The 10 Best Dog Food for French Bulldogs

Introduction

Those wrinkles, those ears – Frenchies are adorable! But behind the cuteness, they have special food needs. Understanding this is key to a long, healthy life for your Frenchie. Regular dog food won’t do the job!

This guide will teach you everything about feeding your Frenchie.

• We’ll help you choose the perfect food for your Frenchie.
• We’ll teach you how to keep them healthy as they grow.
• We’ll tackle those pesky allergies together!

Key Nutritional Required:

• Essential Vitamins & Minerals:
• Your Frenchie needs these for strong bones, good eyesight, and a strong immune system.
• Kibble Size Matters:
• Choose a food with small kibble pieces. This makes it easier for your Frenchie to eat and reduces the risk of choking.

Top Food Picks for French Bulldogs

Choosing the Best Food: It Doesn’t Have to Be Hard!

With so many dog foods out there, it can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry! Here are some top-quality brands that are perfect for Frenchies:

1. Nulo Freestyle Grain-Free Adult (Salmon & Pea) (Best Overall)
2. Purina Pro Plan Shredded Blend (Chicken & Rice)
3. Merrick Classic Healthy Grains (Real Beef + Brown Rice) (Budget-Friendly Option)
4. Eukanuba Medium Breed Adult Chicken
5. Orijen Original Dry Dog Food, Grain Free (Best Dry Food for French Bulldog, Specialty Focus)
6. Rachael Ray Nutrish (Chicken & Veggies)
7. Farmina N & D Prime (Chicken & Pomegranate)
8. Wellness Complete Health Puppy
9. Hill’s Science Diet Puppy (Chicken Meal & Barley)
10. Chicken Soup for the Soul Puppy (Classic)

10 Best Dog Food for French Bulldogs Reviewed 

These dog foods meet AAFCO guidelines. Always talk to your vet before changing your Akita’s diet.

01- Nulo Freestyle Grain-Free Adult (Salmon & Pea) (Best Overall)

Nulo Freestyle promises high protein and a grain-free formula to support active dogs. Let’s see if it lives up to the hype and if it aligns with our dogs’ needs.

The Good:

• Protein Rich: High-quality salmon provides those essential muscle-building amino acids.
• Low-Carb Goodness: Grain-free and focuses on healthy energy sources like lentils and chickpeas.
• Probiotics for Gut Health: Supports healthy digestion, especially important for high-performance dogs.
• BC30 Probiotic: Nulo’s unique strain provides an added boost to immune health.

The Not-So-Good:

• Pricey Choice: High protein and grain-free formulas usually mean a higher price tag.
• Potential for Pickiness: The simple ingredient list might not be enticing for all.
• May Need Supplements: Some dogs might need joint support if they’re active.

Ideal For:

• Healthy, Active Dogs: Perfect for Akitas & Pit Bulls who need fuel for their adventures.
• Those Thriving on Grain-Free Diets: Great if your dog already does well on this type of formula.
• Owners Prioritizing Lean Protein: Perfect for those focused on muscle maintenance and a healthy weight.

02- Purina Pro Plan Shredded Blend (Chicken & Rice)

Purina Pro Plan Shredded Blend offers a mix of crunchy kibble and tender meaty pieces. But is this just a gimmick, or does it truly benefit our dogs?

The Good:

• Texture Appeal: Picky Frenchie approved! The mix of textures makes eating more fun.
• Quality Protein: Real chicken is the first ingredient, fueling those muscles.
• Balanced Nutrition: Covers your dog’s essential needs for overall health and well-being.
• The Purina Name: A well-known brand with a reputation for affordable, quality nutrition.

The Not-So-Good:

• Contains Grains: Might not be suitable for dogs with sensitivities or grain allergies.
• Potential for Mess: Your Frenchie might make a mess of those shredded pieces.
• Not the Most Exciting: Picky dogs might crave even more diverse flavors and textures.

Ideal For:

• Dogs Who Like Variety: A good option for pups who get bored with the same old kibble.
• Owners Seeking Quality on a Budget: The Purina Pro Plan offers good value for its price point.

03- Merrick Classic Healthy Grains (Real Beef + Brown Rice) (Budget-Friendly Option)

Merrick is known for high-quality food. Their Classic line offers that same quality at a better price. Is this the right choice for your dog? Let’s find out!

The Good:

• Real Meat First: Quality protein from beef is essential to build and maintain muscle.
• Wholesome Grains: Brown rice and other whole grains provide sustained energy and fiber.
• Added Vitamins & Minerals: Ensures your dog gets balanced, complete nutrition.
• The Merrick Name: Known for using thoughtfully sourced ingredients and quality control.

