New Owner FAQs – French Bulldog Puppy Care | BlueHaven French Bulldogs

Question 1

Are there things I need to be particularly careful about with my Frenchie?

Accepted Answer

Yes. French Bulldogs generally cannot swim and should not be left unsupervised around pools, lakes, or other bodies of water. They are also brachycephalic (flat-faced), which makes them sensitive to heat and overexertion. Avoid exercising your Frenchie in hot or humid weather, and never leave them in a hot car. Watch for signs of overheating such as excessive panting or lethargy. For a full list of precautions, visit: https://bluehavenfrenchbulldogs.com/new-owner-faq/are-there-things-i-need-to-be-particularly-careful-about-with-my-frenchie

Question 2

What supplies do I need when I bring my Frenchie puppy home?

Accepted Answer

Before bringing your French Bulldog puppy home, you'll want: a food bowl and water dish large enough to grow into, an appropriately sized crate for kennel training, a collar and leash, puppy-safe toys, enzymatic cleaner for accidents, and the same food your puppy is already eating (PawTree salmon, sweet potato, and pea formula). Switching food abruptly can cause digestive upset, so plan any food transitions gradually. See the full supply list at: https://bluehavenfrenchbulldogs.com/new-owner-faq/in-order-to-be-prepared-when-i-bring-my-frenchie-puppy-home-what-supplies-do-you-suggest-i-get

Question 3

What should I bring to the airport when I pick up my puppy?

Accepted Answer

Bring a leash and collar, as your Frenchie puppy has traveled a long distance and will likely need a bathroom break as soon as you meet them. Also bring water and a small bowl, a blanket or familiar-smelling item for comfort, and any paperwork or ID required by the carrier. Full details at: https://bluehavenfrenchbulldogs.com/new-owner-faq/what-should-i-bring-to-the-airport-when-i-meet-the-carrier-to-pick-up-my-puppy

Question 4

What occurs in the first 9 weeks of my Frenchie's life before I receive them?

Accepted Answer

For the first several weeks, Frenchie puppies sleep approximately 90% of the time and nurse frequently. As they grow, they begin socializing with their littermates and mother, learning bite inhibition and basic behaviors. BlueHaven begins early socialization, vaccinations, and deworming during this period before the puppy is ready to go home at 9 weeks. Learn more: https://bluehavenfrenchbulldogs.com/new-owner-faq/what-occurs-in-the-first-9-weeks-of-my-frenchies-life-before-he-she-is-turned-over-to-me

Question 5

What daily routine is my French Bulldog puppy used to?

Accepted Answer

Your French Bulldog puppy thrives on a consistent schedule of feeding, short exercise periods, play, training, and sleep. Maintaining a predictable routine helps your puppy feel secure, supports faster potty training, and reduces anxiety. Meals are typically given 3 times per day for young puppies. Details at: https://bluehavenfrenchbulldogs.com/new-owner-faq/what-daily-routine-is-my-french-bulldog-puppy-used-to

Question 6

What is the best way to potty train and kennel train my Frenchie puppy?

Accepted Answer

French Bulldogs are generally trainable with consistency and positive reinforcement. Take your puppy outside immediately after waking, after meals, and after play. Use a crate when you cannot supervise them — puppies instinctively avoid soiling their sleeping area. Never punish accidents; instead reward outdoor success immediately with praise or a treat. Kennel training also helps prevent destructive behavior and creates a safe retreat for your Frenchie. Full guide: https://bluehavenfrenchbulldogs.com/new-owner-faq/what-is-the-best-way-to-potty-train-kennel-train-my-frenchie-puppy

Question 7

How often and how much do I feed my Frenchie puppy?

Accepted Answer

When you receive your BlueHaven French Bulldog puppy, they will be accustomed to eating PawTree salmon, sweet potato, and pea formula. Young puppies should be fed 3 times per day. Follow the portion guidelines on the food packaging based on your puppy's current weight and adjust as they grow. Avoid switching foods abruptly to prevent digestive upset. More info: https://bluehavenfrenchbulldogs.com/new-owner-faq/how-often-and-how-much-do-i-feed-my-frenchie-puppy

Question 8

How soon can I take my Frenchie puppy outside or to a dog park?

Accepted Answer

BlueHaven keeps all puppies up to date on DAPP immunizations, including a nasal DAPP with Bordetella at 5 weeks and additional boosters before they go home. However, until your puppy has completed their full vaccination series (typically around 16 weeks), you should avoid dog parks and areas with unknown dogs. Your own yard and low-risk outdoor areas are generally fine. Details: https://bluehavenfrenchbulldogs.com/new-owner-faq/how-soon-can-i-take-my-frenchie-puppy-outside-or-to-a-dog-park

Question 9

How often should I bathe my French Bulldog puppy and what are their grooming needs?

Accepted Answer

French Bulldogs have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming. Bathing every 4–6 weeks is typically sufficient unless they get into something messy. Brush weekly to remove loose hair. Pay special attention to cleaning the skin folds on their face with a damp cloth to prevent moisture buildup and infection. Also trim nails regularly and clean ears as needed. Full grooming guide: https://bluehavenfrenchbulldogs.com/new-owner-faq/how-often-should-i-bathe-my-french-bulldog-puppy-and-what-are-their-grooming-needs

Question 10

What do I need to know about immunizations for my Frenchie puppy?

