If you are in a hurry and just want to find out what is the best dog food for French Bulldogs, then we recommend the Wellness Core Dry Dog Food as the best one.
Frenchies are one of the cutest breeds with their unique look and playful personalities. This small breed is very adaptable, however, they require a high-quality diet to get them through.
Since they are mostly lounging dogs with some light exercise, they require the right balance for their food. I compiled the best dog food for french bulldogs for this reason.
In this article, we’re going to review the following French Bulldogs Foods:
- Nulo Adult Grain Free Dog Food
- Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Food for Small Breeds
- Hill’s Science Diet for Sensitive Stomach and Skin – Small Breeds
- Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diets Small Breed
- Wellness Simple Natural Limited Ingredient Small Breed
- Solid Gold Wee Bit Holistic Dry Dog Food
- Purina Pro Plan Savor Weight Management Adult Dry Dog Food
- Nutro Ultra Weight Management Adult Dry Dog Food
- AvoDerm Natural Health Solutions for Senior Health
- Merrick Lil Plates Grain-Free Small Breed Recipe
- Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Small Breed Dog Food
- Wellness Core Natural Grain-Free Dry Dog Food Small Breed
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Best Dog Food for French Bulldogs
Here is a compiled list of the top dog foods for French Bulldogs. They are not in any specific order and are a blend of foods for puppies to seniors.
#1 Nulo Adult Grain Free Dog Food
Nulo brings a grain-free and natural diet to your Frenchie meant to keep them happy and healthy at a healthy weight. There are no additives or fillers that they could be allergic to, meaning sensitive stomachs will be thankful.
It also features Omega-3s and Omega-6s to benefit their skin and coat. Not to mention they make it in three different flavors for even the pickiest French Bulldog.
It also has a healthy amount of protein all from animal sources instead of plant-based.
While it is for any size breed, it does work for French Bulldogs since it has smaller bite-size kibble which is easier for them to enjoy and eat.
Pros:
- Small bite-sized kibble for any breeds
- No additives or artificial coloring
- No allergens such as corn, wheat, soy
- No fillers or meat substitutes
- Great for sensitive stomachs
- Resealable bag
Cons:
- Very picky eaters may not like it
- Higher Calorie count at 441 calories a cup
#2 Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Small Breed Dog Food Small Breed Turkey & Oatmeal
Wellness Complete Health is a natural dog food with a specific small breed formula. They use quality natural ingredients with a great blend of vitamins and minerals for a healthy pup. It comes will smaller kibble so your Frenchie can chew it easily without much struggle.
It also has a lower calorie intake so it will be easier to manage weight. I can’t forget that it is packed with fruits and veggies that support your French Bulldog’s digestive system and cellular health.
It even comes with a healthy amount of fat and Omega-3s and Omega-6s for healthy skin and coat. Though it does come with some allergens that may pose an issue, overall it is a great choice for your pup.
Pros:
- Smaller kibble for smaller mouths
- Filled with fruits and vegetables
- Lower calorie intake per serving
- Helps with even the worst of breath
Cons:
- Not a great option to buy from online retailers
- Has allergens such as chicken
- No resealable bag
#3 Hill’s Science Diet for Sensitive Stomach and Skin-Small Breeds
Hill’s Science Diet is always known for their quality. This formula is made from chicken and barley meant for small or toy breeds. For extra fiber, instead of cheap fillers, it contains beet pulp. It also has a great blend of antioxidants, Vitamins C and E, as well as fatty acids for a healthy immune system.
While this formula is meant for sensitive stomachs and sensitive skin, it is an overall good option for a French Bulldog who is prone to allergies.
It is also made for easy digestion with no fillers or artificial colors and flavoring. This brand is often seen in vet offices so it is well known for being a great option for your pups.
It is also filled with quality fruits and veggies for a balanced meal every time.
Pros:
- No artificial colors or flavors
- Helps with digestion and easier poops
- Smaller bites for smaller mouths
Cons:
- Allergens such as chicken
- The first ingredient isn’t meat
- Doesn’t help for gassy pups
#4 Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diets Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Formula Dry Dog Food for Small Breeds
Natural Balance is highly digestible thanks to its limited ingredients formula. What ingredients it has are more than quality such as lamb and brown rice.
For rich fiber, it even has sweet potatoes. With no artificial flavors, colors, or even preservatives, you know your dog is getting more quality food. Not to mention it is designed to help support cleaner teeth and healthy gums.
This formula is also made just for smaller breeds, meaning the kibble is small and perfect for any French Bulldog. It is higher in protein and fat, so it would be wise to watch how much you are feeding your French Bulldog.
