Author: Adopt a Pet

If you’re interested in welcoming a cat into your home and love the color white, you’re not alone: It’s such a popular color that entire breeds have been developed just for their white fur genes. Of course, not all white cats are solid white: many of these breeds also have white coats with some variation of pattern and color around their faces and paws (such as calicos and tuxedos).

When considering adoption, remember that color doesn’t influence personality. But many of these cat breeds are especially friendly and docile and thrive in social environments; they get along with kids, other cats, and even other animals. So, even if you don’t care about coat color, a white cat might be the right animal companion for you based on temperament alone. Unlike solid black cats, solid white cats are rare and associated with certain health conditions such as deafness, but these adaptable cats still make great pets.

Here’s a list of some adorable white cat breeds.

10 White cat breeds + pictures

1. Turkish Angora

Originating from central Anatolia, the Turkish Angora is now known as a familiar domestic breed that has been in the U.S. as early as the 17th century. This breed generally has a pure white coat that is fluffier than the coat of a Domestic Shorthair, and also has bright blue eyes. 

Many completely white animals have issues with hearing, and the Turkish Angora is no exception; while they adapt well to deafness, it’s best to keep deaf cats indoors for their safety. This breed can also be vocal, not realizing how loud their loving meows are. Angoras are very social and love being around families and people of all ages, and don’t like being alone. They’re also very smart, so if you leave them alone, expect revenge.

2. Siberian

Siberian cats come in all colors, but white is a popular look for this fluffy Russian breed. This breed, which is sometimes called a “Siberian Forest cat,” has a long thick (and potentially low dander) coat that usually only needs to be brushed once a week — though they may need more in the heavier shedding seasons of spring and fall. These cats are playful and generally love people and other cats, so they’re a good fit for anyone who will enjoy keeping them active — and who don’t mind a cat following them from room to room.

3. Domestic Shorthair

Most people with cats in the U.S. are caring for a Domestic Shorthair. These cats are the “mutts” of the feline world, which produces a delightful mix of characteristics. But generally, Domestic Shorthairs have thick, short, and dense fur and a stocky, muscular bodies. These are our sturdy house and alley cats; though, obviously, they make very good pets too. Domestic Shorthairs can come in a variety of colors, including orange, black, brown, red, and white. These common cats can be tabbies, tuxedos, and even calicos too.

4. Ragdoll

The Ragdoll is a gorgeous cat who usually has distinct colorpoint patterns around their faces and paws, and beautiful blue eyes. Ragdolls come in several shades of white, including lilac, blue, and cream. Their hair is long and silky and requires a good amount of brushing and care. 

This breed is incredibly docile and is known for being sociable. Ragdolls are also very devoted to their people, so expect the affection and loyalty of a dog in a soft cat body. They’re bad cats for the outdoors as unfamiliar people and things can freak them out easily, and they have a bad sense of direction. The breed, which was developed by American breeder Ann Baker in the 1960s, can be predisposed to a few health issues, especially obesity, heart disease, and urinary tract issues.

5. Persian

Persian cats have many distinctive characteristics, but are especially known for their sweet flat noses and wide-set eyes. Their long coats come in many colors but white is one of the most popular. This long-hair breed arrived in Italy from Persia around 1620, or at least that was their first mark on the recorded map. 

Persian cats make excellent pets but require some extra care, especially help with their grooming. They can be susceptible to eye issues, overgrown nails, haircoat disorders, and dental disease, so they need attentive pet parents to maintain their health. But they’re very good for a cuddle.

6. Ragamuffin

Often confused for the similar Ragdoll, the Ragamuffin was established as a separate breed in 1994; the breed is thought to be a Ragdoll crossbred with other types of long-haired cats. White, brown tabby with white, tortoiseshell and mink, and blue are the most popular Ragamuffin colors.

Much like their adorable cousins, Ragamuffins are very friendly, placid, and covered in thick fur. They have more color and pattern variation than Ragdolls. These kitties get along well with other pets and usually love being held. They require regular brushing but don’t excessively shed considering how much hair they have.

