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French bulldog is 11 to 12 inches tall and weighs from 16 to 28 pounds. The weight depends on the gender of the dog and what it eats. Coming to what the dog eats, we must know what the dog must avoid. Some foods mentioned below are harmful and even poisonous for the dog. Let’s dig in, a list of foods to avoid feeding French bulldog.
List of good food for French bulldog check here.
Foods to Avoid Feeding French Bulldog
Chocolate
If eaten in large quantities, it can cause health problems for a Frenchie. It contains theobromine, a toxic substance for the dog. It may cause seizures, tremors, abnormal heartbeats and can even prove to be fatal.
Avocado
We have a misconception that all fruits or vegetables are healthy for your pets. It is not! The first thing that comes to our mind is, ‘What?’ Well, yes, avocados are not as good for the furry pet as it is for us. Avocado is delicious and healthy for human consumption. Think again, is it the same for dogs, no. avocados contain Persin (substance) that causes diarrhea and vomiting among the dogs who consume it. Apart from dogs, even birds and rodent are sensitive to Avocado. It causes poisoning, congestion, fluid accumulation, difficult breathing and suffocation among consumers (dogs and other avocado-sensitive animals). So, it is a big no for French Bulldogs feeding of avocado. Avocados are bad for a French bulldog, not the fleshy part, though. We should look out for the skin and stones. It can lead to diarrhoea and vomiting.
Onions, Garlic, Leeks and Chives
No matter if these are cooked or raw, they are poisonous for French Bulldogs. It can cause red cell damage and an upset stomach. It will take time to identify the effects of these foods, but it is harmful to the dogs.
You like that buttered garlic taste with fried onions and chives as a topping to your burgers and hams. Please do not feed it to your pet to show him, love, as it is your favorite food. These herbs and veggies cause gastrointestinal problems like irritation and swelling. It causes red blood cell damage among dog consumers. High dosage of such properties in the dog’s food could lead to health issues, thus should be avoided to be included in Frenchies feeding menu.
Artificial sweetener (xylitol) in gum and mints
Jellies and jams, cereals, baked goods, peanut butter, mints, chewing gum, mouthwash and toothpaste, all contain xylitol. It damages the liver and possibly would kill them.
Nuts and Walnuts
We do not recommend any nut for your Frenchie. Out of all nuts, though, the macadamia nuts and walnuts are the most notorious for dogs. Consumption of these nuts may lead to lethargy, tremors, hyperthermia, and vomiting.
Alcohol
Alcohol for dogs is a big “no-no” as it is hazardous for them. It is the most toxic drink for the Frenchie and can even cause death or coma. So it is advisable not to give your dog alcohol as it can kill them. Do not give candies or other foods that contains alcohol.
It is uncommon and unseen, providing dogs with alcohol, some wild days might lead to people giving their pet alcohol to consume. It is done just for fun, however, one should know it is an illegal act and is violence against helpless animals. Alcohol and beverages that humans consume should not be fed to the dogs or any other animals. It causes diarrhea, vomiting, depression, breathing problems, the abnormal rate of acidity in blood, come and sometimes death. We all have witnessed alcohol-causing death in humans, therefore if a dog succumbs to it, it is no surprise. Alcohol is a strict ‘no’ for Frenchies feeding or any dog or any other animal.
Mouldy food
If your dog has access to the trash can, make sure to keep an eye on him. Stale food is awful for the Frenchie as it contains mycotoxins which are poisonous when ingested.
Undercooked Meat and Eggs
Some dog owners prefer to eat their meat more on the raw and undercooked eggs. It is not suitable for the Frenchie as undercooked meat and eggs can cause bacterial infections. Unless you are a vulture of a cannibal, we do not think you would prefer consuming raw eggs and meat. Similarly, it should not be fed to your French bulldog or other dogs. It contains bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli that are harmful for consumption by pets. Raw eggs contain enzymes called Avidin. This enzyme decreases the absorption of biotin (vitamin B7) in dogs that leads to sin and fur coat problems. Domestic pets should not be fed bones or raw meat for they do not live in the wild. Frenchies Feeding on them could lead to choking and digestion problems.
Sugary Food and Drinks
Like humans, dogs can fall victim to diabetes, tooth decay and weight gain. Even a tiny morsel of sugary food can cause an upset tummy. Instead of such treats, why not give them dog treats made just for them.