Accepted Answer

Your BlueHaven Frenchie puppy will be fully up to date on all immunizations, dewormings, and preventive treatments when you receive them. You will need to continue the vaccination schedule with your local vet, typically including DAPP boosters at 12 and 16 weeks, plus rabies at 16 weeks. Ask your vet about ongoing heartworm prevention and flea/tick control as well. More details: https://bluehavenfrenchbulldogs.com/new-owner-faq/what-do-i-need-to-know-about-immunizations-for-my-frenchie-puppy

Question 11

When should I neuter or spay my Frenchie puppy and what are the benefits?

Accepted Answer

Spaying or neutering your French Bulldog can lead to a longer, healthier life with reduced risks for certain cancers and behavioral issues. BlueHaven generally recommends waiting until your Frenchie is at least 6 months old, and consulting with your vet for guidance specific to your puppy's development. Spaying females before their first heat cycle significantly reduces the risk of mammary tumors. Read more: https://bluehavenfrenchbulldogs.com/new-owner-faq/when-should-i-neuter-or-spay-my-frenchie-puppy-and-what-are-the-benefits

Question 12

At what age do French Bulldog puppies' ears stand up straight?

Accepted Answer

French Bulldog puppies are known for their adorable bat ears, but those ears may not stand up right away. Most Frenchie puppies' ears stand erect between 5 and 15 weeks of age. During teething (around 8–15 weeks), ears may temporarily flop again as the body diverts calcium to tooth development — this is normal and they typically stand back up once teething is complete. Details: https://bluehavenfrenchbulldogs.com/new-owner-faq/at-what-age-do-french-bulldog-puppies-ears-stand-up-straight

Question 13

What guarantee does my puppy have and what papers will come with them?

Accepted Answer

When you receive your BlueHaven puppy, you will be given a full packet of paperwork including health records, vaccination history, and your health guarantee documentation. Out-of-state buyers who receive their puppy via a carrier will have all paperwork included or shipped separately. BlueHaven stands behind the health of their puppies — review the full guarantee terms at: https://bluehavenfrenchbulldogs.com/new-owner-faq/what-guarantee-does-my-puppy-have-and-what-papers-will-come-with-him-her

Question 14

What is the difference between limited AKC registration and full AKC registration?

Accepted Answer

Limited AKC registration means the dog is recognized as a purebred French Bulldog but offspring from that dog cannot be registered with the AKC. Full AKC registration allows the dog's offspring to be registered. Puppies are eligible for AKC registration when both parents are of the same AKC-recognized breed and hold full AKC registration. Most pet-only buyers receive limited registration. Learn more: https://bluehavenfrenchbulldogs.com/new-owner-faq/what-is-the-difference-between-limited-akc-registration-and-full-akc-registration

Question 15

My French Bulldog puppy is throwing up fairly often. What should I do?

Accepted Answer

Occasional vomiting is common across all dog breeds, including Frenchies. It can result from eating too fast, a food transition, stress from a new environment, or minor digestive upset. If vomiting is frequent, contains blood, or is accompanied by lethargy or diarrhea, contact your vet promptly. BlueHaven recommends monitoring closely and consulting your vet if symptoms persist. More guidance: https://bluehavenfrenchbulldogs.com/new-owner-faq/my-puppy-is-throwing-up-fairly-often

Question 16

My French Bulldog puppy is eating poop. What do I do?

Accepted Answer

Coprophagia (eating feces) is a behavior seen in many dog breeds, including Frenchies, and is more common in puppies. It can be caused by nutritional deficiencies, boredom, or learned behavior. Fortunately, most puppies grow out of it. Strategies include prompt cleanup after elimination, dietary supplements designed to deter the behavior, and ensuring your puppy is getting enough enrichment and nutrients. Full advice: https://bluehavenfrenchbulldogs.com/new-owner-faq/my-puppy-is-eating-poop-what-do-i-do

Question 17

What if my French Bulldog puppy has a very loose stool, possibly with blood or mucus in it?

Accepted Answer

Loose stool is a common issue for French Bulldog puppies, especially during the transition to a new home. Stress, diet changes, or mild infections can cause soft stool or brief episodes with small amounts of blood or mucus. While this can seem alarming, it is often treatable. However, if stool is consistently watery, contains significant blood, or your puppy seems lethargic, contact your vet immediately. More info: https://bluehavenfrenchbulldogs.com/new-owner-faq/what-if-my-puppy-has-a-very-loose-stool-possibly-with-blood-or-mucus-in-it

Question 18

Are any physical alterations done to French Bulldog puppies?

Accepted Answer

No. BlueHaven does not perform any alterations on their French Bulldog puppies. Their tails are naturally short — appearing as a stub, corkscrew, or combination — and are never docked. No cropping, docking, or other surgical modifications are done. What you see is the natural Frenchie. More: https://bluehavenfrenchbulldogs.com/new-owner-faq/are-any-alterations-done-to-french-bulldog-puppies

Are there things I need to be particularly careful about with my Frenchie?

In order to be prepared when I bring my Frenchie puppy home, what supplies do you suggest I get?

What should I bring to the airport when I meet the carrier to pick up my puppy?

What occurs in the first 9 weeks of my Frenchie’s life before he/she is turned over to me?