Best Dog Food for French Bulldogs Overview
- Best overall: Nutro Ultra Weight Management Dry Dog Food
- Best Value: Purina Pro Plan Savor Dry Dog Food
- Best for puppies: Royal Canin French Bulldog Puppy Food
- Best for seniors: Royal Canin French Bulldog Adult Dry Dog Food
- Best for allergy management: Taste of the Wild Pine Forest Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
- Best grain-free: Wellness Core Grain-Free Kibble
The best dog food for your Frenchie depends on how old they are and if there’s any specific dietary requirements for them. French bulldog puppies, adults, and seniors have distinct nutritional needs that should be taken into consideration when choosing food for them.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different nutritional needs of Frenchies, top ingredients to look for, potential allergies and sensitivities, feeding guidelines, and our top picks for the best dog foods for French Bulldogs in 2024. Let’s dive in and ensure your Frenchie thrives with the best diet tailored to their needs.
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Understanding Your French Bulldog’s Nutritional Needs
French Bulldogs tend to have unique dietary needs that set them apart from other breeds. They require high-quality animal protein and fat from animal sources to provide energy, with 25-35 calories per pound of body weight per day. Age, activity level, and health condition should all be taken into consideration when selecting the most suitable food for your Frenchie. For instance, high-quality, protein-rich food is essential to support lean muscle mass for French Bulldogs with joint disease.
A fresh or raw food diet may be beneficial for promoting healing and sustaining vision in French Bulldogs. Furthermore, glucosamine and chondroitin are essential vitamins and minerals for Frenchies. If your Frenchie is prone to weight gain and obesity, a low-calorie dog food formulated for weight management would be an appropriate choice.
By understanding your French Bulldog’s unique nutritional needs, you can ensure they maintain a healthy body weight, support joint health, and have a glossy coat.
Top Ingredients to Look for in French Bulldog Dog Food
When selecting the best dog food for your French Bulldog, it is recommended to look for small dog breed formulas that include natural prebiotic fiber, omega-6 fatty acids, and whole grains to provide essential nutrients. These ingredients offer various benefits for your Frenchie: natural prebiotic fiber aids digestion, omega-6 fatty acids promote healthy skin and coat, and whole grains provide energy. Additionally, it is advised to avoid artificial ingredients and fillers such as corn and wheat, as they can cause allergic reactions and gastrointestinal issues.
Some of the best dog food for french bulldogs that contain these beneficial ingredients include:
- Canidae Pure Grain-Free LID Recipe for Small-Breed Dogs
- Now Fresh Grain Free Small Breed Dog Food
- The Honest Kitchen Grain-Free Chicken Dehydrated Dog Food and;
- Whole Earth Farms Grain-Free Red Meat Recipe Canned Dog Food
By choosing a dog food with top ingredients, you can ensure your Frenchie receives the essential nutrients they need for a healthy and happy life.
Protein Sources
Protein plays a crucial role in your French Bulldog’s diet, as it helps them develop and sustain muscle mass and supplies energy. When selecting French Bulldog dog food, lean and animal-based protein sources should be prioritized, with a minimum of 22% for puppies and 18% for adults.
Salmon, poultry, and lamb are particularly beneficial sources of protein for French Bulldogs. Whole meat is the recommended primary source of high-quality protein for Frenchies, while meat meal or by-products should be avoided as the initial ingredient in your Frenchie’s food.
Some suitable dog foods for French Bulldogs that feature high-quality protein sources include:
- AvoDerm Natural Small-Breed Adult Dog Food, which contains chicken meal and natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin
- Now Fresh Grain-Free Small-Breed Senior Dog Weight Management Recipe, which contains lean turkey, salmon, duck, and eggs as sources of protein.
By choosing a dog food with high-quality protein sources, you can support your French Bulldog’s muscle development and overall health.
Healthy Fats
Healthy fats, such as omega-6 fatty acids, are an excellent source of nutrition for French Bulldogs. These fatty acids help maintain a healthy immune system, promote healthy skin, and result in a glossy coat. Some dog foods that include healthy fats for French Bulldogs are
- AvoDerm Natural Small-Breed Adult Dog Food, which has an optimally balanced fat content for an active Frenchie nd promotes healthy skin and coat
- Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed, which contains flaxseed for essential fats such as omega fatty acids, DHA, and ARA.