The Not-So-Good:

• Some Fillers: Contain ingredients that aren’t as nutrient-dense, like brewer rice.
• Potential for Sensitivities: Grains might not be suitable for all dogs with allergies.
• Mid-Range Price: More expensive than some budget brands, but less costly than high-end.

Ideal For:

• Healthy Dogs with No Major Needs: Perfect for Akitas and Pit Bulls thriving on a standard diet.
• Budget-Conscious Owners: Offers a good balance of quality and value, especially for large breeds.
• Beef Lovers: If your dog loves the taste of beef, this formula is likely a winner.

04- Eukanuba Medium Breed Adult Chicken

Eukanuba emphasizes its breed-specific formulas. But with Pit Bulls being mixed-breed and varied in size, does this food fit our unique pups? Let’s investigate.

The Good:

• Quality Protein: Chicken is the first ingredient, promoting muscle health.
• Focus on ‘Medium’ Needs: Calorie and nutrient content aligns well with moderately active, mid-size dogs (which some Pit Bulls can be).
• Joint Support: Glucosamine and chondroitin for proactive joint health, important for larger pups
• DentaDefense for Pearly Whites: Unique kibble shape designed to promote dental health.

The Not-So-Good:

• Contains Grains and Fillers: Might not be ideal for dogs with sensitivities.
• May Not Excite Taste Buds: Some dogs find the flavor a bit bland compared to bolder options.
• Sizing Uncertainties: While good for medium breeds, ‘Pit Bull size’ is highly variable.

Ideal For:

• Moderately Active Akitas: Well-suited to their size and typical energy needs.
• Average-Sized, Healthy Pit Bulls: Perfect if your Pit Bull fits within the ‘medium breed’ range.
• Owners Seeking Convenience: Eukanuba is widely available and offers consistent formulas.

05- Orijen Original Dry Dog Food, Grain Free (Best Dry Food for French Bulldog,Specialty Focus)

ORIJEN boasts unmatched quality but comes with an equally unmatched price tag. Is it truly worth the investment for our powerful canines?

The Good:

• Meat Lover’s Dream: Packed with fresh and raw animal protein, mimicking their ancestral diet.
• WholePrey Philosophy: Includes meat, organs, and bone for a complete nutrient profile.
• Grain-Free Goodness: Ideal for dogs with sensitivities or those needing a digestible formula.
• All Life Stages: Simplifies feeding, great for multi-dog households with Akitas or Pit Bulls of different ages.
• Puppy power: Consider this as a best dry dog food for french bulldog puppy.

The Not-So-Good:

• The Cost Factor: One of the most expensive dog foods on the market.
• Potential for Pickiness: The intense, meaty flavor might be too rich for some pups.
• Overkill for Couch Potatoes: Akitas or Pit Bulls with low activity levels likely don’t need this level of protein.

Ideal For:

• Highly Active Dogs: Perfect for those burning lots of energy, supporting muscle maintenance.
• Owners Prioritizing the Absolute Best: If top-quality nutrition is your goal, ORIJEN delivers.
• Dogs Who Thrive on Raw-Inspired Diets: Closest you’ll get to a raw diet in kibble form.

06- Rachael Ray Nutrish (Chicken & Veggies)

Rachael Ray Nutrish promises farm-fresh ingredients and an affordable price tag. But does the celebrity name mean quality nutrition?

The Good:

• Real Chicken Focus: Provides essential protein for muscle health and energy.
• Wholesome Veggies: Adds fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants for overall well-being.
• No Artificial Junk: Free from artificial flavors or colors often found in cheaper brands.
• Budget-Friendly: Offers good value compared to many premium or specialized foods.

The Not-So-Good:

• Contains Some Fillers: Includes ingredients like brewer rice, not as nutrient-dense as whole meats.
• May Not Excite Taste Buds: The simple formula might be lackluster for picky eaters.
• Not for High-Performance Pups: Moderate protein levels may not meet the needs of very active Akitas or Pitties.

Ideal For:

• Healthy Dogs with Moderate Needs: Perfect for Akitas and Pit Bulls without major dietary sensitivities.
• Owners Seeking Value: Provides balanced nutrition at a wallet-friendly price point.
• Fans of Rachael Ray: If you trust her brand, this food delivers on its promise of real ingredients.

07- Farmina N & D Prime (Chicken & Pomegranate)

Farmina N & D boasts delicious Mediterranean ingredients and a focus on ancestral nutrition. Does it live up to its gourmet-sounding name?

The Good:

• Quality Protein: Chicken provides the essential amino acids needed for strong muscles.
• Pomegranate Power: A unique source of antioxidants for immune support and overall health.
• Low-Glycemic Ingredients: Won’t cause blood sugar spikes, beneficial for weight control.
• Grain-Free: Ideal for dogs with grain sensitivities or allergies.

