The top-ranking article on the best dog food for French Bulldogs is one by Dog Food Advisor, the website that provides in-depth reviews of dog food brands and products. It reviewed 12 brands of dog foods but they provided little guidance to assist any French Bulldog owner to understand the specific nutritional requirements of this breed.
So, how do they just come out with a list of the best foods?
Unfortunately, most online lists provide few details with the big motivation being the affiliate income and not really the quality of the content. This is something that you as a pet parent have to be aware of when searching for the best food options for your French Bulldog.
Table of Contents
Nutritional Requirements of French BUlldogs
When it comes to finding the best dog food for your French Bulldog, it’s important to understand the nutritional needs of this breed. According to the American Kennel Club, the French Bulldog is a small breed that typically weighs between 16 and 28 pounds. They have a short, fine coat that is easy to groom and they are considered to be a low-maintenance breed.
Calcium and phosphorus needs:
Puppyhood is a crucial time for French Bulldogs. They need extra care and attention to make sure they are getting the right nutrition to grow into healthy adults. One important nutritional requirement for French Bulldogs is calcium. This mineral is essential for strong bones and teeth. Puppies need more calcium than adult dogs because their bodies are still growing. The best way to make sure your French Bulldog puppy is getting enough calcium is to feed them Puppy Food that contains between 1% to 1.2% calcium on dry matter basis. Their phosphorus intake should not exceed 1% on a dry matter basis.
Adult Frenchies require half or less than half of the Calcium and Phosphorus as those needed by puppies. AAFCO recommends about 0.5% Ca and 0.4% of Phosphorus on a dry matter basis for adult and senior Frenchies.
Protein:
Medium-sized dogs such as Frenchies need a diet that contains at least 22.5% protein on a dry matter basis as puppies but requires less, about 18% or even lower as adults. This is because their growth rate slows down as they approach adulthood and protein requirement also reduces.
It is important to mention that high-quality protein sourced from named animal source such as poultry of meat is essential for French Bulldogs to maintain their lean muscle mass. A good quality protein should contain all the 10 amino acids that dogs require and should have high scores in bioavailability and digestibility.
Fat:
French Bulldogs need a diet that is high in fat to help them stay energized and to maintain their body weight. Puppies need about 8% fat on a dry matter basis while adult French Bulldogs need about 5% fat. The best sources of fat for French Bulldogs are animal-based fats such as chicken fat, duck fat, and fish oil.
Fatty Acids – Omega 3 and 6:
Omega-3 and omega-6 are two types of fatty acids that are essential for French Bulldogs. These fatty acids help to keep their skin and coat healthy. They also have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce the symptoms of joint disorders such as hip dysplasia. French Bulldogs need a diet that contains about 0.5% omega-3 (EDA) and 1% omega-6(linoleic acid) on a dry matter basis. The best sources of omega-3 fatty acids for French Bulldogs are fish oil and flaxseed oil. The best sources of omega-6 fatty acids are chicken fat and duck fat.
Some health conditions that are commonly seen in French Bulldogs:
Allergies:
French Bulldogs are prone to allergies. The most common allergies include food allergies, environmental allergies, and contact allergies. Allergies can cause symptoms such as itching, excessive licking, red and irritated skin, hair loss, and ear infections. If your French Bulldog is showing any of these symptoms, it is important to take them to the vet to get checked out.
Royal Canin has developed a special Muscle Care, Skin & Coat Health diet for French Bulldogs called Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition French Bulldog Adult Dry Dog Food. It contains L-carnitine which helps to maintain muscle mass, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat, and vitamin E which helps to reduce the symptoms of allergies.It also works to eliminate your Frenchie’s gas and stinky feces by using highly digestible proteins and just the right amount of fiber.
Hip and Elbow dysplasia:
Hip dysplasia is a condition that causes the hip joint to develop abnormally. This can lead to pain, lameness, and arthritis. Hip dysplasia is usually diagnosed with an X-ray. Elbow dysplasia causes the elbow joint to develop abnormally. This can lead to pain, lameness, and arthritis.