Including healthy fats in your French Bulldog’s diet can also help manage inflammation. Canidae Pure Grain-Free LID Recipe for Small-Breed Dogs, for example, contains omega fatty acids from salmon that help manage inflammation. By providing your Frenchie with a diet rich in healthy fats, you can support their skin and coat health while helping to moderate inflammation.
Beneficial Supplements
In addition to high-quality protein and healthy fats, beneficial supplements like prebiotic fiber, probiotics, glucosamine, chondroitin, taurine, and omega fatty acids should be considered for French Bulldog dog food. Prebiotic fiber and probiotics are formulated to be gentle on the digestive system and promote digestion.
Glucosamine and chondroitin are essential for joint health and support joint and cartilage health maintenance. Taurine and omega fatty acids have been found to be beneficial for cardiovascular health.
Some dog foods that include these beneficial supplements are:
- Nutro Ultra Weight Management Dry Dog Food, which contains taurine for cardiovascular health
- Royal Canin French Bulldog Puppy Food – which provides complete and balanced nutrition, strengthens the immune system, encourages growth, and promotes balanced intestinal flora.
By choosing dog food with these beneficial supplements, you can provide your Frenchie with a well-rounded diet that supports their overall health.
Potential Allergies and Sensitivities in French Bulldogs
French Bulldogs may be prone to allergies and sensitivities, making it important to research the ingredients in their food and consult a vet if necessary. Some common sensitivities in French Bulldogs include corn, soy, beef, and dairy products. If your Frenchie shows signs of allergies or sensitivities, it is essential to evaluate the ingredients in their food and seek veterinary advice if needed.
If you suspect your French Bulldog has a food allergy, you may want to consider a limited-ingredient dog food or a grain-free diet. Taste of the Wild Pine Forest Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is a suitable option for French Bulldogs with food allergies. By being aware of potential allergies and sensitivities and choosing the right dog food, you can help your Frenchie maintain a healthy and happy life.
Feeding Guidelines for French Bulldogs
Feeding guidelines for French Bulldogs include following label recommendations for feeding quantity and dividing daily servings into smaller meals for sustained energy supply. For French Bulldog puppies, it is recommended to provide them with 1.5 cups of food per day. Puppies aged between 2 to 6 months should be supplied with three meals per day, whereas older puppies should be given two meals daily.
Adult and senior French Bulldogs should also be fed two meals per day. By following these feeding guidelines, you can ensure that your Frenchie receives the right amount of food for their age, weight, and activity level, helping them maintain a healthy body weight and preventing potential health issues.
Our Top Picks: Best Dog Food for French Bulldogs in 2024
Our top picks for the best dog food for French Bulldogs in 2024 include a variety of options tailored to meet the unique nutritional needs of this charming breed. From weight management formulas to grain-free options and specialized diets for puppies and seniors, these dog foods offer the essential nutrients your Frenchie needs to thrive.
Overall Best Dog Food For French Bulldogs
Nutro Ultra Weight Management Dry Dog Food
Our top pick for the best dog food for French Bulldogs overall in 2024 is Nutro Ultra Weight Management Dry Dog Food.
Frenchie owners recommend this dog food for its weight maintenance benefits, quality ingredients, and multiple protein sources. The primary sources of protein in Nutro Ultra Weight Management Dry Dog Food are salmon, chicken, and lamb.
Additionally, it is free from artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives and contains taurine, which acts as a natural antioxidant for your pup.
What Buyers Say…
“My dog loves Nutro! She had been eating Nutro for years!”
Read more buyer reviews here…
Nutro Ultra Weight Management Dry Dog Food
Nutro Ultra Weight Management Dry Dog Food offers a nutritious solution for your French Bulldog, formulated with a trio of lean proteins from chicken, lamb, and salmon to support healthy weight management and overall vitality.
Pros
Formulated with high-quality proteins and superfoods to support muscle health and overall wellness
Reduced calorie content helps manage weight, beneficial for French Bulldogs prone to obesity
Contains a blend of antioxidants to support a healthy immune system
Cons
Multiple protein sources may not be suitable for French Bulldogs with specific food sensitivities
Not suitable for puppies
Higher price point compared to some other weight management dog food options
Best French Bulldog Food For Value
Purina Pro Plan Savor Dry Dog Food
In our opinion, the best French Bulldog food for value is Purina Pro Plan Savor Dry Dog Food.