The Not-So-Good:

• Costly Choice: Expect to pay a premium for Farmina’s specialized formulas and ingredients.
• Potential for Pickiness: The distinct flavor combination might not please all palates.
• Sizing Matters: May not be suitable for truly giant breeds without sufficient protein.

Ideal For:

• Dogs Craving Something Different: Great if your Akita or Pittie is bored with standard chicken kibble.
• Healthy, Moderately Active Dogs: Provides balanced nutrition for average needs.
• Owners Seeking Quality: Farmina uses thoughtfully sourced ingredients with a focus on wholesomeness.

08- Wellness Complete Health Puppy (best food for frenchie puppy)

Puppyhood is a crucial growth stage, especially for large breeds like Akitas. Does Wellness Complete Health offer the right balance to get them started on the right paw?

The Good:

• Protein for Growth: This recipe has chicken and salmon for healthy muscle growth.
• Fish oil for a smarter puppy! It supports a healthy brain and eyes.
• Support healthy digestion with oatmeal: Boost your dog’s health with fruits and veggies.
• Well-Known Brand: Wellness has a reputation for quality ingredients and balanced formulas.

The Not-So-Good:

• May Contain Traces of Grains: While not the primary focus, might be an issue for highly sensitive pups.
• Premium Price: Wellness carries a higher price tag than some puppy food brands.

Ideal For:

• Healthy, Thriving Puppies: Ideal for Akitas, Pit Bulls, and French Bulldogs puppies.
• Owners Seeking Quality: Wellness provides premium ingredients for those prioritizing their puppy’s health.
• Dogs Who Enjoy the Flavor: If your pup gobbles it up, that’s half the battle won with french bulldog puppy food!

09- Hill’s Science Diet Puppy (Chicken Meal & Barley)

Hill’s Science Diet uses research to create the best food for your dog. Let’s see how their puppy formulas stack up.

The Good (Both Formulas):

• Protein for Growth: This recipe has chicken and salmon for healthy muscle growth.
• Targeted Nutrition: Balanced formula with optimal vitamins and minerals for puppy growth needs.
• Fish oil for a smarter puppy! It supports a healthy brain and eyes.
• The Hill’s Name: Their reputation for science-focused nutrition appeals to many owners.

The Differences:

• Chicken Meal vs. Brown Rice: For muscle building, pick Chicken Meal & Barley. If your dog prefers grains, try the Chicken & Brown Rice formula.

The Not-So-Good (Both Formulas):

• May Not Be a Taste Sensation: Some puppies find Hill’s recipes a bit bland compared to bolder flavors.
• Premium Price: You pay extra for Hill’s research-backed approach and brand recognition.
• Not for Sensitive Stomachs: Puppies with allergies might need more limited-ingredient options.

Ideal For:

• Healthy, Thriving Puppies: Both are great for Akitas and Pit Bulls.
• Owners Trusting Science: Their evidence-based approach appeals to those wanting researched nutrition.

10- Chicken Soup for the Soul Puppy (Classic)

Chicken Soup for the Soul plays on heartstrings and promises quality nutrition. But does it deliver on these feel-good promises? Let’s find out.

The Good:

• Real Meat Matters: Chicken and turkey are the stars, supporting those growing muscles.
• Wholesome Goodness: Fruits, veggies, and brown rice offer balanced nutrition and healthy energy.
• No Nasties: Free from artificial flavors, colors, and common allergens. Like soy, corn, and wheat.
• The Brand Appeal: Known for warmth and supporting shelters, appealing to kind-hearted owners.

The Not-So-Good:

• Some Fillers: Contain ingredients like brewer rice, not as nutrient-dense as whole proteins.
• May Not Excite Taste Buds: The simple, wholesome formula might be a bit bland for picky pups.
• Not for Sensitive Stomachs: While avoiding major allergens. Some dogs might find it hard to digest. Thats why always research for best food for french bulldogs with sensitive stomach.

Ideal For:

• Owners Seeking Feel-Good Nutrition: Delivers wholesome ingredients with that added emotional touch.

Choosing the Best Dog Food for French Bulldogs

Yes, choosing French bull dog food can be tricky! But with Frenchies, it’s essential to get it right. We’ll help you understand:

• What ingredients to look for?
• How much protein, fat, and carbs your Frenchie needs?
• Foods that can help with common Frenchie health issues.

The Nutritional Needs in French Bulldogs Food

French Bulldogs Have Special Food Needs.

