French Bulldogs are known for their playful and affectionate nature. Whether they’re romping around the living room or cuddling on the couch, these compact companions love to be entertained. One of the best ways to keep your Frenchie happy and mentally stimulated is by providing the right toys. But not all toys are created equal—especially when it comes to this breed’s unique needs.
In this post, we’ll cover which toys are great for French Bulldogs, especially for teething and mental stimulation, and which toys you should avoid for their safety and wellbeing.
What Makes a Good Toy for a French Bulldog?
Frenchies have short snouts, strong jaws, and a stubborn streak. This combination means they often prefer toys that are easy to grip but tough enough to withstand some serious chewing. Look for toys that are:
- Durable and made from non-toxic materials
- Easy for them to carry in their mouths
- Not overly large or heavy
- Safe with minimal choking hazards
Now let’s look at some of the best (and worst) toy options for French Bulldogs.
Great Toy: Deer Antlers for Teething
If you have a Frenchie puppy going through the teething stage, deer antlers are an excellent choice. These natural chews are long-lasting, odor-free, and help relieve the discomfort of teething while promoting dental health. Unlike softer chew toys that get shredded quickly, deer antlers can endure persistent chewing and won’t splinter easily.
Make sure to choose the right size—something big enough that your dog can’t swallow but small enough for them to handle comfortably.
What to Avoid: Toys with Bells or Gadgets
While it might be tempting to buy toys with bells, squeakers, or electronic gadgets, these are generally not ideal for French Bulldogs. Many Frenchies are notorious for destroying toys quickly. If a toy has small components inside, like bells or batteries, there’s a real risk of them breaking it open and swallowing something dangerous.
Even if a gadget toy is designed to be durable, the noise and stimulation might not be well-tolerated by all Frenchies. Some dogs can become anxious or overstimulated by constant noise, and a broken gadget can become a choking hazard.
Other Toy Recommendations
Here are a few more types of toys that usually do well with French Bulldogs:
- Rubber chew toys: Especially those designed for power chewers
- Treat-dispensing puzzle toys: Great for keeping their minds active
- Rope toys: Good for tugging games and interactive play
- Soft plush toys (with supervision): Some Frenchies love cuddling with soft toys, but always supervise to ensure they don’t rip them apart and ingest stuffing
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right toys for your French Bulldog can go a long way in keeping them happy, healthy, and entertained. Stick with sturdy, safe toys like deer antlers for teething and avoid any toy that includes bells, batteries, or small removable parts. As always, supervise your Frenchie during playtime and rotate their toys to keep things fresh and exciting.
With the right toys, your Frenchie will be wagging their little tail in joy.