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How Much Exercise Should a French Bulldog Get a Day (Does It Need a Lot)?

Frenchies may seem like couch potatoes, but they like being active. It doesn't take a lot of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. Sometimes, they may even demand playtime.
How Much Exercise Should a French Bulldog Get a Day?

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Many people think that Frenchies are couch potatoes because they are low-energy breeds. In reality, they can be very hyper dogs. They sleep a lot and can be stubborn, but they can zoom around the house when they want to.

Like with any other dog breed, they need to exercise daily. This is important to keep them healthy, maintain their weight, and help them feel relaxed.

Are French Bulldogs Energetic or Lazy?

There is a misconception that French Bulldogs are lazy. This is because they are a low-energy breed that likes to lounge and sleep all day. But when Frenchies are awake, you will find that they can get super hyper!

Frenchies are most active as puppies when they have a high level of energy. So you will have a lot on your hands during the first few months. When they grow up, their energy levels dwindle but they still play and run around like puppies.

Even an adult Frenchie will get the zoomies, this is when they run around at full speed like crazy. This silly act is for them to release their pent-up energy and wear themselves down to nap for long hours.

Other than age, how hyper or lazy a Frenchie is will depend on their personality and gender. You can say that these two go hand in hand. That is because gender generally has an impact on your Frenchie’s personality.

Male Frenchies tend to be more active, which is why they are a great choice for fur parents who want a playful dog. But male Frenchies may also be harder to train since they are more stubborn.

Female Frenchies are more relaxed and prefer to sit on their owner’s laps than to play. While they are more affectionate, be careful about teasing a female Frenchie too much. They get mood swings, and when annoyed, can become aggressive.

But some Frenchies do not fit into these gender stereotypes. So sometimes their laziness will boil down to their personalities.

Why Is My French Bulldog So Restless?

Problems with a restless Frenchie can be due to lack of stimulation or a medical issue. If they cannot release excess energy, they become bored or stressed, which leads to destructive behavior. But some medical issues also cause odd behaviors in your Frenchie.

So if you have a restless Frenchie in your hands, this may be because of the following causes:

Lack of Exercise

Being a low-energy breed does not mean that Frenchies do not need exercise. Frenchies need a lot of exercise when they are awake for them to nap for long hours.

While they are awake, they find ways to tire themselves out. So you should build a routine and walk them daily or provide them with lots of toys. If they have a canine friend with them, it would be better since they will play with each other.

Lack of physical and mental stimulation can also make them bored. And when your Frenchie experiences boredom, it can also lead to destructive behaviors.

Keep in mind that a tired Frenchie is a happy Frenchie. Getting them active keeps them calm, reducing restlessness.

Separation Anxiety

One of the many symptoms of Frenchies with this is being restless. Constant pacing, chewing on furniture, anything to keep them occupied in your absence.

Unfortunately, Frenchies are prone to developing separation anxiety. Being companion dogs, they can get overly attached to their owners.

So if you have a job that requires you to be away for hours, teach your Frenchie how to handle being alone. This is possible with training, reassurance, and a lot of toys. Doggy daycare is also a great option.

Household Changes

Any change in your Frenchie’s living situation can cause anxiety and restlessness. If they lost one of their friends, they could start pacing around or follow you everywhere. There can be other triggers to this and it can be anything.

Fear

There are certain items, sounds, or experiences that cause fear in your Frenchie. If your Frenchie’s restlessness is because of this, it may be easier to spot.

Triggers like loud sounds, vacuums, and car rides can scare your Frenchie. You will notice excessive panting, crying, or they may tuck their tail under them.

Flea or Tick Bites

Insect bites are uncomfortable for your Frenchie. They will scratch, chew, and lick themselves to soothe the itchiness.

Flea saliva can also cause an allergic reaction that may cause swelling and redness. In this case, your Frenchie needs an antihistamine like Benadryl. This should stop the scratching.

Poisoning

Frenchies are curious and are always in search of some interesting find. But in their treasure hunt, they may come in contact with toxins and poisons.

Chocolate is poisonous to dogs. If your Frenchie accidentally licks some off of the floor, it can be a disaster. Other common poisons include xylitol, human medication, garlic, and onions.

When your Frenchie ingests any of these, they can become agitated and restless. If you suspect that this is the cause, take your Frenchie to the vet right away. This can have severe consequences if immediate action is not taken.

Why Is My French Bulldog Puppy So Hyper?

Puppyhood is the phase when your French Bulldog is most active, so they need more playtime. Puppies have a lot of energy in their little bodies. If they do not use this, it can lead to destructive behaviors.

This is the stage when they learn about the world and they have all the energy to feed their curiosity. So for the first few months of their life, your Frenchie may drive you crazy. If you do not let them exercise, they will find other ways to entertain themselves.

They will rummage through garbage, get into cabinets, and munch on anything they can get their paws on. At this stage, they also tend to bite and nip their owners.

Since this is the crucial stage of their development, invest some time in training your pup. Set a fixed routine to give their day some structure too. These two should help to curb their high energies.

Remember not to punish your Frenchie pup since they may grow up to fear you. This will encourage aggressive behaviors towards you. To discourage unwanted behavior, use positive reinforcement instead.

Why Is My French Bulldog Restless at Night?

When Frenchies do not sleep through the night, it is usually a matter of not getting enough exercise. Daily exercise is not only for burning off calories and keeping them in shape. It has a lot of other benefits, including reducing your Frenchie’s anxiety.

While restless nights are normal for puppies, this should go away once your Frenchie is an adult. But an adult Frenchie may show bad sleeping habits like the following:

  • Being up more than 10 hours in a day
  • Not sleeping through the night when they should
  • Difficulty waking up after a long sleep

If your Frenchie shows these symptoms suddenly, they may have a problem. It could be any of the following reasons below.

Anxiety

Like humans, anxiety can make it hard for Frenchies to fall asleep. They will roll around in bed, pace around, or look for something else to do.

While exercising reduces their anxiety, it may be a bandaid solution to the problem. Anxiety can be due to many reasons. Figuring out the root cause should get rid of the bad sleeping habits and other symptoms.

Pain

Restless nights can also mean that your Frenchie is facing a medical issue. These issues can be any of the following:

  • Joint Problems like arthritis
  • Ear Infections
  • Dental Diseases: This includes gum disease, infected, or loose teeth
  • Problems With the Mouth: Issues like oral tumors, stomach ulcers, or injuries
  • Skin Diseases
  • Allergies
  • Cancer

If you suspect that your Frenchie suffers from any of these, you should seek help from your vet. These problems need medical intervention. If left untreated, the symptoms may get worse.

Age-Related Issues

Older Frenchies can easily get restless nights. Aging brings many health problems. These make your Frenchie uncomfortable, making sleeping hard.

