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French Bulldog Puppies: 11 Tips For Bringing Home A Puppy

Welcoming a new Frenchie puppy into your home is an exciting adventure, but it also comes with responsibilities.

 

French Bulldogs are affectionate companion dogs - aka Velcro Dogs, aka Stage 5 clingers 😂- so it’s essential to integrate them into your world from day one to help them feel safe and secure. For instance, placing their crate on a table at bed level lets them see and smell you while you sleep, teaching them the importance of crate training and providing a secure space.

French Bulldog Puppies - French Bulldog Puppy wearing a no pull harness in pink bandana boujee - standing outdoors in the grass - Wag Trendz

This ultimate guide answers questions like:

  • Where should your new Frenchie puppy sleep the first night?
  • What should I feed my Frenchie puppy?
  • What is the best approach to potty training?
  • When can I start socializing my new puppy?

 

This guide will also emphasize the importance of pet insurance to protect your Frenchie from potential health issues unique to their breed.

Essential Supplies for Your French Bulldog Puppy

 

Before your Frenchie arrives, have these essentials ready to help them adjust comfortably:

 

  • Food and Treats

Choose high-quality puppy food and treats formulated for smaller breeds. French Bulldogs can be prone to food allergies and sensitivities, so selecting a diet that supports their unique needs is essential. 

As Frenchie owners, we can recommend Spot & Tango Unkibble for its balanced nutrition, limited ingredients, and a taste your dog will love. This food is suitable for all life stages including puppies, adults and seniors. (unpaid personal recommendation)

 

  • Raised Food and Water Bowls

 
Elevated bowls help improve digestion and make breathing easier while preventing strain on the neck and back—important since French Bulldogs have a brachycephalic (short-nosed) structure and prone to spine issues.

Opt for stainless steel or ceramic bowls for durability and cleanliness, and avoid plastic if possible.

 

  • Crate

Choose an open-air crate with a cozy cover or lightweight blanket. For the first two weeks, place the crate on a sturdy elevated surface (like a bedside table) so your puppy can see and smell you. This reduces anxiety and helps them feel secure in their new cozy den.

 

  • Dog Bed 

Invest a soft, supportive, and cozy bed for use inside or outside the crate. It protects their joints and gives them a secure space to rest.

 

  • Harness and Leash

Use a well-fitting harness instead of a collar to protect your puppy’s sensitive neck, back, and airways. Collars can strain the neck and exacerbate respiratory issues. Choose a harness with multiple adjustment points to grow with your puppy and a no-choke design for safer and effective leash training and outdoor adventures. Pair it with a 3-foot leash, ideal for maintaining close control.

Check out Wag Trendz® for some great harnesses made specifically for French Bulldogs from puppyhood to adulthood.

 

  • Potty Training Supplies

Include puppy pads, a silicone potty pad holder (optional but useful), and cleaning solutions for accidents. A simple 1:1 distilled white vinegar-and-water in a spray bottle is a cost-effective cleaner that removes urine odor.

 

  • Toys and Chews 

French Bulldogs are curious and need plenty of stimulation. Offer a variety of stuffed toys and chew bones (with different textures) to satisfy chewing instincts and keep them entertained, especially during teething.

 

11 Tips For Bringing Home a French Bulldog Puppy

 

French Bulldog Puppies - A cream colored French Bulldog sleeping in the car - Wag Trendz


1. Where Should Your Frenchie Puppy Sleep the First Night?

 

Crate training is key to giving your puppy a secure space while helping with potty training, sleep habits, and routine. Dogs are naturally den animals and love having a cozy den of their own.

 

Crate Placement

For the first two weeks, place the crate on a sturdy bedside table or a stable folding table so your puppy can see and smell you throughout the night. This reduces anxiety and fosters a sense of security in their new home.

After the initial two weeks, you can move their crate to the floor beside your bed or allow them to sleep in your bed if that's your long-term plan.

 

Crate Setup

Use an open-air crate with a cover or lightweight blanket to maintain proper ventilation and warmth. Add soft bedding and maybe a T-shirt with your scent for comfort.

 

Establishing a Routine 

After two weeks, move the crate to the floor beside your bed or allow them to join you in bed if that’s your long-term plan.

 
Never use the crate as punishment; it should always remain a safe space.


French Bulldog Puppies - Cream French Bulldog wearing a H style camo pink harness sitting in the back of a car on potty paper - Wag Trendz


2.  Puppy Potty Training: Follow a Schedule

 

Frenchie puppies have small bladders, so consistent potty training is crucial. Here’s how:

 

Set a Timer 

Use your phone or watch to schedule potty breaks. Start by taking your puppy out every 15–30 minutes for the first couple of weeks. Gradually extend the interval by 15 minutes, then up to an hour, as they grow older and can hold their bladder longer.

 

Timeline 

  • At 9–12 weeks old, puppies can typically hold their bladder for 4 - 6 hours. 
  • By 14–16 weeks old, they can usually hold it for about 8 hours - enough to get through the night if you let them out first thing in the morning. 


Personal Experience

With crate training from day one, our Frenchie puppy was 8 weeks and 4 days and was able to go from 10 pm to 6 am without accidents, as long as we took her out just before bedtime and immediately after waking.

