What is a French Bulldog’s Lifespan?

If you’re someone who wants to adopt a French bulldog, it’s necessary to learn about their health conditions and lifestyle needs. The French bulldog lifespan depends on several factors, including genetics, diet, quality of care, and exercise habits. Adopting a Frenchie from a reputable breeder can also make a difference in their lifespan and overall health.

7 Factors that Affect a French Bulldog’s Lifespan

  • Breeder
  • Health Conditions
  • Diet
  • Veterinary Care
  • Exposure to Heat
  • Regular Health Maintenance and Training
  • Lifestyle

The Frenchie dog is a popular dog breed that can provide you with years of affection, companionship, and laughs. From French bulldog puppy to senior, Frenchies are adorable dogs that are loyal to their caregivers and appreciate giving love as much as receiving it.

The French Bulldog breed is, unfortunately, susceptible to several health conditions, both genetic and acquired, that can affect the expected lifespan of a French Bulldog. French Bulldog puppies may be born with a cleft palate or patellar luxation, for example. Older dogs may suffer from hip dysplasia, skin infection, or brachycephalic airway syndrome.

What Is the Lifespan of a French Bulldog?

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the average French Bulldog lifespan is 10-12 years. The Micro French Bulldog and Mini French Bulldog lifespan might be slightly longer, between 12-16 years. As with any dog breed, the care a Frenchie receives throughout their life can affect the lifespan of a French Bulldog.

7 Factors that Affect a French Bulldog’s Lifespan

Whether you have a French Bulldog puppy or adult dog, a brindle or a blue French Bulldog, or a Teacup or Mini French Bulldog, a few different factors may affect their overall lifespan.

1. Breeding

The breeding of Frenchies is one of the most significant contributors to the breed’s current health problems. Selective breeding can cause dogs to carry lines of unwanted conditions in their bloodlines. The more these dogs breed, the higher the chances of those traits carrying on from generation to generation.

Not all breeders purposely breed dogs that carry undesirable traits. But if they aren’t diligent about avoiding the breeding of dogs with those traits, then it’s likely that the breeder’s Frenchies will keep passing them along.

The American Kennel Club suggests asking for a dog’s full medical history from the breeder before adopting it. This history should entail health screenings, veterinary care, and conditions that may run in the dog’s family. Your breeder should have no hesitation showing you medical information about your puppy’s parents, either.

You might consider adopting a Royal Frenchel. These dogs look and behave similarly to the Frenchie, but they have much lower chances of developing signature French health conditions because of their quality breeding standards. In fact, there is only one true Royal Frenchel breeder in existence, and our standards for breeding are high. We disclose full transparency on our puppy and adult dogs’ health, so you’ll know what to expect when you’re ready to adopt your new family member.

2. Health Conditions

Primarily because of the breeding patterns used to make the Frenchie the breed it is today, these dogs can face several health issues that result from genetics and their physical characteristics. Some of the typical French Bulldog health conditions can be severe enough to affect their lifespan, even with excellent veterinary care.

The Frenchie, for example, is known as a brachycephalic breed because of their shortened nose and flat face. Other dogs that fall within this category include the Boston Terrier, Toy Bulldog, English Bulldog, American Bulldog, and Shih Tzu. Brachycephalic breeds can be susceptible to brachycephalic airway syndrome. The condition causes issues with the way the dog breathes. Stenotic nares, tracheal stenosis, and an elongated soft palate are all potentially dangerous side effects that typically coincide with brachycephalic airway syndrome.

French Bulldogs may also suffer from hereditary cataracts, chronic pink eye, corneal ulcers, and cherry eye. These eye conditions can not only cause extreme discomfort for a dog, but they can also lead to eventual blindness. Cherry eye, for instance, doesn’t directly cause blindness. However, it could lead to uncomfortable inflammation that triggers your dog to scratch, potentially leading to further eye injuries. It could also cause dry eye, which can lead to vision loss.

Royal Frenchels, on the other hand, aren’t plagued with as many potential health problems as the French Bulldog. Royals have 10 times lower of a chance, on average, of developing common Frenchie conditions like digestive problems, liver issues, and cherry eye.