Aging brings muscle and joint pains, which can disrupt your Frenchie’s sleep. If your Frenchie has aches, an orthopedic dog bed can help to ease their pain.

Another unfortunate consequence of aging is loss of bladder function. They may not be able to hold their pee long, so they need to have frequent bathroom breaks throughout the night. In this case, you should consult with your vet.

If your Frenchie is taking toilet breaks more than usual, it can be due to other issues. This includes diarrhea, kidney disease, or cystitis.

Your Frenchie can also develop canine dementia. Difficulty in sleeping is one of the first few signs that will come up.

The bad news is that there is no cure for this. And this is a behavioral issue, which can be harder to treat. The good news is that your vet can prescribe medications to reduce the symptoms.

How to Tire Out a French Bulldog

Any activity that can get your Frenchie’s muscles working will tire them out. You can use toys, which are a great way for them to spend time alone. But the easiest way to tire out your Frenchie is by taking them out on a walk.

Frenchies need to go on walks for at least 15 to 20 minutes each day. This is a great opportunity for them to socialize with other dogs and people. But there are things you should keep in mind when you walk your Frenchie:

  • Use a Harness: Do not use a collar unless your Frenchie is well-behaved. Frenchies already have breathing problems and collars restrict their airways when pulled. This is something you can avoid with a harness.
  • Check the Weather: Frenchies are prone to overheat, so it is not a good idea to take them out on a hot day. They are also sensitive to the cold because of their short coats and brachycephalic skulls.
  • Take Treats With You: Frenchies respond best with positive reinforcement. Use treats to stop any unwanted behavior or as a reward for their good job.

Other than walks, you can play with your Frenchie outdoors. This is an opportunity for you to bond with your furry companion. Play fetch, tug of war, or other activities.

But playtime is not complete without toys! Below is a list of some toys that your Frenchie will enjoy:

  • Soccer Balls
  • Chew Toys
  • Puzzle Toys
  • Interactive Feeders
  • Tug of War Ropes
  • Plush Toys

Before choosing a toy to get, make sure that they are durable for your Frenchie’s strong jaw. They can be relentless chewers so their toys should last. This can save you money in the long run.

Also, broken pieces of toys can be dangerous for them. These can get stuck in their teeth or they may ingest these pieces and choke on them.

Additionally, when you buy plush toys for your Frenchie, make sure that they are not stuffed. It is easy for Frenchies to destroy stuffed toys, exposing the filling. This filling can also get stuck in their teeth, causing problems.

How Do You Tire Out a French Bulldog Puppy?

The best way to tire out your Frenchie puppy is to let them play freely with toys for their age. Puppies are not as robust as adults since their bodies are still developing. Having them play on their terms avoids overexercising your growing pup.

Another way to tire out your puppy is to walk them. But their stamina is different from an adult Frenchie, so you should walk them for only a few minutes.

So how long should you walk your puppy?  The general rule of thumb is a 2-minute walk for every month of age. So if your Frenchie pup is 3 months old, you should walk them for 6 minutes.

And while walking, you should always watch out for signs of exhaustion:

  • Excessive Panting
  • Getting Thirsty
  • Slowing Down
  • Yawning a Lot

If your puppy shows any of these, it is a sign that you should stop walking right away. Overfatigue can do your Frenchie pup more harm than good.

Another concern about walking a puppy is their immune system. Puppies have weak immune systems and may not have completed their vaccinations yet. So walking them outside is not the best idea until then.

Why Is My French Bulldog Lazy?

French Bulldogs are companion dogs with bodies to match this. Their physical characteristics do not make them the best athletes. And with their laid-back nature, they have characteristics that you may think are lazy.

Below is a list of common “lazy” Frenchie traits.

Sleeping a Lot

An adult Frenchie sleeps about 12 to 14 hours a day and this is nothing to worry about. Frenchie pups sleep longer at around 18 to 19 hours a day. This is the common reason why many deem them as a lazy breed.

Their sleeping habits are misleading, though. When they are awake, they tend to be very hyper. They will run around the house, demand playtime and your attention. This hyper phase is your Frenchie trying to wear themselves down so they can go back to taking a nap.

Lounging Around

Frenchies do not make great athletic dogs, but they make for wonderful lap dogs. With their affectionate nature, they are content with sitting on your lap as you do your thing.

Female Frenchies are better as lap dogs compared to males. They are generally more relaxed and prefer cuddling to playtime. While male Frenchies tend to be more active and playful.

Being Stubborn

Frenchies tend to refuse to do anything they do not want to do. If you try to take them out for a walk, they may sit down and ignore you.

They can also show their stubbornness by doing what they want. Your Frenchie will zoom around the house even when you tell them to stop.

Your Frenchie’s stubbornness can be an attention-seeking behavior. This happens when you leave them alone too long or when you do not give them enough attention.

Breathing Problems

Brachycephalic breeds like Frenchies have trouble breathing because of their physical traits. Their flat faces, narrow nostrils, and elongated palates are to blame.

Because of this, moving around and getting active can make them short of breath. This can discourage them to do any physical activities.

Why Is My French Bulldog Puppy Lazy?

You may feel like your puppy is lazy because they sleep a lot. Growing Frenchies need a lot of sleep for their development and that is why they may sleep about 18 hours a day.

A Frenchie puppy’s energy seems to have no middle ground. They are either napping through the day or are hyperactive. While this can be stressful, your Frenchie will become more predictable with age.

But if you notice that your Frenchie puppy is more lethargic than usual, it can be due to the reasons below.

Boredom

While boredom can make Frenchies restless, it can also make them idle. One of the symptoms of boredom is the tendency to sleep more.

Low-Quality Diet

Your Frenchie can become lethargic with the wrong diet because they do not have energy. So they prefer to laze around instead of playing or socializing with you.

An unhealthy diet also makes your Frenchie prone to diseases and infection. Without the essential nutrients in their food, their immunity will become weak. Any medical condition can make your Frenchie uncomfortable, causing behavioral changes.

Depression

This can cause your Frenchie to become lethargic and have no interest in doing anything. Canine depression can have other symptoms like:

  • Weight Loss
  • Loss of Appetite
  • Anxiety
  • Sleeping More

If you find that your puppy is lazy, watch out for these other symptoms as well. You should take your Frenchie to the vet to confirm if they have canine depression.

Health Issues

Like humans, sick Frenchies are not in the mood for anything other than lying down. Their bodies will become weak because they are fighting off an infection. And some diseases can put your Frenchie in a lot of pain.

Also, some medications can cause drowsiness too. If your Frenchie has prescribed medications, this may be the cause of their lethargy.

