French Bulldog Price – Why Are These Cuties so Costly?

The French Bulldog is quickly becoming one of the most popular purebred dogs in America. They rank in at number 4 out of 197 on the American Kennel Club’s list of favorite dogs, and they’re even considered the top dog amongst dog lovers in New York City.

Unfortunately, French Bulldogs are also some of the most expensive dogs to obtain and raise in the canine kingdom. But why is the French Bulldog price so high, and is there any way you can mitigate this price to make raising a Frenchie more affordable?

Let’s find out.

A Brief Overview Of The Average French Bulldog Price

French Bulldogs are bred companion dogs who are descendants from English bulldogs and ratting dogs.

French Bulldogs are compact, intelligent, affectionate and funny. They make wonderful companion dogs but are also adaptable to apartment living. Their exercise needs are not too extensive, grooming is a synch thanks to their smooth, short coats, and they are relatively quiet inside the home.

However, while there are plenty of pros to owning a French Bulldog, there are also plenty of cons. These dogs have a long list of serious health issues that can be costly for unprepared owners. They are also difficult to breed, making them more expensive to obtain when going through reputable breeders.

Worse still, their quick rise in popularity throughout the United States has led to an unprecedented amount of backyard breeders and online sellers selling irresponsibly bred French Bulldogs in an effort to make a quick buck.

This lends to the large numbers of unhealthy French Bulldogs on the market, who end up costing their owners much more money in the long run.

This is why it’s so important not to cut corners when looking to buy a French Bulldog puppy. But with some French Bulldogs ranging in price from $3,000 to over $10,000 (that’s not a typo), it’s no wonder some dog enthusiasts would look for ways to cut costs when acquiring the dog of their dreams.

But obtaining a French Bulldog from a breeder is just the start. Whether you buy a $1,000 Frenchie or a $10,000 Frenchie, you should still prepare for the dog’s lifetime worth of expenses.

This is especially true if you wind up with a sick French Bulldog, which can cost you thousands of dollars in medical expenses, not to mention the incredible heartache of dealing with an unhealthy dog.

So, how much is the overall cost of buying and raising a French Bulldog, according to experts?

Around $16,295, on the low end.

Of course, this doesn’t include going through a breeder or rescue. So, with that in mind, let’s break down the French Bulldog price from start to finish.

Understanding The Genetics And Breeding Of A French Bulldog

French Bulldogs have been around for a long time. They originated in England and France and were designed as companion dogs, with enthusiasts and fanciers hoping to tote around a smaller version of the highly sought after Bulldog.

The original French Bulldog did not look like his modern-day counterpart. In fact, his features were less compact, his muzzle was longer, and his eyes less protruding.

Unfortunately, the popularity of “squishy faced” dogs has led to a wave of breeding French Bulldogs with larger heads, flatter faces and more exaggerated “squished” features.

While this is a unique and adorable trait of the French Bulldog, the look comes at a high price. And this price begins with complicated breeding practices and ends with some serious medical issues.

Breeding A French Bulldog Can Cost Breeders Between $3,000 and $7,000.

You read that right. Breeding a French Bulldog alone is an expensive and difficult feat. This is because Frenchies have a nearly impossible chance of getting pregnant and giving birth naturally.

Reputable breeders must begin the process with patience and deliberation. This often includes first raising a healthy female French Bulldog until she is of safe breeding age, then testing that female to find out when she will be ovulating. The next step is finding a healthy and quality male French Bulldog to breed with her.

But even the breeding process for two Frenchies is unusual. Frenchie females are usually artificially inseminated and then go through several months of a high-risk pregnancy that typically results in only two to four puppies at a time.

Female French Bulldogs cannot give birth naturally to French Bulldog puppies, either. This is because French Bulldogs have very narrow hips and their puppy’s heads are rather large, making it impossible for puppies to pass through the birth canal.

So, how much does it cost to breed a French Bulldog and then whelp those Frenchie puppies? Let’s do the math.

• The cost of raising a healthy female French Bulldog to breeding age costs between $2,000 – $3,000 a year.
• The stud fee is generally around $2,000 – $10,000.
• The cost of artificial insemination of the female is between $400 and $1,000
• Ultrasounds during pregnancy cost around $90 each.
• Supplies for whelping (birthing) the littler range in price from $500 and $1,000.
• The cost of a French Bulldog C-Section is between $1,500 – $2000.
• And the cost of raising a healthy French Bulldog litter can range between $250 – $550.

The Total Average Cost of Breeding A French Dog Is Between $5,000 and $9,000 When All is Said and Done.

But these are just the costs the French Bulldog breeder must fork over. What about you, the buyer, who is looking for a healthy French Bulldog puppy through this breeder?

Let’s find out.

How Much Does It Cost To Buy A French Bulldog From A Breeder?

