French Bulldog Price Guide (Puppies & Adults) & Ownership Costs

The French Bulldog enjoys great popularity in the United States today. A dog breed that originated in England, this charming and comical breed made its way to France with its lacemaking family members where the breed was further refined and gained the name “French” Bulldog. The French Bulldog, sometimes referred to as a Frenchie, excels at ridding its family’s property of rodents, but today is most often seen gracing the couches and laps of those it loves most. An excellent choice for novice dog owners and those that live in apartments, the Frenchie is a funny and fun little pooch that makes for an excellent family companion.

If you’ve got your heart set on adding a French Bulldog to your family, read on to learn more about how much you can expect to pay for your new canine sidekick.

How Much is a French Bulldog Puppy? $1500-$10000

As with any puppy of any given breed, you will discover a wide range of prices for the French Bulldog. Though deciding to purchase your French Bulldog puppy from a reputable breeder may cost you more money upfront, there are advantages to be gained that cannot be measured in dollars and cents.

At present, there is no system for standardized pricing for puppies in America. Because of this, the purchase price of a puppy may vary dramatically from state to state. There are many reasons why this may be the case. An important thing to bear in mind is that the price of a puppy, whether high or low, is not a true indication of that particular pup’s quality.

Seemingly “bargain” priced puppies may be no bargain at all. Reputable breeders sometimes charge higher prices for their pups. However, the price tag is indicative of the breeder’s investment in everything from proper health testing in the parents, careful study of pedigrees, pre- and post-natal care of the mother, and the expenses involved in raising a litter properly and well. Because reputable breeders place a high emphasis on producing puppies that have excellent health, correct structure, and a solid temperament, the additional cost to purchase a puppy from them is well worth the expense.

2020’s second most popular breed in the year-end statistics for the American Kennel Club, the French Bulldog is immensely popular both with families and those who compete in conformation and performance sports. Unfortunately, breeds that gain popularity can cause some breeders to view the increase in demand as a good opportunity to inflate their prices. Most reputable breeders remain unaffected by an increase in interest in their breed, staying steadfast by their pricing unless their expenses become so great that a minor change is warranted.

The French Bulldog is one of the most expensive dog breeds to purchase today. As a result, you can expect to pay a lot of money to acquire a Frenchie pup or young adult dog. As with all breeds, a pet quality puppy will be available for a lower cost than one intended for the show ring. However, there are many more expenses to consider than simply the initial purchase price of your French Bulldog. Other costs you will need to keep in mind for the future include veterinary care, vaccinations, training, grooming, food, toys, and much, much more.

How Much Does a French Bulldog Cost? $1500-$10000+

If you hope to purchase a French Bulldog puppy, you will most likely pay a higher price than you would for an adult, retired breeding or show dog, or even a senior. This means that you can expect to pay a premium price to bring home an 8-week-old French Bulldog pup.

Sometimes, you will be able to find a French Bulldog mix at a shelter or rescue. These puppies and adult dogs are often available for only a fraction of the cost you would pay for a purebred puppy from a breeder. Some states also have French Bulldog rescues that may, on occasion, have a dog that is the perfect fit for your family.

Companion French Bulldog Puppies=$1500-$10000

Though companion French Bulldog puppies can go for as little as $1500, this price is not the norm. As a general rule of thumb, you can expect to pay a minimum of $2700 for a Frenchie pup with prices often rising as high as $10,000 or more. It is important to note that pet quality puppies are equally as wonderful as their littermates whose futures may include the show ring or a breeding program. Since there are no expectations placed upon a puppy or its owner when sold as a pet, the price is often lower.

Show French Bulldog Puppies=$2500-$10000+

When a breeder sells a puppy as show potential, there is a risk involved for the breeder. Because puppies sometimes develop differently than predicted or hoped for, puppies sold from 8 to 16 weeks of age are often sold as show potential. This simply takes into account that though the puppy appears to be well suited to the show ring at the time of purchase that this may change as the pup matures. Most breeders require a contract that stipulates what is expected if the pup fails to deliver as hoped which most often means the puppy is returned for a refund or replaced.

Show potential puppies receive more exposure in public venues than companion puppies because they are evaluated by judges in the show ring. Each time a show potential puppy enters a ring, the breeder’s breeding program also comes under scrutiny. Because the breeder is putting their name on the line with the purchase of every show potential puppy, the price is higher to reflect their level of risk and investment. To obtain a puppy with this potential, you will pay between $3000 and $10,000 or more.