Salt
When your dog eats salt in large amounts, salt can be deadly to dogs. Excessive salt can lead to extreme thirst and also may cause fur fall. If your Frenchie eats a lot of salt, he could have seizures and vomiting and such.
A large amount of salt causes excessive thirst in pets and lead to abnormal urination. In addition, sodium ion present in the salt and other salty food could lead to poisoning in the dog’s system. Some foods that are consumed by a human should not have a place in the French bulldogs feeding menu. It could be good for us but poison to the dogs.
Candy and Sweets
We should not feed dogs any candy or sweets as the sugar content in them may prove to be unhealthy for them. There is also a risk of tooth fractures or choking.
Cooked Bones
We often think that cooked bones are great foods for dogs but are not. When cooked, the bones become brittle and can easily splinter when they chew. It can seriously damage the gums and throat of the dogs.
Grapes
Grapes, both fresh and dried, are another kind of food that is harmful to dogs. They are not recommended for French Bulldogs as they can lead to kidney failure when consumed in large quantities.
Cob of Corn
The cob part of the corn is another harmful food for your Frenchie. It can get stuck in the intestine and cause stool problems for your dog. It is okay to give them sweet corn.
Cherry, Plums and Peach Seeds
Seeds and pips are another hard food to digest for dogs. These can hamper the digestive system of the dogs and are dangerous for them. The pips and seeds can block the small intestines, and the seeds contain cyanide. It is poisonous for them, and we must not give it to your Frenchie or any dog for that matter.
That’s not All Foods to Avoid Giving Frenchies Continues:
Coconuts and Coconut Oil
Small quantities of coconut food will not harm your dog. But the milk and flesh of the coconut can be very harmful to the Frenchie. It can cause upset stomachs for the Frenchie as it has high quantities of potassium.
Hops
The hops that we use for brewing kits are another dangerous food for the Frenchie. It can cause malignant hyperthermia making the temperature rise and drop. It can cause organ damage and even death.
Nutmeg
Nutmeg is also a harmful food for the Frenchie. They contain myristicin. It can cause abdominal pain, seizures and hallucinations. This is evil foods to avoid. The effects of the myristicin do not last, but it not a good experience for your dog.
Can French bulldog Eat Cheese?
No. Cheese is another lousy food for the Frenchie. It contains roquefortine C, which can cause seizures and vomiting. It can make a Frenchie seriously ill.
Milk and Dairy Products
Dairy products and milk can wreak havoc in a French bulldogs stomach. A dogs digestive system finds it difficult to break down and digest lactose. It causes watery poop, but you can avail of milk products for dogs only.
The dogs do not prefer milk. It is because dogs do not possess the right quantity of lactase present in their digestive system. The lactase is an enzyme that helps break down the lactose in milk and various other milk-based products. Lactase products are defiantly foods to avoid. Consumption of dairy products would lead to vomiting and diarrhea. Consumption of excess salt is not good for our bodies. Well, it is not good for the dogs either.
Cocoa & Caffeine
Hardly anyone dislikes chocolate caffeine products. They are tasty, energy giving and addictive.
Like chocolate is added to milk to make it tastier. We often feed our dogs the same chocolate that we are consuming. Stop right there. These products contain ‘methylxanthine’ (found in cocoa seeds), which is not good for these animals. When pets ingest products made from these they are prone to vomit as it causes diarrhea and various other illness among the animals. They suffer from excessive thirst and urination, the dogs experience abnormal heartbeat, tremors, seizure, hyperactivity, and in some cases, it causes death. It may sound dramatic as how can cocoa or caffeine harm someone. Well, they do to dogs. Therefore, be careful about your Frenchies feeding on them.
Fatty Foods
Sausage, bacon, fried foods, burgers, etc., are obese foods that can cause upset stomachs. If eaten for an extended period, the Frenchie can suffer from pancreatitis. These junk foods are food to avoid giving French bulldog.
Peanut Butter
Some brands of peanut butter can be dangerous for your Frenchie. Even though some dogs love peanut butter, it is always better to check the contents before consumption. Some have the presence of xylitol which are, as mentioned before, foods to avoid for your Frenchie.
Mustard Seeds
Mustard seeds tend to make dogs sick. Doctors often use these seeds to make dogs vomit for medical purposes. These seeds are poisonous for dogs, and we must avoid them.