Going through a reputable source to obtain your French Bulldog may be costly, but it can help you save money down the road.

Now that we know the lengths at which a breeder must go to in order to bring French Bulldog puppies into the world, it’s no wonder the French Bulldog price is so expensive.

Of course, we are going to break down the average French Bulldog price when going through a reputable breeder, but before we do we want to remind you of the importance of going through reputable sources when looking for not only a Frenchie puppy, but any puppy.

French Bulldogs are especially prone to serious health issues, and their incredible popularity over the past few decades has led to a number of backyard breeders, puppy mills, and unqualified online sellers promising French Bulldog puppies at a bargain price.

Be wary of a French Bulldog price that seems too good to be true or a French Bulldog price that seems much higher than average.

We should also remind you that even if you do wind up spending a good chunk of change on a French Bulldog puppy, you’re not guaranteed to walk away with the healthiest puppy in the litter.

The only way to ensure your French Bulldog price is worth it is to go through a breeder you trust. This means that you should do plenty of research on the breeder of your choice, ask lots of questions, and ensure this breeder is implementing responsible breeding practices from start to finish.

Most reputable breeders will be able to offer you a certificate of health proving their French Bulldog puppies have been health screened and cleared of any serious health issues. They may also allow you to see the mother or the father dog so you can get a better idea of what your French Bulldog puppy will grow up to look like.

The French Bulldog price can also vary depending on the quality of your puppy’s parent breeds. If the French Bulldog puppy you want comes from show quality parents, you should expect to pay much more for your French Bulldog.

You can expect an even higher French Bulldog price if your Frenchie is also specifically bred for show. Certain colors of French Bulldog can cost more too, though it’s important to avoid breeders charging an exuberant French Bulldog price for what they tote as “rare” Frenchie colors.

And with all that noted, let’s now break down the French Bulldog price when going through reputable, responsible breeders.

According to experts, the average French Bulldog price is between $1,500 – $4,500, though this price can vary depending on gender, color and breeder.

Standard French Bulldog Colors Can Cost Between $1,500 and $4,500

Standard French Bulldog colors include:

• Fawn
• White
• Cream Brindle

Non-Standard French Bulldog Colors Can Cost Between $3,000 and $10,000

Non-standard French Bulldog colors include:

• Blue Fawn
• Lilac
• Chocolate Fawn
• Or A Combination

Does $10,000 seem like a lot of money to fork over for a French Bulldog price? Then perhaps you should consider rescuing a French Bulldog.

Of course, even adoption isn’t free. Take a look.

How Much Does It Cost To Rescue A French Bulldog?

French Bulldogs are much less expensive to rescue, but there are still costs associated with going through a shelter.

Adopting a dog from a reputable shelter has plenty of benefits that go far beyond cost, but since this article is mostly covering French Bulldog price, we’re going to start there.

Since the average cost of a French Bulldog puppy through a reputable breeder can be upwards of $3,000 or more, many Frenchie enthusiasts opt to turn elsewhere for these pricey pups.

However, rescuing a French Bulldog doesn’t save you from the French Bulldog price. Even through shelters, these dogs can vary in price depending on their age, gender, color and geographic location.

Shelters will often offer French Bulldogs starting at $250 and the price goes up from there. On average, a potential Frenchie owner can expect to pay between $250 and $750 for a French Bulldog from a shelter.

This price often includes a free initial vet exam and behavioral testing, and some of these French Bulldogs have already been spayed or neutered, which is another benefit as it saves you on these costs down the road.

Aside from price, rescuing a French Bulldog means you can opt to find a Frenchie with the personality traits you love. If you want to forgo the puppy stage or ensure your French Bulldog looks a certain way, we recommend looking for a French Bulldog who is at least a year old.

Luckily, adopting a French Bulldog from a shelter as an adult will likely be easier than adopting puppies, as they tend to go faster.

Of course, regardless of if you choose to buy a French Bulldog or if you choose to rescue one, the cost doesn’t end there.

Let’s talk about how much it costs to raise a happy and healthy French Bulldog throughout their lifetime.

How Much Does It Cost To Raise A French Bulldog?

Raising a French Bulldog includes buying food, toys, bedding and other materials for the rest of their lives.

Buying a French Bulldog comes with a certain level of commitment and responsibility on your part both financially and emotionally.

Along with devoting plenty of time, affection and attention to these adoring canines, you’ll also need to prepare to take care of them. Remember, your Frenchie has no one but you to rely on, so ensuring you are financially prepared to raise a happy and healthy pup should certainly be factored in when considering the overall French Bulldog price.

Most experts calculated that the first year of French Bulldog ownership is the most expensive, with owners paying around $5,395.

This is because you’re loading up on puppy supplies, medical expenses, collars, dog food, and sometimes even trainers. After that, the French Bulldog price falls to around $1,090 a year, or $91.00 per month.

