natural balance dog food for frenchies

The Ultimate Guide to the Best Dog Food for Frenchies

French Bulldogs, affectionately known as Frenchies, are not just any dog breed. They possess unique characteristics and needs. So, when we talk about providing the best for these charming canines, it's only fitting we explore top-rated dog food brands tailored for French Bulldogs. Understanding their nutrition, delving deep into ingredients, and picking up tricks for a hearty Frenchie diet is essential. Let's embark on this delicious journey together.

Why French Bulldogs Need Special Attention

Have you ever observed a Frenchie after a walk? Their stout build, bat-like ears, and squished noses aren't just for good looks. They hint at some specific dietary needs. Here's the thing: not all dog foods cater to these specific needs. Just like you wouldn't eat a marathon runner's diet before a relaxed hiking trip, you wouldn't feed a Frenchie just any dog food.

Nutritional Needs: It's not just about the Kibble

If you've ever wondered what makes a happy dog, especially a Frenchie, the answer often lies in their food bowl. But what exactly should be in that bowl?

Protein is Key

The muscle mass of a Frenchie is quite deceptive. For their small stature, they pack a punch. Thus, a diet rich in proteins is essential. Look for brands that use wholesome meat sources. For instance, there's "Brand X" (use your preferred brand here) that has chicken or salmon as the primary ingredient.

Essential but in Moderation

Healthy fats, like Omega fatty acids, do wonders for their glossy coats. But be cautious. Overdoing fats can quickly lead to an overweight Frenchie. It's a delicate balance.

Choose Complex Ones

Though grains are often found in dog food, for Frenchies, it's recommended to opt for complex carbohydrates. These slowly release energy, helping maintain a steady vigor in your dog. Occasionally, adding a raw egg over dog food can also be beneficial, ensuring they get varied nutrition without becoming overly hyperactive.

Ingredients: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

Let's break it down. Imagine you're at a store, scanning through labels, and trying to decipher what's best for your Frenchie.

The Good

• Real meat sources
• Vegetables and fruits
• Omega-rich ingredients like fish oil or flaxseed

The Bad

Ever heard of fillers? They're cheap ingredients used to bulk up dog food. Watch out for too many grains, excessive soy, or meat by-products.

The Ugly

Artificial preservatives, colors, and certain unnamed meats can be harmful. If an ingredient sounds like a chemical experiment, it's probably best to avoid it.

Seasonal Shedding and Diet

Did you know diet impacts seasonal shedding? While Frenchies aren't heavy shedders, a balanced diet ensures the shedding remains manageable. Ingredients like Omega fatty acids make a marked difference. So, next time you notice more fur than usual, maybe a dietary tweak is in order.

Tips for a Healthy Frenchie Diet

1. Hydration: Always ensure your Frenchie has access to fresh water. Especially if you're feeding them dry kibble.
2. Consistency: Frenchies have sensitive stomachs. Stick to a routine.
3. Monitoring: Keep an eye on their weight. Adjust food portions accordingly.
4. Communication: Watch for signs of allergies or intolerances. Understanding dog communication can be pivotal.

Technologies in the Pet World

On a slightly different note, while we're investing in the best food, it might also be wise to look into other technologies like microchip implantation. It's a small device implanted under the skin that helps identify and locate lost pets. It's an assurance that, along with health, the safety of our furry friends is taken care of.

The Importance of Regular Check-ins

It's not just about the food. Regular check-ins with a veterinarian can provide insights into how well your Frenchie's diet is supporting their overall health. Sometimes, what looks perfect on paper (or, in this case, the dog food label) might not sit well with your particular pet.

Homemade Vs. Store-Bought

This debate rages on in many Frenchie circles. While some swear by the benefits of home-cooked meals, others find the convenience and balanced nutrition of commercial dog food too good to pass up.

The Case for Homemade Meals

Crafting meals for your Frenchie at home means you know every single ingredient that goes into it. It allows for customization based on your dog's preferences or any allergies they might have. Moreover, making food at home ensures freshness and can be particularly beneficial for Frenchies with sensitive tummies.

However, the challenge lies in ensuring that the meals are nutritionally complete. It's easy to miss out on essential vitamins or minerals. So, if you're leaning towards homemade, it's wise to consult with a veterinarian or pet nutritionist.

The Store-Bought Advantage

Top-rated dog food brands invest heavily in research to ensure their products offer a balanced diet for specific breeds, including French Bulldogs. Quality commercial food is designed to be a one-stop solution for all of Frenchie's dietary needs. Plus, the convenience of a ready-to-serve meal can't be overlooked.

