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The French Bulldog is known for its tiny stature, huge personality, and bat-like ears. They’re massively popular in the UK, with registrations going up from 1,521 in 2009 to 33,661 in 2019, according to the Kennel Club.
Whether you’re adopting or shopping (and we always suggest you look into adopting first), you will be reaching deep into your wallet. You can expect to pay £200 – £1000 when adopting a French Bulldog or £3100 – £4700 when buying one from a reputable breeder.
What Factors Affect How Much You’ll Spend?
Whatever type of dog parent you are, experienced or new, there might be expenses you’re not factoring in. You’re probably aware of the primary costs like the price of the dog, the insurance, and the dog bed. But what about all the extras? Do you go on holiday every year? Where will your new Frenchie stay when you do? Then there’s grooming, the health problems associated with the breed that could affect your insurance premium, and much more.
To make your life easier, we’ve gone through every possible expense you might incur. This is an estimate, but it’s a reasonable estimate to figure out if a French Bulldog is suitable for your family!
Bringing Home a New French Bulldog: One-Time Costs
Although purchasing a French Bulldog is a one-time cost, it doesn’t mean it won’t make you wince when you see the price. Since the breed is in high demand, you have to research your options carefully to find breeders who charge reasonable rates.
Free
You could end up adopting a Frenchie in an unusual way, like a friend gifting you the dog or giving it away because they cannot care for it. While you can avoid the purchase cost, you’ll still need to pay for an initial veterinary exam and vaccinations.
In a perfect world, everyone treats their pets the way we treat ours, but that isn’t always the case. If you adopt a dog you suspect has been abused or neglected, caring for them as they heal from their past trauma can be costly in vet and behaviorist bills.
Adoption
There are countless websites where you can find dogs waiting to find their forever homes. French Bulldogs are pricey, and the younger you get them, the more expensive they will be.
Adopting will always be less expensive than buying from a breeder, but make sure you use a reputable website to avoid scams. Websites like the RSPCA and Dogs Trust are safe, but if you opt for another, check reviews online to ensure you aren’t scammed out of money or sold a stolen or unwell dog.
Breeder
It’s so important when purchasing a dog that you look for a reputable breeder because, unfortunately, some people are more concerned with profits than the welfare of their dogs. Dogs bred to bad breeders (sometimes called puppy farms) often have medical and behavioral problems. Research your potential breeders carefully before jumping into a purchase. You can visit The Kennel Club to check breeders in your local area.
Initial Setup and Supplies
We’ve made a list of some of the items you’ll need before you collect your new family member:
List of French Bulldog Care Supplies and Costs
Frenchie care extends beyond the one-time costs and items that might only cost you a few pounds. Teeth cleaning, for example, is usually considered to be cosmetic and generally isn’t covered by insurance. When you’re contemplating getting a dog, you’ll have to factor in large payments that you may only pay once or a handful of times in your pet’s life. But they are expensive and worth noting. Here are a few examples:
| Spay/Neuter | £130 – £365 |
| X-Ray Cost (Plus Sedation) | £339 |
| Ultrasound Cost | £75 – £339 |
| Microchip | £8 – £30 |
| Teeth Cleaning | £149 – £500+ |
How Much Does a French Bulldog Cost per Month?
Each month you’ll be spending money on supplies like food, puppy pads, poop bags, and treats. If you decide to invest in training, it is an additional cost, as is potentially replacing anything they destroy if you don’t choose to train. The dog’s little teeth are sharp, and furniture doesn’t always survive a puppy! Then there’s insurance, vet visits, and grooming supplies. Frenchies also need wrinkle wipes because their skin is susceptible to infections.
Health Care
Looking after the general health of your Bulldog includes items like dog shampoo, toothpaste and a toothbrush (specifically for dogs), and poop bags. The health of a dog isn’t just about vet visits and diet. It’s about your dog feeling loved and their overall health and well-being. Exercise is crucial, as is dental health and having a clean coat, and you’ll need to factor in those monthly costs that allow you to care for your dog’s varying needs.
Food
Thankfully, French Bulldogs are a small breed, and you won’t spend as much on food as you would with a large breed. An average adult Frenchie requires about 550 – 600 calories per day. If they are particularly active, you’re looking at 750 – 825 calories daily.
You can purchase commercial food for your dog, a specialized diet for an allergy, or an expensive subscription service. However, you don’t always have to choose the most expensive option to get the best for your Frenchie.