Parasites can also explain why your Frenchie is lazier than usual. Other than this, they can also show other symptoms like:

  • Blood or Mucus in their Feces
  • Loss of Appetite
  • Weight Loss
  • Anemia

Food Poisoning

Ingesting any toxins or poisons can also make them lazier than usual. Most food poisoning in dogs is accidental. So make sure your Frenchie does not have access to the following:

  • Xylitol: Gum, candy, some baked goods, human toothpaste
  • Any Allium Food: Onion, garlic, chives, and leek
  • Cocoa Products: Chocolate, coffee beans, and coffee grounds
  • Alcohol: Beer, wine, energy drinks, soft drinks, perfume, mouthwash, and more.
  • Avocados
  • Grapes
  • Raw Fish
  • Macadamia Nuts
  • Cleaning Agents

Is a French Bulldog a Calm Dog?

Frenchies can be calm companions if you provide them with all their necessities. A happy Frenchie should get the following:

  • Quality Time with You
  • Enough Exercise
  • Toys for Mental and Physical Stimulation
  • Nutritious Diet
  • A Daily Routine

Oftentimes, Frenchies can be hard to control because one of their needs is not met. Especially exercising, because this is how they release their excess energy. Using up that energy makes them more relaxed and they will be happy to lounge on the couch.

But even the calmest of Frenchies can have bursts of energy throughout the day. This is normal and as long as they have toys for them to release energy, they should calm down.

Another thing to keep in mind is that Frenchies are very people-oriented. Sometimes, they can be overly attached to you. And when you are away, this stresses them out and may lead to separation anxiety.

So if you work for long hours, make sure to create a routine for them.

Walk them before work to tire them out so they sleep through the day. Create a signal or action word to let them know that you are coming back before you leave. And when you are back home, make sure to give them a lot of attention.

Puppies are more hyper than older Frenchies because they have a lot of energy. As they age, they should calm down. But for the first few months of your Frenchie’s life, they can be a handful.

Are Male or Female French Bulldogs Calmer?

If you are looking for a calmer companion, then you should consider getting a female Frenchie. Not only are they more laid-back, but they are also more affectionate and love cuddle time.

Male Frenchies can also be like this, but they tend to be more active. They prefer playing than cuddles, so they are more suited for people who want a Frenchie to play with.

But keep in mind that female Frenchies can be unpredictable since they are prone to mood swings. They can also become more aggressive than male Frenchies as they grow older.

Whether you pick a female or a male Frenchie, they should be calm as long as you provide them with their needs. Also, Frenchies of any gender tend to become calmer once they get spayed.

When Do French Bulldogs Slow Down?

Your Frenchie’s hyperactivity will start to slow down at around 2 to 3 years of age. But you would have to wait a little longer than that for them to mellow down. At around 4 to 5 years of age, their bursts of energy will come to an end.

If you neuter or spay your Frenchie, they will start to calm down earlier. But you should manage your expectations with this. Fixing your Frenchie may curb their hyperactivity, but they can still be active.

How Do You Calm Down a Hyper French Bulldog?

The easiest way to calm down your hyper Frenchie is to exercise them. Exercise is a great way for them to redirect all their built-up energy and also to relax them.

This can be as simple as taking them out on walks, which is a good way to bond with them. Walks can also be an opportunity to socialize your Frenchie. They get used to certain experiences like meeting strangers, unfamiliar sounds, and more.

And if you take your Frenchie to parks, they get to meet other dogs, interacting and playing with them. A Frenchie who is well-socialized is more friendly and avoids some unwanted behaviors.

Other than physical stimulation, mental stimulation is just as important. This will not only improve their intelligence but will also drain a lot of their energy. If you give treats as a reward, they become more motivated.

Mental stimulation is possible even with simple activities. You can try any of the following tips below:

  • Playing Fetch
  • Tug of War
  • Learning New Tricks
  • Nose Work Games (letting them find something by their scent)
  • Obstacle Courses
  • Basic Obedience Training

If you notice, a lot of the activities above are also tied with physical stimulation. Playing with your Frenchie, in general, is great for draining their energy.

But the activities above would need your presence to get them to move around. You can teach them to exercise on their own so you can carry on with your tasks. The best way to do this is to provide your Frenchie with toys.

Some toys are great for letting your Frenchie work. Puzzle toys, interactive feeder toys, and chew toys, all work great for this. Any toy that has pockets where you can keep treats will do great.

If your Frenchie knows that there is a reward waiting for them inside the toy, they will work for it. Sometimes this keeps them distracted for hours, redirecting their energy into “work”.

How Do You Calm a French Bulldog Puppy?

Like adults, a hyper Frenchie pup will calm down with exercise. You can take them out for a walk, play tug of war, or fetch. But unlike an adult Frenchie, a puppy’s stamina is much lower so it will be easy to overexert them.

If you are walking your pup, keep in mind that their age is a factor in the duration of their walks. They need a 2-minute walk for every month of age. Also, always watch out for signs of exhaustion whenever doing any physical activity.

Letting your Frenchie pup engage in free play is also a great way to drain them. Give them toys and they will be happy to play by themselves. And since they play on their terms, this can decrease the chances of overexertion.

Other than that, training your pup can also cut down their hyperactivity. Training sessions combine both physical and mental stimulation. You also get to spend time with them while setting boundaries.

Positive dog training is always the best option. Your Frenchie pup learns which actions and behaviors are welcome with rewards. This also discourages any unwanted behaviors in a way that does not cause fear.

When playing with or training your Frenchie, they can get overly excited. But they need to understand that you will not tolerate this behavior.

What you should do is ignore them and not show affection until they calm down. Once they have, you should give them a treat as a reward.

You must give them a treat within 3 seconds. This way, they will associate any desired behaviors to treats, so they will behave more often.

Do French Bulldogs Require a Lot of Exercise?

A reason why Frenchies are great apartment dogs is that they do not need much exercise. This is not because they are lazy, Frenchies love to run around and play. Their exercise intolerance is because being a brachycephalic breed restricts them.

With their breathing problems, they get tired quite easily. But they still need to exercise to stay healthy. Exercises for your Frenchie should not be physically demanding.

This is why you will find that taking your Frenchie out for walks is always recommended. It is a mild exercise that combines physical and mental stimulation, as well as quality time with you.

How Much Activity Does a French Bulldog Need?

French Bulldogs only need minimal exercise in a day. Low-intensity walks for about 15 to 20 minutes will do for them. But in general, the most that your Frenchie needs is about an hour of daily exercise.

You should not cram an hour-long of physical activity in one go, though. This puts them at risk of over fatigue and overheating. They should get short and mild exercises throughout the day, and this counts playtime.

Keep in mind that the duration of your Frenchie’s exercises depends on their age. While adults can handle longer durations, puppies and older Frenchies cannot. No matter their age, you should always check if your Frenchie is already tired.