Though it also comes with a good ratio of calcium and phosphorus for strong and healthy bones.
Pros:
- Lower calories at only 336 calories a cup
- Good ratio of calcium and phosphorus
- Smaller kibble for small mouths
- No artificial ingredients
Cons:
- Doesn’t have a lot of fruits and vegetables
- Higher in protein and fat
#5 Wellness Simple Natural Dry Dog Food with Salmon & Potato
Wellness Natural is a great choice for the allergen-prone French Bulldogs, especially with this limited ingredient formula. This formula helps narrow down any allergies to keep away from nasty reactions. It is both gluten-free and only has one fiber source.
There are also different flavors to choose from such as salmon and potato, lamb and oatmeal, duck and oatmeal, turkey and potato, or even salmon and peas. Even for the pickiest eater, there is bound to be something they enjoy from one of those flavors.
Since it is limited ingredients, this also makes it extremely digestible and easy on your pup’s stomach. There is also a proper balance of protein and fat with lower calorie intake, making it perfect for smaller breeds.
The kibble is also made perfectly small for a French bulldog to be able to enjoy.
Pros:
- Limited ingredients for allergy-prone dogs
- Smaller kibble for small mouths
- Tons of flavors to choose from
- Easily digestible
Cons:
- The kibble is really crunchy for any pup with weaker teeth
- Can cause some bad breath
#6 Solid Gold Wee Bit Holistic Dry Dog Food
Solid Gold is a quality and holistic dog food with natural ingredients. While it isn’t grain-free it does feature only quality grains. It features an amazing balanced blend of protein, fat, and fiber. Combine that with the prebiotics and probiotics packed in, you get a healthy gut for your Frenchie.
It is also filled with fruits and vegetables such as pumpkin, carrots, blueberries, broccoli, and more. The main source of protein is actually Bison, known to be less of an allergen to most dogs.
Plus it is sustainably sourced from North America, Europe, and even Australia so your dog is getting the highest quality out there. Throw all that in with egg protein and ocean fish meal, and your French Bulldog will have a great balanced and nutritional meal.
Bonus the kibble is made tiny so even toy breeds can chew it easily, so your Frenchie should have no issue.
Pros:
- A rich diet packed with fruits and veggies
- Probiotics and prebiotics
- Well balanced with protein, fat, and fiber
Cons:
- It does contain chicken fat which is a known allergen
- High-fat content
#7 Purina Pro Plan Savor Weight Management
Adult Dry Dog Food
Purina Pro Plan Savor is made with quality proteins like real chicken as the very first ingredient. The food also gives your Frenchie a variety with crunchy kibble bits and meaty pieces to chew on. There are natural probiotics as well blended in the form of wheat bran. It definitely helps your French Bulldog’s GI tract and digestive system.
Add this with a balance of rice and vitamins and minerals, and your Frenchie is getting a quality rounded diet with proper nutrition. Plus with the low fat and fiber content, it is great to keep good weight on your dog for a long time to come.
Plus it has a lower calorie count per cup so you won’t have to worry about overfeeding your pup either.
Pros:
- Only 334 calories per cup
- Helps manage weight easily
- Keeps your pup at a high energy level
- Smaller kibble for small mouths
- Helps to make coat shiny and skin healthy.
Cons:
- There are quite a few fillers in it
- Unable to seal the bag
- It does have chicken which is the main allergen in dogs
#8 Nutro Ultra Weight management Adult Dry Dog Food
Nutro Ultra Weight Management is made just for overweight dogs or just to help maintain your Frenchie’s weight. It has three quality sources of protein as well; chicken, lamb, and salmon. Add those proteins with the 15 superfoods – chia, kale, coconut, blueberries, and more – and you will have a well-balanced kibble for your French Bulldog to chow down on.
Also, they keep out those nasty by-product meals and fillers as well as artificial flavors, color, or even preservatives.
Another great thing about this food is there are different formulas meant for different age developments so you can feed your puppy to senior Frenchie this food. This kibble is also a decent size just for your pup.
Pros:
- Helps with weight management
- Great for skin issues
- Keeps digestive system happy with fewer fillers
- Average size kibble.
Cons:
- Not all picky pups enjoy this formula
- Online retailers may not have the best quality
- Can be a bit expensive for the size of the bag
#9 AvoDerm Natural Weight Management Dry Dog Food
AvoDerm Natural Health is perfect if you have a senior Frenchie with some joint issues or just to maintain weight. It is not just reduced in fat, it also has a lower calorie count for the lesser active seniors. Though the blend does help get a bit more pep in your pup’s step. Add that with all-natural ingredients and no corn, wheat, or soy, you get a well-balanced nutritional diet for your dog.