3. Diet

Any dog that doesn’t have access to a wholesome, nutritious, and balanced diet every day can suffer from health problems and a shortened lifespan as a result. Research shows that a dog’s weight can contribute to its overall lifespan. One of the best ways to keep a dog’s weight in check is with a healthy diet that’s void of unnecessary calories, ingredients, and additives.

Frenchies can suffer from a host of digestive problems, including food allergies that affect the way their bodies process certain foods and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which can cause vomiting, nausea, loose stools, and weight loss. Their face shape and shortened noses can also cause them to breathe in more air while they eat, leading to excess gas and upset tummies.

Because of their sensitive digestive tract, a French Bulldog may need a special diet that you can put in place with the help of your veterinarian. Special veterinary diets for any dog can get expensive, but they may be necessary for your companion dog to live a healthy life.

We recommend that your Royal Frenchel also has a diet filled with quality foods that dogs both love and need to meet their nutritional requirements. However, Royals don’t typically suffer from the digestive troubles that French Bulldogs do, like food allergies, parasites, and IBD, so you may have a little more leeway finding a healthy diet to support your Royal Frenchel’s nutrition.

4. Veterinary Care

Proper veterinary care from the start of a dog’s life can make a world of difference in their future. Many experts agree that your pup should first visit the veterinarian at three to four weeks old and continue every three to four weeks until they’ve reached four months of age. After that, a yearly checkup is ideal, but your pup may still need to visit the vet more frequently for vaccinations and to monitor any problems found during earlier visits.

Quality and consistent vet care is what will take your dog from a vulnerable puppy to a healthy, rugged adult. Your veterinarian may be able to spot early signs of common French Bulldog health conditions before you do and nip them in the bud before they become serious.

Royal Frenchels receive excellent vet care—even before they’re born! We have every dam and sire complete a vet check before they’re ready to breed. Once the pups are born, they all get routine vet care and vaccinations according to schedule before they head to your home. It’s just one of the many ways we ensure that our Royals are in the best shape for a healthy future, right from the start.

5. Exposure to Heat

French Bulldogs typically can’t withstand being exposed to heat for too long. Their narrow nostrils caused by their flattened snout can make it challenging for Frenchies to breathe in enough air, especially when they’re hot. Anxiety and panic can also exacerbate the problem, making it even more challenging for your dog to breathe. The combination of heat and not enough air can turn fatal for a French Bulldog adult or puppy.

Dehydration can play a critical factor in how much the heat affects your dog, too, whether you have a French Bulldog, a Royal Frenchel, or another dog breed. If you must be outside for a while with your dog, first try to find a shaded area. Then, be sure to offer plenty of water to prevent the risk of dehydration.

6. Regular Health Maintenance and Training

There’s a lot that goes into caring for a dog, which is why it’s crucial to make sure you have the time and determination to devote to your furry new pal. When it comes to French Bulldogs, in particular, their potential health problems could mean even more time and money for you to spend to care for your pup. From cleaning your dog’s teeth to routinely checking its skin to monitor for skin infection, routine health maintenance can make the difference between a shorter and longer lifespan of French Bulldog pups.

Some of your dog’s health even relies on proper training. Did you know that severe separation anxiety can cause excess stress on your dog and put it in harm’s way? Frenchies do commonly exhibit separation anxiety. Without the intervention of an experienced trainer, your dog could escape, eat something that harms the digestive tract or put their body into a frequent state of distress.

When we send our Royal Frenchels off to their new families, we also give the family information, tips, and tricks to care for their new companions, including essential health tips like preventing dehydration and overheating and how to work with your pup on obedience. It’s just one of the reasons Royal Frenchels received an award for their health and longevity from Farmers Insurance and Pets Best Insurance Services.

7. Lifestyle

A happy, healthy lifestyle is something that can contribute to any dog’s lifespan. Frenchies who eat a healthy diet, get the right amount of exercise, and see a veterinarian regularly can boost their chances of living a longer life. When you add a fulfilling lifestyle of love and affection to the mix, your French Bulldog can thrive.

