The 7 Best Dog Foods for French Bulldogs in 2023

French Bulldogs are one of the most popular small breed dogs worldwide.

These gentle, happy-go-lucky pups are the ones that people want as the first pets for their children.

Commonly called Frenchies, they aren’t picky eaters. They are predisposed to a few health problems but typically do not have many food-related concerns.

However, you still need to feed your Frenchie quality food with the proper nutrition for the breed.

To ensure good health and proper energy levels, I’ve compiled this list of the best dog foods for your French Bulldog.

Here are the foods that made the cut.

The 7 Best Dog Foods for French Bulldogs

How to Switch Dog Food Without Getting Your Pup Sick

French Bulldogs Dog Food Reviews

1. Nulo Freestyle Grain-Free Salmon & Peas Dog Food

Ratings:

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Deboned Salmon, 2. Turkey Meal, 3. Menhaden Fish Meal, 4. Whole Peas, 5. Sweet Potato

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Small, Medium, Large Breeds
• Caloric content (per kg) 3,595 kcal
• Form: Dry

Perfect for small breed dogs like the Frenchie—Nulo Freestyle Dog Food is our top choice for adult French Bulldogs. The food is protein-dense at 30% and uses salmon as the primary ingredient. Salmon is protein-packed with beneficial fish oil and amino acids. Peas and sweet potatoes provide beneficial carbohydrates without causing allergies or tummy upset.

Additionally, your dog will receive vitamin B6 for an energy boost and probiotics for optimal digestive health. Calcium and phosphorus in the recipe strengthen bones and joints. This grain-free diet is an excellent choice for Frenchies needing to maintain a healthy weight and stay active.

Analysis: Protein (min.) 30% | Fat (min.) 16% | Fiber (max.) 4.5% | Moisture (max.) 10%

2. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Puppy Chicken Recipe Dog Food

Ratings:

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Deboned Chicken, 2. Pea Protein, 3. Chicken Meal, 4. Chicken Fat, 5. Flaxseed

• Life Stage: Puppy
• Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 3,662 kcal
• Form: Dry

If you are looking for something suited for French Bulldog puppies, then the Blue Buffalo Wilderness formula is a good pick. It contains deboned chicken, which is easy to eat and digest.

The recipe also contains fish oil, plant starch, vegetables, and dried egg. These ingredients give all the essential nutrition and more to your little pup. Their gut health will improve while their bones remain strong. The best part is that this food will not cause indigestion or vomiting.

Analysis: Protein min. 36% | Fat min. 16%, | Fiber max. 5% | Moisture max. 10%

3. VICTOR Senior Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food

Ratings:

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Beef Meal, 2. Whole Grain Brown Rice, 3. Menhaden Fish Meal, 4. Chicken Fat, 5. Peas

• Life Stage: Senior
• Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 3,385 kcal
• Form: Dry

Taking care of your aging French Bulldog requires special nutrition. And Victor Purpose Senior Healthy Weight Dog Food provides that and more. This formula uses L-carnitine to metabolize extra fat and convert it into energy, keeping your senior fit and agile.

Your Frenchie’s muscles are fed with beef protein while rice and millet provide energy stores. Micronutrients via vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fatty acids support essential body functions, while glucosamine and chondroitin reduce cartilage wear and keep your dog flexible as it ages. 

Lastly, the VPro blend ensures efficient digestion and builds up immunity that naturally weakens in senior dogs.

Analysis: Protein min. 27% | Fat min. 11.5%, | Fiber max. 4.5% | Moisture max. 9%

4. Whole Earth Farms Grain-Free Red Meat Canned Dog Food

Ratings:

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Beef, 2. Beef Broth, 3. Beef Liver, 4. Lamb, Pork Liver, 5. Sweet Potatoes

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Small, Medium, Large Breeds
• Caloric content (per kg) 1,100 kcal
• Form: Wet Food

These nutritious food formulas by Whole Earth Farms are one of the best choices for your Frenchie’s dietary needs. Combined with the goodness of beef, fish, and vegetables, it contains everything from essential oils to minerals, vitamins to probiotics, and live natural microorganisms.