The Art of Transitioning Foods

Switching dog foods isnt as simple as replacing one with another. Frenchies, known for their sensitive digestive systems, need a gradual transition. Start by introducing the new food in small quantities, mixing it with the old food. Over a week or so, you can keep increasing the proportion of the new food while decreasing the old, observing your Frenchie for any signs of discomfort.

Why Others Choose Top-Rated Brands

Jasmine, an avid dog lover, shares her experience. My Frenchie, Max, was always active. But once, during a vacation, we had to switch his food. The result? Three days of discomfort and a very grumpy dog. That's when I realized the importance of sticking to a top-rated brand known for its commitment to quality.

The Emotional Aspects of Feeding

Beyond the physical well-being, the act of feeding your Frenchie has emotional and psychological components. This might sound surprising, but think about it. Mealtimes are moments of bonding. They are routines that provide your dog with a sense of security.

Trust in Every Bite

When you're consistently providing your Frenchie with high-quality food, you're building trust. Dogs might not understand the nuances of nutrition, but they certainly can feel the difference. When they feel better, they associate that well-being with what they're fed and, by extension, with the one who feeds them that's you!

Listen to the Munch

While dog communication isn't about words, there's a lot to be said about the way they eat. A happy munching sound, a wagging tail during mealtimes, or the anticipatory dance they do when they see their food bowl, are all positive signs. On the other hand, hesitance to eat, leaving food untouched, or signs of discomfort post meals are cues for you to re-evaluate their diet.

Quality Over Quantity

Its not always about how much you feed but rather the quality of what's being fed. Overfeeding, even with the best brands, can lead to obesity. French Bulldogs, given their build, can be prone to weight-related issues. An overweight Frenchie can face respiratory and joint issues, which could seriously hamper their quality of life.

The World Beyond the Bowl

Let's touch upon other activities that complement a good diet. A well-fed Frenchie has energy to spare. And what better way to utilize that energy than a day out in nature, hiking perhaps? While they aren't built for very strenuous activities, they sure do love exploring. And remember, every physical activity aids in digestion and overall well-being.

On the topic of well-being, have you ever noticed how your Frenchie reacts to seasons? The seasonal shedding might be a concern, but another aspect to consider is their mood. Just like us, even dogs can get a bit down when it's gloomy outside. But, with the right diet and a little bit of play, you can ensure their spirits remain high.

The Digital Age of Pet Care

It's 2023, and technology plays a crucial role in our lives, and this extends to our pets as well. While we talked about microchip implantation earlier, there are other tech innovations you might want to explore. From apps that analyze your dog's nutritional needs based on their activity levels to smart feeders that measure and dispense the exact amount of food your Frenchie needs, the possibilities are endless.

The Tech Revolution

As we've journeyed through understanding the nutritional needs and overall well-being of our beloved Frenchies, lets also touch upon another essential aspect of their lives: safety. Enter the world of FI Dog Collars. This isnt just any dog collar, but a glimpse into the future of pet care and security.

The Emotional Bond

Remember when we talked about the trust that forms when you feed your dog consistently with top-rated brands? Similarly, trust deepens when they know they're safe. With FI Dog Collars, even when your Frenchie is off-leash during those exciting hiking adventures, you can keep tabs on them. The collar offers real-time tracking, ensuring you always know where your pet is.

FIs Modern Dog Communication

We discussed the importance of dog communication and understanding the unspoken. While we touched upon the ways they eat or their energy levels, FI Dog Collars add another layer to this communication. With its activity tracking feature, you can monitor how active your Frenchie is during the day. If they're more sedentary than usual, perhaps it's time to relook at their diet or health.

Quality Adventures with FI

The joy of exploring nature, be it a simple walk or a more adventurous hike, is unmatched. And with FI Dog Collars, these adventures get an upgrade. No more constant worry if your Frenchie decides to chase after a squirrel or gets momentarily distracted. The collars tracking ensures they're always just a click away on your app.

Seasons Change, Safety Remains

During seasonal shedding or when your Frenchie's mood seems to be affected by the changing weather, it's natural for them to want to explore more or perhaps find a cozy corner in a park. With the FI collar, you can let them have their moment without the constant worry.

The Digital Paws: Stepping into the Future

As we talked about the digital age of pet care, FI Dog Collars fit right into this narrative. Beyond microchip implantation, these collars represent the next step in tech evolution for pet care. With a long battery life, durable build, and waterproof features, they're built for every kind of dog adventure.

