Best Dog Food for French Bulldogs
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What’s the best food for a French bulldog?
The answer to that crucial question depends on the age of your Frenchie.
That’s because…
French bulldog puppies, adults and seniors EACH have different nutritional requirements.
Which is why…
A dog food that’s right for an adult Frenchie may contain too little calcium for a growing puppy… and too many calories for an inactive older dog.
And there are other important age-related differences, too.
Like the amount of phosphorus, iron… and 6 other minerals needed by the breed to achieve and maintain optimal long-term health.
What’s more…
An older Frenchie requires more protein… and fewer calories… than a younger animal.
Here’s the point…
Since there are no official nutrient guidelines for ANY specific breed…
It’s super critical to choose a dog food that’s designed to meet the science-based nutrient needs… based on the life stage of YOUR particular Frenchie.
What Are the 3 Life Stages of a French Bulldog?
Since dog breeds age at different rates, the life stages below and can be used as a guide to help you find the best possible food for your Frenchie.1 2
| Life Stage | Age |
|---|---|
| Puppy | Under 12 months |
| Adult | Over 12 months |
| Senior | 10+ years |
Our Top Recommendations
On this page…
We’ll share The Dog Food Advisor’s safest and most recommended brands based on the age of YOUR French bulldog.
And we’ll answer the 6 most frequently asked questions we get about feeding this medium-size breed.
Best Dog Food for French Bulldogs April 2024
Here are The Dog Food Advisor's best dog food brands for French Bulldogs for April 2024.
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1. Nulo Freestyle Grain-Free Adult
Adult Salmon and Pea is one of 9 dry recipes rated in our review of the Nulo Freestyle product line.
This Nulo Freestyle formula derives the bulk of its meat protein from fresh salmon and turkey meal as well as menhaden fish meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 18% fat and 41% estimated carbs… creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 53%.
Contains ample proprietary probiotics for easy digestion and chelated minerals for superior nutrition. A top choice for those looking for a top level, grain-free formula. Readily recommended.
Read our review of the full Nulo FreeStyle Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned salmon, turkey meal, menhaden fish meal, whole peas, sweet potato Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 33% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult Frenchies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dog has been on this food for a while now and she does great on it! I love and trust this brand! No recalls, high protein, no chicken ingredients, no artificial fillers or flavors and great quality ingredients!"
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2. Purina Pro Plan Shredded Blend
Small Breed Shredded Chicken and Rice is one of 19 dry recipes covered in our review of the Purina Pro Plan product line.
This Purina Pro Plan formula gets most of its animal protein from fresh chicken and poultry by-product meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 19% fat and 40% estimated carbs… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 59%.
A nutrient-dense design with a smaller kibble size. A top recipe for for small and medium breeds. One of the brands most frequently mentioned by breeders and veterinary professionals. Readily recommended.
Read our review of the full Purina Pro Plan Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, rice, poultry by-product meal, beef fat, corn gluten meal Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 33% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult Frenchies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dog likes this food. He was eating the regular purina pro plan small breed adult food, but we ran out while on vacation. Got this food instead and he was happy with it so we keep him on it now. Good price for same food, but with little food chunks instead of just kibble. Also, it says it has probiotics so that’s a plus."
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3. The Farmer's Dog
Fresh Turkey Recipe is one of 4 fresh formulas covered in our review of the The Farmers Dog product line.
This Farmer’s Dog formula draws the lion’s share of its animal protein from fresh USDA turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 19% fat and 40% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
If you’ve ever wished you could prepare a fresh, home-cooked meal for your Frenchie… without all the fuss… then The Farmer’s Dog may be the perfect fit.
An exceptional dog food made with human-grade ingredients. Worthy of its slightly higher price. Recommended with confidence.