Unfortunately, their small size makes it easier for a French Bulldog to become under or overweight. Some Frenchies can be hyperactive, while others are couch potatoes, and you must feed them a diet that will fit their needs. If you’re unsure about their diet or weight, ask your vet for advice.
Grooming
French Bulldogs have very short coats and don’t need professional grooming like many breeds. However, grooming is much more than just looking after their fur length. French Bulldogs also need:
Medications and Vet Visits
Puppies need vaccinations, and the cost will vary depending on the area you live in, but the approximate cost of your puppy’s first vaccination series is around £40 – £70. Vaccinations are also an example of a health care cost not covered by insurance.
According to The Association of British Insurers, the average pet insurance claim is over £700. Even a procedure that seems standard can be more than an owner expects it to be. The average claim for a wound is £371, but this varies depending on the size of the injury and the vet you’re registered with.
Pet Insurance
For a Lifetime policy with £2,000 to £5,000 of vet coverage, you’re looking at an average cost of £65. It’s your choice as an owner if you want to get insurance, but it is undoubtedly helpful when something goes wrong.
French Bulldogs are prone to health problems like respiratory system disorders, thanks to their squashed faces. They can also suffer from dental issues and some eye, skin, skeletal, and ear problems. Some insurance companies will increase your premium the following year if your dog has been sick or expect a co-payment when your dog ages, even if you have never filed a claim.
Although insurance may seem pricey, the monthly payments are small compared to what you may end up paying in the future. If your pup has a chronic health issue, you’re potentially looking at thousands of pounds worth of treatment.
Environment Maintenance
When it comes to necessary monthly costs, they can be expensive when they all add up. Dogs have accidents, and it might be wise to invest in an odor eliminator for your rugs and furniture.
| Treats | £4/month |
| Flea/Worming Treatment | £20 – £40/month |
| Dog Walker (Optional) | £10/walk |
| Odor Eliminator | £10/bottle |
Entertainment
Replacement toys are affordable, and you can buy safe, durable toys online or at stores like Pets At Home. If you want to get something special for your new puppy, you can order monthly subscriptions for treats and toy boxes. For a monthly payment, you’re looking at £24.50, £67.50 every 3 months, or £130.50 every 6 months.
Total Monthly Cost of Owning a French Bulldog
Your new pet will rely on you for everything, and you need to take care of every aspect of their mental and physical well-being. This comes in the form of going for walks, playing games in the yard, and gently cleaning their cute face wrinkles, so they don’t get a skin infection.
Additional Costs to Factor In
If you like to go on holiday, you’ll need to consider where your dog will stay. A good kennel will cost about £120 a week or £225 a fortnight. If your Frenchie comes with you, you’ll need vaccinations and a pet passport ranging from £125 – £340.
If your dog doesn’t like being alone for long periods, you can hire a dog sitter. Rates vary from £30 – £60 per hour per dog, depending on where you live.
You might want to invest in training, which varies in price based on group classes or private sessions. For group sessions, you’re looking at £45 – £70, and private sessions are £65 – £90 per session.
Owning a French Bulldog on a Budget
It may feel like you can’t own a French Bulldog unless you’re one of the super-rich. It’s possible to keep your costs low and still do your best for your Frenchie.
It’s always best to work out all the potential costs and plan accordingly. In terms of food, ask experienced pet parent friends or your vet for advice. Once you have your initial supplies like the bed, leash and collar, and car seatbelt, you can simultaneously entertain your dog and keep them healthy!
Saving Money on French Bulldog Care
There are always ways to save money when looking after a dog, so don’t be discouraged. Local, up-cycling groups are an excellent place to start. You can find blankets, beds, and even puppy pads someone’s dog has outgrown.
In terms of vet visits that aren’t covered by insurance, or if you decide not to take out insurance, discuss payment plans with your vet. You’ll also find vet charges differ depending on the vet, so shop around and leave if you find yours is a bit too steep for you. Charities in your local area can also help. Dogs Trust offers free and reduced-cost vet assistance, and even the RSCPA can help through their local branches.
There are also websites that instruct you how to make pet equipment if you’re handy with tools. You could make a dog bed or your own dog treats. If you’re planning a trip, ask a family member or a friend to look after your Frenchie.
Conclusion
The cost of a French Bulldog can be split into one-off and monthly payments. Purchasing an expensive breed can be overwhelming; the costs are high, like the initial setup and supplies and, of course, the dog itself. If you shop secondhand and adopt your pet, your initial costs are already lowered. Of course, you can’t anticipate everything. We suggest you consider all the expenses before bringing a French Bulldog into your home.
Featured Image Credit: Mylene2401, Pixabay