Dysplasia can be managed with diets containing joint supplements such as chondroitin and glucosamine. Royal Canin a special diet for dogs with dysplasia called Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Joint Mobility Dry Dog Food. It contains chondroitin and glucosamine to help manage the symptoms of dysplasia, as well as omega-3 fatty acids to help reduce inflammation.
Intervertebral disc disease:
Intervertebral disc disease is a condition that causes the discs in the spine to degenerate. This can lead to pain, weakness, and paralysis. Intervertebral disc disease is usually diagnosed with an MRI. If your French Bulldog has been diagnosed with intervertebral disc disease, it is important to talk to your vet about treatment options.
To help your Frenchie with Intervertebral disc disease, consider diets that support healthy joints such as Royal Canin Joint Care. This diet contains chondroitin and glucosamine which help to protect the joints, omega-3 fatty acids which have anti-inflammatory properties, and vitamin E which helps to reduce the symptoms of arthritis.
Skin conditions:
French Bulldogs are prone to skin conditions such as allergies, hot spots, and seborrhea. Allergies can cause symptoms such as itching, excessive licking, red and irritated skin, hair loss, and ear infections. Hot spots are painful, open wounds that can develop on the skin. Seborrhea is a skin condition that causes the skin to become dry, flaky, and itchy.
To help your Frenchie with skin condition, consider diets that contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins A, E, and C, and Zinc.
Heart diseases:
French Bulldogs are also susceptible to other health conditions such as heart disease, respiratory problems, and eye disorders. It is important to talk to your vet about the best way to keep your French Bulldog healthy.
Heart disease will eventually lead to congestive heart failure and death. The best way to prevent heart disease is with a diet that is low in sodium and fat and high in fiber. Royal Canin has developed a special diet for dogs with heart disease called Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Cardiac Dry Dog Food. It is low in sodium and fat and high in fiber to help reduce the risk of heart disease.
Respiratory problems
Respiratory problems are common in French Bulldogs. They can be caused by allergies, infections, or environmental irritants. The best way to prevent respiratory problems is with a diet that is rich in antioxidants.
Eye disorders are common in French Bulldogs. They can be caused by genetics, injury, or disease. The best way to prevent eye disorders is with a diet that is high in antioxidants.
Best Dog Food for French Bulldog Puppy
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition French Bulldog Puppy Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin French Bulldog Puppy Dry Dog Food is a special formula designed to meet the nutritional needs of purebred French Bulldogs 8 weeks to 12 months old. This kibble helps a French Bulldog easily pick up and chew his food, while providing him with the right combination of nutrients that promote healthy development of his immune system and natural defenses.
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition French Bulldog Puppy Dry Dog Food is specifically designed to meet the needs of your growing pup. This food contains essential nutrients that help reinforce the skin barrier, reducing the risk of skin problems. It also helps reduce gas and stool odor with its highly digestible proteins and precise fiber content.
Pros:
- Formulated specifically for Frenchies
- Uses highly digestible protein and the right amount of fiber to reduce stool odor and gas
- It has a kibble size and shape that is easy for Frenchies to pick up and chew
- It contains Chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine which helps to strengthen the joints and reduce the chances of hip dysplasia developing.
- It Contains lutein which helps to support healthy eyesight
Cons:
- Contains Brewers’ rice as the first ingredient. Brewers rice is a known cheap filler with little nutritional value
- It has wheat and wheat gluten meal which are known allergens and may impact Frenchies are they are sensitive to allergens
Best Dog Food for Adult Frenchies
Nulo Freestyle Grain-Free Salmon & Peas Recipe Dry Dog Food
Looking for a grain-free adult dog food that doesn’t contain chicken or egg proteins that may be allergic to French Bulldogs? Nulo Freestyle Salmon & Peas Recipe Dry Dog Food is made from 80% animal-based proteins and low-glycemic ingredients like peas and lentils. This recipe also features vitamin B6 and niacin from lamb to help support energy production, as well as probiotics to aid in digestion.
Nulo Freestyle Grain-Free Salmon & Peas Recipe Dry Dog Food is packed with high-quality protein to help your dog maintain lean muscle mass and a healthy heart, while calcium and phosphorus help keep bones strong. This recipe also features wholesome vegetables and fruits to support optimal immune health.