How Much Exercise Does a French Bulldog Puppy Need?

Frenchie puppies need fewer exercises than adults since they are still building up their stamina. A general rule of thumb is that your Frenchie needs 5 minutes of exercise for each month of age.

Below is a guide for the duration of your Frenchie pup’s exercise duration:

  • 2 Months Old: 10 minutes
  • 3 Months Old: 15 minutes
  • 4 Months Old: 20 minutes
  • 6 Months Old: 30 minutes
  • 9 Months Old: 45 minutes

You can exercise your Frenchie puppy twice a day, following the guide above.

The numbers above are a rough estimate since not every Frenchie is the same. Some may need to exercise more, while others need less. Make sure to check in on them and watch what their body is telling you.

Once you see any signs of exhaustion, you should stop any physical activity right away and let them rest.

How Much Exercise Is Too Much for a French Bulldog?

You should avoid high-intensity exercise for your Frenchie since they cannot handle these. They cannot do certain physical activities like hiking, running, or dog sports.

Even if your Frenchie does not do any of these, the duration of their exercises matters too. If you are walking them for an hour, that is already too much work for them.

Sometimes, Frenchies will keep going even if they are already tired. In this case, you should put a stop to their playtime. This is why you need to know the signs of an exhausted Frenchie.

Stiff or Sore Muscles

If your Frenchie has trouble getting up or jumping, they may have bitten more than they can chew. They may also refuse to walk or even eat because they are in pain. You should lessen the intensity or duration of their exercises for the next few days until they recover.

If you overexert your Frenchie a lot to the point of muscle pain, there is a severe consequence. They may develop exertional rhabdomyolysis. This condition causes your Frenchie’s muscle tissues to break down.

Paw Pain

After any exercise, make sure to always check your Frenchie’s paw pads. Check for any foreign object and any signs of wear and tear. Here is how to tell if your Frenchie has overworked paw pads:

  • Skin Flaps
  • Tears
  • Redness
  • Thinned Skin

If left alone, they may also get infections, so you will see some swelling. While an injured paw pad is painful for your Frenchie, they can overlook the pain so that they can play more. So it is best to add paw checks to your daily routine.

Slowing Down While Exercising

If your Frenchie is lagging on walks when they are usually in front of you, they are already tired. When this happens, pause and give them treats and water for them to rest. Once they have recovered, you should head home and call it a day.

Sleeping After Exercise

It is normal for your Frenchie to take a nap after a good exercise. But if they sleep all day after that, it may have been too much for them to handle.

Weird Walking

When you walk your Frenchie for too long, they may start to walk weirdly. Sluggish walking, limping, or getting wobbly are all signs to take a break.

Heat Exhaustion

Unfortunately, French Bulldogs are prone to this because of their restricted airways. This makes it hard for them to cool down after an exercise session.

If your Frenchie is too young or old they have an even harder time regulating their temperature. Since older Frenchies are prone to medical conditions, they overheat easily.

Heat exhaustion has the potential to be life-threatening. For you to be able to give your Frenchie immediate care, you should know the symptoms:

  • Excessive Panting
  • Excessive Drooling
  • Confusion
  • Loss of Consciousness
  • Dizziness
  • Rapid Pulse
  • Dehydration
  • Lethargy
  • Vomiting or Diarrhea
  • Shivering or Shaking
  • Discolored Gums or Tongue (bright red, blue, purple, or gray)

What Kind of Exercise Does a French Bulldog Need?

Frenchies need that are not strenuous because they are a low-energy breed. High-intensity exercises do not do well for them since they will struggle to breathe. With any exercise, you should consider giving them both mental and physical stimulation.

Frenchies will enjoy playing tug of war. This exercise is great for maintaining their strong jaws while bonding with you. A good quality tug of war toy is one that you should invest in since it can wear down over time.

Playing fetch is also another great option for both mental and physical exercise. You will enjoy watching your Frenchie run at full speed. And they will also enjoy running around freely.

Of course, there are also a variety of toys to keep your Frenchie busy. But the best exercise for your Frenchie is something more simple, it is taking them out for walks.

A short walk of at least 15 minutes will be enough for your companion. This will be even shorter if your Frenchie is still a puppy.

Are French Bulldogs Athletic?

With their flat faces and genetic makeup, Frenchies are not an athletic breed. They may look muscular, but they are companion dogs after all. So your Frenchie will be content with playing and staying indoors most of the time.

Although they are active dogs at heart, their bodies cannot keep up. The biggest problem is their restricted airways. This is a consequence of being a brachycephalic breed. This makes them prone to both overheating and hypothermia. So they do not do great outdoors in extreme temperatures.

Exercising causes your Frenchie’s body temperature to rise. One way they try to cool themselves down is through breathing. But with Frenchies, this process is inefficient. This is why Frenchies should engage in mild exercises. Ones that get their heart pumping, but not too much to cause breathing problems.

Other than breathing problems, Frenchies have sensitive bodies. They have weaker joints, spines, and necks. With this, they are prone to developing medical issues due to over-exercising. Take jumping activities, for example. French Bulldogs love to jump around, but this can hurt their spines and can lead to IVDD.

And while other athletic dog breeds can swim with no problem, Frenchies cannot. Most of their weight is on the top, so if they swim, they will struggle to float then drown.

Is Walking Good for French Bulldogs?

Walking is the perfect exercise for your French Bulldog. There are many added benefits to it other than keeping your furry companion in shape. Other than their physical health, it also helps to maintain their mental health.

To give you a better picture of the importance of walking, below are some benefits to it.

Weight Management

Frenchies love food so much that they tend to lose self-control when eating. When they do not burn excess calories, they become overweight. Daily walks can help your Frenchie burn calories that they get in a day.

Healthy Joints

A sedentary Frenchie will face issues with immobility when they do not use them. Considering their fragile joints, this is a common issue with Frenchies. The good news is that walking also helps with maintaining their joint functions.

Healthy Heart

Like humans, walking can also maintain your Frenchie’s cardiovascular health. Getting their heart pumping daily will reduce their risk for cardiovascular diseases.

Healthy Urinary and Digestive Systems

Daily walks are beneficial in regulating your Frenchie’s digestion. With exercise, their digestive cycle works faster. And with a routine setup, your intelligent Frenchie will learn when to poop.

This works the same way for their urinary system. Walks can help your Frenchie to empty their bladder faster.

Regular peeing is great for avoiding bladder infections. If your Frenchie holds their urine for a long period, they can develop an infection.

Better Quality Sleep

Walking can drain your Frenchie in a good way. A tired Frenchie will sleep more and improve their sleep. Sleep is important because it helps their body to repair so they grow healthy.