This dog food is specifically tailored for overweight and less active dogs, providing an optimal protein-to-fat ratio to help them reach their weight goals and maintain an energetic lifestyle.
The advantages of Purina Pro Plan Savor Dry Dog Food include aiding in weight management and offering a distinctive texture that French Bulldogs find appealing.
It is important to note that some dogs may experience bad breath when consuming Purina Pro Plan Savor Dry Dog Food. However, the benefits it offers in terms of weight management and affordability make it a great value option for French Bulldog owners.
What Buyers Say…
“I use this for training treats and BOTH dogs love it!”
Read more buyer reviews here…
Purina Pro Plan Savor Dry Dog Food
Purina Pro Plan Savor Dry Dog Food combines real chicken as the first ingredient with probiotics to support digestive health, making it an excellent choice for French Bulldogs who enjoy savory flavors and require nutritional support for their unique dietary needs.
Pros
Optimal protein-to-fat ratio to help reach and maintain weight goals
Distinctive texture that appeals to French Bulldogs
Great quality-to-value (cost) ratio
Cons
Some fussy Frenchies may not like the taste
Not suitable for puppies
Best Dog Food For French Bulldog Puppies
Royal Canin French Bulldog Puppy Food
Royal Canin French Bulldog Puppy Food is a great options when it comes to feeding your French Bulldog puppy. Both provide a complete, balanced diet for their growth and development.
This food provides complete and balanced nutrition, strengthens the immune system, encourages growth, and promotes balanced intestinal flora. It is also easy to digest for optimal nutrient absorption, making it an ideal choice for your Frenchie puppy.
It is worth noting that some puppies may not take to Royal Canin French Bulldog Puppy Dog Food, and it is more expensive than other dog food options due to its breed-specific nature. However, the benefits it offers in terms of nutrition and breed-specific formulation make it a top choice for French Bulldog puppies.
What Buyers Say…
“I haven’t had any issues with this puppy food. My frenchie loves the food. It has kept him healthy and strong!!“
Read more buyer reviews here…
Royal Canin French Bulldog Puppy Food
Royal Canin French Bulldog Puppy Food is specially formulated to meet the nutritional needs of growing French Bulldog puppies, featuring a unique kibble shape that’s easy to pick up and encourages proper chewing.
Pros
Tailored to meet the nutritional needs of French Bulldog puppies
The kibble is specifically designed to suit the chewing patterns of French Bulldogs
Contains highly digestible proteins and a specific blend of fibers to promote digestive health
Cons
Generally more expensive than regular dog foods
Limited flavor variety
Contains grains like rice and wheat, which can be problematic for puppies with grain allergies or sensitivities
Alternative Wet Dog Food For French Bulldog Puppy
Royal Canin Mini Puppy Wet Food
Our in-house product reviewer Pavlos V. highly recommends Royal Canin Mini Puppy Wet Dog Food for Frenchie Puppy Owners.
His little 6 months old frenchie (Baloo) loves Royal Canin Mini Puppy Wet Food! He gets super excited whenever his meal includes this instead of dry food!
Royal Canin Mini Puppy Wet Dog Food is specifically formulated for small-breed puppies aged 2 to 10 months. Featuring tasty chunks in gravy, it offers a soft texture that’s easy for puppies to eat, and it’s enriched with clinically proven antioxidants for immune support, prebiotics for digestive health, and DHA for brain development.
Best Dog Food For Senior French Bulldogs
Royal Canin French Bulldog Adult Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin French Bulldog Adult Dry Dog Food is an ideal choice for senior French Bulldogs.
It provides optimal nutrition to maintain their health and well-being. This specialized diet is formulated for French Bulldogs over the age of twelve months and includes L-carnitine and top-notch protein to sustain optimal muscle mass, probiotics to minimize intestinal fermentation, and a kibble design that is easy for Frenchies to consume and encourages chewing.
While some dogs may not accept Royal Canin French Bulldog Adult Dry Dog Food and it is costly, the benefits it provides in terms of nutrition and breed-specific formulation make it an ideal choice for senior French Bulldogs.
What Buyers Say…
“Perfect food for our dogs, perfect size, and good on digestion.”
