Puppy Prep
Getting Started
Congratulations on your decision to welcome one of the most adorable and endearing breeds into your family! We’ve poured our hearts into raising a well‑socialized, confident, enrichment‑seeking French Bulldog puppy, and now we’re honored to pass that love on to you.
On this page, you’ll find our favorite products, helpful tips, and trusted articles to support you every step of the way as you prepare for and train your new best friend.
Your pup will come to you with a few essentials including food, but you are more than welcome to change their diet to what suits you; to read more about nutrition and the ins and outs of dry vs raw, please visit our Frenchie Dietary Care page.
Must-Haves
Potty Pad Tray
Our puppies go home trained to use potty pad trays. A disposable potty pad is placed under the grate to prevent puppies from tearing or ingesting the pads, which can lead to dangerous intestinal blockages. We do not use disposable puppy pads alone, as many puppies may confuse bedding or carpet with the cloth pads. In our experience, pupp
Our puppies go home trained to use potty pad trays. A disposable potty pad is placed under the grate to prevent puppies from tearing or ingesting the pads, which can lead to dangerous intestinal blockages. We do not use disposable puppy pads alone, as many puppies may confuse bedding or carpet with the cloth pads. In our experience, puppies trained on potty pad trays tend to have fewer accidents than those trained only on disposable pads.
Once home, keep your potty pad tray near your Frenchie’s primary play area so it is easy and quick to access. As your puppy matures and can comfortably wait longer between potty breaks, you will be able to phase out the tray. Most puppies develop a solid understanding of house training between 4–5 months of age.
Recommended products:
- Firstco Mesh Training Potty Tray, Small Size (20" x 16" x 1")
- Medium Size ("18" x 24" x 1.5")
- Large Size (24" x 24" x 1.5")
For additional guidance, click the link below for important potty training tips from The Humane Society.
Crate
All of our Frenchie puppies go home crate trained. A crate is an invaluable tool for providing structure, a safe resting space, and support with potty training. Keep all crate experiences positive by using praise and treats, and never use the crate as a form of punishment. Your puppy may need frequent potty breaks—approximately every 2 h
All of our Frenchie puppies go home crate trained. A crate is an invaluable tool for providing structure, a safe resting space, and support with potty training. Keep all crate experiences positive by using praise and treats, and never use the crate as a form of punishment. Your puppy may need frequent potty breaks—approximately every 2 hours, including at night.
If you need to leave your puppy for a short period (no more than 3 hours), placing a playpen around the crate can help create a safe, contained area. A helpful routine is to engage your puppy in play to tire them out, then place them in the crate for rest, and immediately CARRY them to the designated potty area afterward. If the puppy walks out on their own, they may relieve themselves right outside the crate.
We recommend a 30" crate, which provides ample space for your Frenchie to grow into:
For more detailed guidance, click the link below to read valuable crate training information from The Humane Society.
Bath Products
Look for a gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo, preferably with natural ingredients and no phthalates or parabens. Because Frenchies can be sensitive and prone to hot spots and allergies, there may be times when an anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, or anti-yeast shampoo is recommended.
Gentle Puppy Shampoos:
Look for a gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo, preferably with natural ingredients and no phthalates or parabens. Because Frenchies can be sensitive and prone to hot spots and allergies, there may be times when an anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, or anti-yeast shampoo is recommended.
Gentle Puppy Shampoos:
- Isle of Dogs - Tearless Puppy Gentle Shampoo For Dogs (also at Petco & Chewy.com)
- Earthbath - Ultra-Mild Puppy Shampoo (also at Walmart, Petco, PetSmart & Chewy.com)
Medicated Shampoos:
- Dechra Miconahex + Triz Shampoo (also at Walmart.com & Chew.com)
- Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic and Antifungal Medicated Shampoo (also at Walmart & Chewy.com)
Most dogs do not need baths more than once a month. Bathing too frequently can strip the natural oils that keep their skin and coat healthy. Between baths, consider using a waterless shampoo or a lightly scented dog spray if needed.
Always consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your Frenchie’s skin or coat.
Ear Care Products
Nail Trimming Tools
Your Frenchie’s ears will need regular cleaning to prevent wax and dirt buildup. Cleaning once a month after a bath is usually sufficient, but check the ears regularly to be sure they remain clean and healthy. A gentle wipe between baths is also appropriate if needed.
Below are some brands we have used and liked, or that come highly reco
Your Frenchie’s ears will need regular cleaning to prevent wax and dirt buildup. Cleaning once a month after a bath is usually sufficient, but check the ears regularly to be sure they remain clean and healthy. A gentle wipe between baths is also appropriate if needed.
Below are some brands we have used and liked, or that come highly recommended. For routine maintenance, most cleaners labeled for dogs and sold at major pet retailers are generally suitable.