 

Recognizing Cues

Whimpering, running in circles, sniffing, or heading for rugs are signs your puppy needs to go. Some may suddenly stop playing and seem distracted.  Act fast - grab your puppy and take them to their potty spot.

 

Supervision 

Puppies are like newborns so they must be supervised at all times. If you can’t supervise, let them stay in their crate briefly until you are able to supervise. Too much freedom can lead to accidents and chewing things they shouldn’t.

 

Use the Same Door and Spot

Always take your puppy out through the same door and to the same area outside so they associate that spot with potty time.

 

If They Don’t Go

If your puppy doesn’t potty after a few minutes outdoors, put them back in the crate and wait 10 -15 minutes before trying again. Puppies usually avoid soiling where they sleep.

 

Indoor and Outdoor Training 

Puppy pads can be helpful indoors if you can’t take them out quickly or if you’re in a place where outdoor pottying isn’t feasible. A silicone pad holder can contain overflow. 

If your puppy decides to chew the pads, remove them and use only the silicone pad. 

If you want them to potty outdoors long-term, prioritize frequent outdoor breaks to establish the habit. Puppy pads are also useful when traveling, visiting new places, or avoiding areas frequented by wild animals until your puppy is fully vaccinated.

 

Positive Reinforcement 

Reward good behavior with treats and praise. French Bulldogs may be stubborn, but they love pleasing their owners.

 

Still Having Accidents?

If accidents persist after 4-6 months, reassess your approach and try a new approach.  Dogs are creatures of habit and like to potty in the same spots, but they don't like to potty in the same place where they eat. 

Try this approach, clean the potty spot thoroughly and during their next mealtime, pour their food directly onto the cleaned spot and allow them to eat off the floor. Dogs avoid eliminating where they eat, so this method can help break old habits by associating that spot with food rather than a potty spot.

 

Correcting Accidents
Use a firm “no no” and immediately guide them to the proper potty spot. Praise them enthusiastically once they get it right.  They love to please their humans.

 

Potty training is not easy and takes time and patience, however your consistency will pay off.


French Bulldog Puppies - Black and Tan French Bulldog puppy wearing no pull dog harness in Splatter designs with blue accents and a gold hooded sweatshirt sitting indoors - Wag Trendz


3. Harness and Leash Training: Protect Their Health

 

Use a properly fitted harness made for French Bulldog puppies instead of a collar to protect your puppy’s sensitive neck, back and airways.  Collars can strain their necks and exacerbate respiratory issues, which French Bulldogs are prone to due to their short snouts. 

 

Gradual Adjustment 

Let your puppy wear the harness indoors with supervision, offering treats and praise. Once comfortable, attach a leash and practice walking inside or in a fenced yard. A 3-foot leash is ideal for training and safety.

 

Proper Fit 

Choose a harness designed for French Bulldog puppies with multiple adjustment points at the neck and chest so it can grow with them.

French Bulldog Puppies -Fawn colored Frenchie Puppy standing with side view - against light background - Wag Trendz


4. Vaccinations for Your Puppy

 

Vaccinations are among the most important aspects of caring for your Frenchie. Here’s a typical schedule:

 

  • 6 - 8 Weeks Old: First set of vaccines (distemper, parvovirus)

 

  • 10 - 12 Weeks Old: Second set (DHPP—distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, parvovirus)

 

  • 14 - 16 Weeks Old: Final DHPP booster and rabies vaccine.

 

These vaccines protect your puppy from life-threatening diseases.  Since French Bulldogs are prone to respiratory issues, early vaccination is critical.

Remember until your puppy is fully vaccinated, avoid contact with unknown animals or walking on public ground where they could encounter harmful bacteria.

French Bulldog Puppies - Cream Frenchie Puppy wearing a camo pink H style dog harness sitting on a lap outdoors - Wag Trendz


5. Puppy Developmental Stages

 

Puppies progress through various stages, each with unique needs:

 

  • Neonatal Stage (0–2 Weeks Old)
    Completely dependent on their mother.

 

  • Transitional Stage (2–4 Weeks Old)
    Beginning to develop senses and awareness.  They are becoming more aware of their surroundings.

 

  • Socialization Stage (3–12 Weeks Old) 
    Crucial for learning and socializing. During this time, your puppy transitions to their new home and environment. Carry them in a puppy bag or stroller to expose them to sights and sounds without letting their paws touch the ground.

 

  • Juvenile Stage (3–6 Months Old)
    Increased curiosity and receptiveness to training. Keep socializing and start reinforcing basic commands.
French Bulldog Puppies - Frenchie Puppy wearing camo pink H dog harness sitting in a dog stroller outdoors - Wag Trendz

6. Puppy Socialization

 

French Bulldogs thrive on interaction. Early, positive socialization helps them adapt to new experiences confidently.  Each of the above developmental stages are equally important. 

However the Socialization Stage (3 -12 weeks old) is one of the most crucial times in a puppy's life that helps them transition to a well socialized adult dog while reducing fear and anxiety about the outside world.