Guaranteed Show Quality French Bulldogs (Older Puppies and Young Adults)=$10000+

It is extremely rare to come across a breeder that is willing to part with the best dogs they have bred. However, occasionally, you may meet a breeder that is willing to sell a French Bulldog that is guaranteed to be show quality. It is important for you to understand up front that to obtain a dog of this caliber, the breeder will likely require proof of your commitment to showcasing their dog.

In some cases, the breeder may prefer to co-own a guaranteed show dog with you. Co-ownerships can be very fruitful partnerships, benefitting both parties. If you opt to go this route, it is important to understand up front what is expected from both parties and at what point the breeder will sign off their rights on the dog, leaving you as sole owner. Co-ownerships can become very contentious if one of the owners feels their expectations are not being met, so it is best to put everything in writing to help preserve the friendship.

To ensure the French Bulldog is truly show quality, the breeder will likely keep the dog until it is at least 5 months old. This is normally sufficient time for the Frenchie’s bite to have come in and for the testicles on a male to be fully descended. However, many breeders prefer to hold onto their guaranteed show quality dogs up to one year of age or longer to be absolutely certain the dog is suited to the show ring and does not possess any disqualifying faults.

For the privilege of owning a guaranteed show quality French Bulldog, you can expect to pay $15,000 or much, much more for your dog.

Retired Adult French Bulldogs=$350-$1000

When a dog is no longer involved in a breeding program or show or performance career, some breeders will make the decision to place the dog in a loving forever pet home. For some breeders, this will mean that you will pay the same price as you would for a pet puppy. However, many breeders will offer the dog to you for the cost of the dog’s spay or neuter, an amount that is most often between $350 and $1000.

Rescue or Shelter Puppies and Adults=$50-$1000

On occasion, you may find a French Bulldog for adoption at a local shelter or rescue. The adoption fee for a dog ranges from $50-$750 for adult dogs. Puppies are most often available for $750-$1000.

Senior French Bulldogs (8+)=$350-$500

French Bulldogs have excellent longevity, living from 10-14 years of age. Though most vets consider age 8 to be a senior, a French Bulldog of this age is still a relatively young dog with lots of life left in them. Adopting a French Bulldog is the ideal solution for many families since older Frenchies are lower on the excitement scale and are most often already housetrained. You can expect to pay $350 to $500 for a senior Frenchie.

Service Dogs=Not recommended

Though the French Bulldog loves being the center of attention and spending time on your lap, the breed is not well suited to life as a service dog.

Should I Get a Male or a Female French Bulldog?

Whether to purchase a male or female French Bulldog often comes down to a matter of personal preference. Size-wise, there is very little difference between the two genders. However, it is in personality and overall temperament that you see a few different characteristics between boys and girls.
Male Frenchies are renowned for being more spirited, curious, and prone to mischief than their female counterparts. They are very self-assured and are quite remarkable in their boldness. By comparison, female French Bulldogs can appear to be more reserved and less exuberant.

Females are reportedly easier to housetrain than the more excitable male French Bulldog. By nature, girl Frenchies are more generous with their affection. However, females can be prone to nipping and can react somewhat aggressively if provoked.

One important distinction you should note is that female French Bulldogs struggle to manage their emotions when young. Given time, this tendency fades away in most cases. Males can also be prone to emotional behavior, but they tend to exhibit this less frequently, and they are more easily redirected to something more appropriate.

Why Purchase a Purebred French Bulldog?

It is not difficult to see that there is a wide range of prices when it comes to purchasing a French Bulldog puppy. Though it is tempting to go with the lowest possible price, there are many reasons why purchasing a purebred French Bulldog from a reputable breeder is an excellent choice.

Purchasing a puppy from a reputable breeder provides you with a lifetime of support for you and your pup. Most reputable breeders offer health guarantees for their puppies, something that is of significant value given that the French Bulldog can be plagued by many health problems. The purchase price for your puppy includes access to a breeder with a lifetime of experience and commitment to the breed which extends to everything from ethical breeding practices to raising puppies in the ideal environment to promote optimal health and wellness as well as solid temperaments.

Reputable breeders place a high emphasis on their breed’s standard. Contrary to what many think, the breed standard is more than just a blueprint that dictates what a dog should look like. Instead, the breed standard describes the ideal French Bulldog. Striving to reach this standard ensure that puppies that are produced have the correct structure and temperament for their breed, a critical component of ultimate health and the dog being able to do its intended job.