Read more buyer reviews here…
Royal Canin French Bulldog Adult Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin French Bulldog Adult Dry Dog Food is specifically formulated to meet the nutritional needs of adult French Bulldogs, featuring L-carnitine and an optimal protein content to maintain muscle mass while managing weight.
Pros
The kibble is specifically designed to suit the chewing patterns of French Bulldogs
Enriched with EPA and DHA, which help to support skin health and coat vitality.
Includes highly digestible proteins and a specific balance of fibers to aid in digestive healths
Cons
Typically more expensive than generic adult dog foods
Limited flavor options
Contains grains like rice and wheat, which can be problematic for puppies with grain allergies or sensitivities
Best Dog Food for French Bulldogs with Allergies
Taste of the Wild Pine Forest Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
If your French Bulldog suffers from food allergies, Taste of the Wild Pine Forest Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is an ideal choice.
Customers say their dogs love the taste of this food. Additionally, it is excellent for dogs with food allergies. No longer will they suffer from itchy paws or diarrhea. The primary components of Taste of the Wild Pine Forest Grain-Free Dry Dog Food are venison, fruits, and garden vegetables.
By choosing a dog food specifically designed for French Bulldogs with allergies, you can help alleviate their allergy symptoms and provide them with a diet that supports their overall health and well-being.
What Buyers Say…
“This type of food was recommended by a friend, and my dog absolutely loves it.”
Read more buyer reviews here…
Taste of the Wild Pine Forest Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Taste of the Wild Pine Forest Grain-Free Dry Dog Food provides a high-quality, grain-free formula enriched with venison and lamb, offering a rich protein source that’s ideal for French Bulldogs with grain sensitivities or allergies.
Pros
Ideal for French Bulldogs with grain allergies or sensitivities, helping to minimize digestive issues
Contains venison and lamb, which are less common protein sources, reducing the risk of allergies and providing a lean, healthy protein
Includes a blend of real fruits and vegetables, providing natural antioxidants for immune health
Cons
The unique flavor profile of venison may not be palatable to all French Bulldogs
While high-quality, the protein levels might be too high for some Frenchies, particularly those that are prone to weight gain
Generally more expensive than many traditional dog foods
Best Grain-Free Dog Food Option
Wellness Core Grain-Free Kibble
Wellness Core Grain-Free Kibble is the best grain-free dog food option for French Bulldogs in 2024. This high-quality, grain-free food is rich in protein and contains healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals that are essential for your Frenchie’s well-being.
Customers have reported that their dogs enjoy the flavor of Wellness Core Grain-Free Kibble and have maintained a healthy coat when consuming this food. By choosing a grain-free dog food option for your French Bulldog, you can support their overall health while accommodating their dietary needs.
What Buyers Say…
“I recently switched to this brand because of the great reviews and quality of ingredients.”
Read more buyer reviews here…
Best Dog Food Topper – For Fussy Frenchies
Let’s face it Frenchies can be fussy eaters, they will either eat everything in sight or completely turn their nose up at it! I was looking for something to add some flavor to Louis‘ kibble and decided to try Applaws Taste Toppers and he loved them.
Although they’re not the cheapest meal option, they are perfect to liven up your dog’s kibble simply top it, stir it, mix it, and watch them gobble it down. They come in a wide variety of flavors and are packed with lots of nutrition. Our dogs do deserve the best!
What I personally love about them is, they are perfect for when you’re adding supplements to your dog’s diet to take away the powdery taste, Louis doesn’t even notice they’ve been added in with a taste topper.
I would 100% recommend Applaws Taste Toppers to all Frenchie parents and their Frenchies.
Tips for Transitioning Your French Bulldog to a New Dog Food
Transitioning your French Bulldog to a new dog food can be a delicate process, as abrupt changes in diet can cause digestive issues or tummy trouble. Gradually introducing the new food over a period of 7-10 days can help avoid these problems. Start by mixing your dog’s current food with the new food, gradually decreasing the amount of the current food while increasing the amount of new food.
It is essential to observe your French Bulldog’s response to the new food. If your dog experiences any digestive issues or stomach discomfort, consult your veterinarian for advice.
By following these tips, you can help ensure a smooth transition to a new dog food that will support your Frenchie’s health and well-being.