Conclusion:

In our comprehensive journey, we've delved deep into top-rated dog food brands tailored for French Bulldogs, emphasizing nutrition, ingredients, and a balanced diet. We've recognized the importance of trust, both through consistent high-quality meals and the innovative safety of FI Dog Collars.

By tapping into dog communication, we've learned to listen to our Frenchies, not just through their actions but also with the help of modern technology. As we ventured into the great outdoors, from walks to hikes, the fusion of nutrition and safety tech, like the FI collar, has underscored our commitment to the holistic well-being of our furry family members.

Best French Bulldog Homemade Food Recipes: Easy & Healthy

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This content was reviewed and fact-checked by veterinarian Dr. Aukse Caraite, DVM.

If you want to make homemade dog food for French Bulldogs, youre in the right place. Grab your notebook because you might want to take some notes. This guide will teach you everything you need to know to cook for Frenchies. From nutritional guidelines and benefits to risks and recipes, your Frenchie can try. Lets get started with the basics of French Bulldog homemade food!

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Nutrition, Benefits & RisksJump to:Recipes & Cooking

French Bulldog Homemade Dog Food Benefits

Here are some of the main benefits of cooking for your Frenchie.

• Healthy eating habits
• Quality control
• More affordable
• Healthier
• Portion size control
• Fresh ingredients
• Dietary requirements can be met

Board-certified veterinary nutritionists and diplomates of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition, Jennifer A. Larsen, DVM, MS, Ph.D., and Joe Bartges, DVM, Ph.D., state that feeding homemade dog food comes with significant advantages, such asdiet management, appeasingpicky eaters, bond-building, combatting food intolerance andallergies issues,and avoid concern over dog food recalls.^[1]

Further benefits include preventing many conditions associated with a poor diet, such asobesity, poor skin and coat condition, pancreatitis, diabetes, and reduced immunity.

Why Feed Homemade Food to French Bulldogs

French Bulldogs generally live between 10 to 12 years. This breeds most common health problems include brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) and hip or elbow dysplasia. Diseases likeallergies, canine atopic dermatitis (CAD), conjunctivitis, deafness, cherry eye, skin conditions, and patellar luxation are common in the breed. This breeds other minor and less common health problems includeheat stroke and dermatitis.

Top Reasons to Consider Homemade Food For French Bulldogs

Increased lifespanResearch shows that dogs eating fresh food diets are linked to a20% longer lifespanthan those that dont. A year-long study of 522 dogs found that dogs fed high-quality, freshly made, real food had an average life expectancy of13.1 yearsversus just 10.4 years for dogs fed commercially processed pet food.^[2]Obesity & jointsHomemade dog food cooking allows you to easily calibrate the amounts of carbohydrates, proteins, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals your dog needs to maintain a healthy body weight. Obesity in dogs can increase their risk forbone and joint problems (i.e., hip dysplasia) and subsequent osteoarthritis. Studies show that dogs maintaining theirideal body weightlive almost 2.5 years longer (with significantly fewer diseases) than their overweight siblings.^[3]Cancer preventionWhen it comes tocancer, homemade dog food removes the highly processed food from the equation, which is often linked tocancer issues in dogs. Food processing has been shown to cause free radicals and carcinogenic chemicals to be released. With homemade, you no longer have to worry about oxidative stress due to processed food.^[4],[5]Easy digestionHomemade dog food is easier to digest than those hard-kibble mystery balls. Feeding your pet freshly made food puts less stress on their digestive system and liver, reducing the likelihood ofbloating or other digestive issues.Avoid allergiesCooking for your dog lets you pick ingredients that wont trigger allergies in your Frenchie. If you are unsure what ingredients may cause sensitivities or allergies in your pet, we advise doing anat-home dog food allergytest before selecting the ingredients for your dogs next meal.BioavailabilityHome-cooked dog food is easier to digest more digestible food means dogs can absorb nutrients more efficiently and faster. Quicker nutrient absorption means minerals, vitamins, fatty acids and amino acids act quicker in the body to carry out different functions, such as decreasing inflammatory responses that can help prevent allergies or help boost overall health. Fresh ingredients with no chemicalsHomemade meals ensure your dog always eatsfresh, wholesome, and chemical-free foods without additives, fillers, high-glycemic carbs, or colorants commonly found in kibble. Excellent taste, smell & varietyDogs love the taste, smell, texture and variety of fresh ingredients.