While they sleep, they are processing what happened to them during the day. This means that all your training sessions are being stored in their memory too.

Mental and Emotional Health

Walking also mentally stimulates your Frenchie since they are exploring the world. Watching people and wildlife, meeting new people and pets, familiarizing new scents, and more. These are experiences that your Frenchie cannot get indoors.

That is also a great way to socialize your Frenchie. If they get used to these experiences, they become calmer companions. You can predict how they will act when you take them out and avoid unwanted behaviors.

Other than that, your Frenchie will be happy that they are spending time with you. As their fur parent, you are their favorite person. Being companion dogs, Frenchies tend to have an overattachment towards their owners.

They would love to spend quality time with you on walks. And since lack of attention causes unwanted behaviors, this can help to stop that.

Do French Bulldogs Like to Go for Walks?

Not all Frenchies are the same, but in general, they do enjoy going on brisk walks. Walking around the neighborhood gives them a lot of stimuli to take in.

The smell of a barbecue party, flowers, and even unpleasant odors. All these can get your Frenchie curious and they will enjoy sniffing around.

They also love watching other people go about their day. Frenchies are show stoppers so some might come up to pet them. Your friendly companion will also love to meet them and other furry friends.

Walking with you and your other pets also fulfills their canine instincts. Frenchies are pack breeds so they like to walk around with you. And since they consider you to be the head of the pack, they will enjoy spending time with you.

There are some Frenchies who are not fond of walking, though. If they are stubborn, it will be hard to drag them out of the house. They may not want it, but walking is essential to their health.

How Do You Walk a Stubborn French Bulldog?

Walking a stubborn Frenchie is possible with repetition, consistency, and a lot of patience. To make them like walking, they should have positive associations with their leashes.

This can be a frustrating process for you. As long as you start slow and make this fun for your Frenchie, they should warm up to the leash. Below are steps you can take to make your Frenchie walk with you outdoors.

Introducing the Leash

Before the practice sessions, make sure your Frenchie feels relaxed. Only then you can put their harness and leash on. Make it so that it is not too tight or too loose.

At first, wearing a leash will feel weird for your Frenchie. They will gnaw on it and try to get it off, so you should distract them while they wear their leash.

Give them lots of praises and treats for distraction. You can also play with them and let them roam around the house with the leash on.

Walking Indoors

After some time, your Frenchie will not mind the leash. At this point, you can start practice sessions indoors. Make sure to keep the sessions short and positive for them.

They need to have a positive association with the leash so they will not fear it. You can do this by giving them lots of praise and treats as a reward.

Let them roam around by themselves inside first. Then you can ask them to come to you with their leash on. If they do, give them pets and treats.

Repeat this a few times, moving from place to place in the house. You can do short, 5-minute sessions twice a day to make sure your Frenchie does not get bored.

Do this for a few days leading up to your outdoor walk. Remember, Frenchies learn best with repetition and consistency.

Weather Check

Before walking outdoors, you should check if today is a good day to take your Frenchie out. They cannot tolerate extreme temperatures well. So an ideal day to walk them should have a mild temperature.

Early mornings and late afternoons are a great time of the day to walk your Frenchie. These are when temperatures are more forgiving for them.

Too hot or cold puts your Frenchie at risk for overheating and hypothermia. Other than that, it can be uncomfortable for them. If pavements are too hot or cold for your Frenchie, they can hurt their paws.

If the weather is good, play with your Frenchie indoors first. This gets them in a playful and positive mood. So they may be more open to walking outside.

Walking Outdoors

Taking your Frenchie outdoors is challenging because there are a lot of distractions. Their focus should be on you, but instead, they are watching the kids in the playground.

Make sure that their focus is always on you so you can keep them controlled. Here are ways you can do that:

  • Constantly Give them Treats
  • Verbal Commands
  • Walking in a Zigzag Pattern
  • Stopping from Time to Time
  • Turning Around
  • Picking up the Pace
  • Waving Your Arms
  • Making Loud and Silly Noises

All these will intrigue your Frenchie and will grab their attention. But you can avoid this by picking a calm and quiet place to walk your Frenchie first.

There will be times that your Frenchie will get overly excited. When this happens, do not pull their leash or punish them. Keep in mind that they learn best with positive reinforcement.

You want them to learn which behaviors are welcome instead of making them fear you. Fear can lead to aggression and other unwanted behaviors.

Other than excitement, your Frenchie can get scared with a lot of things outdoors. Loud noises from cars, strange objects, and more. But walking is a great way for your Frenchie to get used to these.

Once they learn that these stimuli are not scary, they will ignore these next time. But to get to that point, they should face their fears first and they will need your help.

When they get scared, give them reassurance and treats. Do not avoid whatever triggers their fear, you should expose them to it until they get over it. This can take a while, but it will make walking your Frenchie easier down the road.

Can French Bulldogs Walk Off-Leash?

Frenchies can walk without a leash only if they are obedient and if they were trained to walk from a young age. These two are important so they do not run away and put themselves in harm’s way.

Since Frenchies can be stubborn, this needs time, patience, and obedience training. This process can even take you up to a year. Once they come back to you when you call them without fail, that is a good sign that they can walk without a leash.

Although Frenchies can walk off-leash, should you? This will depend on where you walk them. If you want to walk them in the city, you should keep the leash on.

Many things in a city get your Frenchie way too excited. They might run towards it without care and get hit by a car. But if you take them to a park or areas without road traffic, you can take the leash off.

The dangers of off-leash walking may discourage you. But there are benefits to this for your Frenchie. Here are a few of them:

  • They Have Freedom in Playing and Running
  • They Can Explore Their Environment
  • They Can at Full Speed
  • They Burn Excess Energy Quickly
  • They Can Socialize With Other People and Dogs
  • They Become More Confident and Outgoing

Will French Bulldogs Run Away?

Your Frenchie may run away because of many reasons. This can be due to boredom or they may be suffering from separation anxiety. If you are facing this problem, it is important to find the root cause first.

Boredom

Frenchies may go out to find something entertaining to do if they get bored at home. Boredom brings out a lot of unwanted behaviors in French Bulldogs. But this one may be the most dangerous of all.

You will never know what they do outdoors and they might run into trouble. A speeding car, fights with other dogs, and more.

Separation Anxiety

Frenchies with this disorder get stressed and restless when you are not with them. In a desperate attempt to be with you, they will escape home to look for you.

Hunting Instincts

If your Frenchie has access to the outdoors, they can encounter other animals. They get excited and chase down any cat, bird, or squirrel they come across.

Searching for a Mate

Once your Frenchie reaches their sexual maturity at 6 months old, running away may be a problem. When they are in heat, they may escape in search of a mate. Both male and female Frenchies may do this.