7. Khao Manee

The Khao Manee cat is one of the most expensive cats in the world, and their unique and beautiful look goes a long way toward explaining why. Sometimes called the Diamond Eye cat, they originated in Thailand and have been around for hundreds of years. They are solid white with a short, silky coat.

They can have two blue eyes, two gold eyes, or one of each. They’re generally a pretty healthy breed but often have congenital deafness in one or both ears. Unlike some of the fluffier breeds we’ve mentioned, these cats are very active, vocal, and need a lot of playful stimulation to keep their intelligent minds occupied.  

8. Scottish Fold

The Scottish Fold is known for its little folded-down ears, a cute characteristic that is the result of a natural dominant gene mutation. The mutation affects the cartilage throughout the body, which is what causes the ears to point down toward the face. The downside of this condition is that, over time, it can cause issues with this breed’s joints, which can be painful for them and require medical intervention. 

Scottish Folds are perhaps best-known for their blue coats, but they come in several colors, including “shaded silver,” which is off-white. They’re very smart and affectionate, as well as quite vocal. They like kids and other animals but can also be good solo pets as long as they have the loving attention of their one special person.

9. Japanese Bobtail

You might recognize these little white cats as the “waving cat” figure, a popular sign of good luck in Japan. They have a very distinctive tell — a naturally bobbed tail — from which their name is derived. Their little bunny rabbit-like puff sits on top of strong haunches, which is an expression of a dominant gene found in the breed. Japanese Bobtails come in various colors, but the lucky cat’s calico is the most recognizable.

This breed is considered one of the most chatty of all cat breeds; lots of little distinctive chirps and purrs fill out their vocabulary. They’re not big shedders but do need to be brushed occasionally. They’re also very affectionate and loving lap cats but will greet you at the door like a dog and love to play games. 

10. Siamese

The Siamese cat is native to Thailand, but became very popular in Europe and North America during the 19th century. These kittens are born white, but their fur color and markings darken as they age. Siamese come in four different marking colors — seal, chocolate, blue, and lilac.

They’re a great family pet — gentle, playful, and social. They need a lot of entertainment to stay occupied, or they’ll find something to do, which you might not want. Siamese cats can be incredibly noisy and demanding, which can frustrate people who don’t have time to play with or cuddle them. They also like to be with other animals, so it’s best to adopt two at once.

Are white cats rare?

Yep! Pure white is a rare cat color; it’s estimated that only five percent of all cats are white. Many cat breeds can sport a white coat, but most are bi-color, tri-color, or have patterns and markings.  Other cat breeds who can have white coats include:

• Devon Rex
• Turkish Van
• Maine Coon
• American Shorthair
• Norwegian Forest Cat
• British Shorthair

Are white cats prone to health problems?

White cats are considered generally healthy but have an increased risk for certain health conditions.

Deafness

White cats can be prone to congenital deafness, though the severity of that condition may vary. For example, epistatic cats with blue eyes and white fur as the dominant gene in their chart are linked to deafness. Studies show that over 17 percent of white cats are born with some deafness; the number jumps up to 40 percent for cats with one blue eye and grows to a whopping 80 percent for cats with both blue eyes. Deaf cats tend to adapt to the condition well, however, and with a few adjustments, they can communicate with people quite well and be trained. While these cats are considered less adoptable, they still make great pets.

Sunburns

White cat pet parents should be on the lookout for sunburn, because these cats have less melanin in the skin under their fur, which makes them more vulnerable to skin cancer. Limit white cats’ time in the sun, get them checked regularly, and watch for bumps or new marks on their ears, nose, and eyelids.

Are white cats blind?

There is a myth that white cats are also prone to blindness, most likely because they frequently have brightly colored eyes. But it’s just a myth; white cats are no more likely to be blind than any other color cat.

Are all white cats albinos?

No, white cats are not necessarily albino. Most white cats simply have the gene for white fur but do not lack pigmentation completely.  Albinism is a genetic condition which prevents all pigmentation in the skin, fur, and even the eyes, and could theoretically arise in any breed.