It is important to note that there is more to structure than how it makes a dog look. A dog that has correct structure will not easily succumb to injury and is much more likely to remain healthy throughout its lifetime. However, structure is only one important aspect of a dog. Another key component is evaluating the overall health of any dog included in a breeding program.

All breeds are naturally predisposed to certain health problems. Reputable breeders perform all appropriate health testing to understand what is behind their potential breeding dogs, eliminating dogs from their program that may be affected or likely to pass on disease-causing genes to their offspring.

The Orthopedic Foundation of Animals website lists the recommended tests that should be performed on any potential French Bulldog breeding dogs. Another excellent resource is the French Bull Dog Club of America. A passing score on the recommended health tests for the French Bulldog instills confidence that the dogs being considered for use in breeding are free from the most common genetic problems affecting the breed. Once the testing is completed, many breeders opt to list their dogs’ results on the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals website, a public database.

Mixed breed puppies are every bit as wonderful and worthy of a loving home as purebreds. However, with mixed breeds, it is impossible to accurately predict what a puppy will grow up to look and act like. Because the genetics behind the puppy are largely unknown, it is also very difficult to ascertain what health problems may be ahead for the pup. Still, these puppies are every bit as worthy of being loved, and more than that, may go on to live exceptional lives with very few, and even no, health problems.

For information about mini French Bulldogs, see here.

Breeding any two dogs together is a gamble. It is a gamble whether the two dogs are purebreds of the same breed, two mixed breeds, or a combination of the two. Any time a breeding is undertaken, there is a chance that some of the resulting puppies will get all of the best traits of both dogs, all of the worst traits, and as most often occurs, a mix of the two. Because of this, it is a good idea to consider pet insurance if you decide to purchase a dog of mixed parentage. This is not because the puppy or adult dog is guaranteed to become ill but is simply a way to provide a safeguard for you in the event an accident, illness, or injury occurs.

If your French Bulldog puppy was produced from a mating between two AKC registered dogs, your pup is eligible to be registered with the American Kennel Club. Though AKC registration is optional, there are some benefits to owners who choose to do so.

Among the advantages you gain from registering your dog with AKC are programs such as AKC Reunite. AKC Reunite records and tracks microchips. Should your dog ever become lost, missing, or stolen, AKC Reunite is able to provide tangible helps to help you recover your dog. AKC also provides discounts on many products and services including some pet insurance plans.

Does Location Make a Difference When It Comes to Price?

There is no question that location can make a difference in what you will pay to obtain a French Bulldog puppy. Though Frenchies are in high demand all throughout the United States, there are certain areas of the country where pups are more readily accessible than others. In states where there are many Frenchie puppies available, you will often pay less than in states where there are many breeders to choose from.

Because French Bulldogs often do not breed or whelp naturally, there are higher expenses involved in producing a litter. In addition to this, the breed often has very small litter sizes. Breeders undertake a huge financial burden and rarely break even with their litters. All of these factors mean the price of a French Bulldog is going to be higher than what you would pay for a breed that breeds and whelps naturally.

Another factor that can drive puppy costs is the amount of money a breeder will pay for the breeding, whelping, and raising of the litter. Though some costs such as AKC registration are set for all breeders across the country, most expenses vary greatly from state to state. This may mean that a breeder in Virginia will pay substantially more for things like vaccinations, microchips, puppy food, veterinary care, health certificates, whelping expenses, and prenatal care than a breeder that lives in Idaho.

French Bulldog Price List by Location (US State)

Virginia	$2700-$5000
Pennsylvania	$4500-$7500
Michigan	$3000-$5000
New York	$3200-$5000
Ohio	$3500-$4500
Kentucky	$1800-$4000
Indiana	$1500-$2500
West Virginia	$3500-$10000
Vermont	$3500-$4000
Washington	$3500-$6500
California	$4500-$7500
Florida	$3000-$6500
Maryland	$3500-$5000
Texas	$3000-$5000
Georgia	$3000-$4500

Interesting Facts About French Bulldog Prices

Most expensive variations	Lilac, brindle and tan, lilac and tan (unrecognized colors)
Rarest	Blue merle (unrecognized color)
Most popular	Brindle

French Bulldog Ownership Costs

Here is a breakdown of what you can expect to spend per month for these items for a French Bulldog:

Dog food (kibble)	$150
Dog food (raw)	$150
Dog treats and chews	$50
Toys	$50
Grooming	$0
Vet	$0-$200
Health insurance	$50-$75

The price you pay for your French Bulldog puppy is just a drop in the bucket compared to the expenses you will incur throughout the life of your dog. Since French Bulldogs live from 10 to 14 years, you will have many years of fun, and many bills to pay, in your future. Here is an approximate breakdown of what you can expect to pay for your dog:

Puppy supplies=$650+

Puppy supplies is a term that refers to such items as training treats, a leash and collar, a crate, pee pads, and toys.