During this stage your puppy isn’t fully vaccinated yet, so use a dog stroller or puppy bag to safely introduce them to new sights, sounds and experiences without risking exposure to harmful pathogens.

Without proper socialization, your puppy may develop fear or aggression toward unfamiliar situations, other dogs, animals or people.

 

Myth-Busting

It’s a myth that you should never bring your puppy outside before full vaccination. While caution is important, waiting too long can lead to fear and anxiety down the road. Socialization doesn’t always mean direct contact with other dogs - it can include watching the world from a distance, hearing street noises, or visiting pet-friendly places.

 

Balance Safety and Exposure

Bringing puppy pads during outings can help avoid contact with contaminated areas. Strike a balance between keeping your puppy safe and giving them crucial early-life experiences.

French Bulldog Puppies - Cream French Bulldog puppy laying on back sleeping in comfy gray bed - Wag Trendz

7. Health Considerations for Frenchie Puppies

 

French Bulldogs are predisposed to several health issues. Stay informed about:

 

  • BOAS (Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome)
    Monitor their breathing closely and avoid overexertion.  French Bulldogs can overheat easily especially in hot, humid weather and for prolonged outdoor activities.

 

  • IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease) 
    Prevent jumping off furniture to protect their spine. Learn more about IVDD In Dogs.

 

  • Allergies
    Look for excessive licking or chewing on paws, which could signal food or environmental triggers.

 

  • Hip Dysplasia
    Provide cushioned sleeping areas and avoid stressing their joints. Use ramps or stairs to help them onto furniture.

 

  • Skin Care 
    Regularly clean their facial folds (around the eyes, nose) and private areas to prevent infections.

 

Schedule regular vet visits for vaccinations and check-ups. Early detection is key to managing Frenchie health issues like breathing problems, skin infections, and joint concerns.

French Bulldog Puppies - Cream French Bulldog puppy riding in a puppy bag with food drips on her chin - Wag Trendz


8. Nutrition and Feeding

 

French Bulldogs are prone to obesity, which can worsen or lead to joint problems and respiratory issues. Therefore, it's important to feed your puppy a balanced diet with appropriate portion control.

 

Healthy Weight Maintenance 

 

Maintaining a healthy weight is vital for French Bulldogs due to their unique body structure.  

There are many options to choose from for high-quality foods.  Look for a food similar to Spot & Tango Unkibble that can be personalized based on size, weight, activity level, and breed. This helps control portions and provides essential nutrients.

A helpful rule: a high-quality diet often results in solid stools once or twice a day, whereas low-quality foods can lead to multiple daily bowel movements.

French Bulldog Puppies - Cream French Bulldog puppy wearing a pink camo H dog harness with one paw up saying hi - sitting outdoors on the deck - Wag Trendz


9. Training Tips

 

French Bulldogs are intelligent and eager to please, but they can be stubborn.  Training should focus on positivity and keeping it very consistent.  Learn what motivates your puppy.  For example, is your puppy food or treat motivated or does your puppy just love for you to give them positive praise.  Use techniques that motivate your puppy the most. 

 

Reward-Based Training
Use treats and praise for desired behaviors.

 

Avoid Punishment
Never use the crate or other harsh methods as punishment, which can cause fear and anxiety.

 

Consistency
Maintain a routine for everything from potty training to basic commands like sit and stay to reinforce learning.


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10. Teething and Chewing Phase

 

Around 3–6 months (sometimes longer), puppies experience a mouthing or “piranha/land shark” phase. This behavior is natural as they explore the world with their mouths and soothe their teething gums.

 

Redirect Chewing
If your puppy starts biting your hands, calmly direct them to an appropriate chew toy and praise them when they use it.

 

Consistency
Teach them what is and isn’t acceptable to chew.

 

Patience 
Patience and positive reinforcement will help them outgrow this phase.

French Bulldog Puppies - Cream French Bulldog puppy wearing a dog collar in Skull Society - Sitting outdoors in the grass - Wag Trendz


11. Pet Insurance

 

Because French Bulldogs face unique health challenges, veterinary bills can be costly. Pet insurance can ease the financial burden if your Frenchie needs medical care.

 

Insure Early 

Start a policy before your puppy’s first vet visit to avoid pre-existing condition exclusions.

 

Coverage Details

Choose a plan that covers hereditary and congenital issues like BOAS, IVDD, and hip dysplasia. Treatment for these conditions can be $10k or more, making it important to have an insurance policy in place that covers such issues. 

 

Compare premiums, deductibles, exclusions, and reimbursement options.

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Final Thoughts

 

Frenchie puppies thrive on structure. Establishing a consistent routine for feeding, potty breaks, and playtime helps them feel confident and secure. Small adjustments - like raised bowls or limiting strenuous activity in warm weather - can make a big difference in your Frenchie’s overall well-being.

Bringing a Frenchie puppy home is a joyous experience. By focusing on crate training, health monitoring, early socialization, and consistent routines, you’ll create a happy, secure environment for your new companion. With patience and care, your Frenchie will grow into a beloved family member. Enjoy every moment - they grow up ⚡lightning⚡ fast, so take plenty of pictures and videos to cherish the early days!

XOXO

-the Wag Trendz® team-

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