Yeast Dough
No one would feed yeast dough to their dogs, but if they eat it accidentally, you must immediately take them to a vet. The yeast dough can create gas in the dogs digestive system. It can cause bloating and gut-twisting, which could even kill them.
Coffee, Caffeine, and Tea
These drinks are another group of drinks that are not healthy for your Frenchie. They contain methylxanthines which can cause the same reaction as chocolate. Of course, nothing would happen if the dog licks a few drops. But don’t let drink too much.
Cabbage
Cabbage is a good source of antioxidants, but it is not so for the French bulldog. It can give them a bloating in the stomach, and so you must provide minimal quantities.
Green Tomatoes
The question about eating tomatoes has both a yes and a no answer. It is because the unripe green tomatoes are the ones to look out for as they can harm your dog. A green tomato can lead to cardiac arrest, seizure, and many more. Ripe tomatoes are safe as long as it is in smaller quantities.
Some more foods to avoid are – Asparagus, Cherries, Lemons, Limes, and Mushrooms.
Some Foods that Safe for the Consumption of the French Bulldog
- Cauliflower: a great source of fibre, calcium, vitamin K and potassium; cabbages are safe to be eaten by the Frenchie. It will support the muscles and bone strength of the dogs. It causes gas, and so they must eat minimum.
- Celery: Celery is very low in calories and sugar. But it is rich in potassium, manganese and fibre. Celery also helps with bad breath in dogs but causes too much urination. So we must keep in mind that less is more.
- Salmon: fresh salmon is an excellent source of protein for your pup. Just like how the omega-3 fatty acids are great for humans, so too for the Frenchie. It can improve your dogs’ eye health, brain health, heart and reduce inflammation.
- Tuna: Tuna is also good for your dogs; we can prepare it in plain water. Plain tuna will do without any spices. If you are feeding your dog canned ones, make sure to give them a minimum. Canned tuna contains mercury and sodium, which is not suitable for them. So feed them tiny amounts.
- Pumpkin and sweet potatoes: pumpkin and sweet potato are rich in fibre and excellent for your Frenchie. It helps in the digestive system and can keep the pup healthy.
- Rice: rice is one of the cheaper sources of food for your dogs. We mainly give with a bit of meat on the side for dogs. It can relieve your Frenchie’s upset stomach.
- Popcorn: unsalted, without buttered popcorn is acceptable for your Frenchie. It contains riboflavin which helps in the eyesight of the dog and digestion.
3 Best Dog Foods For Your French Bulldog
Here is a list of the best dog food products for your Frenchie:
It is the perfect food for maintaining a balanced diet and a healthy gut. It is suitable for your dog with vitamins and minerals like zinc oxide, folic acid, and calcium iodate. These promote strong bones and teeth and a healthy fur coat.
1. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula
The top ingredients in this dog food are- deboned chicken, oatmeal, flaxseed, pea fibre and powdered cellulose. This combination is essential for your Frenchie.
These ingredients will ensure that your Frenchie will remain healthy.
With a mixture of veggies, meat and fibre, this dog food ensures gut health, teeth, and bones. It also contains antioxidants to protect your Frenchie from diseases. L-Carnitine in this dog food also helps muscle development. None of ingredients contains foods to avoid mentioned before.
It is the perfect food for maintaining a balanced diet and a healthy gut. It is suitable for your dog with vitamins and minerals like zinc oxide, folic acid, and calcium iodate. These promote strong bones and teeth and a healthy fur coat.
This food will ensure solid teeth and bones, good heart functioning and keeps your dog active. Feed this to your dog three times a day, and they will enjoy it!
2. CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Healthy Weight
The top ingredients are- chicken, turkey meal, garbanzo beans, chicken fat and potatoes. Dogs love this because of its excellent flavor and taste. Once your Frenchie loves this food, they would not like to eat any other dog food. It is the best for the development and growth of your Frenchie.
This dog food is excellent for all kinds of dogs. It is perfect for those dogs with sensitive stomachs. It will make your dog active and provide the necessary nutrition.
The presence of lean meat will help in building muscle mass and cut down fat. It also ensures healthy joints without compromising the taste. This combination contains the right amount of minerals, proteins, essential oils, and vitamins. This broth is savoury and tasty, and it is free from artificial preservatives.
