How Far Can French Bulldogs Walk? I love exploring the outdoors with my French Bulldog. We always take short walks at the break of dawn for an average of 30 minutes. While walking is good for my Frenchie, too much of it may lead to respiratory issues. But a stroller saves our mornings, I get to walk farther while she rests inside her dog stroller.
It’s a misconception that Frenchies do not need exercise. Yes, they get exhausted faster but that is not enough reason to be sedentary.
To maximize my French Bulldog Lifespan, I am very mindful of my Frenchie’s comfort while walking. Instead of a neck collar, I opt for a harness to reduce tension on her neck and I always bring a portable water dispenser. So, how far can you walk with your Frenchie? I’ve got answers for you in this article.
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Table of Contents
How Far Can A French Bulldog Walk?
Brachycephalic dog breeds like French Bulldogs have unique facial structures. They have flat faces, shorter skulls, and an elongated soft palate.
All of those factors contribute to problems in the respiratory system that makes them prone to exhaustion, breathing problems, and overheating.
Not to forget that French Bulldogs come with short legs. This is why the distance and the speed of walking for the French Bulldogs are different compared to other breeds.
So, how far can the Frenchies depends on the following:
Age
Age is a huge factor that determines the length and speed how far can a French Bulldog can walk.
Puppies should be refrained from walking too long because their joints are still underdeveloped. Doing so puts them at risk for joint and bone problems like hip dysplasia and arthritis.
The same is true for senior French Bulldogs.
Beginning at 7 to 8 years of age, Frenchies may already begin to show signs of struggling while walking.
Some of them may already be in pain because of arthritis or other conditions. Walking is still beneficial for senior dogs but at a much slower pace and shorter distance.
Health
If your French Bulldog has mobility problems such as hip dysplasia or luxating patellas, walking may not be an option.
But using a dog stroller is a good and comfortable way to get her out and enjoy the outdoors with you.
Terrain
Next is the terrain. French Bulldogs may walk longer on a flat terrain than on an incline or rocky terrain.
Regardless of the type of terrain you and your pooch are walking onto, it is always safer to use a French Bulldog leash. A leash gives you control over your over-excited dog from venturing into harmful areas.
Temperature
The last factor to consider is temperature. Walking your French Bulldog on a hot and humid day will surely exhaust her quicker compared if you’d walk her on a cooler temperature.
How Far Can You Walk A French Bulldog?
First of all, French Bulldogs cannot handle long-distance walks. This means the average distance a healthy Frenchie can handle is 3 miles.
Some owners walk their Frenchies longer than 3 miles, but they divide it into 2 sessions a day to avoid overexertion.
Personally, I would rather stick to walking my Frenchie no longer than 3 miles because it may lead to breathing problems or heat exhaustion.
RELATED: Puppy Breathing Fast While Sleeping (When To Worry & How To Help)
Do French Bulldogs need walking?
Yes, French Bulldogs definitely need to be walked just like any other dog breed. Being confined in the house for too long without any physical exercise will bring about a host of problems.
This would be detrimental not just for your Frenchie but for your peace of mind as well.
But before heading out for a nice walk, be sure that you have all the right apparatus like a French Bulldog leash. This type of leash is made with soft materials to reduce the risk of neck injury.
I have listed below 10 reasons that regular walks can do for your Frenchie.
1. Improved cardiovascular fitness
A leisurely walk is a good aerobic exercise for your Frenchie that can oxygenate her body and maintain the proper functioning of the organs.
2. Stronger bones and muscles
Walking increases the range of motion of the muscles and improves bone density.
3. Lower blood pressure
A regular stroll will strengthen your Frenchie’s heart and enable it to pump blood more efficiently.
4. Reduces stress
Walking not only drains excess energy but also releases endorphins or happy hormones that keep your Frenchie relaxed and calm.
5. Prevents obesity
Excessive weight gain is associated with a number of chronic problems such as diabetes, heart disease, osteoarthritis, and breathing problems.
READ ALSO: Dog Breathing Fast While Sleeping (Should You Be Concerned?)
6. Prevents boredom
A Frenchie that is always kept indoors and not exercised well might develop behavioral problems, such as furniture chewing, excessive barking, and digging.
READ NEXT: Do Dogs Get Tired Of Barking?