The recipe contains no corn, soy, or wheat that could trigger any allergies your dog may have. Since the taste is not compromised, your beloved furry friend will love transitioning to this food.

Analysis: Protein (min.) 8% | Fat (min.) 5% | Fiber (max.) 1.4% | Moisture (max.) 78%

5. The Farmer’s Dog

Ratings:

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. brussels sprouts, 3. chicken liver, 4. bok‐choy cabbage, 5. broccoli

• Life Stage: All
• Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
• Caloric content (per lb): 721 kcal
• Form: Frozen

Surprise your Frenchie with a nutritious, home-cooked meal without any home-cooking involved with The Farmer’s Dog. Their fresh food recipes contain human-grade meat, whole veggies, fruits, and delicious, real foods. It provides your dog with a precise amount of fine-tuned nutrients according to age, breed, and activity levels.

Moreover, the food is free of artificial additives and fillers that offer no nutritional value. Its sent to your doorstep regularly in eco-friendly bags. The only downside is the price – however, you can be sure you will get your money’s worth in nutrition and taste.

Analysis: Protein (min.) 11%, Fat (min.) 8%, Fiber (max.) 1.5%, Moisture (max.) 72%

6. AvoDerm Chicken Meal & Brown Rice Small Breed Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken Meal, 2. Ground Brown Rice, 3. Ground White Rice, 4. Oatmeal, 5. Avocado

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Small, Extra Small & Toy Breeds
• Caloric content (per kg) 3,607 kcal
• Form: Dry

AvoDerm has created a highly nutritious dog food that helps small breeds get a complete diet and maintain a healthy weight by incorporating a variety of high-quality ingredients into a tiny kibble. The recipe contains premium chicken meat and easily-digestible grains that activate muscle conditioning and fuel your bulldog’s energy levels.

Aside from that, AvoDerm dog food is also rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and omega fatty acids. These work together to strengthen your dog’s immune and digestive system while supporting their skin, coat, and bone health. The AvoDerm dog food is an excellent, nutrient-dense food that comes in small bite-sized kibbles that are perfect for bulldogs.

Analysis: Protein (min.) 26% | Fat (min.) 16% | Fiber (max.) 4.2% | Moisture (max.) 10%

7. American Journey Chicken & Sweet Potato Grain-Free Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Deboned Chicken, 2. Chicken Meal, 3. Turkey Meal, 4. Peas, 5. Sweet Potatoes

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 3,710 kcal
• Form: Dry

In search of dog food that suits the palate and gut of your senior dog? Look no further because American Journey has the best formula in town. The specially selected nutrients in this formula ensure that your aged friend gets everything needed to stay strong and active.

Everything is selected based on the needs of your senior, from antioxidants to medium-chain triglycerides, vitamins, and minerals. This grain-free formula allows for an easy eating experience and easy digestion too.

Analysis: Protein min. 34%, | Fat min. 15%, | Fiber max. 5%, | Moisture max. 10%

8. Merrick Classic Small Breed Recipe Adult Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Deboned Chicken, 2. Barley, 3. Oatmeal, 4. Quinoa, 5. Carrots

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Extra Small & Toy, Small breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 3,711 kcal
• Form: Dry

Healthily gaining weight is often a challenge for Frenchies that are in the habit of eating table scraps. Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Dog Food is a good choice for that purpose. This yummy recipe is designed with real meat and whole grains, allowing your dog to put on lean muscle while avoiding excess fat.

It uses oatmeal, brown rice, and barley to start a caloric surplus and promote digestion through healthy fibers. Merrick Healthy Grains will also keep their joints in perfect shape as your dog gains weight with glucosamine and chondroitin. Owners also swear by this recipe and have witnessed their picky dogs immersed in its delicious taste!

Analysis: Protein (min.) 27% | Fat (min.) 16% | Fiber (max.) 3.5% | Moisture (max.) 11%

9. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Healthy Weight Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Deboned Lamb, 2. Potatoes, 3. Pea Starch, 4. Lamb Meal, 5. Canola Oil

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Large, giant breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 3,562 kcal
• Form: Dry

The perfect mix for your adult Frenchie, Blue recipes contains all the essential nutrients like deboned chicken, oatmeal, brown rice, and important vegetables. Quality ingredients mean your pup can extract all the health they need from their food.