Frenchies aren’t just small Bulldogs! Their unique features mean they need a special diet:

• Breathing Challenges (BOAS):
• Their short faces can make breathing hard, especially when eating. The right diet helps keep them at a healthy weight.
• Allergies:
• Frenchies often have allergies causing itchy skin, ear infections, and tummy trouble. Best food for Frenchies with allergies can help!
• What They Need:
• Protein:
• Builds muscles and supports the immune system. Look for meat as the #1 ingredient.
• Fat:
• Important, but too much leads to weight gain. Choose a food based on your Frenchie’s activity level.
• Carbs:
• Provide energy, but choose easy-to-digest options to avoid tummy problems.

The Best Food for Your Frenchie at Every Age

Your Frenchie’s food needs change as they grow. Here’s what to focus on at each stage:

Puppy Power:

• High protein: For strong muscles and growth.
• Calcium & Phosphorus: For healthy bones (important for Frenchies!)
• DHA & EPA: Help their brain and eyes develop.
• Small kibble: Easy to eat and less choking risk.

Adult Wellness:

• Manage allergies: If your Frenchie has allergies, choose a special food.
• Weight Control: Many Frenchies gain weight easily. Look for food that keeps them satisfied.
• Gut Health: Prebiotics & probiotics help with digestion and immunity.

Senior Support

• Boost protein: Helps older Frenchies keep their muscle mass.
• Joint Health: Glucosamine & chondroitin for healthy hips and knees.
• Weight Management: Choose a food with L-carnitine to help less active seniors
• Antioxidants & Fiber: For strong immunity and the best food for Gassy French bulldog.

Finding Your Frenchie’s Perfect Match

Selecting the right food goes beyond choosing one off this list. Here are some key tips:

Read Ingredient Labels: No mystery ingredients! Choose foods with real meat listed first. Avoid artificial fillers and by-products.

Life Stage Match: Look for a formula designed for your Frenchie’s age (puppy, adult, or senior).

Beyond the Bag

Dry and wet food are great, but there are more options! Let’s explore:

• Fresh/Homemade Diets: Know exactly what your Frenchie is eating with a homemade diet.
• Raw Food: This can be beneficial but comes with risks. Talk to your vet about safety precautions.

Navigating Food Allergies

If your Frenchie has allergies, see your vet for advice. This might involve:

Elimination Diets: A vet-designed food trial isolating common allergy culprits.

Hydrolyzed Proteins: Specialized formulas broken down to help reduce reactions.

Prescription Diets: Formulated for dogs with known and severe allergies.

Treats Matter Too!: Don’t neglect to ensure all treats given fit within the dietary plan.

FAQs

• Lean proteins: Cooked, skinless, boneless chicken, turkey, beef, or fish (like salmon)
• Fruits & Vegetables: Apples without seeds, bananas, blueberries, cucumbers, cooked sweet potatoes, carrots.
• Other: Plain cooked rice, plain yogurt (small amounts), unseasoned scrambled eggs

Important: Serve in moderation as treats, not meal replacements.

• The short answer: It depends. Grain-free diets can be beneficial for some dogs with sensitivities.
• Best advice: Talk to your vet! They know your Frenchie’s health history and can help you make the right choice.

• Choose food made for Frenchies. Formulas are designed for their allergies and health problems.
• Ingredients: Opt for whole meat as the first ingredient, limited fillers, and a good balance of protein, fats, and complex carbs.
• Ask your vet: They know your dog’s individual needs and will recommend the best options.

• Limited ingredient diets: These help pinpoint the allergen causing trouble.
• Veterinarian prescription: Your vet may recommend a specialized, prescription food for severe allergies.

• Toxic foods: Chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol (artificial sweetener), macadamia nuts, avocado.
• Fatty, processed food: Table scraps, fried foods, etc., can upset their stomachs.
• Potential allergens: Some Frenchies are sensitive to dairy, wheat, or certain meats.

• Brachycephalic build: Short snouts make it hard to breathe and eat at the same time.
• Natural tendencies: Frenchies can be food-motivated and prone to overeating.

• Controversial topic: Raw diets have potential benefits. But some experts warn of health risks.
• Not for everyone: Raw food requires careful preparation and isn’t safe for some dogs.
• Vet consultation is key: If you’re considering raw feeding, discuss it with your vet.

Conclusion:

The best part of owning a Frenchie? Knowing you’re giving them the best possible life, starting with a healthy diet!

I recommend Nulo Freestyle Grain-Free Adult Dog Food for most Frenchies. Here’s why:

• Packed with quality protein from meat and fish.
• Rich in antioxidants and omega fatty acids for complete health.
• Grain-free, which may benefit Frenchies with sensitivities.

Now you can find the Best Dog Food for French Bulldogs in the above list.

Important: Watch your Frenchie’s weight with any food. If they start to gain, consider a weight management formula.

Always consult your vet about your Frenchie’s diet. This is especially important for dogs with health issues or picky eating habits.