Liquid Cleaners:
Wipes:
Frequent ear infections can cause ongoing pain, balance issues, and even hearing loss. Common signs of an ear infection include odor, head shaking, ear scratching, the affected ear being carried lower than normal, redness, and a buildup of brown discharge.
If you suspect your dog has an ear infection or any other ear condition, have them examined and properly diagnosed by a veterinarian.
Wrinkle Products
Nail Trimming Tools
Nail Trimming Tools
Wrinkled-face breeds like French Bulldogs need the folds of their skin kept clean and dry. You may need to clean your Frenchie’s wrinkles every other day, or even daily. Allowing moisture to remain trapped in the folds can lead to skin irritation (redness and itchiness) and, over time, infection, so consistent cleaning is very important.
Wrinkled-face breeds like French Bulldogs need the folds of their skin kept clean and dry. You may need to clean your Frenchie’s wrinkles every other day, or even daily. Allowing moisture to remain trapped in the folds can lead to skin irritation (redness and itchiness) and, over time, infection, so consistent cleaning is very important. Regular wrinkle care can also help reduce tear staining.
For routine maintenance, we prefer using wipes for preventative care and keeping a soothing cream on hand to address any signs of irritation.
Wipes:
- KetoWELL Wipes (antifungal & antimicrobial)
- Squishface Wrinkle Wipes
- Natural Dog Company Wrinkle Wipes (Calendula, Shea Butter, Vitamen E)
Creams/Ointments:
Nail Trimming Tools
Nail Trimming Tools
Nail Trimming Tools
Traditional nail clippers can be used, but we strongly recommend electric nail grinders. With a grinder, there is significantly less risk of cutting the quick and causing bleeding. Even when the quick is not cut, many dogs still pull back or react to the pressure of clippers, which can make each cut uncomfortable and stressful.
To help e
Traditional nail clippers can be used, but we strongly recommend electric nail grinders. With a grinder, there is significantly less risk of cutting the quick and causing bleeding. Even when the quick is not cut, many dogs still pull back or react to the pressure of clippers, which can make each cut uncomfortable and stressful.
To help ensure nail care is a positive experience, introduce the grinder slowly and pair it with plenty of rewards. Start by simply turning the grinder on near your puppy so they can get used to the sound. Once they are comfortable, begin with just one nail on one paw during a session. At the next session, you can do two nails, and so on—removing only small amounts of nail at a time.
Recommended Grinders:
Clippers:
- Dog Nail Grinder + Nail Clipper Combo
- Candure Dog Nail Clipper (Medium to Small)
- H&H Pets Cat Nail Clipper (preferred size for pups up to 5 months old)
It is also a good idea to keep styptic powder within reach to stop any accidental bleeding. Cornstarch can be used as an alternative in a pinch.
Coat Care Products
Coat Care Products
Coat Care Products
Frenchies do not have particularly high-maintenance coats, but they can be moderate shedders. A de-shedding brush, such as those made by Furminator, can be very helpful for managing loose hair. Furminator also offers a rinse-free de-shedding spray for owners who want to further reduce shedding.
If your puppy is receiving more than the rec
Frenchies do not have particularly high-maintenance coats, but they can be moderate shedders. A de-shedding brush, such as those made by Furminator, can be very helpful for managing loose hair. Furminator also offers a rinse-free de-shedding spray for owners who want to further reduce shedding.
If your puppy is receiving more than the recommended one bath per month, you may also want to use a product that helps keep the skin hydrated. We recommend Warren London’s Hydrating Butter Leave-In Conditioner. These products are available on Amazon and at many large
pet retail stores.
Recommended Products:
- Furminator Undercoat De-shedding Tool (Medium)
- Furminator Rinse-Free De-shedding Spray
- Warren London's Hydrating Butter Leave-In Conditioner
Toys and Extras
The North States Petyard Passage is freestanding with panels that click together without the need for any tools. It can be used indoors or outdoors and features a free swinging pet door with lock. Light enough to fold and carry but sturdy enough to keep a puppy from pushing it over.
Contoured watercomb spray provides the coverage and power to remove shampoo and rinse effectively; targeted narrow spray provides gentle cleaning and stress-free washing of sensitive areas. Attach to a standard shower arm to easily switch between your shower head and the Pet Wand Pro; or connect to your garden hose with the included outdoor adapter and bathe your pup outside.
The Escape Free Sport Harness comes with 4-point adjustments to make sure it fits on your furry pal like a glove. The lightweight neoprene material and webbed nylon straps ensure durability and keep your pup comfortable while preventing them from slipping out of the harness if they try to back out of it.
These EcoKind Gold Yak Dog Chews are an all natural delicious premium organic chew that keeps your dog busy. They are made out of totally natural material and are easily digestible! They are best alternative to any other similar pet chews and are 100% milk based with no artificial ingredients or chemicals!
This food-dispensing dog toy keeps dogs mentally and physically active while they play.