What French Bulldogs Puppies Can and Can’t Eat: A Complete Feeding Guide

Key Takeaways

• French Bulldog puppies thrive on a diet balanced with proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and fiber.

• Human foods like chocolate, grapes, onions, and garlic are toxic to French Bulldogs and must be avoided.

• Puppies should have a regular feeding schedule with controlled portion sizes to prevent overeating.

• Food allergies in Frenchies can manifest in various ways, and identifying them early is crucial for their health.

• Transitioning from puppy food to adult food should be done gradually to avoid digestive issues.

The Foundation of a French Bulldog Puppy Diet

French Bulldog puppies have specific nutritional needs to support their growth and development. A well-balanced diet should provide the right amounts of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.

Protein

Protein is crucial for building and repairing muscles, tissues, and organs. Look for high-quality animal-based proteins like chicken, turkey, fish, or lamb as the primary ingredients. Adequate protein intake supports proper growth and muscle development.

Fat

Fats provide energy and aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Healthy sources of fat include fish oil, flaxseed oil, and animal fats. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids promote skin and coat health, brain development, and a strong immune system.

Food options for French Bulldog puppies:

1. High-quality puppy food formulated for medium-breed puppies
2. Lean meats like chicken, turkey, or fish
3. Eggs (cooked)
4. Low-fat cottage cheese
5. Plain yogurt
6. Sweet potatoes
7. Pumpkin (canned, unsweetened)
8. Green beans
9. Carrots
10. Blueberries
11. Apples
12. Oatmeal
13. Brown rice
14. Quinoa
15. Salmon (cooked, boneless)
16. Peanut butter (unsalted, no sugar added)
17. Coconut oil (in moderation)
18. Bone broth
19. Chia seeds
20. Flaxseeds

These foods provide essential nutrients like protein, healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support growth, digestion, skin and coat health, and overall well-being in French Bulldog puppies. However, it’s important to introduce new foods gradually and in moderation, and always consult with a veterinarian for personalized dietary recommendations.

Toxic foods that French Bulldogs should never eat:

1. Chocolate
2. Xylitol (found in sugar-free gum, candies, and some peanut butter)
3. Onions
4. Garlic
5. Grapes
6. Raisins
7. Macadamia nuts
8. Walnuts
9. Alcohol
10. Caffeine
11. Nutmeg
12. Moldy/spoiled foods
13. Salt and salty snacks
14. Yeast dough
15. Fatty foods/oils
16. Bones (cooked bones can splinter)
17. Avocados
18. Rhubarb leaves
19. Mushrooms
20. Any medication not prescribed for your dog

If a French Bulldog accidentally ingests something toxic:

Here are the steps to take immediately:

1. Identify the toxic substance. Try to determine what your Frenchie consumed and approximately how much. This information will help the veterinarian provide the appropriate treatment.
2. Call your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline 800-213-6680 immediately. Provide details on the toxic substance ingested and follow their instructions. They may advise you to induce vomiting or bring your dog in right away.
3. Induce vomiting only if instructed by a professional. Never induce vomiting if the toxin ingested is a caustic substance (like bleach), petroleum product, or sharp object, as this could cause further harm.
4. If advised to induce vomiting, give your Frenchie hydrogen peroxide orally (1 teaspoon per 5 lbs of body weight) or salt water (2-3 teaspoons of salt dissolved in a cup of warm water). Never give anything to induce vomiting if your dog is unconscious, having difficulty breathing, or is already vomiting.
5. Collect a sample of the vomit and take it with you to the veterinary clinic, as it may help identify the toxin.
6. Get your Frenchie to the veterinarian immediately, even if vomiting has occurred. Many toxins can still cause harm after being vomited, and your dog may require further treatment or monitoring.
7. Provide the veterinarian with as much information as possible about the ingested substance, the quantity, and when it was consumed.

Why Some “Healthy” Human Foods Can Be Dangerous for Puppies

It’s tempting to share your snacks with your furry friend, especially when they look at you with those big, soulful eyes. But not all “healthy” human foods are safe for puppies. For example, avocados contain persin, which can be toxic to dogs. Even the pits pose a choking hazard and can cause obstruction. Similarly, nuts like almonds and walnuts are not only a choking risk but can also cause gastric intestinal distress or pancreatitis.

