on human companionship and do best with owners who can provide them with frequent interaction throughout the day, whether through play, training or simply cuddling together.
How to pick up a French Bulldog puppy?
To pick up a French Bulldog puppy, always support their chest and hindquarters. Slide one hand under the chest behind the front legs, and place your other hand under their rump, lifting gently to keep the puppy’s spine aligned and prevent undue stress on their back or legs.