Bringing home a new puppy or dog is much like bringing home a newborn baby. It’s an exciting time planning for your new pup’s arrival, but it can also be a little overwhelming. If you’re adopting a French bulldog you want to research all that you can in order to create a comfortable home for him. To help get you started, here are six important things that you should know before adopting your French bulldog.

1-Genetic Health Issues

French bulldogs are known for having several genetic health problems, so it is important to be prepared. Just like humans, Frenchies can develop allergies to things such as perfumes, dust, mold, drugs, fleas, food and cleaning products. Another common issue is pink eye or conjunctivitis- which is evident from redness and swelling in the eye. Deafness or loss of healing is another issue that can develop in Frenchies. Joint issues such as hip dysplasia can develop in Frenchies, which is why it is important not to overexert your dog when exercising. Also common are their breathing issues, which is why they have a tendency to snort and snore. Knowing what health problems can develop will help you better prepare for their daily care. You may even choose to invest in pet health insurance.

2- Breed Characteristics

If you’re in the market for a smaller dog, then a French bulldog is the breed for you.

With an average weight of about 28 pounds and standing at around 11 inches high, Frenchies are great for apartments or small homes. Appearing a lot like English bulldogs, with their pointy bat-like ears, have short and stocky bodies, have smushed noses and wrinkly faces. Their coloring is generally white, different shades of brown and black.

3-Grooming

French bulldogs have short hair which means that you don’t need to brush them more than once a week. You can bathe them with mild shampoo twice a month if needed. Be sure to keep his nails trimmed to avoid pain as they walk. During hot weather, keep them cool by keeping them indoors. As they are prone to breathing problems, they do not do well in hot weather.

4-Behavior Issues

Despite a bulldog’s looks or reputation for being mean and aggressive, they are actually very sweet and fun-loving. However, like most breeds, they have their own behavioral issues. They don’t like to be alone for long periods of time. In fact, they can be quite clingy and follow you everywhere. Your Frenchie may experience separation anxiety and may act out as a result. Other behavioral issues are jumping on people, excessive barking, begging, chewing or not listening to commands. Remember that with the proper discipline, your bulldog can be trained and be well behaved.

5-Training

Your bulldog will desperately want to please you, but he can also be stubborn. It is highly suggested that your dog is introduced to people and other dogs as soon as possible, as this will help them learn good behavior. Use the proper training techniques to help them with anxiety when they are alone. With the right tools and motivation, your Frenchie will become a well-adjusted adult.

6-Energy Level

Bulldogs are generally alert and active dogs, yet they usually have a calm demeanor. They only require moderate exercise, as they tire easily and do not have a lot of enduring stamina. Also, due to their potential joint issues, you don’t want to push a Frenchie beyond his limits. Ideally, you’ll want to play with your bulldog a few times each day for around 15 to 20 minutes to keep him fit and also to keep him from getting bored.

It is important to be as informed as possible before bringing home your dog in order to create a smooth transition and to begin building a wonderful relationship between you both. With these six helpful facts, you’re well on your way to bringing home your new friend. Congratulations on your choice to get a French bulldog!