Overall, and likely on the low end, owners can expect their French Bulldog price to cost them around $16,295 when all is said and done.

So, where is all this money going when calculating it into your French Bulldog price? Let’s take a look at your French Bulldog supply list and where most of your money will be spent.

Basic Supplies For Your French Bulldog Are Going To Be Around $500 A Year

Basic supplies typically last you a while, but you’ll likely need to purchase more than a few throughout your French Bulldog’s lifetime. Some of the most common supplies for French Bulldogs that should be calculated in your French Bulldog price include:

• Dog Bowls

• Dog Leashes

• Dog Harnesses

• Collars

• And ID Tags

Quality Dog Food and Treats Cost Around $250 – $700 Per Year

The French Bulldog is a sensitive breed with a variety of health issues that can be exasperated by a less than quality diet. If you spend a little bit more money up front on the quality of dog food for your French Bulldog, you’re likely to save money in the long run when it comes to French Bulldog price and medical bills.

The best dog food for a French Bulldog is going to be a dog food rich in real meat protein, carbs, fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and a dog food that contains a good source of water.

Look for low-calorie treats for your French Bulldog that are also made with real meat protein and that are free of additives, fillers, dyes, soy, corn or wheat.

Grooming Supplies Cost Between $30 – $500 Per Year

Grooming is another important part of being a French Bulldog owner. Luckily, these little dogs have smooth, lightly shedding coats that don’t require routine trims or washing. Still, your Frenchie will require routine care like nail trimming, occasional bathing, brushing, ear cleaning and dental work. Some of the supplies you may need to invest in that you should calculate into your French Bulldog price are listed below:

• Deshedding Brush
• Hypoallergenic Dog Shampoo and Conditioner
• Nail Clipper
• Ear Cleaner
• Dental Care
• Wrinkle Wipes

Bedding and Crates Are Around $50 – $200

Frenchies are snuggle bugs and will need their own cuddly dog bed. They’ll also enjoy having a blanket or two as well as a dog crate where they can sleep soundly and safely when you’re not at home.

When looking for quality bedding, blankets and a dog crate to add to your French Bulldog price, look for products that are made with dog-safe materials and that won’t easily rip, are machine washable, and are free of buttons, zippers, or other materials your dog could chew or choke on.

Toys Are About $50 – $100 Per Year

French Bulldogs are playful pups by nature, and quality toys not only help keep them happy but can also help reduce behavioral issues like chewing, marking, barking and digging.

When looking for the right toys for your French Bulldog, look for age appropriate toys that help keep them engaged and that are made with dog-safe materials and free of any choking hazards.

Basic Annual Medical Expenses For Frenchies Cost About $330 – $725

When considering your French Bulldog price, remember that medical expenses are some of the most costly. The first year of medical expenses are generally the most expensive, with owners on average spending around $595. After that, the adult French Bulldog price for vet visits is around $530.

It also costs between $50 to $300 to spay or neuter a French Bulldog, but this is a one time fee. Other medical expenses to list in your French Bulldog price include:

• Microchipping (a one time fee)
• Vaccinations
• Parasite Prevention
• Professional Dental Cleanings
• Yearly Wellness Exams For Adult French Bulldogs Under 7 Years of Age
• Twice-Yearly Wellness Exams for Senior Pets Over 7 Years of Age

Hidden Costs – What You Should Prepare For Before Investing In A French Bulldog

Medical expenses can be some of the more costly downsides of owning a French Bulldog.

As with any dog, there are some hidden fees an owner should prepare for when it comes to the French Bulldog price. Some hidden fees include rental fees, travel expenses, trainer expenses, pet care expenses, and hidden medical expenses.

Pet Rental Fees Are Usually Between $10 – $50 Per Pet

When it comes to owning and raising a French Bulldog, owners should consider rental fees. This is only relevant to you if you live in a rental property that requires a pet fee, and this fee should not be more or less just because you have a French Bulldog.

The French Bulldog price for a rental in your area will depend on your region and is often left up to the landlord’s discretion. However, on average, this price is usually between $10 and $50 per pet per month.

Travel Expenses Range From $50 – $500 Per Trip

There are a variety of ways to travel with your French Bulldog, and the most costly is traveling with your dog via airplane. A one way trip can, on average, cost between $50 – $250, but even if you choose to take a road trip with your French Bulldog there are going to be costs.

Traveling with your Frenchie means you should invest in a dog car seat or car-safe crate, travel bowls, dog food, fresh water and any other accessories you’ll need to ensure your French Bulldog is happy and safe during your trip.

Dog Trainer Expenses Average Between $30 – $120 Per Session

French Bulldogs are known to be somewhat bossy and stubborn, and many owners opt to invest in quality dog trainers during puppyhood. Training your French Bulldog or putting him through puppy school can cost you a good amount of money, with some trainers charging up to $1,250 a week.