If your furry companion runs away, do not punish him. They will not understand this and you are only pushing them to run away again. Also, they will come to fear you, which is not what you would want.

Locking him up or keeping them tied at home is not the solution to this, either. Not only is this cruel, but this can also worsen the issue. They may develop other unwanted behaviors like aggression, destroying furniture, and others.

How Do You Train a French Bulldog Not to Run Away

Preventing your Frenchie from running away depends on the cause. If they are suffering from separation anxiety, treating the disorder itself should help. If your Frenchie is in heat, there is a different approach.

Whatever the cause may be, there are general steps you can take to stop your Frenchie from running away. You can try some mentioned below.

Toys

Keeping your Frenchie entertained with play can help to curb their boredom. While chew toys and plush toys are great, interactive toys are better. Toys that keep them mentally stimulated can keep them busy for hours.

When your Frenchie puts their mind into their toys, it will be easy for them to feel drained. After playing, they will be happy to sleep throughout the day until you come home.

Training

Your Frenchie should undergo obedience training lessons at a very young age. It is during their puppyhood that they are most open to learning. Frenchies are an intelligent breed. So when you reward them with treats, they will associate their good behavior with food!

Whenever your Frenchie runs away from you, do not chase them. They will misunderstand this and they will think that you are playing with them.

Instead, you should stay in place and show them a treat. This should help them come back to you.

Neutering or Spaying

If you suspect your Frenchie runs away to mate, this may be the answer. You can neuter or spay them at around 4 to 9 months old. While this helps to keep them at home, fixing them has other health and behavioral benefits as well.

Fence Protection

Frenchies who spend time outdoors may escape through fences. If that is the case, you should consider improving your fence. It should be high enough and durable enough to keep your Frenchie in your yard.

How Many Walks a Day for a French Bulldog?

Generally, Frenchies need short walks twice a day. But this can be more or less depending on their age, health, and personality. Below are reasons why you should take these three into account.

  • Age: Younger and older Frenchies may need to walk less. Puppies still have low stamina and endurance so they get tired quickly. Senior Frenchies will have trouble walking due to age-related issues.
  • Health: Certain health conditions affect your Frenchie’s ability to walk. Since Frenchies are not a healthy breed, this is something to consider.
  • Personality: A lively and outgoing Frenchie may need to walk more often and longer. While a laidback and stubborn Frenchie may want to walk less.

Even with these three factors, Frenchies need to exercise daily. A brief, mild exercise session will do. These short exercises will help in keeping your companion’s health in check.

How Far Should a French Bulldog Walk?

Healthy adult Frenchies can generally walk 1.5 miles (2.4 km) in one go without a problem. If you walk your Frenchie twice a day, they are walking 3 miles (4.8 km) in a day easily.

This depends on your companion’s stamina and endurance, though. Not all Frenchies are the same. If you have an active Frenchie, they can walk farther than this.

Some Frenchies cannot walk that far. Frenchies who are younger, older, and those with existing health conditions will struggle. So if your Frenchie is any of these, you need to set realistic goals for them.

Also, if the weather is too hot or too cold, your Frenchie will walk less. They do not do well in these conditions as they are prone to overheating and hypothermia. Walking on hot or cold pavements also hurt their paws, affecting their performance.

Can French Bulldogs Go on Long Walks?

French Bulldogs are a non-sporting breed that cannot tolerate long walks. Although they enjoy walking, they do not have the body for this. With their physical characteristics and breathing problems, they will struggle with long walks.

Hiking, long uphill walks, and running with you are all physical activities that are too much to ask of them. They will put your Frenchie at risk for overexertion.

Whenever you walk your furry companion, make sure to put their health first. Always listen to what their body language tells you and they should be fine.

Can French Bulldogs Go on Long Hikes?

Your Frenchie can go on hikes but under very strict conditions. Hiking is pushing your Frenchie’s physical capabilities. So if you plan to do this, you need to first make sure that they are healthy.

Frenchies with a clean bill of health can hike with you for up to 30 minutes. Anything more than that is too much for them, they will become exhausted.

Other than that, you should only walk them on a cool day. A hot day will add to your Frenchie’s breathing problems. The ideal temperature for Frenchies is between 50 degrees F (10 degrees C) to 60 degrees F (15 degrees C).

French Bulldogs are not an athletic breed, but they can still take a hike with you. With this, you need to manage your expectations. Below is how you can prepare for a hike with them.

Get a Health Check

You need to know your Frenchie’s current physical condition before a hike. If they have an existing health problem, you should consult with your vet first. Your Frenchie’s vet should check for any breathing issues for you to know if they are capable of hiking with you.

Get Them in Shape

Other than health issues, your Frenchie should be physically ready to go on a hike. You cannot expect a Frenchie to lounge around at home today and go on a 30-minute hike the next day.

Improve their stamina and endurance with daily exercises. The intensity should increase a little bit the next time.

You can do this by walking your Frenchie around the neighborhood. If they walk 15 minutes in one day, increase their time for a few more minutes the next day. Do this for a few days leading up to the hiking session.

But before that, you should visit your vet for them to help you with an exercise plan. This is to make sure that your Frenchie is not going to get overworked.

Pick an Easy Hiking Trail

For their first hike, you should pick a trail without steep inclines first. Frenchies struggle with stairs, to begin with, so you cannot expect them to hike steep slopes. Other than that, Frenchies cannot swim. So you need to avoid any trails with deep waters.

Make sure to take a break from time to time for your Frenchie to recover. If you notice that they are out of breath, you should take a pause.

Prepare the Essentials

Part of ensuring that your Frenchie is comfortable with your hike is packing their needs with you. If you do not know where to start, here are the basics:

  • Doggy Poop Bags
  • Collar With Identification
  • Harness With Leash
  • Snacks and Treats
  • Drinking Water
  • Doggy Boots
  • Pet Carrier
  • Flea and Tick Collar
  • First Aid Kit
  • Umbrella

How Far Can French Bulldogs Walk?

Adult Frenchies without health issues can walk as far as 3 miles (4.8 km) in one day. This should not be in one go, so your Frenchie should walk 1.5 miles (2.8 km) twice a day.

Keep in mind that you should walk them when the weather is mild. The best time would be early in the morning and late in the afternoon.

Some active Frenchies who like walks can walk farther than the average. You will know if your Frenchie is one of these because they will let you know. They may keep going and ask you to walk them some more.

How Fast Can a French Bulldog Go?

Frenchies can run at a speed of approximately 14 to 17 mph (22 to 27 kph). Although they look muscular, they are not the fastest runners. Their speed pales in comparison to other dog breeds due to their breathing problems.

This does not mean that your Frenchie cannot run around with faster breeds. Their speed does not stop them from playing with faster dogs!

