What to Expect When Adopting a French Bulldog

Hello, Doggie! At least, that is what you are ready to say the day you adopt your first, or second, French Bulldog. Adopting a pet requires a considerable amount of mental and physical preparation. You are not only bringing in a new addition to your family, but you are solely responsible for the existence and livelihood of another living species. As French Bulldog adoption can be one of the greatest experiences of your life, there are certainly some factors you want to consider and expect with doing so.

Ask yourself why you are adopting in the first place

Have you been contemplating adoption for a long time or did this decision come out of nowhere? If your answer is the latter, you should highly consider waiting and doing your research about pet ownership before making any significant decisions. When adopting a pet, you will need to prepare yourself for not only the expected but unexpected circumstances of ownership. French Bulldogs, in particular, are a little more high maintenance than typical breeds. They require a lot of emotional attention as well as regular vet check-ups. So, if your purpose for adopting is that you are indeed ready to bring this little joy into your world, be sure that you are confident and prepared for your decision. Sometimes, you may adopt from a rescue organization, which would mean that the dog may have extensive health or emotional issues.

Research your source of adoption

Don’t be fooled by “rescues,” especially online. One of the best ways to see if an organization is reputable is by skimming through their website. If there are spelling and grammatical errors, you most likely have a scam on your hands. Also, do not trust sites that promise to ship dogs to you. No actual animal welfare organization is ever going to send an animal as if it were an Amazon delivery package. These scam sites are preying on people who just want to provide loving homes to Frenchies out there. Instead, ask around from people you know and trust and see if they know any reputable adoptions or rescues for French Bulldogs. Chances are, you will find one that is real and caring. Also, if you are planning to adopt a puppy from a farm, be sure that farm is AKC certified and not just another puppy mill looking to make a quick buck.

Assess your environment and anticipate changes

When it comes to being indoors, this is the perfect calling for French Bulldogs. They like to remain indoors so you should eliminate chances for them to get into things around the house, especially when you are not around. You do not want them getting into any mischief because they will test their limits with you. Also, they are very friendly but can get agitated quickly. So, supervise play when your French Bulldog is exposed to children or other existing pets in the home. Once the Frenchie becomes more comfortable with its surroundings, you will have to monitor its exposure less and less over time.

Be ready to spend some time with training

Whether French Bulldogs are adopted from a farm or a rescue agency, they will require some house training when they arrive. This means that your patience levels will be tested. It is never impossible to teach any elderly dog new tricks, but you should understand that not every dog is the same. French Bulldogs love to play and feel like they own the place. It is your job to show them who’s boss at the end of the day, but still, provide lots of love to the little stinker. The sooner that you place your Frenchie on a consistent schedule, the easier it becomes for him or her to get acclimated to your home and its surroundings. You should reward your pet when he or she has done something right such as using the restroom outside or sitting when commanded. Soon, your doggie will pick up on these signals and listen much more, knowing he or she was praised for doing so. When taking your French Bulldog for walks it is recommended to use a harness for your French Bulldog.

Feed your French Bulldog well

French Bulldogs tend to have a little bit more of sensitivity to grains and meal products in regular dog foods. This is why it is essential for you to feed your doggie the highest quality, wholesome food products. Look for brands that are grain and soy free. Opt for ones that are high in real protein and healthy ingredients. You may even choose to make your dog food and treats at home so that you can control the ingredients and products yourself.

Take care of your dog’s health

Aforementioned, you need to be ready to maintain your dog’s good health by taking it to regular check-ups with the veterinarian. This way, any health complications can be caught early, and preventative methods can take place. With that being said, you may need to ensure that you can financially support a pet that may require more check-ups than other breeds. And, since French Bulldogs tend to have an increased chance of dental health issues, you can help your pet by brushing his or her teeth every day. Try using these soft toothbrushes from Moonsteps to help keep your pet’s teeth clean and healthy. In case you have a puppy on your hands, you may also consider getting some teething ropes from Patpet that serves both for chewing and playing with your doggie.

French Bulldogs are a wonderful breed of dog that any person can enjoy. They are some of the most loyal and playful creatures on the planet. It is only fair that you provide this animal with the most optimal and exuberant life that it could ask for. Doing thorough and careful research about your animal, the source of obtaining it and how to care for it is the best thing you can do for yourself and your pet. Although owning a pet can seem like a lot of work, in the beginning, the rewards far outweigh any obstacles along the way. Besides, who can say no to those beautiful, big brown eyes?