It has quality ingredients such as Californian avocados meant for healthy skin and coat. With essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, your French Bulldog will be able to maintain a healthy immune system to prolong their life. It is even low in fat and fiber so your Frenchie’s digestive system will definitely be thankful.
Pros:
- Helps to keep that ‘dog breath’ at bay
- Keeps inactive dogs maintain weight
- Helps with a healthy soft coat
- Great for senior dogs that need a better diet.
Cons:
- Online retailers vary in quality control
- Not all dogs react well to the formula
#10 Merrick Lil plates Grain-Free Small Breed Recipe
Merrick is a brand that has become known for their natural ingredients without fillings. So there formula for smaller breeds is great to see. It comes with quality deboned chicken for the protein, allowing all the essential fats and amino acids to remain instead of being scrapped or worse, replaced by by-product.
It is also locally sourced so it is the freshest it can be before being cooked into the kibble. This option is also grain and gluten-free so your French Bulldog will have an easier time digesting without having too many allergic reactions.
They scrapped the artificial colors, preservatives, and flavorings and instead packed a great blend of probiotic and prebiotic fiber, omega fatty acids, and tons of vitamins and minerals.
Another awesome thing about this formula is that in the bag, they add a perfect serving plate so you always know just the right amount to give your Frenchie.
Pros:
- No artificial colors, flavorings, or preservatives
- Ingredients are locally sourced
- Gluten and wheat free
- Single serving tray.
Cons:
- Contains chicken which is a known allergy in dogs
- It can be a bit more on the expensive side than other brands
#11 Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Small Breed Dog Food
Blue Buffalo Life Protection is made for smaller breeds just like your French Bulldog. With probiotic organisms, it promotes a very healthy gut. It also has real meat for high-quality protein such as deboned whitefish that helps maintain muscle. Blend that with wholesome grains and a good variety of fruit and veggies, you got a good palate for your little one.
I can’t forget the amazing ratio at 4:1 of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. It also has a higher fiber content that keeps gas down and bowel movements regular.
Also with how few calories there are per cup, it will keep your Frenchie from becoming overweight on this food as long as the instructions are followed. The kibble is also made with little bits filled with vitamins and minerals for a great nutritional balance.
Pros:
- 4:1 omega-6 and omega-3 ratio
- Real meat used as the protein
- No poultry products of any kind
- No corn, wheat, or soy
- No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Cons:
- The fish smell can be a bit overwhelming
- Some dogs may still have an allergic reaction
#12 Wellness Core Natural Grain-Free Dry Dog Food Small Breed
Wellness Core is a great food for puppy and adult French Bulldogs. This formula is protein-focused with a higher content that is great for younger Frenchies and their muscles. With deboned turkey and salmon oil, your pup also gets the essential EPA and DHA for brain development.
For adults, it can help strengthen bones and joints with the nutraceuticals packed into it. It even has chondroitin and glucosamine to help fight hip dysplasia in your Frenchie from an early age. Add all that and throw in some gut-friendly probiotics and your Frenchie will have a very nutritional diet from puppy age to senior.
Plus they scrapped out the wheat, corn, soy, meat by-products, artificial colors, and flavors, as well as preservatives for a more natural meal.
It also has a smaller kibble size for easier chewing for your Frenchie.
Pros:
- Small kibble for small mouths
- Contains chondroitin and glucosamine for joint health
- Has EPA and DHA for brain development
- No corn, wheat, soy, or meat by-products
- No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
Cons:
- Online retailers vary in quality control
- Picky eaters may not enjoy it
- Not resealable
Diet for French Bulldogs
French bulldogs are a smaller breed with a compact and heavy build. They are also short-nosed, which poses a risk if they become overweight.
Yet based on their age and health, they could eat anywhere from two to four meals a day. So for your Frenchie, take time to measure out what they eat and never free feed.
What Should Be in Your French
Bulldog’s Food?
While every dog breed requires a different blend of ingredients, French bulldogs should be eating a healthy balance of these ingredients;
Meat Proteins or Meat Meals
When looking at the ingredients in your dog’s food, a protein such as chicken, beef, fish, or lamb should be the first thing on the list. Meat meals are also adequate for your Frenchie.
Just make sure to have at least 22 percent content for puppies and an 18 percent content for full-grown dogs.