Many white cats are available for adoption at local shelters and rescue groups across the United States. Start your search for a friendly white cat at adoptapet.com

References

Cat Breeds With Congenital Deafness

Some dogs and cats prone to sunburn – How to protect your animal from skin damage

Quick Guide: Deaf white cats

Albinism in the domestic cat (Felis catus) is associated with a tyrosinase (TYR) mutation

Veterinary Genetics Laboratory Albino Cats

The International Cat Association Breed List

Deafness in White Cats

Are White Cats More Likely to Be Deaf?

Teaching and Training a Deaf Cat

By Alicia Kort

Anyone who grew up with a dog knows what a joy it is to count a pup as one of their first friends. While any dog can be good with kids, some breeds are particularly well-suited to share a home with younger family members, thanks to some key traits. With all the different sizes, coat types, and activity levels, you’re bound to find the best match for your kids.

So, if you’re looking to adopt a kid-friendly dog, here are some of the best dog breeds up to the task. Read on to learn more about how to find the best dog to grow up alongside your kids and how to set them up for success in their new home.

Key skills family dogs should have for children’s safety

How you approach family dog training will depend on both the dog you adopt and your family. For example, a puppy’s training will be different from an adult dog’s; puppies go through a critical development period between eight and 16 weeks and are more likely to adapt well to new people and situations during that time, so if your puppy has good experiences around kids of all ages during this time, they’re likely to continue to do well around them.

Adult dogs, on the other hand, should be socialized around children more slowly and gently. Remove your adult dog from any situations causing them stress immediately, and use positive reinforcement training to reward and encourage good behavior around children.

You also need to prepare your children when adopting a dog. While dogs need to be trained in how to behave around children, children also need to be taught how to treat dogs, even with breeds that are “good with kids.” A child-friendly temperament can help, but overly enthusiastic kids can make any dog feel uncomfortable. Kids who have never or rarely interacted with a dog must be taught the basics, like no ear- or fur-pulling or pushing. They also should learn the signs that a dog needs space and not to crowd a dog who is uncomfortable. Dogs who feel ill at ease are more likely to react, so it’s very important that kids are schooled for their own safety.

How can I assess a dog’s compatibility with my children?

Before picking a pup, behaviorist Karen B. London, PhD, has some advice about some factors to consider about your family and any potential family dogs.

Your children’s age

• Up to about seven years old: Young children do best with the calmest dogs and need constant supervision with any dog for both of their safety. “That’s especially true for toddlers and preschool-age kids who may upset even the most laid-back of dogs with their unpredictable movements, unexpected sounds, and funny smells,” London says.
• Eight to 13 years old: “This is where there is the most variation in the ways dogs interact with kids. Dogs who are tolerant of noise, touching, surprises, and unpredictability are still highly desirable for kids of these ages,” London says.
• Ages 14 to 17 years old: “Kids of this age generally interact with dogs much the same way adults do, but that can vary a lot, too. So, the best dogs for teenagers, especially older teenagers, are not all that different than the best dogs for any family. The issues are mainly about compatibility and preference,” London says.

The dog’s energy level

Not all dogs have the same energy levels — some dogs are bred to be lap-dogs and are content to cuddle all day long while working dogs are used to having responsibilities and being active. If you don’t exercise a dog enough, it can become an issue for you and them.

“A bored, under-exercised dog with pent-up energy is more likely to be mouthy with kids, to leap up on them, to steal their toys, and do all kinds of things that can get in the way of the relationship many parents seek,” London says. “Unless the parents happen to have a lifestyle that naturally lends itself to providing the dog with a ton of exercise (long-distance runner or livestock farmer, for example), the best dog for kids will not require herculean efforts in the physical-activity department.”

The dog’s grooming needs

Much like people, dogs with long hair are higher-maintenance than dogs with short hair. Pet parents will have to commit to grooming their dogs, which doesn’t only mean brushing and trimming; dogs need baths, nail trims, and care around their eyes and ears — and that can take longer than they think.

“A long-haired dog with high grooming needs can be great if the family is into that, but if it’s likely to become yet another chore and a source of conflict, it’s not going to be good for anyone … parents, kids or dog,” London says.