Read our review of the full The Farmer’s Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients USDA Turkey, chickpeas, carrot, broccoli, parsnip Type Grain-free, fresh Protein Percentage 33% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For French Bulldog adults and puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at The Farmer's Dog"This is the first time in a LONG time that Finnegan has been excited about dinner. We’ve gone through countless brands of canned food. I decided to switch… and am so glad I did. For the same amount of money, I have fresh food delivered that I know he is going to eat. Thank you for such a wonderful product!"
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4. Merrick Classic Healthy Grains
Merrick Classic Real Beef + Brown Rice is one of 13 dry recipes included in our review of the Merrick Classic Healthy Ancient Grains product line.
This Merrick formula gets the major part of its animal protein from a combination of fresh beef and pork meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 17% fat and 46% estimated carbs… which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.
A classic, grain-inclusive design with no peas, lentils or other plant-based protein boosters. Ideal for dog owners who prefer a traditional, grain-based recipe. Reasonably priced. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned beef, pork meal, brown rice, barley, oatmeal Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 29% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult Frenchies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Our rescue dog became a picky eater after 10 months; we started him on Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Beef & Brown Rice Recipe, he his eating it well and enjoys when we add in the freeze-dried beef by Merrick too. When our vet asked what we were feeding our dog, he said this is great dog food, high-quality and good ingredients for the dog; I couldn't recommend anything better. That was great to hear from our vet."
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5. Eukanuba Medium Breed Adult Chicken
This Medium Breed Chicken formula is one of 14 dry recipes contained in our review of the Eukanuba product line.
Eukanuba Medium Breed Chicken receives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh chicken and chicken by-product meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals a recipe containing 28% protein, 18% fat and 46% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio (FPR) of about 64%.
Offers complete, fully balanced nutrition for medium breed dogs over 12 months old. A classic mix of animal protein, glucosamine, and chondroitin… to support lean muscle development and joint health. Easily recommended.
Read our review of the full Eukanuba Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, chicken fat Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 28% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult Frenchies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I was feeding Pro Plan and dogs were doing great on it but I discovered that they use Ethoxyquin in most of their pet foods. It was very disappointing. I found Eukanuba which has similar ingredients minus Ethoxyquin. The ingredients are even better than PP. Less corn and no Menadione. I wish I'd found Eukanuba first. I'm surprised it's not more popular than it is. The ingredients are really good. My dogs are doing just as well on it. No issues changing over. Dogs love the taste, the unique kibble shape is easy to chew, and solid stool a plus. I highly recommend this product."
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6. Orijen Original
Orijen Original is one of 9 dry recipes covered in our review of the Orijen Dog Food product line.
This Orijen formula derives the better part of its animal protein from fresh chicken, turkey and flounder as well as whole Atlantic mackerel. Dry matter label analysis reveals a recipe containing 43% protein, 20% fat and 28% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.
A biologically appropriate design made with fresh, regional ingredients. And it’s 100% preservative free. A top level, fully balanced dog food. Recommended with confidence.
Read our review of the full Orijen Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, turkey, flounder, whole mackerel, chicken liver Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 43% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For French Bulldog puppies and adults Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Don't let the price change your mind about feeding Orijen! You feed very little because it is a high protein food and it is more concentrated than others that are full of fillers. My dog loves the food and has a perfect coat, loads of energy, and maintains a perfect body condition. I would highly recommend this food to anyone."
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7. Rachael Ray Nutrish
Chicken and Veggies is one of 8 dry recipes evaluated in our review of the Rachael Ray Nutrish product line.
The Nutrish Chicken and Veggies formula obtains the the bulk of its meat protein from fresh chicken and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 16% fat and 48% estimated carbs… which results in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 54%.
We note the presence of fiber-rich brown rice and beet pulp, working together to support a healthy digestive system. Moderately priced. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Rachael Ray Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken meal, dried peas, soybean meal, whole ground corn Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 29% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult Frenchies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Our French Bulldog is a year and a half old. We switch her food each time we buy a new bag. We've tried several premium brands, and she has never really gotten excited about any of it; she just tolerates it. But this food? She goes crazy for it - just absolutely LOVES it. We'll definitely buy it again!"