Luckily, the average dog trainer charges their clients between $30 and $120 per session.

Doggy Daycare Ranges Between $240 – $550 Per Month

The French Bulldog is a bred companion dog, which means he’ll be happiest with an owner who is home for most of the day. If you have a very busy schedule, are planning on traveling, or are unable to be home for long periods of time, it’s a good idea to consider investing in a dog daycare for your French Bulldog so he won’t get lonely and depressed.

Frenchies are social dogs and will enjoy a quality dog daycare. That said, these daycare centers for your four-legged fur child aren’t cheap, with many costing around $240 – $550 per month.

Dog Walker Expenses Range Between $20 – $50 Per Walk

Dog walking companies are becoming very popular these days, especially for busy dog owners who don’t have lots of time to exercise their dogs. If you own a French Bulldog and want to know the cost of hiring a dog walker, prepare to pay per walk.

However, some companies do provide monthly packages, but the price will vary depending on the company you choose and the area in which you live.

Hidden Medical Expenses Are Often Unspecified But Pricey

Hidden medical expenses are some of the most costly and unexpected expenses French Bulldog owners may pay when it comes to the French Bulldog price.

Unfortunately, it’s difficult to determine the average cost of hidden medical expenses as some major issues can come on suddenly in some Frenchies, while other French Bulldogs live their lives relatively healthy.

The best way to prevent or prepare for medical issues in your French Bulldog is to have a budget set aside for unexpected health issues or expenses. It’s also important to know the types of health issues your French Bulldog could face and to speak with your veterinarian regarding these issues.

The following health issues are common in French Bulldogs:

• Skin Fold Dermatitis
• Allergies
• Pyoderma
• Breathing Problems Including Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome
• Digestive Issues
• Hip Dysplasia
• Conjunctivitis
• Deafness
• Cherry Eye
• Stenotic Nares
• Tracheal Collapse
• Heat Intolerance
• Elongated Soft Palate
• Laryngeal Collapse
• Hemivertebrae
• Intervertebral Disc Disease
• Distichiasis
• Degenerative Myelopathy
• Patellar Luxation
• Entropion
• Cataracts
• Von Willebrand’s Disease
• Cleft palate
• Hypothyroidism
• Hyperthyroidism
• Autoimmune Thyroiditis
• Goiters

How To Avoid Costly Medical Expenses With The Average French Bulldog Price

Even if you go through reputable sources to obtain your French Bulldog, there are no guarantees your dog will be healthy his entire life.

All dogs can be susceptible to genetic health issues, even those who have been health screened early on and even if breeders and owners have gone through all the preventative measures to keep their French Bulldogs protected.

Investing in pet insurance is a great idea for any pet parent, but we especially recommend pet insurance for pet parents looking to raise French Bulldogs. These dogs do come with a long list of health issues, so investing in pet insurance can help ease a sudden and unexpected cost.

Pet insurance can also provide you with peace of mind while raising your French Bulldog.

The Average Cost of Pet Insurance For A French Bulldog Is Between $10 – $100 per month, which can come out to cost between $120 – $1,200 annually.

The French Bulldog Price – Is This Pricy Pup Worth It?

French Bulldogs make wonderful companions for the right owner and when going through reputable sources, you’re likely to wind up with a relatively healthy dog.

French Bulldogs generally live between 10 and 14 years. During this time, your Frenchie will need as much of your love, time, attention and commitment as you can provide, as well as some financial care as well.

Let’s do a quick overview of the average French Bulldog price:

• The Average French Bulldog Price From A Breeder – $1,800 – $4,500
• The Average French Bulldog Price from A Rescue – $250 – $750
• The First Year Average French Bulldog Price: $5,395
• Every Year After Annual Costs – $1,090

The Total Cost For Buying and Raising A French Bulldog If He Lives 14 Years Is Between $19,815 – $24,065 All In.

Is it worth it? Many owners say yes. French Bulldogs make wonderful companions for the right home or family and do well with children and pets. They are friendly, trainable and funny, and, when obtained through reputable sources, have the potential to be generally healthy.

Furthermore, according to the American Kennel Club, the average cost of raising a dog is around $23,410, and this isn’t too far off of the average cost of raising a healthy French Bulldog.

The most expensive part you should consider when calculating your French Bulldog price, however, is medical expenses and the cost of buying your French Bulldog through a reputable source.

But remember, if you spend more money up front for a quality French Bulldog through a qualified and reputable breeder, chances are you’ll be able to raise a happy, healthy, and totally average costing dog for the rest of his days.

So, what do you think about the French Bulldog price? Is the cost worth it, or would you prefer to look elsewhere for the dog of your dreams?

Tell us what you think about the French Bulldog and the average French Bulldog price in the comment section below.

Thanks for reading!