Individuality

Just because a breed might be considered kid-friendly doesn’t mean that an individual dog of that breed is the right fit for a family with young kids. The dog’s size, overall shape, fur type, or even age can be factors, as is the child’s age. Talk to the shelter or breeder about a dog’s personality and see how they react to being around children. Dogs brought into families with kids need to be adaptable, patient, friendly, and not too protective of resources.

Can small dog breeds be good family dogs for children?

Small dog breeds can be good family dogs, but because many are delicate, young children might not know how to play with them and should always be supervised to avoid accidentally harming them. The best small family dog is one who displays the qualities that make any dog well-suited for kids. Kids are full of surprises, so the ideal child-friendly dog is relatively calm and not reactive. Adaptability is also key because children change as they grow up.

Best dog breeds for families with children

If you’re searching for a companion for your kids to grow up with, read on to learn about some of the best family-friendly breeds. Keep in mind, though, that just because a breed is generally known for being one of the best dog breeds for kids does not necessarily mean that an individual dog of that breed will get along well with all children, nor are all of the pups on the list below good with very young kids.

Bruce and Rebecca Meissner / Stocksy

1. Mixed-Breed dogs

Adult rescue dogs can be great fits for families with kids because their personalities are fully formed, and the shelter or rescue staff usually have spent enough time with them to give you a strong picture of who the dog is. They may even Once you bring your rescue home, it will likely take them a few weeks to come out of their shells and acclimate, but you’ll still have far more insight into their personalities than you would with a puppy. Try to find a shelter dog who is patient, gentle, and affectionate, and one the rescue staff specifically says is good with children or has even been fostered by a family with kids. They may even specify which dogs will do better with older kids rather than young kids.

bernardbodo / AdobeStock

2. Beagle

The Beagle is a small pup, weighing up to 24 pounds, with a sunny disposition — they love being around other people, including younger and older children and dogs. Beagles were originally trained to hunt in packs, so they don’t like being left alone and can become destructive if left alone for too long. That said, once you’re a part of their pack, Beagles will want to be by your and your family’s side all the time. They require one hour of interactive play — they won’t be satisfied running around in the yard by themselves. They can also be escape artists, so pet parents will need a five-foot tall fence. They’ll also need to keep them leashed on walks because they’re scent-driven hunting dogs who will follow their instincts and run away.

Petr Bonek / Shutterstock

3. Smooth Collie

When a Collie comes to mind, you might immediately think of Lassie and her majestic fur. The Smooth Collie, who can weigh up to 65 pounds, is her short-haired cousin. Known for their signature long snouts and big brown eyes, Smooth Collies have sweet dispositions that make them the perfect pals for both older and young kids. They’re patient, generally know their own strength, and don’t play too rough. Smooth Collies need at least an hour of exercise and space to run around. They might not shed as much as their long-haired counterparts, but they have an undercoat that needs to be brushed during shedding season and regular grooming.

Dmitry Borovikov / Stocksy

4. Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever, also nicknamed the “Lab,” is one of the best breeds for kids. This kind and patient pup will become a fast friend and companion to children of any age. They’re content with cuddling on the couch, but are intelligent, high-energy dogs who need a lot of play, including fetch, swimming, and long walks. Your shoulder might wear out from throwing the ball before they’re tired of retrieving it. Labrador Retrievers can be yellow, black, or chocolate and weigh up to 80 pounds. Their coats are water-resistant but double-layered, so they need to be brushed regularly.

Alex / AdobeStock

5. Irish Setter

The Irish Setter is famous for their beautiful, shining coat of red, chestnut, or mahogany fur and their status as one of the best playmates for children. This friendly yet exuberant breed weighs up to 70 pounds and is better suited to living in a home rather than an apartment, where they might bounce off the walls due to their high energy. They’re also a little clingy, so they’ll prefer interactive play with the family over solitary activities. To care for the Irish Setter’s ruby coat, owners will need to brush it twice weekly and go to the groomers regularly.