French Bulldog Homemade Dog Food Risks

Research by the University of California Davis, School of Veterinary and two studies published in The JournalPreventive Veterinary Medicine and The Journal of Nutritional Science found that most homemade dog food recipes lackkey essential nutrients, and other recipes used dangerously high levels of some nutrients.^[6],[7],[8]

48%

of homemade dog dietshad an imprecise determination of ingredients and quantities

28.3%

didnt use any recommended vitamins, minerals,or amino acids.

30.4%

of the pet parents admittedto purposely changethe recipe.

40%

of owners didnt measure the proportions of the ingredients well enough.

Key Considerations When Feeding Your French Bulldog A Homemade Diet

• Understand your Frenchies nutritional needs
• Do not use inadequate or dangerous recipes
• Ensure your dogs meal is balanced
• Do not use toxic ingredients
• Understand the impact of food and dietary changes
• Do not neglect your dogs health conditions
• Switch to homemade gradually
• The diet must be based on your dogs life stage nutritional needs (puppies, adults or seniors)

Always work with your vet before changing your dogs diet.

You can get personalized nutritional advice from a registered vet nutritionist through Vetster anytime, anywhere. You can also chat with an online vet and ask them questions about your dogs nutritional needs. For further dog nutrition guidance, consult Home-Prepared Dog & Cat Diets: the Healthful Alternative by Donald R. Strombeck, DVM, Ph.D., a renowned veterinary expert. This book is the go-to resource for healthy homemade dog nutrition for most pet nutritionists.

How to Make Homemade Food For French Bulldogs

Homemade food for Frenchies must include the six essential nutrients for a dogs proper growth, body function, and health. These nutrients include proteins, carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins, fats, and water. Its also important to consider your pups weight, health conditions, size, and activity level.

Below is a detailed breakdown of each nutrient and its importance.

French Bulldog Nutritional Guidelines to Follow

Proteins

Protein plays a vital role in your dogs diet, providing essential amino acids necessary for bodily processes, including the creation of blood glucose for energy. Protein also helps build and repair muscles and other body tissues. Its needed to make new skin cells and grow hair, hormones, and enzymes. The proteins in your dogs diet must have a balanced amino acid profile and are provided in appropriate amounts.

Protein dietary recommendations for French Bulldogs homemade food:

• Adult Frenchie. 18% dry matter protein (45.0g for every 1,000 kcal ME).
• Puppies & Pregnant or Lactating Frenchie. 22.5% dry matter protein (56.3g for every 1,000 kcal ME).

Protein sources for homemade French Bulldog food include:

Carbohydrates

Dogs need energy for daily activities, growth, pregnancy, lactation, and exercise. This energy, measured in calories, comes from carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Omnivorous animals, including dogs, derive some energy from carbohydrates. Carbohydrates supply glucose needed by the brain, nervous system, and other critical organs for normal function in dogs. You can use our dogcaloriecalculator to find the exact caloric needs of your dog based on his weight. Ensure you follow the 10% rule if feeding treats to your dog. Food would equal 90% of the total calories and treats the remaining 10%.

Energy dietary recommendations for French Bulldogs homemade food based on life stage, weight and activity level.

Type of Dog	10 lb	30 lb
Puppies	990
Inactive Frenchie		674
Adult Active Inactive Frenchie		922
Pregnant Frenchie		1,274
Young Active Frenchie		993
Senior Active Frenchie		745

Carbohydrate sources for homemade French Bulldog food include:

• Oats
• Brown rice
• Potatoes
• Quinoa
• Sweet potatoes
• Whole wheat

Fats

Fats play a multifaceted role in a dogs diet. They are a dense energy source, provide essential fatty acids for skin and coat health, enable absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, improve food palatability, offer insulation and organ protection, support reproductive health, are critical for nervous system function, and serve as a reserve for energy storage.

Fat dietary recommendations for French Bulldogs homemade food:

• Adult French Bulldog. 5.5% dry matter fat (13.8g for every 1,000 kcal ME).
• Puppies & Pregnant or Lactating French Bulldog. 8.5% dry matter fat (21.3g for every 1,000 kcal ME).

Fat sources for homemade French Bulldog food include:

• Meats fats
• Fish oils
• Olive
• Sunflower oil
• Canola oils

Minerals

Minerals in a dogs diet are indispensable for bone and dental health, nerve function, enzymatic reactions, fluid balance, oxygen transport, and maintaining the bodys pH level, making them essential for overall health and metabolic processes. Proper mineral balance is crucial and should be carefully managed to avoid deficiencies or excesses.