Read To Learn: What is a good source of protein for dogs?
Lower Calorie Count
Since French Bulldogs are a lesser active breed, make sure that the calorie intake for the food is low. If it has a higher calorie intake, it can pose a risk for your Frenchie to become overweight.
They only need around 550 to 600 calories per day on average. However, if you happen to have a more active pup, aim for 750 to 825 calories.
Lower Fat Content
French bulldogs should be getting around 8 percent fat for puppies and 5 percent fat for adults.
Look for these healthy fats: chicken fat, canola oil, and flaxseed.
Omega-3’s
Omega-3’s can help keep your French bulldog’s skin and coat healthy and pristine. Always make sure that any brand of food you decide on has omega-3’s in the ingredients.
DHA
DHA is a specific omega-3 you should keep an eye out for. It is a great support for both brain and eye development with your pup.
Low Carbs
Carbs are especially important for your French bulldog’s health. They keep their blood sugar regular at all times.
Though make sure to go for a food lower in carbs with such low-glycemic options as sweet potatoes.
Proper Calcium to Phosphorus Ratio
With French bulldogs having heavy bone structure, having a good blend of calcium and phosphorus can keep your pup from having orthopedic problems.
Make sure there is at least 1.2 parts calcium to every 1 part phosphorus in their food.
Nutraceuticals for Health
Nutraceuticals such as prebiotics and probiotics help keep the development of GI issues low.
Also, glucosamine and chondroitin help lower the risk of hip dysplasia and even patellar luxation.
Vitamins and Minerals
Just as we need them, your Frenchie requires a rich balance of vitamins and minerals for bone and tissue health.
As said above, they need a good ratio of calcium and phosphorus for bone health.
Though they should also have a blend of zinc, iron, magnesium, folate, B vitamins, potassium, vitamins A and C, and many others that are required.
Read: 20 Dog Food Recipes With Chicken
Standard Requirements for Age Groups
While each French bulldog varies in size and activity level, your pup should be getting an ideal amount per stage of life. From puppy to senior, I will be putting together the right amount to give your Frenchie.
Puppy
Puppies are known for needing more in order to grow up healthy. A French Bulldog puppy can weigh up to 12 pounds and should consume roughly 500 calories a day.
Make sure to split this into around 3 to four meals a day to keep them full.
Adult
Once your French bulldog has reached their growth potential and doesn’t seem to be growing much more, their diet should change.
From around 25 pounds, they should be consuming on average 780 calories a day.
Senior
When your Frenchie starts to age and become more lap dog and far less active, it is best to switch to a new blend of food.
Something high in protein and low in calories will keep them the perfect weight and keep their muscles strong.
What to Consider When Buying Food for your Frenchie
With how stocky and hyper a French bulldog can be, they need specific requirements to keep them happy and healthy.
Here are some things to keep in mind when shopping for the right dog food for them;
Weight Management
French bulldogs can easily become overweight, which can cause quite a problem for their little bodies. They should never exceed the maximum weight of around 28 pounds which even then is pushing it on the scale.
Looking for food that helps with weight control is a must when shopping for the right food.
Related: Best Dog Food To Gain Weight And Muscle
Calorie Intake
As I mentioned above, French bulldogs require a specific amount to keep themselves going and at a stable weight. While every pup is different, the average for an adult Frenchie should not exceed 780 calories on average a day.
However, always consult your vet as to how much your dog should have based on their age and health.
Activity Level
Even though French Bulldogs are a very playful and sometimes hyper breed, they are not as active as hounds or Labradors. They quickly tire out due to their short noses limiting their breathing.
While they need daily walks like every other dog, they should not have really excessive exercise for long periods.
Because of this, make sure to get a food with a good blend of carbs, protein, fats, and calories to keep them happy and healthy.
Age Grouping
If your Frenchie is still a puppy and is growing, make sure to give them puppy formulas instead of what you would give an adult.
The same goes for other stages of life such as lactating, pregnant, or senior dogs. Always ask your vet if you are unsure.
Type of Food
While the standard is the kibble for most breeds, consider the options of wet food brands or even dehydrated or frozen foods.
Each comes with their own benefits you may want for your specific pup.
Healthy Habits for Meal Time
It is always best to build good habits with your French bulldog, especially around mealtime.
Not only does this make eating fun, but it also keeps their digestive system happy as well.
Lengthening Meal Time
Stretching out meals can make their energy last and keep their stomachs happy. If you have a pup that barely chews their food when eating, introduce something to slow them down such as a puzzle bowl or a slower feeder.
