While the French Bulldog is America’s most popular dog, there is a growing sentiment that breeding Frenchies (and other Brachycephalic breeds) is cruel. The ethical concerns surrounding French Bulldogs revolve around their health problems, including breathing difficulties, skin fold infections, spinal disorders, heat sensitivity, and difficulty with natural births. 

A French Bulldog can cost between $1,400 to $8,000 through a breeder. Rescue groups tend to start at around $250 but can go as high as $750. The price will vary depending on the coat color, geographical location, and who you’re purchasing from. 

You can adopt a French Bulldog from a local animal shelter or rescue for much less than it would cost to purchase one from a breeder. An adoption fee for a French Bulldog will usually be a few hundred dollars, which helps to cover the cost of caring for a French Bulldog prior to adoption.

The easiest way to adopt a French Bulldog is through a rescue that specializes in French Bulldogs. A great place to start is starting a breed search on Adopt a Pet, which will show you all the available French Bulldogs in your area.

French Bulldogs are expensive for several reasons, including birthing issues, small litters, and the breed’s specific healthcare needs, including necessary health screenings and genetic testing. Their popularity also drives up demand, further inflating prices, as does the commitment of responsible breeders to select healthy, well-tempered pairs. 

In addition to a high initial cost, it’s crucial to consider the long-term expenses associated with this breed, which can also be high.