Including real meat, with a blend of veggies and fiber, and the presence of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids ensures excellent gut health, strong bones, and healthy teeth. It contains antioxidants to protect your little fur family from diseases and ailments. L-Carnitine also helps with muscle development.

Analysis: Protein (min.) 20% | Fat (min.) 13% | Fiber (max.) 6% | Moisture (max.) 10%

10. CANIDAE Petite Small Breed Grain-Free Salmon Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Salmon, 2. Peas, 3. Lentils, 4. Tapioca, 5. Freeze-Dried Salmon

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Small, Extra Small & Toy Breeds
• Caloric content (per kg) 3,500 kcal
• Form: Dry

Poor coat health and frequent stomach problems end with the Canidae Pure Petite Small Breed Dog Food. This recipe contains gentle ingredients like salmon, peas, lentils, flaxseed, and beans. They’re safe for sensitive dogs and offer a wide range of essential nutrients to build muscle, improve energy, and soften the coat.

Freeze-dried salmon coats each piece of kibble, which makes the food appealing to picky eaters. It is also enriched with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to improve your sensitive Frenchie’s coat and give it a vibrant appearance. The digestive system further benefits from probiotics for a healthy gut.

Analysis: Protein (min.) 24% | Fat (min.) 12.5% | Fiber (max.) 4% | Moisture (max.) 10%

11. Natural Balance LID Grain-Free Chicken & Sweet Potato Small Breed Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Chicken Meal, 3. Sweet Potatoes, 4. Tapioca Starch, 5. Potatoes

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Small, Extra Small & Toy Breeds
• Caloric content (per kg) 3,576 kcal
• Form: Dry

It’s difficult to pin down the food causing allergies in a French bulldog. But not when you’re feeding Natural Balance LID Chicken & Sweet Potato Dog Food. This limited ingredient diet only contains a handful of necessary food in their recipe; chicken, sweet potatoes, fat, flaxseed, and a bunch of essential vitamins and minerals.

This recipe excludes anything that has the slightest chance of triggering allergies, making the food safe for allergic French bulldogs. Above all, the food will help with dental hygiene as its crunchy texture gently removes excess plaque. It’s also quite yummy and favored by dogs with picky eating habits.

Analysis: Protein (min.) 24% | Fat (min.) 10% | Fiber (max.) 4% | Moisture (max.) 10%

12. The Honest Kitchen Grain-Free Chicken Dehydrated Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Dehydrated Chicken, 2. Organic Flaxseed, 3. Dehydrated Potatoes, 4. Dehydrated Sweet Potatoes, 5. Dried Apples

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Small, Medium, Large Breeds
• Caloric content (per kg) 3,930 kcal
• Form: Dehydrated

Dehydrated foods are excellent as snacks as well as full meals. This Honest Kitchen Grain-free chicken recipe is the one that is going to provide nutrition with deliciousness. The mixture of chicken with the goodness of real fruits and vegetables is choc-full of powerful antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.

From the gut to the bones, teeth to the coat, your dog will flourish and become active. All you need to do is add water to the formula and present it to them three times a day!

Analysis: Protein (min.) 24% | Fat (min.) 15% | Fiber (max.) 6.5% | Moisture (max.) 8.5%

13. Purina Pro Plan Shredded Blend Small Breed Chicken & Rice Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, Rice, 2. Poultry By-product Meal, 3. Beef Fat, 4. Corn Gluten Meal, 5. Soybean Meal

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Small, Extra Small & Toy Breeds
• Caloric content (per kg) 3,824 kcal
• Form: Dry

Keep your French bulldog’s fun-fueled adventures running with the Purina Pro Plan Shredded Blend Small Breed Dog Food. This formula is specially crafted for hyper-active breeds like the Frenchie that burn many calories. Each cup contains 373 calories of real chicken meat and rice to trigger muscle repair and instant absorption.