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8. Farmina N & D Prime Adult Formula
Chicken and Pomegranate is one of 8 dry recipes contained in our review of the Farmina N & D Prime product line.
Farmina N & D Prime Chicken and Pomegranate derives the better part of its meat protein from fresh chicken and dehydrated chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals a recipe with 37% protein, 20% fat and 35% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 53%.
This fully balanced formula is 100% free of whole peas, legumes, meat meals and animal by-products. Omega fatty acids promote healthy skin and coat. Pomegranate and berries supply antioxidants to help fight damaging free radicals.
A nutritious dog food, ideal for adult Frenchies. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Farmina Prime Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, dehydrated chicken, sweet potatoes, chicken fat, dried whole eggs Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 37% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult Frenchies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I have tried multiple brands and types of dog food, but this one stood out to my dog the best. I got it because the chicken, pomegranate, and non-gmo. My dog has an easy time eating the food and is always wanting more. I don't care for the smell of the food, but that is really the only drawback."
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9. Victor Senior Healthy Weight
This Senior Healthy Weight formula is one of 6 dry recipes included in our review of the Victor Purpose product line.
Victor Senior Healthy Weight delivers the bulk of its animal protein from beef meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals a recipe with 30% protein, 13% fat and 50% estimated carbs… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio (FPR) of about 43%.
This nutrient-dense recipe is fortified with glucosamine and chondroitin for long-term joint health. We also welcome the inclusion of L-carnitine… an amino acid which can help convert fat to energy and produce lean muscle development. Reasonably priced. Highly recommended.
For More Choices: See our Best Dog Food for Seniors page
Read our review of the full Victor Purpose Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Beef meal, whole grain brown rice, whole grain millet, grain sorghum, chicken fat Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 30% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Senior Frenchies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"So far this food has turned my older frenchie around! She refused to eat at least one of her meals and was moving slowly. She now eats both meals and is up and about during the day again. Poops are perfect too. Highly recommend!"
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10. Wellness Complete Health Puppy
Wellness Puppy is one of 13 dry recipes contained in our review of the Wellness Complete product line.
Wellness Complete Health Puppy acquires much of its meat protein from deboned chicken and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 32% protein, 20% fat and 40% estimated carbs… creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 62%.
Containing omega-6 fatty acids at 3.8% and omega-3s at 1.0%, this recipe delivers an optimal fatty acid ratio of 4 to 1. Ideal for supporting vision and brain development in young puppies. And a superior design for French bulldog puppies. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Wellness Complete Health Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, chicken meal, oatmeal, ground barley, peas Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 32% AAFCO Standards Growth Best For French Bulldog puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I can tell a lot from a dogs BM’s, so I will just say that I love the ingredients in this puppy food. I feed the adult version to our adult dogs and figured I would give the puppy version a shot given the ingredients are of such high-quality. The puppy likes the food which is awesome. The pieces are really small, about 3/8” diameter. But what I REALLY like is that her poops are the perfect consistency. That tells me her body is getting all the right nutrients and fiber while being gentle on her digestive system. Also makes clean up a cinch! I have used other popular brands in the past and had to deal with runny poops so I am a convert to the Wellness brand."
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11. Hill's Science Diet Puppy
Chicken Meal and Barley is one of 6 dry recipes covered in our review of the Hills Science Diet product line.
This Hill’s Science Diet Puppy formula draws the major part of its meat protein from chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 28% protein, 17% fat and 48% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio (FPR) of about 60%.
In addition, we note the inclusion of omega-3 fatty acids derived from fish oil… to help support healthy brain and eye development. A time-proven, balanced formula ideal for growing French bulldog puppies. A top recommendation.
