The French Bulldog in Australia has been bred from imported English bloodlines brought to our country in the 1940s. This compact dog is playful, affectionate and easy-going and is an ideal family pet.

The Frenchie – a small, stocky dog with a large square head and broad chest – stands around 30 cm tall and weighs between 10 and 15 kg. It has a flat face with dark, prominent eyes set wide apart, stiff upright ears and a square, deep lower jaw. This breed comes in various colours, including brindle, fawn and pied. 

Thriving on human companionship, French Bulldogs should not be left alone in the backyard all day. Frenchies are intelligent, affectionate and reportedly very reliable around children. They also play well with other dogs and they won’t bark for no reason. They have a fun-loving, quiet demeanour, happily sit on your lap and don’t shed much of their short coat.

Health-wise, the French Bulldog does have a few weaknesses to watch out for, including a weak back and potential problems with its knee joints. It is also very susceptible to overheating, which can lead to breathing problems. French Bulldogs should always have access to shelter and fresh drinking water. Most can’t swim so care should be taken around water.
French Bulldogs cope well with minimal exercise and can live happily in an apartment or townhouse if taken for regular walks.

The average life expectancy for this breed is anywhere from 8 to 12 years.