Dental Health Kibble
Getting kibble that benefits your Frenchie’s teeth is a great benefit.
Since they are known for dental issues, keeping on top of it with food that can keep their teeth clean is a great bonus.
Portion Control
While those puppy eyes may be demanding more food all the time, it is important to keep their portions regular. Giving in and giving your French bulldog too much can quickly lead to obesity.
So keep the diet strict and between-meal snacks to a minimum.
Concerns to Watch For
There are always things to watch out for that may pose a risk for your French Bulldog’s health.
Here are some answers to questions you may have;
Fast Eaters
If your Frenchie eats far too fast and barely even chews their food, there is a way to slow them down.
Try getting a puzzle feeder or a slow feeding bowl. However, a good tennis ball or two in their food can do just as well.
Overfeeding
If you start by feeding your Frenchie too much, it can quickly become detrimental to their health as they become overweight. It damages their body and even shortens their lives by a considerable amount.
Always follow feeding instructions on the bag.
How The Smaller Jaw Affects Their Eating
Since French Bulldogs have smaller mouths and a shorter muzzle, eating is quite different with them. With many Frenchies having an underbite and flatter faces, it can make chewing difficult.
Going for a smaller curved kibble can make eating more enjoyable and easy for them.
French Bulldog Health Concerns and Supplements
Like most dogs, Frenchies are also prone to food-related and other health issues that could become bad really fast.
Here are some you may want to keep an eye out for;
Food Allergies
Food allergies are common in dogs, however, French Bulldogs are very susceptible to them. Things to avoid that are the most common allergens are beef, corn, cheese, milk, or any dairy products.
They could also be allergic to chicken, lamb, soy, or fish. If you notice any scratching, vomiting, licking more often, or dry red spots; it may be time to change your Frenchie’s food.
Farting Excessively
If your French bulldog is extremely gassy, it is most likely from low-quality fillers in their food.
Changing to a more premium ingredient food will make their digestive system and your nose thank you!
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid has issues releasing hormones into a Bulldog’s system. It can quickly cause your Frenchie to become overweight.
The best way to keep up with it is a rich protein diet with less simple carbs.
Hip Dysplasia
Most often a hereditary condition, hip dysplasia can be very painful for your Frenchie. Though with the right amount of glucosamine and chondroitin in their food, you may be able to combat it ahead of time.
Skin and Ear Problems
French bulldogs are very susceptible to ear infections due to their flatter heads. It can be very painful and chronic. They are also prone to skin allergies that can cause hair loss or infections.
Brachycephalic Syndrome
Brachycephalic syndrome is when dogs with short faces have an irregular upper respiratory system. This causes noisy breathing and even difficulty breathing.
To the lesser extent, a full collapse of the airways.
Patellar Luxation
This disorder makes it hard for French Bulldog’s blood to clot properly as well as bleed for seemingly no reason.
However to compensate for this, get a food rich in folate and irons.
Intervertebral Disc Disease
Since Frenchies are highly playful, they tend to get too excited and can jump from higher places, inevitably causing spinal injury.
Intervertebral disc disease can form from this and could lead to paralysis and pain, sometimes permanent.
Read: How much should I feed my puppy Husky?
FAQ For French Bulldog Food
# When To Feed Your French Bulldog?
It is best to feed your Frenchie morning and night, and sometimes noon if they require an extra meal throughout the day.
# How often should I feed my French Bulldog?
French Bulldogs require around 2 to 3 meals a day or smaller more frequent meals. Never only give your Frenchie one meal a day as it can result indigestion issues.
# How Much Food Should I Feed my French Bulldog?
Always follow the recommended amount on the bag of food. However, with certain age groups or special cases, your dog may need more or less.
Always ask your vet if you are truly unsure.
Popular Read: What Types Of Lobsters Dogs Can Eat?
# What is the Best Dog Food for French Bulldog with Gas?
Foods with higher quality ingredients and little to no fillers can leave your Frenchie with little to no gas.
Your nose will surely thank you.
Conclusion
Out of all the products listed, I believe that Wellness Core shined through the most with the EPA and DHA found in the food. As it is great for both French Bulldog puppies and adults, that makes it much easier to transition during those growing months without any struggle.
It even has chondroitin and glucosamine for joint health, which is needed for all Frenchies alike. It also has the proper protein and fat content needed for French Bulldogs to have a rounded diet.
Compared to the others, it just is more adaptable even though it similar with its quality ingredients.
Further Readings:
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