The best dog owners are those who treat their dogs like other members of the family. Dogs need more than just a few toys, some food, and a few minutes of play each day. They want and need to feel included, like they’re as important to you as you are to them. Attending to their basic health needs, giving them the proper training, and including them in family activities as much as possible can ensure that your Frenchie dog feels like a valued part of your family.

One of the most beloved Royal Frenchel traits is their affectionate attitude toward their loved ones. These dogs absolutely adore making it known how much they love those they’re closest to. All they ask is the same in return. If you’re thinking of adopting a Royal Frenchel, make sure there’s plenty of room in your life to give your puppy the care, attention, and love they’re going to provide you with.

How Can You Help Your French Bulldog Live Longer?

Although the average lifespan of a French Bulldog may not be as long as you expected, there are a few ways in which you, as a French Bulldog owner, may be able to set your dog on a successful path to health right from the start.

Choose a Quality Breeder

Believe it or not, your Teacup French Bulldog lifespan could depend somewhat on the breeder you choose to adopt from. Not all breeders of any breed are the same. Some breeders pay much more attention than others to genetics and only choose dogs with the best genetics.

Your breeder should be reputable within your breed’s community. They should be able to tell you about the puppies’ parents and their health histories and explain the veterinary care they have or will receive before they go to your home. Quality Frenchie breeders are well-known for breeding healthy pups that, with the right care, could meet or pass the average lifespan French Bulldog breeds have.

Keep Up with Routine and Emergency Veterinary Care

Giving your dog routine veterinary care is an excellent way to ensure that they stay in good health, and any potential problems are caught early. Healthy dogs should see a veterinarian at least once a year for a checkup and vaccinations, if necessary. Any dog that has a health condition, like degenerative myelopathy or brachycephalic syndrome, may need to see a vet more frequently for monitoring, medicine changes, etc.

With a French Bulldog, it’s especially important to keep up on routine veterinary care. And, if you notice any symptoms of common Frenchie health conditions, bring up your concerns with your vet as soon as possible.

Pay Attention to Diet

Your dog’s diet gives them the nutrients they need to have energy and stay healthy. Whether you make your own dog food for your Frenchie or purchase store-bought food, you should understand what a balanced diet for a dog entails.

Dogs need a mixture of meat, vegetables, grains, and fruits. You can help ensure that your dog gets enough of each of these food groups by feeding them food that includes portions of each for every meal. Some dogs have special dietary needs based on their specific health conditions, so be sure to follow your vet’s advice for handling those conditions through their diet.

Give Your Frenchie a Loving and Healthy Life

A French Bulldog needs lots of love, affection, and care. The happier your dog, the healthier they can be! Does your Frenchie get enough exercise and mental stimulation through play? Do they seem satisfied and content? If they get anxious around children or other animals, do they have enough of a break during the day to relax themselves?

Each of these points can contribute to your dog’s overall happiness and health. Research shows that owning a dog can be good for your health, but taking excellent care of your Frenchie can also be good for its health.

Royal Frenchels look very similar to French Bulldogs and have much of the positive traits of a French Bulldog temperament. Still, there’s one significant difference between the two breeds: Royal Frenchels live longer, on average!

This is because of the health of Royal Frenchels. Care and time went into breeding Royals to ensure that all past, present, and future owners can read about Royal Frenchel health transparency and know what to expect from the breed. Because they don’t face as many health challenges as Frenchies, Royal Frenchels can live 16 to 20 years, on average.

What Affects the French Bulldog Lifespan?

The French Bulldog breed is loved by many for virtually endless reasons. We love the Frenchie, too! That’s why we wanted to emulate this adorable, friendly breed when we began breeding our Royal Frenchels. Royals are incredibly affectionate, playful, and loyal dogs that can easily fit right into your family’s lifestyle.

Because they tend to live longer than French Bulldogs, Royal Frenchels can be an excellent alternative to consider when you’re ready to adopt your new pup. With the proper veterinary care, dedication, and owner training, you can give your Royal Frenchel the quality life they deserve for years to come.

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