But that’s not all. The shredded blend recipe also features bites of raw chicken meat, giving it a lip-smacking flavor and a significant protein boost. It uses live probiotics that enhance gut bacteria and lead to more effective digestion. Fat is plentiful in the formula, which acts as a supplementary source of energy and improves coat and skin health.

Analysis: Protein (min.) 29% | Fat (min.) 17% | Fiber (max.) 3% | Moisture (max.) 12%

Related:

• The Main Dog Food Guide
• Updated Post on the best dry dog foods
• Reviews of the best dog foods for allergies 

Frequently Asked Questions About French Bulldogs Food

The following FAQs and Buyer’s Guide should help answer some of the questions you may have as a French Bulldog owner. Read on to find out how you can make the best food choices.

What is the best dog food for French bulldogs?

The consensus is that commercially produced food works best for French Bulldogs. These formulas contain all the nutrients required to keep the dog active, strong, and perfectly healthy with shiny coats and strong bones and teeth. There are many foods in this post that should be a great fit for your Frenchie.

Can Chicken Cause Harm to my French Bulldog?

Frenchies love meat, and all their meals should contain at least one meat protein if not more. It can either be lamb, fish, chicken, or beef. Therefore, whether you buy dry food or wet food, be sure to check the label for the addition of whole meat in the food recipe.

How much food does a French Bulldog puppy need?

A typical, healthy French bulldog requires 25-30 calories per pound of their body weight per day, ideally divided into 2-3 meals a day.

Should I feed eggs to my French Bulldog?

While you should never feed raw eggs to your Frenchie, cooked eggs are a nutritious treat. Eggs can even help settle the stomach of your dog. If though you notice that they have an allergic reaction to the eggs, take them to the vet immediately.

Can French Bulldogs consume peanut butter?

Yes, French Bulldogs can eat peanut butter, but it is best to give it in a moderate amount and only a few days a week. Never give peanut butter containing xylitol (an artificial sweetener) to a dog as it is toxic to them. Always read the label.

Can I give bacon to my French Bulldog?

Bacon is high in salt and fat content, which means that it can be difficult for a dog to digest. If consumed in high amounts, it can also lead to pancreatitis that can turn life-threatening. Your beloved dog can die. Therefore, it is best not to give bacon to your Frenchie.

Is it okay to give French Bulldogs Pasta?

As long as your Frenchie is not allergic to wheat or other grains, it can have pasta in moderation. Just as in humans, whole wheat pasta is a better, more healthy option for your dog.

When to give French Bulldog puppy adult dog food?

A French Bulldog reaches its prime when they turn 10-12 months old, which is when you can switch them from puppy food to adult food. As always, your veterinarian is the best source of information on when and how to switch.

Are strawberries good for French Bulldog?

French Bulldogs love strawberries, and yes, they are good for them too. Strawberries contain magnesium, potassium, folic acid as well as fiber, which means they are great for your pup’s health. Of course, too much of anything can be hazardous, and too many strawberries can result in diarrhea.

Can French Bulldogs eat popcorn?

The answer to this is both yes and no. Yes, you can give Frenchies plain, air-popped popcorn to your beautiful pets, but giving them butter popcorn or any other flavored or popcorn with topping can be dangerous for them. Keep in mind that even if you do give them popcorn, moderation is always key.

Do French Bulldogs have a sensitive stomach?

French Bulldogs are known for their sensitive stomachs, which is why you need to be very careful about what you feed them, how much you feed them, and whether or not they have food allergies. They like to eat so you will need to make sure that they eat moderately and all the right things.

Which vegetables are good French Bulldogs?

Frenchies love the crunchy texture of vegetables like celery, carrots, squash, pumpkin, raw green beans, spinach, and Brussels sprouts. While these are very nutritious for your fuzzball, make sure you give them in moderate amounts.

What is the worst food for a French bulldog?

Grains like corn and wheat aren’t very healthy for French Bulldogs. They can cause gas and make them fart a lot. Almost all Frenchies are allergic to corn, so you must make sure it is not present in any of the food items you purchase for them.

Can tomatoes harm French Bulldogs?