With deboned Salmon as the first ingredient, your dog will be getting a healthy source of omega-3 fatty acids for a shiny coat and healthy skin.
The Menhaden Fish Meal will also provide a concentrated source of protein and nutrients.
Pros:
- Grain-free formula
- Made with 80% animal-based proteins
- Contains probiotics to aid in digestion
- Features wholesome vegetables and fruits to support immune health
- Omega-3 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat
- Concentrated source of protein and nutrients
Cons
- It contains dried tomatoes which is a possible allergen for some Frenchies as they contain pesticide toxins such as Solanine
- It is relatively expensive selling for about $80 for a 26-lbs bag which translates to about $3 per pound. This is considerably more expensive than most other grain-free dog foods on the market.
Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Real Beef + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains Adult Dry Dog Food
For adult or senior Frenchies that have or are in the process of developing joint-related diseases, this Merrick Classic diet has added glucosamine and chondroitin. Both glucosamine and chondroitin have been shown to help support cartilage health and slow the progression of joint-related diseases.
This kibble also uses real deboned beef as the first ingredient and not some meat by-products. Beef is a great source of protein with decent digestibility and bioavailability, although it is not as easily digestible as chicken or fish. Beef is, however, less allergic than chicken or fish.
The third ingredient is brown rice, a complex carbohydrate that provides essential vitamins and minerals, as well as fiber to help with digestion. Rice is also a highly digestible grain, making it a good choice for dogs with sensitivities.
Merrick Classic’s Healthy Grains recipe is crafted in Hereford, TX and cooked in the USA with essential vitamins, minerals, brown rice and ancient grains such as quinoa to aid in digestion. This dry food contains healthy grains and beef for dogs of all life stages.
Pros:
- Added glucosamine and chondroitin to help support cartilage health
- Uses real deboned beef as the first ingredient
- Rice is a highly digestible grain
- Crafted in the USA with essential vitamins, minerals, and ancient grains
Cons:
- Contains Alfalfa Meal which is a cheap filler and a known allergen for some dogs
ORIJEN Original Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Looking for a grain-free diet that will provide your Frenchie pup with all the essential nutrients they need? Look no further than Orijen Original Dry Dog Food. This top-quality kibble is made with 85% premium animal ingredients, including fresh or raw poultry and fish, for a strong source of essential protein, vitamins, and minerals. The first 5 ingredients are always fresh or raw animal protein, ensuring that your dog gets the best possible start to their day.
ORIJEN Original Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is a limited ingredient diet formulated to support your dog’s overall health and well-being. Packed with WholePrey nutrition featuring nutrient-rich organs, ORIJEN Original Grain-Free Dry Dog Food provides the taste of free-run chicken, turkey meal and whole eggs plus the benefits of fresh regional ingredients from trusted farmers. Made in the USA with the world’s finest ingredients, ORIJEN Original Grain Free Dry Dog Food is guaranteed to provide 100% complete and balanced nutrition for your pet. This formula contains no grain, gluten, corn, wheat or soy and is free from artificial colors, flavors and preservatives.
Pros:
- Made with 85% premium animal ingredients
- First 5 ingredients are always fresh or raw animal protein
- Packed with WholePrey nutrition featuring nutrient-rich organs
- Made in the USA with the world’s finest ingredients
- Contains no grain, gluten, corn, wheat or soy
- Free from artificial colors, flavors and preservatives
Cons:
- Relatively expensive selling for about $60 for a 25-lbs bag
- Chicken is the first ingredient. Chicken is known to cause alergies in some dogs
Farmina N&D Prime Chicken & Pomegranate Medium & Maxi Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Farmina N&D Prime Chicken & Pomegranate Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is a limited carbohydrate and low fiber all life stage formula that provides your dog with the nutrients it needs to stay healthy. This high protein, grain free dry dog food contains 98% of its protein from quality animal sources and is free of grains, glutens, and artificial colors or flavors. Farmina N&D Prime Chicken & Pomegranate Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food also has a coating system that allows vitamins to be included post cooking so they retain their fresh
This food contains no whole peas, legumes, meals or by-products, so it’s ideal for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities. Natural omega fatty acids promote healthy skin and coat, while added pomegranate and berries are rich in antioxidants to help fight free radicals. Plus, it’s formulated with glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health.