Taryn Elliott / Pexels

6. Basset Hound

The Basset Hound is famously good at tracking scent and also for being great with both younger and older kids. With the Basset Hound’s droopy face and perpetual puppy-dog eyes, their appearance matches their chill personality. And because they were raised in packs, they prefer human and animal company whenever possible. They are more than happy to lie next to you on the couch during movie marathons or a reading session, but they still need some exercise — let them put their noses to the test with a scent-tracking challenge to their favorite treat. This low-slung pup is surprisingly heavy, weighing up to 65 pounds while reaching just 15 inches at shoulder height. Although it might not look like this dog can shed, Basset Hounds’ short coats shed regularly and need to be brushed weekly.

Cindy Prins / Stocksy

7. English Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniels are one of the best dogs for kids. The English Cocker Spaniel has the nickname “merry Cocker” for a reason: these pups have charming and affectionate dispositions and are gentle and patient around children of all ages. These pups, who can weigh up to 35 pounds, have silky, feathery coats that kids and adults will never want to stop petting, but which needs to be brushed and combed weekly and will require monthly trims. The English Cocker Spaniel enjoys relaxing at home with family as well as activities like hiking, long walks, playing fetch, or other mentally-stimulating games. These pups can grow bored easily, so like children, they need to be entertained sometimes.

RDNE Stock project / Pexels

8. Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is another breed that instantly comes to mind when you think of “family dogs.” Adaptable, patient, and sweet, Golden Retrievers aim to please their people and are very devoted dogs to even the youngest member of your family. These pups are obedient and happiest when they have a mentally-stimulating activity to do, which is why Golden Retrievers are often search-and-rescue dogs. Golden Retrievers can weigh up to 75 pounds and reach 24 inches in height at their shoulders. Their fluffy, soft coat and feathery tail require quite a lot of brushing (at least twice weekly) because they have a water-repellent double coat.

Fotoluminate / Shutterstock

9. Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu was bred to be a lap-dog for Chinese nobles, which explains their lion-like mane of fur and regal little trot. This loyal, affectionate dog only weighs up to 16 pounds and reaches 10.5 inches at shoulder height, so while this pup is great with older kids, they are delicate; young children might not know how to play with a Shih Tzu and should always be supervised to avoid accidentally harming them. Because they are lap-dogs, they only need minimal walks and some indoor playtime to keep them happy. The Shih Tzu’s impressive coat does need to be brushed daily (including the top knot and mustache), and they need baths monthly. Shih Tzus’ top knots either need to be trimmed short or tied up, or they will irritate their eyes and make it so they can’t see.

Jen Grantham / Stocksy

10. Wheaten Terrier

It’s no surprise that Wheaten Terriers used to be farm dogs because they certainly wouldn’t look out of place near cows or sheep. These pups are vivacious, high-energy, and devoted to their families. Wheaten Terriers make good companions for younger and older children but can be a bit protective of their family and, therefore, wary around strangers and not the most welcoming toward other dogs. High-energy and active, the Wheaten Terrier would do well with an active family as they need up to two hours of exercise a day. And because this terrier also served as a rodent hunter, they are still prey-driven and need to be kept on a leash when being walked. With their soft and silky wheaten coat, little dark beard, and big bangs, this furry friend requires a daily brushing and frequent trips to the groomer to ensure their fur doesn’t mat.

e-Kis / Shutterstock

11. Standard Schnauzer

With their impressive, wiry beard and wise eyes, the Standard Schnauzer kind of looks like a grandparent in dog form — and given how protective they are of loved ones and how loving they are, the Standard Schnauzer fits that personality, too. Schnauzers are solid, medium-sized dogs who can reach up to 50 pounds and 19.5 inches at shoulder height and make good pets for kids of all ages. The Standard Schnauzer prefers to participate in family activities rather than to be left to their own devices. These large dogs are great hiking companions and very playful, so pet parents will need to devote part of their days to exercising with their Schnauzer. Despite their curly coat, the Schnauzer does not shed very much but needs regular brushing and clipping or hand-stripping because their coat grows quickly. Their beard also needs to be wiped clean daily.