Can You Overwalk a French Bulldog?

Frenchies only need short, low-intensity walks and that is why it is easy to overexercise them. While adult Frenchies need to walk around 15 to 20 minutes, younger and older Frenchies need a lot less. Other breeds can easily walk for 45 minutes in one go but Frenchies cannot.

When you walk your Frenchie, keep in mind that they are not a sporting breed. They are companion dogs with breathing problems and sensitive spines.

Sometimes, Frenchies may push their limits even if they are already exhausted. Although they are not athletic, in their hearts, they believe they are.

If your Frenchie does not have self-control when it comes to walks, you should step up and know when to stop them. They may keep walking until their body gives up on them.

So whenever you take your Frenchie outdoors, watch out for signs of exhaustion. Excessive panting and drooling, including slowing down are common signs. Their paws might start to hurt too, making them walk weirdly.

Also, Frenchies are more prone to exhaustion on a hot day. You should watch out for heat exhaustion as this can be life-threatening. Watch out for dehydration, discolored gums, vomiting, and dizziness.

This is why it is important to pack cooling essentials when you walk your Frenchie. They have trouble cooling themselves down so you can help them with the following:

  • Damp Towels: They can lie down on this to cool down during your walk breaks.
  • Water Spray: Fill up a spray bottle with water and spray your Frenchie when they feel hot. But you have to be careful with this, some Frenchies may not like this.
  • Comb Their Fur: Run your fingers through their hair to improve airflow to their skin. Regular grooming can also get rid of excess fur, reducing heat insulation.
  • Bring an Umbrella: If you are walking your Frenchie in an area with little shade, then you have to bring your own.
  • Fresh Drinking Water: Always have water with you for your Frenchie. But while this helps them cool down, be careful of water intoxication.
  • Water Puddle: Frenchies cannot swim but they do enjoy frolicking in puddles on a hot day. They cool down best when their heads and belly get wet.

When Can I Start Walking My French Bulldog Puppy?

You should only walk your Frenchie walking outdoors at approximately 14 to 16 weeks old. It is around this time that they have completed their vaccine boosters. And you should wait 2 weeks after these shots for effective immunity.

Frenchie puppies generally start walking and running at about 4 weeks of age. But you should not take them outdoors at this age yet.  They still have weak immune systems that will not give them enough protection.

Unvaccinated puppies can catch viruses that cause the following:

  • Canine Distemper: This disease is contagious and often fatal. It attacks your Frenchie’s respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. Canine distemper can cause vomiting, fever, and even death.
  • Canine Parvovirus: This is another contagious disease that needs immediate attention. Canine parvovirus will affect your Frenchie’s intestines, causing loss of function. Afflicted Frenchies experience dehydration, lethargy, and may die within 48 to 72 hours.

No matter how tempting it is to take your Frenchie out, it is best to wait for a bit. And you should only let your Frenchie play with other fully vaccinated dogs. Even if they have completed their vaccines.

How Do I Get My French Bulldog Puppy to Walk on a Leash?

To walk your Frenchie with a leash, you need to train them first. The most important thing to remember when training them is consistency and patience. Another thing is to make their training sessions a positive experience for them.

You can do this by making training fun for them with treats and lots of praise! For the training structure, here is what it should look like.

Get a Harness With Leash

Harnesses are best when you are first starting with walking your Frenchie. You should only use a collar once your Frenchie is well-behaved when walking. Otherwise, they will pull the leash around and the collar will choke them.

Make sure the harness is of a light material so that it will not make your Frenchie uncomfortable. This will make them more open to wearing a leash and harness.

The fit should be tight enough so that they cannot get it off. It should also be loose enough so they do not feel restricted.

Leash Training

Wearing a leash feels unnatural for your Frenchie so they will try to get rid of it. But you should make sure that they get used to it to make walking easier.

Start indoors, play with them while the leash is on. Give them lots of treats during playtime to give them a positive association with it. They will understand that wearing a leash means playtime.

Make sure to give them space too. Have them wander around the house with the leash on so they do not feel too overwhelmed.

You can also start walking them with the leash indoors before taking them outdoors. Your Frenchie will be ready for outdoor walks when you see success with this. Also if they stay obedient on the leash.

Taking Them Outside

Once you do take your Frenchie for an outdoor walk, take it slow. Give them time to take in everything they see and smell. Make sure to take a lot of treats with you because there are a lot of distractions outdoors.

Their focus should be on you all the time to make sure that you can control them. Sometimes your Frenchie can get scared of certain things, like the sound of cars. They will get used to this with constant exposure. So your Frenchie will fear cars for now, but if you walk them outdoors daily, they will learn to ignore this.

How Much Should a French Bulldog Puppy Walk?

Your Frenchie puppy does not need formal walks yet. They need much less time to walk compared to adult Frenchies. If you are planning to take your puppy out for a walk, the duration will depend on their age.

The general rule is to walk your Frenchie puppy for 5 minutes for each month of their age. This can be less than that since playtime, either alone or with you, also counts as exercise.

As puppies, Frenchies have low stamina. It will be easy for them to get exhausted, so you have to be careful when walking them.

How Long Should I Walk My 3-Month Old French Bulldog?

Following the recommendations, a 3-month old Frenchie should only walk around 15 minutes. You can walk them twice a day, but make sure not to overexert them. And when you are keeping tabs on the time, you should include their playtime too.

How Long Can I Walk My French Bulldog Puppy?

You can calculate your Frenchie puppy’s walk time based on their age. They should walk 5 minutes for each month of age. You should make sure that your pup takes breaks between walks for them to rest.

They may want to sniff around, poop, or say hi to other people. Taking breaks like these is great for socializing your Frenchie. So if they want to do this, give them time.

Frenchie pups have high energies so they will play, walk, and run around to no end. But their bodies cannot take this yet. So make sure to control them when you see signs of exhaustion.

How Far Can a 4-Month Old French Bulldog Walk?

While adult Frenchies can walk 1.5 miles (2.4 km) in one go, a 4-month old Frenchie puppy may not be able to achieve this. Puppies vary in walking time since they grow at different rates.

One 4-month old puppy can walk longer and farther than another puppy of the same age. This is why it is better to focus on the duration of their walks rather than seeing how far they can walk.

How Far Can a 5-Month Old French Bulldog Walk?

There is no good way to know how far a 5-month old Frenchie puppy can walk. As puppies, they are going through a rapid phase of development. Growth rates vary from one puppy to another, so it is hard to get a general picture of their endurance. This is why most information you can find talks about the duration of your Frenchie’s walks.

So the best way to know how far your Frenchie puppy can walk is to walk them and see for yourself. But you need to be careful, make sure to stop the moment you see any signs of exhaustion.