The stem and vines of the tomato contain a toxin known as solanine. Even though it is present in very small amounts, if your dog eats too much of it, it can become dangerous. Otherwise, the fruit is not harmful but should be given in small amounts as it can also cause allergies.

What should not be given to French Bulldogs?

Onions, garlic, chives, and shallots can be poisonous for your dogs. Therefore, don’t ever give them those, nor should you buy food formulas that contain these vegetables. Avocados and grapes are also dangerous. Grapes can lead to kidney failure.

Are Avocados dangerous for my French Bulldog?

Yes, they are. Avocados contain a toxin known as persin, which can cause damage to their stomach, so you should never feed it to them.

The Buyer’s Guide: Food For French Bulldogs

Now, what are the things that you need to consider when food shopping for your French Bulldog? The most important thing to understand is that Frenchies are a relatively small breed, which means that their gut health can become delicate pretty fast. You should be conscious of both their weight and the number of calories you are giving them.

What to Consider?

I understand that many dog owners feel making food at home is a better option than commercially produced food. But unless you are extremely well informed, and ready to measure and properly prepare each ingredient carefully, commercially created formulas are better able to fulfill all the dog’s dietary needs. They tend to be healthier and more nutritious. The great thing is that by just reading the labels, you can find out all that you need to know about the recipe.

Here are the things you need to keep an eye out for when reading the label:

• Moderate Proteins: It may seem that your little pup is very small, but Frenchies are bulldogs, they are stocky and muscular. Hence they need a good portion of proteins in their diet. Animal-based proteins are the best because they are easiest to digest. But too much protein can cause allergies, so keep the amount moderate.
• Low Fats: Being stocky, they are liable to gain weight quickly, which is why a low percentage of fats are best for French Bulldogs.
• Low Carbs: Carbs for Frenchies should come from dietary fiber. This way, they won’t develop gas issues, other digestive problems or gain excessive weight.
• Vitamins & Minerals: These are essential for all canines, including the French Bulldogs. Opt for a recipe specifically made for Frenchies, one that contains the vitamins and minerals suited for their development.
• Nutraceuticals: Probiotics and prebiotics keep the GI health of your pup in working order.

You may not find too many products that are particularly for Frenchies only. That means you will have to read the labels carefully before making your decision to ensure that your loved furry friend stays healthy and happy.

Calorie & Weight Control

As mentioned before, French Bulldogs are prone to weight gain and obesity. You, as the parents will have to monitor what they eat and how much of it they are eating. If your dog is consuming too much food, then chances of weight problems multiply. Keep in mind that Frenchies aren’t pro athletes, which means they don’t expend the same amount of energy as some other breeds. They prefer staying indoors, lavishing in the warmth and love you bestow on them.

According to the breed standard, a French Bulldog should not weight more than 28 pounds. If yours has a weight greater than this, you may need food that helps in losing those extra pounds. Opt for a recipe specially designed to help your dog lose weight. I have mentioned them in the list, so no worries. You would also need to take them out for regular walks.

Food Allergies

Don’t stress out! Most Frenchies do not have food allergies. However, some can become allergic to corn, beef, milk, cheeses, chicken, soy, eggs, and wheat. You will have to pay attention to anything new you introduce to your dog to find out whether or not it suits them. That is why if you are thinking of changing their diet, you should first test it for some days to see how well your pup is taking to it.

If your Frenchie starts scratching too much, is licking itself a lot, vomits frequently, or breaks out in red blotches, it could be an allergic reaction. You will need to change the food to see whether it was the food or not.

Corn is one thing that can result in allergies. But you can’t be certain unless you eliminate the food source. Also, keep in mind that Frenchies are mostly affected by environmental allergens and if eliminating a particular food isn’t bettering their situation, you might need to change their surroundings to help with the allergy.

Of course, taking your French Bulldogs to the vet is always the safest option when any allergic reaction takes place. Remember, all Frenchies are different, with varying preferences. So you may need to test a few foods to discover which one is best for your dog.

Now there you have all the 13 best dog foods for French Bulldogs. Choose wisely. Good luck!

Reference and Resources:

• Train a French Bulldogs
• wikipedia.org French Bulldog
• akc.org french-bulldog