These 12 minerals are known to be essential nutrients for dogs:

• Calcium
• Potassium
• Sodium
• Magnesium
• Iodine
• Chlorine
• Iron
• Copper
• Selenium
• Manganese
• Zinc
• Phosphorus

Mineral sources for homemade French Bulldog food include:

• Sweet potatoes and pumpkin (Magnesium)
• Fish (Iodine)
• Beef, eggs, and liver (Zinc)
• Poultry, nuts, and legumes (Copper)
• Bananas and carrots (Potassium)
• Chicken and duck (Iron)

Vitamins

Vitamins in a dogs diet are integral for maintaining overall health and bodily functions. They support vision and immune health, aid in energy metabolism and nervous system function, provide antioxidant benefits, reduce inflammation, prevent diseases and ailments, and more. Dogs require vitamins, but only in small amounts, and excessive doses of certain vitamins, like vitamin D, can harm them.^[9]

These 12 vitamins are known to be essential nutrients for dogs:

• Vitamins A, B1, B6, B12, D, E & K
• Riboflavin
• Niacin
• Folic Acid
• Pantothenic Acid
• Choline

Vitamin sources for homemade French Bulldog food include:

• Sweet potatoes and spinach (Vitamin A)
• Eggs, chicken, and beef (Vitamin B)
• Broccoli (Vitamin C)
• Kale and parsley (Vitamin K)
• Vegetables (Vitamin E)
• Meats and fish (Vitamin D)

Water

Water is vital in a dogs diet for maintaining hydration, supporting body functions such as digestion, nutrient absorption, and waste excretion, lubricating joints, regulating body temperature, ensuring proper organ function, and facilitating metabolic processes. Continuous access to clean water is as crucial as providing nutritious food for overall health and well-being. Generally, Frenchie should drink 2 to 3 times the amount of their dry food intake daily. However, if water is readily available from various sources, Frenchie can naturally regulate its water consumption each day.

Source: We compiled the data for the table above by referencing the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) guidelines and the Nutrient Requirements of Dogs Report by the National Research Council (NRC). The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) utilizes the information from these reports to regulate and ensure the safety of pet foods.

Homemade Dog Food For French Bulldog Puppies

A Frenchie puppys dietary requirements differ from an adults Frenchie. Compared to adult dogs, puppies require higher protein, fat, calcium, and phosphorus levels. Inadequate or excessive amounts of these nutrients can lead to deficiencies, hindered growth, or lifelong health complications.

• 6 weeks to 5 months puppies. 3-6 meals a day
• 6-12month puppies.2-3 times a day
• Do not skip meals. Skipping meals is not advisable during your puppys growth and development
• Puppy feeding needs are unique. The science isntexact. Fine-tune their diet. If your puppy is getting a bit chunky, then cut back a smidge and vice versa.

Homemade Dog Food Delivery Service

The Farmers Dog

Who Its For: The perfect homemade dog food recipe if you dont have time to cook for your Frenchie or cannot balance nutrients to provide a balanced diet.

The Farmers Dogis one of our homemade dog food delivery options. They offer various fresh, homemade dog food options tailored to your dogs unique dietary needs, age, health conditions, and nutritional goals. For example, if your Frenchie suffers from food-related health issues such as allergies or illnesses, The Farmers Dog can create a customized recipe that caters to those needs. Their meals are made with real, human-grade ingredients and delivered to your doorstep.

The food is developed by veterinary nutritionists who adhere to AAFCO nutritional guidelines. In our experience, using The Farmers Dog saves you time, allowing you to focus on more important things like walks or training your dog. Additionally, you wont have to worry about the hassle of meal planning, grocery shopping, or cooking, and you can mitigate the risks of cooking for dogs.

Our readers get 50% offtheir first The Farmers Dog order with Canine Bibles link.

Best Homemade Food For French Bulldogs

The best homemade food for Frenchie is a balanced diet that provides optimal nutrients for proper function while considering your dogs nutritional goals and health. We highly recommend The Farmers Dog as the best homemade food for Frenchies, adults and puppies.

Dont feel like cooking for your French Bulldog? Here is the most comprehensive guide to help you find the best dog food for French Bulldogs.