How Far Can a 6-Month Old French Bulldog Walk?

A 6-month old Frenchie can get close to walking 1.5 miles (2.4km) in one walk like an adult Frenchie. But since they are not yet fully grown, you have to manage your expectations.

It is better to time your Frenchie’s walks rather than to see how far they can go. This is because there is more data on the duration of their walks. With this, you can make sure that you are not overexercising your furry companion.

Can You Overwalk a French Bulldog Puppy?

If you can overwalk an adult Frenchie, it is much easier to overwalk them as puppies. It may seem like your Frenchie pup can walk for hours because they have such high energy. But do not let this fool you.

Frenchie pups are energetic and may continue to play even if they are already tired. A constantly overworked Frenchie pup is prone to developing health issues with age.

You will know that your pup has had enough walks with their body language. Excessive panting, slowing down, and dehydration are all signs of this.

When you are walking your Frenchie puppy, make sure to take a lot of breaks. This is not only to let them rest but also to check up on them and make sure they can still walk.

Is Running Bad for French Bulldogs?

While your Frenchie can run for fun, they will struggle to keep up with you as a running partner. They are not built to be runners. Long periods of running can leave them breathless and it can also lead to health issues.

Breathing Problems

A Frenchie’s respiratory system is not efficient because they are a brachycephalic breed. With flat faces, narrowed nostrils, and long soft palates, they struggle to breathe air in. So when they run around, their respiratory systems cannot keep up.

An inefficient respiratory system also means they cannot regulate their body temperatures well. When your Frenchie runs, their body temperature rises and their body’s way to cool down is to breathe more air in. But they have restricted breathing, so they cannot cool down well.

Overheating has the potential to be life-threatening for your Frenchie. Other than collapsing and seizures, it can cause brain damage and also death. Since Frenchies are prone to this, it is best to not let them run so much.

Injuries

Frenchies, especially active ones, may not know when to stop running. Without self-control, they will not stop and put themselves at risk of injuries.

When they are running and are already tired, they may trip, damage their joints, or tear a ligament. Also, running wears out their paws. If they keep going with hurt paws, it may get red, and when untreated, can lead to infections.

Other Health Issues

Frenchies are unlucky to have a predisposition to certain health issues. They have fragile spines, necks, and joints that can get hurt with excessive running. Some medical issues that your Frenchie can develop as a result of this are:

  • Intervertebral Disc Disease: This disease affects your Frenchie’s spine that can cause pain. In worse cases, even paralysis. While this is common in older dogs, younger Frenchies can also develop this.
  • Hip Dysplasia: When your Frenchie has this, the ball and socket of their joint do not fit well. So walking can be difficult and painful for them,
  • Patellar Luxation: With this, your Frenchie’s kneecaps are not in the correct position. This can be due to a genetic malformation but knee trauma can also be the culprit.

How Fast Can French Bulldogs Run?

French Bulldogs are not the fastest and only have a top speed of about 14 to 17 mph (22 to 27 kph). They can only run as fast because of their inefficient respiratory system. So they quickly get tired during runs, affecting their performance.

How Far Can a French Bulldog Run?

Since it is risky to let a Frenchie run for other purposes than playing, it is hard to tell how far they can run. Frenchies are a non-sporting breed, with a body and personality that fits. So you cannot expect a breed like this to run long distances.

Can French Bulldogs Swim?

Unfortunately, Frenchies are also not built to swim. They have thick bones, heavy muscles, and a bulky torso that makes them sink in water. It does not help that they have flat faces because they are very top-heavy which makes them sink headfirst.

When they do sink, they may drown within seconds. So if you are taking your Frenchie near bodies of water, you must be careful with them.

Even if they cannot swim, Frenchies love to play in the water. You can always teach them how to swim if they are wearing a life vest. But you will need to supervise them at all times.

Other than that, you can get a kiddie pool for your Frenchie too. These are great for warmer summers as a way for them to cool down while having fun!

Can French Bulldogs Swim in Cold Water?

It is not a good idea to let your Frenchie swim in cold water. They do not have a lot of heat insulation and are prone to hypothermia. One of the most common causes of hypothermia is wet fur and skin.

Hypothermia affects your Frenchie’s blood circulation. It makes their muscles stiff, slows their heartbeat, and can also lead to kidney failure. With this, hypothermia is a medical emergency.

How Do I Get My French Bulldog to Like Water?

The good news is that Frenchies love water and will enjoy playing with it. Though others may not like it as much, they generally do not mind it. This is why it is unfortunate that they cannot swim without your help and a life vest.

Is It Good or Bad for a French Bulldog to Jump?

You should discourage your Frenchie from jumping, especially from high areas. Frenchies have a predisposition to certain health issues that jumping can worsen. Below is a list of the most common ones.

Hip Dysplasia

This disease occurs when there is a dislocation between the hip joint and the thigh. Hip dysplasia is very painful for your Frenchie and can affect their quality of life. With this, you should watch out for the symptoms of this disease:

  • Inactivity
  • Difficulty in Climbing Stairs
  • Reluctance to Jump
  • Struggling to Stand Up
  • Bunny Hopping Gait
  • Sensitive Hips

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)

IVDD occurs when the discs of your Frenchie’s spinal column burst or bulge. This protrusion puts pressure on your Frenchie’s spinal nerves which causes them pain. Your Frenchie can develop IVDD with age, or it can be due to trauma to the spine.

Since Frenchies are prone to IVDD, it is best to limit their jumping to prevent this. A Frenchie with IVDD may show the following symptoms:

  • Loss of Movement
  • Shivering
  • Trembling
  • Stiff Neck
  • Difficulty Raising Their Neck
  • Back Pain
  • Crying When Carried
  • Inactivity
  • Paralysis

Patellar Luxation

This condition occurs when your Frenchie has a dislocated kneecap. Jumping can be hard on your Frenchie’s knees. Seeing that this is common in Frenchies, not letting your Frenchie jump should help to avoid this.

Frenchies with a dislocated kneecap will show the following symptoms:

  • Bow-Legged Stance
  • Skipping When Walking
  • Lame Legs

How High Can French Bulldogs Jump?

The highest a Frenchie can jump is 23.6 inches (599.4 mm) high. Since it is not recommended for Frenchies to jump, this may not be accurate. Your Frenchie can also jump higher or lower depending on their height.

Is Agility Bad for French Bulldogs?

Frenchies can undergo agility training with a lot of treats as motivation. They can do well on obstacle courses and are surprisingly agile. They are more agile when they are young and lose a bit of this ability as they age.

Generally, they do not mind undergoing agility training and they may even enjoy it. But since they are not an athletic breed, it is your duty as their fur parent to not overwork them. And it is easy to do this since Frenchies are not runners.

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