There are no ingredients in this food that would cause allergic reactions. The taste of the food is not compromised, and so it is a very suitable dog food formula for you, Frenchie.
3. Purina Pro Plan Savor Adult Shredded Blend Weight Management Formula
Chicken, rice flour, soybean meal, wheat flour and fish meal are the top ingredients. This food is also suitable for weight management for your Frenchie.
It is excellent for your dog’s diet and will help in losing a few pounds. But it will also provide them with the essential nutrition needed. It also contains natural fibre, which will help your dog feel fuller. Thus, it reduces the intake and supports a healthy gut. Together these ingredients will keep your dog fit. This food is grain-free and contains real venison, which will promote the growth of your dog.
It provides the essential nutrients and improves gut health and strong bones. It will not cause any indigestion when consumed.
Full list of dog food for French bulldogs with sensitive stomach check here.
What are the Best Foods for Frenchies?
- Always check the label of the ingredients in the dog food. While meats should be the first ingredient that you need in dog foods. Frenchies love whole meats like lamb, salmon, chicken or beef. Look out for dog foods with these ingredients.
- Use plant-based proteins in your dog’s diet instead of cheap filler ones. They won’t cause any allergy and won’t affect the digestive system as well.
- Healthy fats like omega-3 will help to maintain a shiny fur coat and keep the skin healthy. An excellent source of omega-3 is fish oil. This content will keep the dog healthy and strong.
Plant Foods to Avoid Giving Frenchies
Some plants are poisonous to Frenchies Here are some of them:
Asparagus Fern | Lupins | Citrus |
Daffodil Bulbs | Morning Glory | Day Lilies |
Delphiniums | Mushrooms | Foxgloves |
Hemlock | Nightshade | Hyacinth |
Hydrangea | Oleander | Ivy |
Laburnum | Rhododendron | Lily of the valley |
Sweet Pea | Tomato leaves and stems | Tulip Bulbs |
Umbrella Plant | Wisteria | Yew |
Tips For Choosing the Best Food For French Bulldogs
Here are some tips for you to choose the best food type for your Frenchie.
- Nutrients: you must make sure that your dog receives the right amount of nutrients, vitamins and minerals. For good muscular movements, they need nutrients. Vitamins will ensure a silky coat, healthy teeth, skin and bones.
- Activity: the activeness of your dog will affect the choice of their food as well. If your dog is very active then, the dog will need more proteins.
- Ingredients: you need to maintain a balanced quality of food for your dog’s good health. So you need to pay attention to the amount of protein, fat, fibre and water they take in.
- Allergies: you should know what foods are allergic to your dog and avoid giving them these foods. Accidents happen, so it’s best to stop buying food to avoid.
- Age: the age of your dog should choose the type of food you give your dog.
Tips For Feeding Your Frenchie
Some tips for feeding your French bulldog are:
- It would be best to have drinking and feeding bowls, one of the essential items needed for a dog. It has to be at a height that is easy for your Frenchie to reach.
- Always provide your dog or any pet with an adequate amount of water. When your dog eats, the dog will need water to swallow and digest the food, so don’t hold back the water from your pet.
- You must also make sure that your dog has enough rest after a meal to avoid an upset stomach.
- Make a routine or timetable to use a specific timing for eating, walking, potty, etc. Also, puppies are prone to eat more than adult dogs, so you should keep that in mind as well.
- You should adjust the amount of food you give your Frenchie depending on how active your dog is. As mentioned above, if your dog is more active, the dog will need more food.
- When you order dog food online or at a store, check the description of the food before buying it, which breed and size should eat it, what age, and the amount of food in a bag.
- Buy a slow feeding bowl for your Frenchie to avoid choking and an upset stomach.
Wrap-Up Foods to Avoid Giving French Bulldogs
Most of the foods to avoid mentioned above are poisonous when taken in large quantities. Make sure to always keep an eye on your dog and what they eat. Accompany them wherever they go and make sure they don’t eat anything weird.
Please keep your Frenchie clean and take them for regular check-ups to prevent any hiccups. Therefore, do not be complacent. Call a vet if your dog has eaten one of the foods mentioned above.
Although the tips and tricks and advices here are all true and effective, never replace professional advice and help.
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Thanks for the tips
I have a 7 month old Frenchie bitch and knowing the benefits of garlic(breaking down mucus enabling her to breath better)I crush a clove and add to her water bowl (right or wrong?)