Recipes, Cooking Tips & MoreJump to: Benefits & Nutrition

Best French Bulldogs Homemade Dog Food Recipes

Browse the best homemade dog food recipes for Frenchies that will make your pup beg for more. Weve also included a special treat recipe for your Frenchie, enriched with the health benefits of our favorite ingredient: dog CBD oil. CBD oil might help with issues like seizures, anxiety, arthritis, inflammation, pain, and overall wellness.

Note:Consult your vet before adjusting your dogs diet. The recipes below dont specify serving sizes since they depend on your dogs breed, weight, age, activity, and health. As a guideline, consider feeding the equivalent amount youd give in kibble, but always consult your veterinarian for proper portioning.

Beef and Sweet Potato MealRecipe

Beef and Sweet Potato Meal for French Bulldogs

This Beef and Sweet Potato Meal is a nutritious, well-balanced recipe designed specifically for French Bulldogs. It combines lean protein, wholesome grains, and vegetables, providing essential nutrients for your pet's health and well-being.

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

• 0.3 lbs lean ground beef
• 0.2 lbs sweet potato, peeled and diced
• 0.15 lbs cooked quinoa
• 0.1 lbs peas (fresh or frozen)
• 0.1 lbs carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Boil the sweet potato until tender, then mash it.

• Cook the ground beef in a pan over medium heat until browned and fully cooked.

• Steam the peas and carrots until they are soft.

• Cook quinoa according to package instructions.

• Mix the ground beef, mashed sweet potato, steamed vegetables, and cooked quinoa in a bowl.

• Drizzle with olive oil and mix well to combine.

Keyword homemade food for French Bulldog

Blueberry-Banana CBD-Infused Dog Treat For French Bulldog

Treat your Frenchie with these nutritious, therapeutic, and delicious homemade CBD dog treats. They are made with bananas, a great source ofessential vitamins and minerals(like potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6). Banana also aids with digestion and energy. Coconut is added for skin and coat, digestion and helps reduce allergic reactions.

Remember to consult your vet to ensure CBD is safe for your dog and that you are giving the correct dosage. Alternatively, you can buy commercially available CBD dog treatsso your pup can experience CBDs benefits without the cooking.

Ingredients

• 120 mg of the best CBD oil for dogs
• 2 1/2 cups gluten-free flour
• 1/2 cup oats
• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 1 tbsp honey (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
• 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/3 cup of coconut oil
• 1/2 cup water
• A pinch of sea salt

Directions

1. Oven preparation. Preheat oven to 350F and brush a dog biscuit baking tray with coconut oil.
2. Banana preparation. Mash a ripe banana in a bowl until smooth, ensuring no large chunks remain.
3. Dry ingredients. Blend gluten-free flour and oats in a medium-sized bowl.
4. Wet ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk an egg until beaten. Add coconut oil, water, mashed banana, unsweetened applesauce, and fresh blueberries. Mix well.
5. Combining ingredients. Combine the wet mixture with the dry ingredients, stirring until even. Drizzle in CBD oil, stirring again for even distribution.
6. Mold filling. Scoop portions of the mixture with a tablespoon and press firmly into the dog treat baking mold.
7. Baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes until the treats are firm to the touch and slightly golden.
8. Cooling and storage. Let the treats cool before transferring them to an airtight container for storage.

Chicken & Rice Delight Recipe For French Bulldog

Many dogs have a soft spot for chicken, making this dish a universal canine favorite. This easy-to-make recipe ensures your Frenchie gets a nourishing and delightful meal. This batch yields approximately four servings, which can be stored in your refrigerator.

Ingredients

• 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup brown rice (or white rice if preferred)
• cup peas
• cup chopped carrots
• cup flour (whole grain is preferable, but white flour is acceptable)
• cup water or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for frying

Directions

1. Chicken preparation. Cut the chicken into half-inch pieces. In a frying pan with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, cook the chicken on medium heat for about 15 minutes or until fully cooked. Remove the chicken pieces and set aside the pan drippings.
2. Rice preparation. In a pot, cook the rice according to the package instructions or until its soft and fluffy. Once done, set aside.
3. Gravy creation. Over medium to low heat, warm the chicken drippings in the pan. Combine cup of water or chicken broth with cup of flour. Gently stir until it becomes a smooth mixture. Continue cooking until it evolves into a thick gravy consistency.
4. Combining ingredients. Add the cooked chicken, rice, peas, and carrots to the gravy. Simmer the mixture for approximately 10 minutes or until the veggies are tender.
5. Cooling. Let the stew cool down to room temperature before serving to ensure its safe for your dog.