Human Foods to Avoid and Safe Alternatives for French Bulldogs
While it may be tempting to share your favorite human foods with your French Bulldog, some human foods can be harmful to your Frenchie’s health. Foods to avoid include chocolate, coffee, tea, grapes, and raisins.
Instead, consider offering your Frenchie safe and healthy alternatives such as oatmeal, sweet potatoes, brown rice, fish, chicken, vegetables (carrots, green beans, broccoli), and fruits (apples, bananas, blueberries).
It is always a good idea to consult your veterinarian if you are uncertain about what foods are appropriate for your French Bulldog. By providing your Frenchie with safe and healthy food alternatives, you can promote their overall health and well-being.
Homemade Dog Food Options for French Bulldogs
While commercially manufactured foods are generally recommended for French Bulldogs, some owners may prefer to prepare homemade dog food for their pets. Suitable ingredients for homemade dog food for French Bulldogs include cooked lean meats, cooked eggs, cooked vegetables, cooked grains, and healthy fats.
If you choose to prepare homemade dog food for your French Bulldog, it is essential to ensure that the diet provides the necessary nutrients to support their health and well-being. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on creating a balanced and nutritious homemade diet for your Frenchie.
Summary
In conclusion, selecting the best dog food for your Frenchie is an essential part of supporting their overall health and well-being. By understanding their unique nutritional needs, choosing high-quality ingredients, and providing a diet tailored to their age, weight, and activity level, you can ensure your Frenchie thrives.
Whether you opt for commercial dog food or decide to prepare a homemade diet, always consult your veterinarian for guidance and monitor your Frenchie’s response to their food. With the right nutrition, your Frenchie will enjoy a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Frenchies allergic to?
French can suffer from environmental allergies such as dust mites, pollens, molds, and grass as well as food allergies such as corn, soy, beef, and dairy products. Allergens like these can cause discomfort and health problems for Frenchies, so it’s important to be aware of what they might be allergic to.
Taking steps to reduce exposure to allergens can help keep your Frenchie healthy and comfortable. This could include things like keeping the house clean, using air purifiers, and avoiding areas with high pollen.
What should I feed my French Bulldog puppy?
As the owner of a French Bulldog puppy, it is important to ensure your pup is getting the right nutrients. Feed them high-quality, nutritionally complete puppy food and, if desired, lean raw meat to provide them with the balanced diet they need.
Is dry food better for French Bulldogs?
Dry food can be a suitable option for French Bulldogs, as it provides a balanced and complete diet that meets their nutritional needs. Dry food is convenient, easy to store, and can help maintain your French Bulldog’s dental health by promoting chewing and reducing plaque buildup.
However, every Frenchie is different, so it’s essential to consider your French Bulldog’s individual preferences and dietary requirements when choosing their food.
Some French Bulldogs may have specific dietary sensitivities or preferences for wet or raw food, so it’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your Frenchie.
What food can Frenchies not eat?
French Bulldogs, like many other dog breeds, should not eat certain foods that could be harmful to their health.
Some foods that Frenchies should avoid include:
1. Chocolate: Contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs.
2. Grapes and raisins: Can cause kidney failure in dogs.
3. Onions and garlic: These can cause damage to a dog’s red blood cells.
4. Avocado: Contains persin, which can be toxic to dogs.
5. Alcohol: Even small amounts can be dangerous for dogs.
6. Xylitol: A sugar substitute found in many products like gum and candy, which is toxic to dogs.
Are there any brands that specialize in food for French Bulldogs?
Yes, there are brands that specialize in food for French Bulldogs. Some popular brands that offer specialized food for French Bulldogs include Royal Canin & Purina.
These brands offer specific formulas tailored to the nutritional needs of French Bulldogs, taking into account their unique dietary requirements and potential health concerns.
It’s important to choose a high-quality food specifically designed for French Bulldogs to ensure they receive the proper nutrition for their overall health and well-being.
Veterinary advice reviewed by Dr. Majid Tanveer (Licensed Veterinarian & Doctor of Veterinary Medicine)
31 May · Episode 2
EP#02 The Best Dog Food for French Bulldogs in 2023 – Reviews & Expert Advice
14 Min, 34 Sec · By Top Frenchie
In this episode, we’ll explore the unique nutritional needs of Frenchies, top ingredients to look for in dog food, potential allergies and sensitivities, feeding guidelines, and our top picks for the best dog foods for French Bulldogs in 2023.