Pros:
- Grain-free
- High protein with 98% of its protein from quality animal sources
- Free of grains, glutens, and artificial colors or flavors
- Contains no whole peas, legumes, meals or by-products
- Natural omega fatty acids promote healthy skin and coatAdded pomegranate and berries are rich in antioxidants
- Formulated with glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health
Cons:
- Priced at $87 for a 26-lbs bag, it is one of the more expensive dog foods on the market
- Of the top 5 ingredients, 3 of them are sourced from chicken, a known allergen which may exacerbate your Frenchie’s allergies
VICTOR Purpose Senior Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food
VICTOR Purpose Senior Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food is a nutritionally balanced, senior-specific formula that provides the nutrients your dog needs to stay healthy and active. This grain-free formula is made with premium quality chicken, beef and fish meals for sustained energy and contains glucosamine and chondroitin to help support long-term joint health.
VICTOR Purpose Senior Healthy Weight has been formulated with essential fatty acids to support skin and coat health as well as antioxidants to promote a healthy immune system. Its unique blend of vitamins, minerals, protein and amino acids help keep your senior dog feeling young and vibrant.
This food includes L-carnitine to help convert fat to energy, as well as a unique VPRO Blend that promotes superior digestibility and immune system function.
Pros:
- Made with premium quality chicken, beef and fish meals for sustained energy
- Contains glucosamine and chondroitin to help support long-term joint health
- Essential fatty acids support skin and coat health
- Antioxidants promote a healthy immune system
- L-carnitine helps convert fat to energy
- Unique VPRO Blend promotes superior digestibility and immune system function
Cons:
- Relatively expensive
- Use grains which are known allergens
FAQs
Q: What is the best food to feed a French Bulldog?
A: The best dog food for French Bulldogs are those that contain ingredients that are not known to cause allergic reactions in Frenchies such as beef, pork, lamb, and turkey. Avoid chicken and grain diets that contain gluten such as wheat. Also, the ideal dog food kibble for Frenchies should contain the right balance of Omega 3 and 6 to ensure a healthy coat and skin. To take care of its dysplasia conditions that Frenchies are very likely to develop, get diets with chondroitin and glucosamine.
Q: What are the most common health problems for French Bulldogs?
A: French Bulldogs are prone to a number of health problems, including but not limited to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, cherry eye, allergies, and respiratory difficulties. They are also susceptible to heatstroke, so it’s important to keep them well hydrated and in a cool environment.
Q: What is the best way to potty train a French Bulldog?
A: The best way to potty train a French Bulldog is through positive reinforcement. This means rewarding your dog for doing his business in the correct spot with treats, praise, or both. Never punish your dog for accidents, as this will only make him fearful of going to the bathroom in front of you. Be patient and consistent with your training, and soon your French Bulldog will be a pro at pottying outside.
Q: What is the life expectancy of a French Bulldog?
A: French Bulldogs typically live between 10 and 12 years. However, some may live as long as 15 years with proper care and nutrition.
Q: Are French Bulldogs good with children?
A: Yes, French Bulldogs are generally good with children. They are a patient and gentle breed that loves to play. However, as with any dog, it is important to supervise interactions between children and French Bulldogs, as they can be injured if not handled properly.
Q: Are French Bulldogs good with other pets?
A: Yes, French Bulldogs typically get along well with other pets. They are social creatures that enjoy the company of others. However, as with any dog, it is important to introduce French Bulldogs to other pets slowly and under supervision to ensure that everyone is comfortable with each other.
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Hi there! My name is Ben Domb, an owner of two pets and I am one of the co-founders of OurPets HQ. I have several years of experience as a pet care professional in the New England region having spent time in various roles including a stint at a veterinary hospital in Upstate New York, Syracuse area. I am a certified pet care professional and mostly spend my time researching pet nutrition and sharing my thoughts in various blogs and columns. With quarantine and COVID restrictions, I have been spending a lot of time a lot with my dogs and cat and loving it! I also run a small consulting business providing advice to parents on pet nutrition, and especially safe homemade options to try. You can reach me at ben@ourpetshq.com
