FAQs

French Bulldog Breed Information

What are important things to consider before adopting a French Bulldog?

French Bulldogs are affectionate and fun companions, but they do have unique care requirements. Their short noses can make them prone to breathing difficulties, so it’s essential to be prepared to meet their health and daily care needs. Make sure you can offer them the attention, care and loving environment they thrive in.

What is IVDD and how does it affect French Bulldogs?

IVDD stands for Intervertebral Disc Disease — a spinal condition that can cause pain, nerve damage or even paralysis in dogs. It’s especially common in breeds like French Bulldogs due to their short legs and long backs.

While a diagnosis of IVDD might sound scary, many dogs live full and happy lives with the right care. Treatments can range from crate rest and medication to surgery in more severe cases. At Fighters for Frenchies, we’re experienced in caring for dogs with IVDD and will always be upfront about their needs so adopters can feel confident and prepared.

One of the most important preventative measures is minimizing jumping, especially off furniture like couches and beds, as it can worsen or trigger spinal issues. We encourage adopters to use pet ramps or stairs and to create a home environment that reduces the risk of injury.

Are French Bulldogs expensive to care for?

French Bulldogs can have higher care costs than many other breeds. Their health needs, including regular vet checkups, vaccinations and attention to breathing or skin issues, can make routine care more expensive. Providing quality food, preventive care and monitoring for breed-specific health concerns is essential.

Do French Bulldogs have breathing problems?

Due to their flat faces (brachycephalic anatomy), French Bulldogs are prone to breathing difficulties. It’s important to avoid excessive heat, strenuous exercise or stress, and to watch for signs of labored breathing. Some may require surgery to improve airflow.

Are French Bulldogs good with children?

Yes, French Bulldogs are typically great with kids. They’re affectionate, playful and patient. As with any breed, early socialization and supervised interactions help ensure a positive relationship between dog and child.

Do French Bulldogs get along with other pets?

Yes, with proper socialization, French Bulldogs can get along well with other dogs and even cats. Each dog has its own personality, so slow introductions and supervision are key to successful cohabitation.

Can French Bulldogs be left alone during the day?

French Bulldogs don’t like being left alone for long periods. They can develop separation anxiety if left too often or too long. If you work full-time, consider a pet sitter or adopting a second pet for companionship.

Dogs We Rescue

Do you only rescue French Bulldogs?

While our primary focus is on French Bulldogs, we occasionally rescue other breeds as needed.

Why do you take in special needs dogs?

We take in special needs dogs because every dog deserves a loving home, regardless of health or mobility challenges. These dogs often have a harder time finding permanent families on their own and fostering or adopting them provides the care and attention they need to thrive. By welcoming special needs dogs, we help give them a second chance at a happy life.

Do you take in surrendered French Bulldogs or dogs from breeders?

Yes, we consider surrenders from owners and breeders on a case-by-case basis, depending on our current capacity and foster availability. If you need to rehome a Frenchie, please fill out our Contact form to discuss the situation.

Adoption Questions

What are the costs involved in adopting a French Bulldog?

Adoption fees help cover essential veterinary care, including vaccinations, spaying or neutering and other medical expenses. The exact fee can vary depending on the dog.

Are all of your dogs up for adoption?

Yes, all the dogs listed on our website are available for adoption unless otherwise stated. We regularly update our listings to ensure accurate availability.

How does the adoption process work?

To adopt, you’ll first submit an application, followed by a home visit to confirm a safe and suitable environment. You’ll also have the chance to meet the dog before completing the adoption. The full process usually takes 2–4 weeks, depending on the dog’s needs and how quickly each step is completed. You can begin by visiting our Adopt page to view available dogs and submit your application.

What is the adoption fee?

Our adoption fee varies based on the dog’s age, medical needs and the care it requires. The fee helps cover the cost of vaccinations, spaying/neutering and other medical care.

Are your dogs vaccinated and spayed/neutered?

Yes, all our dogs are vaccinated, spayed/neutered and have received a health check before adoption. If there are any special medical concerns, they will be noted in the dog’s profile.

Can I meet the dog before finalizing the adoption?

Yes. Once your application is approved and you’ve passed the home check, we’ll arrange a time for you to meet the dog. Please note that you will need to drive to our location to meet the dog in person.

Home Check Requirements

Do I need to complete a home check?

Yes, a home check is required to ensure the environment is safe and suitable. This allows us to confirm that the space meets basic needs and provides a secure, comfortable setting.

Who conducts the home check?

A trained volunteer will contact you to schedule the home check. They’ll guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.

Can the home check be virtual?

In many cases, yes, but we may do an in-person home check depending on the dog’s needs.

How to Help: Volunteer, Donate or Foster

How can I help if I can’t adopt?

If you cannot adopt, you can still help by fostering a dog, making a donation to our rescue, volunteering your time or spreading the word about our mission and the dogs available for adoption.

How do I make a donation?

You can make a donation directly by visiting our Donate page. We accept PayPal, Venmo and Cash App for monetary donations. Additionally, we have Amazon and Chewy Wishlists if you’d like to donate supplies or items for our dogs. Every little bit helps!

Are donations tax-deductible?

Yes! Fighters for Frenchies is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, so all donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. We can provide a receipt for your records upon request.

How do I volunteer?

You can get involved by filling out our Volunteer application. We have a variety of ways to help, including transportation, home visits, assisting at events, administrative tasks and reviewing adoption/foster applications. Once we receive your application, a member of our team will follow up with next steps.

How do I foster a dog?

To foster a dog, please complete our Foster application. Fostering gives dogs a temporary home and helps them transition to permanent adoptive families. After submitting your application, a team member will contact you to discuss available dogs and next steps.