When people are learning about a new dog breed with the intention of bringing home a furry friend, that breed’s aggression is a hot topic of interest.
That’s especially true when there are children or other pets in the home since bringing home a new dog can have such a big impact on the family dynamic.
To help you decide if French bulldogs are right for you, we’ll take a look at how aggressive they are.
See also: 11 Things You Should Know Before Getting a French Bulldog
Are French Bulldogs Aggressive?
French bulldogs are usually friendly, affectionate, and social dogs. However, untrained and unsocialized Frenchies can have some aggression.
Although they’re unlikely to do much damage as small dogs, their aggression can still pose a threat to small children and other animals.
Properly trained French bulldogs are unlikely to show much aggression. Since they are both eager to please and intelligent, they often thrive during training.
This is especially true if you use positive reinforcement, since they love rewards. When trained, they are friendly and laid-back, rarely showing signs of aggression.
However, some French bulldogs may show signs of aggression. Signs of aggression in Frenchies include the following behaviors:
- Growling
- Snarling
- Biting
- Hiding (mostly in fear-based aggression)
- Stiffening their bodies
Some “aggressive” behaviors may not be signs of aggression, though. Young puppies are likely to bite and growl without being aggressive. However, these behaviors may be signs of aggression in adult Frenchies.
Causes of Aggression in French Bulldogs
There are several things that may cause aggression in French bulldogs. As mentioned in the section above, aggressive behaviors sometimes occur in young puppies, since puppies are still learning how to interact with others.
Since Frenchies are such loyal dogs, they sometimes show aggression toward strangers, especially if strangers are coming into their home.
While this aggression is often harmless and short-lived, it can escalate if the behavior isn’t redirected.
Some French bulldogs become territorial, especially when it comes to their food. This aggressive behavior, called resource guarding, happens when someone approaches the dog’s food.
If your Frenchie is growling when you reach toward their food bowl, they may be resource guarding.
French bulldogs sometimes show aggression when they aren’t properly socialized. It’s important for Frenchies to meet people and other animals while they’re young since that will help them get used to sharing space with others.
When they aren’t socialized to be around young children or other animals, some Frenchies may show aggression.
Final Thoughts
The bottom line is Frenchies aren’t aggressive dogs. However, it’s important to socialize Frenchies early on, especially if you plan to have them in a home with children or other pets.
Their early exposure to children and other pets will help reduce the risk of aggression later on.
If you have any feedback or questions, then please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below.