Teresa Jang / Pexels

12. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is an intelligent, eager-to-please charmer. These sweet little dogs, who only weigh up to 18 pounds, just want to spend as much time with their families as possible. Due to their patient and adaptable nature, this breed is good with children, but young children should be taught how to interact with them because they are on the smaller side. These dogs are moderately active, so they should be walked and played with at least once a day, respectively. The Bichon Frise is famous for their halo of curly white fur, which is a bit more high-maintenance than some of the other dogs on this list; they should be brushed daily and taken to the groomers for a clipping and bath once a month. That being said, they are considered hypoallergenic dogs because they are low-shed.

Dogs to avoid with kids

There are some deal-breakers related to dogs and kids, especially younger kids.

• Dogs with high drive: “The results are far too often games that go bad: mouthiness, leaping up, slamming, knocking over, or even nipping and biting,” says London.
• Dogs with sound or touch sensitivities: “These dogs are usually happier in homes without children, and children will likely be happier with a dog who does not have these issues,” says London.
• Dogs that are high-strung: “Dogs who tend to be constantly on edge and dogs with any history of aggression — not only biting, of course, but also growling or lunging as well as being possessive of toys, food or bones should not be in homes with children.”

FAQs (People Also Ask):

What are the best dog breeds for families with children?

Some of the best dog breeds for families with children include the Beagle, Smooth Collie, Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Irish Setter, Basset Hound, and more.

Are there specific dog breeds that are more patient with younger children?

Dog breeds that tend to be more patient with younger children include relatively gentle and adaptable dogs, including the Labrador Retriever, Bichon Frise, and Shih Tzu.

Can small dog breeds be good family dogs for children?

Small dog breeds can be good family dogs, but because many are delicate, young children should be supervised when with them so they don’t accidentally harm them.

How can I assess a dog’s compatibility with my children?

A dog’s compatibility with children varies based on both the dog (including their energy level and individual traits) and children (including their age and temperament).

Can family dogs serve as emotional support for children?

Yes, family dogs can serve as emotional support for children (and adults).

Are mixed-breed dogs suitable for families with children?

Mixed-breed dogs do well with children as long as they display the traits that generally make any dog compatible with children, including friendliness and adaptability.

Do family dogs need regular exercise and playtime with children?

Yes, family dogs need regular exercise and playtime, although the exact amount will vary from breed to breed.

References

Selecting The Best Family Dog and Preparing Him for Children

Preparing Your Dog for a New Baby

Choosing the Right Pet

Mixed Pets: Best Dog Breeds for Kids

Vet Rec: Best Dogs for Families with Kids

The Marvelous Mutt: Why Mixed-Breed Dogs Make Great Pets

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Alicia Kort is a writer and editor living in Brooklyn. She’s currently the senior commerce editor at Apartment Therapy. She’s been published in StyleCaster, Electric Literature, Newsweek, Interview, Brooklyn magazine and more. In her free time, she runs, reads, and spends time with her dog-nieces, Maya and Lady, and her cat-niece, Pepper.

By Julie Zeilinger

Kristen Curette & Daemaine Hines / Stocksy
This year, for the first time ever, the French Bulldog, commonly known as a “Frenchie,” was named America’s most popular dog breed by the AKC. After 31 years of Labrador Retrievers reigning supreme, some may be surprised by this dethroning — but those who know and love their Frenchies certainly aren’t.

Why are French Bulldogs so popular?

French Bulldogs started becoming popular in the 1990s, and by 2017, they had climbed to the fourth spot in popularity rankings. Social media and celebrity influencers like Lady Gaga and Martha Stewart likely helped boost their popularity. Millennials are truly obsessed with these adorable pups. Why?

The first thing most people notice (and love) about Frenchies is their one-of-a-kind appearance. The combination of their large, bat-like ears, flat, wrinkly faces, blocky heads, and large eyes is irresistible to many. Besides their smushed faces, Frenchies are known to be easy-going, laid-back dogs requiring minimal grooming who prefer a good Netflix sesh over a long hike.

Their stout, muscular bodies are rivaled by few other breeds, and they have distinct, human-like voices, made widely known by Internet celebrity Frenchies like Walter Geoffrey and Nerf. Their distinct yowls bring their vibrant personalities and need for plentiful attention to life.