Turkey, Vegetable & Quinoa Feast Recipe For French Bulldog

As a lean protein, Turkey is excellent for Frenchies aiming for a healthy weight. This enhanced dog food recipe combines the richness of turkey with the nourishment of vegetables and quinoa a superfood known for its protein and fiber content. A nourishing blend of lean protein and wholesome veggies, its the ideal meal for your Frenchie.

Ingredients

• 4 cups of water
• 1 pound of ground turkey
• 1 cup of quinoa
• 1 cup of carrots, finely chopped
• 1 cup of green beans, finely chopped
• 1 cup of spinach, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon of fish oil
• A sprinkle of turmeric (for anti-inflammatory benefits, optional)

Directions

1. Cooking the turkey. Over medium heat, cook the ground turkey in a non-stick skillet until fully done. Ensure its crumbled well to make it easier for your dog to digest.
2. Preparing the feast. Combine the quinoa, cooked turkey, and water in a large pot. Bring this mixture to a boil.
3. Simmering. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for approximately 15 minutes or until the quinoa becomes soft and translucent.
4. Adding vegetables. Introduce the carrots, green beans, and spinach to the pot. Allow the mixture to cook for another 10 minutes, ensuring the vegetables are tender but not overly soft.
5. Finishing touches. Once off the heat, stir in the fish oil and sprinkle turmeric, ensuring its mixed well.
6. Storing. Let the meal cool to room temperature before serving. Extra portions can be refrigerated and consumed within five days.

Beefy & Veggie Medley Recipes For French Bulldog

Packed with lean protein from grass-fed beef and fortified with the nutritional punch of veggies, this recipe is both delicious and nourishing. Adding eggs and beneficial herbs ensures your Frenchie gets essential vitamins and nutrients.

Ingredients

• 6 cups organic brown rice
• 4 eggs (hard-boiled, peeled, and finely chopped)
• 2 pounds lean ground sirloin (preferably grass-fed, cooked through, with excess fat drained off)
• 3 medium-sized carrots, either shredded or finely diced
• 1 cup fresh green peas or chopped green beans
• 1/2 cup minced fresh parsley
• 3 tablespoons of olive or safflower oil
• A sprinkle of ground turmeric

Directions

1. Egg prep. Begin by boiling the eggs until they are hard-boiled. Once done, peel and finely chop them.
2. Beef cooking. Brown the ground sirloin over medium heat in a large skillet, ensuring its thoroughly cooked. Once done, drain off any excess fat.
3. Mix & combine. In a large mixing bowl or container, combine the cooked brown rice, browned sirloin, chopped eggs, diced or shredded carrots, peas or green beans, minced parsley, and the optional sprinkle of turmeric. Drizzle with olive or safflower oil.
4. Stir together. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently mix all the ingredients until they are evenly distributed and well combined.
5. Serve & store. Serve the mixture in your dogs dish, ensuring its cooled to a safe temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

More French Bulldog Homemade Food Recipes

If you want more homemade dog food recipes and cooking options for your Frenchie, check out our article on the best vet-approved homemade dog food recipes. Cookbooks can be useful for various recipes. Our favorite book for Frenchys homemade food recipes isHome Cooking for Your Dog: 75 Holistic Recipes for a Healthier Dog.

How to Cook Homemade Food ForFrench Bulldogs ( Video)

Watch this video and learn how to cook homemade meals for Frenchies.

French Bulldog Homemade Cooking Tips

Before sharing our favorite Frenchie homemade food recipes, follow these best practices when preparing your dogs next meal.

• Set a consistent feeding schedule
• Meal prep weekly or monthly
• Measure and controlportionsizes depending on your dogs calorie needs
• Keep mealsfrozen for 2 to 3 months or refrigerated for about 5 days
• Make a new batch when the food supply is getting low
• If you want to feed different recipes, you can make multiple batches and color code by ingredients, rotating out the different meals
• Prepare the food in bulk and portion it into containers (one container per meal makes it extra easy)
• Increase portions appropriately as your puppy grows
• Monitor weight to make sure you are feeding the proper amount of calories

At-Home Health Dietary Changes In French Bulldogs

French Bulldogs experiencing the issues below might benefit from the dietary adjustments outlined in this table.