Read our review of the full Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, whole grain wheat, cracked pearled barley, whole grain sorghum, whole grain corn Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 28% AAFCO Standards Growth Best For French Bulldog puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"This is good food especially for starting small or younger pups. The kibble comes in a small bites variety that is very small and you can size up the kibble as the puppies grow. My puppies have shiny coats, are a good weight and have firm stool."
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12. Chicken Soup for the Soul Puppy
Classic Puppy is one of 11 dry recipes evaluated in our review of the Chicken Soup for the Soul product line.
Chicken Soup for the Soul Puppy acquires the better part of its animal protein from fresh chicken and fresh turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 18% fat and 44% estimated carbs… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 60%.
Sporting a classic, grain-inclusive design while also containing zinc proteinate and 2 other chelated minerals (for superior nutrition), this recipe is perfectly balanced for small and medium breed puppies.
The kibble itself is about 4.5 to 8.5 mm in size with smooth and rounded edges, making it perfect for those puppies just switching to a dry food after weaning. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Chicken Soup for the Soul Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, turkey, chicken meal, turkey meal, cracked pearled barley Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 30% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For French Bulldog adults and puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Our two puppies absolutely LOVE THIS FOOD!!! They seriously can not get enough of it. They are totally different personalities, breeds, and sizes but they both lose it for their dinnertime. They have learned to sit, and wait, by using this food as motivation. They have plenty of energy, their fur looks amazing, and they have never had any stomach issues at all. I am glad that Chicken Soup for the Soul also makes big dog puppy and small bites for older small dogs so they have something to grow into."
More Top Picks
To view more top dog foods by category… click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.
Here are the most frequently asked questions we get about feeding French Bulldogs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to switch to a new food... without getting your Frenchie sick?
In the video below…
You’ll learn a simple feeding trick that can lower your Frenchie’s risk of getting sick when you switch to a new dog food.
Do French Bulldogs need to eat special dog food?
No… AAFCO3 and the FDA have established no official nutrient standards unique for French Bulldogs. Yet it’s still important to select a dog food that’s designed to meet the pet food industry’s guidelines that best match the life stage (puppy, adult or senior) of YOUR particular Frenchie.
How much food should you feed a French Bulldog to maintain ideal weight?
A landmark university study found that dogs fed an amount of food to keep them at ideal body condition lived nearly 2 years longer… than other dogs.4
So, to help your Frenchie live a longer life…
Begin with the feeding instructions printed on the bag or can. Then, adjust that amount up or down… to keep your Frenchie at ideal body condition.
In the video below…
You’ll learn the same science-based secret used by vets to determine exactly how much food it takes…
To help your French Bulldog achieve this healthy weight goal.
Do older Frenchies need more protein... or less?
Contrary to popular opinion…
Older French bulldogs tend to need more protein and fewer calories than younger dogs. That’s because (like humans) seniors must replace wasting muscle tissue as they age.
Although adult dog foods can legally contain as little as 18%, all our recommended brands for Frenchies contain at least 28% protein… which should be suitable for seniors, too.
However…
If you’re feeding a French Bulldog whose age is 10 years or more…
It’s best to consider feeding a diet that contains…
Above-average protein… and below-average calories.
Click here to see a list of The Dog Food Advisor’s top 10 best senior dog foods.
What's the best food for a French Bulldog puppy?
Since they’re considered medium breed dogs, Frenchie puppies benefit from eating foods that contain the right balance of calcium and other nutrients specifically designed for puppies. So, until your puppy reaches 9 to 12 months, your Frenchie should be fed a diet that meets AAFCO nutrient guidelines… and is clearly marked “for Growth” or “for All Life Stages”.
In addition to the 3 puppy and 3 all life stages listed above, you’ll find a complete list of The Dog Food Advisor’s Best Puppy Foods here.
When can I safely switch my French bulldog puppy to adult dog food?
Adult dog foods can contain be low in protein and other essential nutrients. So, it’s crucial to keep in mind that French Bulldog puppies don’t stop growing and aren’t ready to eat an adult dog food until they reach 9 to 12 months of age.