What makes French Bulldogs so special?

Frenchie are special because of their playful, clown-like personalities that they love to share with their humans. They enjoy being around people and are incredibly affectionate with children, adults, and other dogs alike. They’re very adaptable to new living conditions and daily schedules. This breed can also be a variety of beautiful colors, including brindle, fawn, and black.

Are French Bulldogs easy to train?

French Bulldogs’ friendly and affectionate personalities lend themselves well to training, as does their intelligence. Frenchies are known people pleasers and respond well to motivation, like food. Consistency is also important: Frenchies who are given a schedule (and whose parents stick to it) will fare better in training than those who aren’t. Frenchies can, however, be stubborn, so it’s best to start training as early in their lives — or your time with them — as possible.

Are French Bulldogs good for apartment living?

French Bulldogs are relatively low-maintenance dogs who bark very little, which makes them a good choice for people who live in apartments or small homes, especially those living under noise restrictions. Though this breed can be hyperactive as puppies, adults generally have low to moderate energy levels compared to other breeds. Originally bred as city dogs, Frenchies do well in smaller spaces and are homebodies; they prefer the comfort of their own home to traveling or exploring.

Are French Bulldogs easy to care for?

French Bulldogs have short, smooth coats that are easy to groom — and they benefit from regular grooming since they shed year-round. Regular brushing and bathing can help Frenchies keep their coats healthy and clean.

Though they can live in a variety of climates, Frenchies are sensitive to extreme temperatures. Their bodies lose heat quicker than it can be replaced in the cold, and their short coats don’t offer much warmth or protection, so they are prone to hypothermia and frostbite. The heat, however, also causes breathing issues due to restricted airflow in their snouts. Frenchie parents should be aware of signs of overheating, including excessive panting, mouth foaming, lethargy, heaving, drooling, and a discolored and/or floppy tongue.

What is the most common health problem with French Bulldogs?

The hard truth is that French Bulldogs — as well as other brachycephalic (or flat-faced) dogs — face many health problems. In fact, there is a growing movement from vets and other pet professionals to discourage the breeding of flat-faced breeds with extreme brachycephaly. Because of the French Bulldogs’ disproportionate bodies, these pups also need to be birthed by C-section, adding to both the expense and potential health complications of the breed.

Those considering adopting a Frenchie should be aware that though this breed has a lifespan of 10 to 12 years, Frenchies face a number of health problems that can be both financially and emotionally draining to treat, including breathing problems, heat stroke, skin, eye, and ear infections, spinal problems (such as intervertebral disk disease), hip dysplasia, and allergies. Other potential French Bulldog health conditions include:

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)

BOAS occurs in flat-faced dogs due to the cramming of the nose, nostrils, tongue, soft palate, and teeth into a relatively small space, reducing their airway size. Dogs suffering from BOAS may experience increased effort and difficulty breathing, trouble exercising, gagging, blue gums, overheating, fainting, and increased respiratory noise.

Heat stress

BOAS can be exacerbated by both hot and cold weather, and French Bulldogs are susceptible to experiencing symptoms of heat stress, or when a dog overheats for a short period of time but can efficiently cool off and has symptoms no more severe than dehydration or lethargy. Frenchies are also susceptible to the more serious heat stroke; signs of heat stroke include vomiting and diarrhea, which can progress to bloody vomiting and diarrhea. To avoid both, do not let your pet outside for more than 10 or 20 minutes when the temperature is over 90 degrees, and be careful and monitor your pup when the temperature is over 70 degrees.

Eye problems

Frenchies can experience eye problems, including dry eye, which is characterized by chronic inflammation in the eye.  They are also prone to cherry eye, which occurs when a dog’s third eyelid (an additional protective layer for the eye) gland prolapses and appears as a red, swollen mass on the lower eyelid.