Condition	Dietary Needs & Adjustments
Coat Color Changes	Increase amino acids which can be found in protein (>75 grams per 1000 calories)
Concurrent GI Signs	Avoid foods with tryptamine and histamine such as dairy or fermented vegetables and meats. This includes bacon. Try a simple ingredient food trial.
Chronic Itching and Dermatitis	Fortify the diet with vitamin E, vitamin B, Zinc, omega-6 and the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil. Add a dog probiotic. Try a simple ingredient food trial.
Dull Coat and Scaling	Adjust EPA and DHA levels in the diet. Adding fish oil can promote healthier coats by reducing itchiness and flakiness in the skin due to its omega-3 fatty acid content.
Dandruff and Crustiness	Add Zinc and Vitamin A levels

Recommended Supplements For French Bulldogs

Here are the top recommended supplements for Frenchies based on their main health susceptibility issues.

• Hip dysplasia. French Bulldogs are generally susceptible to hip dysplasia; a supplement likeOpen Farm hip & joint chewscan help support joint health and mobility.
• Atopic dermatitis. Some French Bulldogs have skin issues. Incorporatingdog fish oilinto their diet could potentially provide relief. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil promotes healthier coats by mitigating skin itchiness and flakiness. Furthermore, it contributes to enhanced immunity, particularly against cancer, and bolsters cardiac health in dogs.
• Multivitamins: Incorporate a multivitamin such as Zesty Paws Multivitamin Chews to ensure your Frenchie gets the optimal amount of vitamins and nutrients.

Monitor Weight And Health

A dogs weight and gut health are essential indicators of their health, and you need to track them when switching to a new diet (i.e., homemade). Maintaining a healthy weight is easier when your French Bulldog is fed the right dog food. If your dogs weight increases or decreases rapidly, it might be due to food-related health issues. A healthy gut can confirm a smooth transition to your dogs new diet, among other health issues. However, identifying a healthy gut is not an easy task. Fortunately, an at-home dog gut health test can provide insight into your dogs gut health.

Skin or coat issues, excessive tiredness, allergies, weight loss, malnutrition, and obesity can be caused by unbalanced and insufficient meal plans. If you detect any of these symptoms while feeding your dog meals, stop doing it immediately and seek expert advice.

Foods Should YourFrench Bulldog Never Eat

Below is a list of the most common toxic ingredients dogs need to avoid.

• Chocolate
• Xylitol
• Onions
• Garlic
• Avocados
• Raw bread dough
• Coffee, tea, and other caffeine
• Grapes
• Raisins
• Macadamia nuts
• Alcohol

Here is the complete list oftoxic ingredients your Frenchie should never eat. Please print it out and put it on your refrigerator as a reminder.

French Bulldog Raw Diet (BARF)

Raw dog food mimics dogs diet in the wild millions of years ago. Raw dog foods, organs, muscles, whole or ground bones, fresh fruits, vegetables, and dairy products are usually included. Several raw dog foods are available, includinghomemade raw dog foodand store-bought (frozen, freeze-dried, and dehydrated).

As the risk of contamination and nutritional imbalance is higher when handling raw foods, preparing a BARF diet for your Frenchie requires a lot of extra care and planning. Raw dog diets are gaining popularity because of their fantastic health benefits for teeth, coats, digestion, and allergies. Read ourraw dog food diet articleto learn more about the benefits and risks and get the best raw food diet for your Frenchie.

Homemade Dog Food For French Bulldog Conclusion & Alternatives

Can I feed homemade food to my French Bulldog? In short, yes. However, you need to know which foods and ingredientsare safe fordogs and follow proper nutritional guidelines for optimal dog nutrition. Failure to provide a balanced dog meal to your Frenchie can result in malnutrition or obesity, leading to more severe health problems. Read up onvegan dog foodif your Frenchie is prone to food allergies or food-related health issues. Plant-based diets are also becoming increasingly popular for dogs with food sensitivities and other health issues.

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Sources

Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processand product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

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5. Harvard Health Publishing. (2018, May).Eating highly processed foods may raise cancer risk. Harvard Health; Harvard Health.
6. Pedrinelli, V., Gomes, M. de O. S., & Carciofi, A. C. (2017). Analysis of recipes of home-prepared diets for dogs and cats published in Portuguese.Journal of Nutritional Science,6.
7. Bland, I. M., Guthrie-Jones, A., Taylor, R. D., & Hill, J. (2010). Dog obesity: Veterinary practices and owners opinions on cause and management.Preventive Veterinary Medicine,94(3-4), 310315.
8. WebDev, I. E. T. (2013, July 15).Homemade dog food recipes can be risky business, study finds. UC Davis.
9. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2023, February 9). Vitamin D toxicity in dogs.

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