The Puppy Feeding Schedule: Quantities and Timings

Recommended feeding guidelines based on age:

Notes:

• Amounts are approximate and should be adjusted based on your Frenchie’s activity level, metabolism, and body condition.
• Use a high-quality, breed-specific puppy or adult dog food.
• Divide the daily amount into the recommended number of meals.
• Consult your veterinarian for specific recommendations for your individual dog.

Creating a feeding schedule for your French Bulldog puppy is not just about keeping them full; it’s about setting a routine that will help their digestive system function properly.

How Often Should You Feed Your Puppy?

You should feed your French Bulldog puppy three to four times a day. As they reach about six months of age, you can transition to twice-daily feedings. Pay attention to their appetite and growth— if they’re leaving food behind at each meal, you might be offering too much. Regular weigh-ins are helpful to ensure they’re on the right track. A steady, gradual increase in weight is a good sign. Sudden weight gain or loss should be discussed with your vet.

Sensitivities and Allergies: Special Dietary Considerations

Just like people, French Bulldogs can have food sensitivities and allergies that can affect their health and happiness. Common signs include itching, digestive upset, chronic ear infections, and skin infections. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to talk to your vet. They might recommend an elimination diet to identify the culprit.

Identifying and Managing Food Allergies in French Bulldogs

Identifying food allergies in your French Bulldog puppy involves feeding them a simplified diet that eliminates potential allergens. You’ll then reintroduce foods one at a time to see which ones cause a reaction. This process can be time-consuming, but it’s worth it to ensure your pup’s well-being.

Once you’ve identified the allergens, you can seek out commercial dog foods that are free from these ingredients or consider a homemade diet under the guidance of your vet or a canine nutritionist.

Alternative Diet Options for Sensitive French Bulldog Puppies

For puppies with sensitivities, there are several alternative diet options. Limited ingredient diets, hydrolyzed protein diets, and homemade diets can all be good choices, depending on the specific allergy or sensitivity. It’s important to approach any dietary change with caution and under professional guidance to ensure your puppy is still getting all the nutrients they need.

Remember, finding the right diet for a puppy with food sensitivities can be a trial-and-error process, but the end goal is a happy, healthy pup.

For sensitive French Bulldog puppies, an alternative diet might be the key to a happy and healthy life. Limited ingredient diets are specially formulated to include fewer components, which can help in identifying what might be causing an allergic reaction. Hydrolyzed protein diets, on the other hand, involve breaking down proteins into smaller sizes, making them less likely to trigger an immune response. Some owners opt for homemade diets, which allow for complete control over every ingredient that goes into their puppy’s bowl. However, if you’re considering a homemade diet, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian or a canine nutritionist to ensure your pup’s nutritional requirements are met.

FAQ

How Do I Switch My French Bulldog Puppy to Adult Food?

Switching your French Bulldog puppy to adult food is a significant milestone that should be handled with care. This transition should typically start when your puppy is around 12 months old. Begin by mixing a small amount of adult food with their current puppy food, gradually increasing the adult food and decreasing the puppy food over the course of 7-10 days. This gradual switch helps prevent digestive upset and allows your puppy’s system to adjust to the new food.

Can French Bulldog Puppies Eat Raw Food?

While some dog owners advocate for raw food diets, they can be controversial and may not be suitable for all puppies. If you’re considering a raw food diet for your French Bulldog puppy, it’s crucial to do thorough research and consult with your vet. Raw diets require careful planning to ensure they’re nutritionally balanced and safe, as there’s a risk of bacterial contamination from raw meats.

Is It Safe for My French Bulldog Puppy to Have Dairy?

Dairy products can be tricky for French Bulldog puppies. While a small amount of cheese or yogurt may be tolerated, many dogs are lactose intolerant, which can lead to digestive issues. It’s best to give dairy in very limited quantities, if at all, and to monitor your puppy closely for any signs of digestive distress.

What Human Foods Can French Bulldog Puppies Eat?

There are several human foods that are safe and can be healthy for French Bulldog puppies in moderation. These include lean meats, certain fruits and vegetables, and cooked grains. However, always introduce new foods gradually and in small amounts to monitor for any adverse reactions. And remember, human foods should not replace a well-balanced dog food diet.

How Can I Tell If My French Bulldog Puppy Is Overweight?

Keeping an eye on your French Bulldog puppy’s weight is important for their overall health. You should be able to feel (but not see) their ribs without much fat covering them. They should have a visible waist when viewed from above and a tuck in their abdomen when viewed from the side. If you’re concerned about your puppy’s weight, consult with your vet for guidance on diet and exercise.