Entropion, a hereditary disorder in which the eyelid rolls inward, causing a dog’s eyelashes to rub against their cornea, is also found in Frenchies; the condition can result in eye irritation and, if not treated, corneal ulceration. Corneal ulcers, or the erosion of the epithelium (the outermost layer of the cornea) and into the stroma (the level below the epithelium), also occur in French Bulldogs. This condition causes fluid to accumulate in the stroma, which gives the eye a cloudy appearance.

Skin fold dermatitis

As cute as Frenchies’ many wrinkles and folds are, they can often cause discomfort via skin fold dermatitis, which results from inflammation and/or microbial overgrowth when moisture and bacteria are trapped in a dog’s skin folds. Treatment normally involves cleaning the affected area with an antiseptic solution and/or applying antibiotic ointment. To avoid skin fold dermatitis, it’s important to regularly clean and dry your dog’s wrinkles.

Hip and elbow dysplasia

Hip and elbow dysplasia occur when the ball and socket of a dog’s hip or elbow joint do not fit or develop properly and rub against each other. Over time, the joint deteriorates and can even lose function. The condition is hereditary, though factors like improper weight and unbalanced nutrition can contribute to the condition. Symptoms can include decreased activity and range of motion, difficulty rising, jumping, running, or climbing stairs, lameness in the hind end, loss of thigh muscle mass, and stiffness or limping.

Patellar luxation

Patella luxation occurs when the patella (or kneecap) is dislocated and moves out of its normal location. Dogs experiencing this may have a skip in their step or even briefly run on three legs. There are four grades of severity of patella luxation, and the more severe the grade, the more likely a dog is to develop long-term problems. Surgery can be performed to address the issue.

Cleft palate

A cleft palate is a birth defect that appears as an opening between a dog’s mouth and nose that occurs when the tissues separating these cavities don’t grow together properly. Purebred dogs generally have a higher incidence of cleft palates, and brachycephalic breeds, including Frenchies, are most commonly affected.

Thyroid issues

Frenchies can inherit thyroid issues, including congenital hypothyroidism French Bulldog type, an enlargement of the thyroid gland that can cause decreased secretion of the thyroid hormone. The thyroid controls a dog’s metabolism and can cause slow physical and mental development.

Though French Bulldogs face their fair share of health problems, many Frenchie parents would be quick to say that they more than make up for those trials with their loyalty, affection, and charming personalities. Their intelligence and adaptability are laudable, as is their ability to get along with just about anyone. Whether in an apartment or home, a Frenchie doesn’t care — they’re just happy to be wherever you are.

FAQs (People Also Ask):

What are French Bulldogs’ favorite things to do?

French Bulldogs love being with their humans 24/7 and enjoy playing with children, adults, and other dogs alike.

Are French Bulldogs good dogs for beginners?

French Bulldogs’ low to moderate energy and devotion to their humans make them good dogs for beginners, but their health problems can be expensive for first-time pet parents.

What is the most common health problem of French Bulldogs?

French Bulldogs commonly experience health issues, including brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), heat stress, eye problems, skin fold dermatitis, and more.

Are French Bulldogs the most popular type of dog?

Nope, the American Kennel Club’s rankings are determined by breeders and pure breed registrations. America’s most popular dog is actually the mixed-breed dog; mutts are in over 51% of US households. Even so-called ‘designer dogs’ such as Labradoodles, Puggles, Chiweenies, and Pitskies are considered mixed breed dogs and not included in the rankings.

References

French Bulldogs differ to other dogs in the UK in propensity for many common disorders: a VetCompass study

French bulldogs now the UK’s top breed

Come for the looks, stay for the personality? A mixed methods investigation of reacquisition and owner recommendation of Bulldogs, French Bulldogs and Pugs

Brachycephalic tipping point: time to push the button?

The Popularity of French Bulldogs

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Julie Zeilinger is a NYC-based writer and editor whose writing has been published in Marie Claire, Vox, HuffPost, Forbes, and other publications. She is also the author of two books: College 101: A Girl’s Guide to Freshman Year (2014) and A Little F’d Up: Why Feminism Is Not a Dirty Word (2012). She is the mom to Baloo, a two-year-old Bichpoo and foster mom to dogs via Badass Animal Rescue.