Before Getting a Frenchie…🐾

French bulldogs. The squishy faces, the goofy personalities, the little bat ears—they’re impossible not to love! 😍 But let me tell you, owning a Frenchie isn’t all cuddles and cute photos. As a proud dog mom of three Frenchies—Finn, Lola, and Ace—I’ve learned A LOT about these little stinkers (and I mean stinkers, Frenchie farts are no joke). 😐

Here’s everything I wish I knew before bringing a French bulldog into my life—so you can be ready for the adventure ahead.

1. Meet the Parents (and Not Just in Photos!) 🐶📸

When I got my youngest, Ace, we didn’t meet his parents in person—just saw some pictures. Rookie mistake. Turns out, those photos had been Photoshopped (seriously, who edits dog noses?!). His parents’ noses looked perfect, but in reality, they had clear signs of breathing problems, which Ace inherited.

With Frenchies, breathing issues are super common, so seeing the parents in real life can give you a heads-up. If they sound like they’ve been chain-smoking for 20 years (snorting, wheezing, etc.), chances are your puppy will have similar issues.

Lesson learned: Always meet the parents. Trust me, it’ll save you from surprises later on!

2. Crate Training = Your Best Friend 🛏️🐕

When Finn and Lola were puppies, I didn’t crate train them. Big mistake. Now, they have separation anxiety and act like I’ve abandoned them every time I leave the room. 😅

With Ace, I got smart. From the start, he slept in a crate in a separate room. Yes, there was crying (and yes, it broke my heart 💔), but within a few days, he adjusted. Now, Ace is the most independent of my three—he doesn’t freak out when I leave the house, which is a huge win for both of us.

If you’re getting a Frenchie puppy, don’t skip the crate training. It’s tough love at first, but it’ll make your life SO much easier in the long run.

3. Socializing the Right Way 🛍️🍴

Here’s where I went wrong with Finn and Lola—I didn’t socialize them enough. They’re sweet, but they get anxious in public because they weren’t exposed to different environments as puppies.

With Ace, I did things differently. I took him EVERYWHERE—malls, restaurants, parks—you name it. But here’s the trick: I didn’t let people pet him.

Why? Because when puppies get used to constant attention from strangers, they start expecting it every time they go outside. That can lead to frustration or hyperactivity when they don’t get it. Instead, I taught Ace that being out of the house is normal and doesn’t always mean he’s the center of attention (even though he’s clearly a star ✨).

Now, he’s super chill in public and doesn’t act out when we’re around new people or places.

4. Frenchies Are High-Maintenance (But Worth It!) 💸🐾

Let me be real—French bulldogs are not low-maintenance dogs. Between their sensitive skin, allergy-prone ears, and (in Ace’s case) breathing issues, you’ll be on a first-name basis with your vet in no time.

Finn and Lola have been pretty easygoing health-wise, but Ace has thrown me a curveball with his nose surgery. If you’re getting a Frenchie, be prepared for some unexpected expenses. But honestly, the love they give back is priceless. ❤️

5. Heat Is Their Kryptonite ☀️🥵

Frenchies and warm weather do NOT mix. Their little flat faces make it hard for them to breathe in the heat, so you’ve got to be extra careful. No long walks in the sun, always keep water on hand, and make sure they’re chilling in the AC when it’s hot out.

Basically, think of them as little divas—they love comfort and cool air. 😎

6. Be Ready for the Snorts, Snores, and Farts 💤💨

I’m just gonna say it: Frenchies are loud sleepers and, well, gassy. 😂 Finn snores so loud I’ve considered getting him his own room, and Lola’s farts could clear a room in seconds. Ace, surprisingly, is the least noisy of the bunch, but he still keeps things interesting.

It’s all part of their charm, though. Once you accept that you’ll never have a silent night again, you’ll learn to laugh about it (with a scented candle nearby).

7. Find a Reputable Breeder 🏡🐾

This ties back to meeting the parents. A good breeder will be transparent about the health of their dogs and willing to show you everything in person. Don’t be afraid to ask questions—it’s your right to know what you’re signing up for.

Final Thoughts 🎉🐕

French bulldogs are hilarious, loving, and completely unique. They’re also a handful, but if you’re ready to put in the work, they’ll bring more joy to your life than you ever thought possible.

For me, Finn, Lola, and Ace are more than just pets—they’re family. And while I’ve learned a lot from raising them, I wouldn’t trade the experience for anything. Just remember: crate train, socialize early, and always pack a lint roller. 😉

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