Puppy vaccinations=$250

The two sets of vaccinations remaining in your pup’s puppy series plus an additional two dewormings will cost you approximately $250.

Puppy training=$100-$600+

Puppy socialization and manners classes range in price from $25 to $100 per class and are taught in blocks of 4-6 weeks.

Ongoing adult training/dog sports=$500-$2500+

From dog performance sports to conformation, scent work, tracking, and more, the sky’s the limit when it comes to fun things to do with your dog. As an average, you will pay from $500-$2500+ per year for additional training and/or participation in dog sports.

Veterinary fees=$100-200+ annually

An annual health exam is a must for every dog. This number should be increased to twice yearly during the senior years.

Because accidents and illnesses can occur, it is wise to budget an additional $3000-$5000 for emergency vet care.

Insurance=$50-$75 per month

The average pet insurance policy costs approximately $50-$75 per month. Over a lifespan of 14 years, that total comes to $12,600. Bear in mind that your premiums may increase as your dog ages. Also, most insurance plans also have deductibles which must first be satisfied before you receive any refunds for monies paid out for veterinary care.

Food=$150+ per month

A dog food suited to the needs of the French Bulldog will cost between $100-$150 each month.

Grooming=$100

The French Bulldog does shed a moderate amount; however, beyond regular brushing and the occasional bath and cleaning of the facial folds, this breed’s grooming requirements are quite low. The tools you will need for these jobs will cost approximately $100.

What to Know Before Buying a French Bulldog

French Bulldogs were always intended to serve one primary purpose; that of a cherished family companion. The breed does require regular exercise to remain at a healthy body weight; however, Frenchies do not do well in extreme temperatures, so care must be taken not to engage in vigorous activity during hot or cold weather. Short walks during the most moderate temperatures of the day are recommended for this breed.

A breed renowned for its obstinate nature, the French Bulldog can be a difficult dog to train. The Frenchie is quite intelligent and loves to please those it loves most; however, this dog type retains a very independent nature and sometimes must be convinced to learn new things.

The French Bulldog’s coat is short and smooth to the touch, shedding moderately year-round. The Frenchie’s distinctive wrinkles require regular cleaning to remain free from bacteria that can cause skin infections if not kept dry and germ-free. Keeping the French Bulldog looking and feeling its best is quite simple, requiring only brushing several times a week and bathing on an as needed basis.

A breed that comes in several different colors, there are several shades that are not recognized and for health reasons should be avoided. These include merles, lilacs, and blues. It is best to avoid any breeder that bases their puppy pricing on the dog’s color, claiming “rarer” colors should fetch a higher price.

Nails should be trimmed once weekly. For optimal oral hygiene, it is a good idea to brush the Frenchie’s teeth several times each week.

A dog breed that enjoys the company of children, kids and Frenchies are a natural. However, never leave your dog alone with your child. Careful supervision is key to keeping both parties happy, healthy, and safe.

French Bulldogs enjoy the company of other dogs if introduced to them properly. Take care to not allow your Frenchie to become spoiled; otherwise, your dog may begin to guard you, creating conflict between other household pets.

The final thing to keep in mind before committing to purchase a French Bulldog is the health issues that can befall the breed.

Among the health problems that can plague the French Bulldog are:

• Hip dysplasia
• Brachycephalic syndrome
• Allergies
• Hemivertebrae
• Patellar luxation
• Intervertebral disc disease
• Von Willebrand’s disease
• Cleft palate
• Elongated soft palate

Summary

If you’ve got your heart set on a Frenchie, the first step you need to take is finding the ideal pup for you and your family. Whether you choose from a reputable breeder, a rescue, or shelter, it’s important to note that prices can vary quite widely. As an average, you can expect to pay $1500-$10,000+ for a puppy and $50 to $1000 for a rescue.