7. Keeps them mentally active
French Bulldogs, like most dogs, use their sense of smell to get information of their surroundings. Exploring and sniffing new areas stimulate their brain and improves their well-being.
8. Socialization
Meeting other dogs in the neighborhood will promote your Frenchie’s ability to adapt to various situations and learn appropriate ways to interact with them.
9. Keeps them well-behaved
This is related to proper socialization since it prevents aggressive tendencies from being displayed.
10. Promotes a sense of routine
A regular walking schedule keeps your Frenchie feel comfortable and also promotes a good bond and trust between you and your pooch.
Do French Bulldogs Need To Be Walked Everyday?
French Bulldogs need around 30 minutes to a maximum of 45 minutes of physical exercise daily. Incorporating several minutes of daily walk into their routine is a good idea to keep them active.
Keep in mind that your pooch needs to take some rest once in a while to prevent having breathing difficulties.
In addition, you can keep them mentally active by engaging them with fun interactive games, such as a game of fetch or puzzle games.
How Often Do French Bulldogs Need To Be Walked?
The age and overall physical health of your French Bulldog are the main indicators of how often they need to be walked.
Puppies need to be gradually introduced to walking because of their growing bones and muscles, whereas seniors require less walking due to their decreased physical health.
On average, a French Bulldog requires around 30 to 45 minutes of daily physical exercise which may include walking.
Because of their short muzzles, overexerting them to the point of heat exhaustion should be avoided at all costs.
How Much Walking Do French Bulldogs Need?
The amount of time you take your French Bulldog for a walk depends on their day-to-day physical exercise.
I usually give my Frenchie about 30 to 45 minutes of physical activity every day which may include walking and some indoor playing games.
If I feel that she has enough activity with games, then I would limit the walking to just a few minutes.
How Far Should You Walk A French Bulldog?
French Bulldogs can walk at least 3 miles per day. This can be split into 2 to 3 sessions daily having a short stroll in the morning and another in the late afternoon or early evening.
How Long Can French Bulldogs Walk?
Walking your French Bulldog for too long can damage their knee joints and even their spine.
For a puppy, I would suggest 3 minutes per month of age, and for adults, I would suggest a total of 30 to 45 minutes spread throughout 2 to 3 sessions.
How Long To Walk A French Bulldog?
How long you can walk your French Bulldog really depends on their pace and general health condition.
Some may walk a total of 3 or more miles per day while some can only manage a mile or two. It may surprise you that you can cover a lot of distance in just a few minutes.
The important thing to remember is to pace your walks on your Frenchie’s ability and not the other way around.
Can You Take French Bulldogs on Long Walks?
I would not recommend taking your French Bulldog for walks longer than 3 miles. It is much easier on their joints to take them for multiple short walks with some rests in between.
If you need to walk your pooch longer than 3 miles, be sure that you’re using a dog harness and not a neck collar.
I need to emphasize to you that temperature matters. So, avoid taking your Frenchie on a longer walk when the temperature is sizzling hot or if it’s too chilly out there.
It would be ideal to bring along a dog stroller with you. It’s because you can readily place your Frenchie in it when you think she has walked long enough or if the ground has gotten too hot or too cold.
French Bulldog Walking Distance
A French Bulldog only needs a moderate form of physical activity such as walking. How many miles they can walk depends on different factors such as age and fitness level.
How Many Miles Can A French Bulldog Walk?
On average, an adult and healthy French Bulldog can tolerate a slow-pace walk to a distance of about 3 miles. When I say slow pace, that means an average of 3 miles per hour.
Avoid pushing your pooch to go faster because his body may not be able to tolerate it because of his flat nose and shortened nostrils.
Can A French Bulldog Walk 10 Miles?
No, a French Bulldog cannot and should not be forced to walk 10 miles. They simply do not have the stamina to walk that far.
Can A French Bulldog Walk 5 Miles?
No, 5 miles is still considered long-distance walking for a brachycephalic French Bulldog. They do better for short walks done a couple or multiple times a day.
Can A French Bulldog Walk 3 Miles?
Yes, 3 miles is the ideal walking distance for a healthy, adult French Bulldog.
French Bulldog Walking Time (Confirmed by French Bulldog Walkers)
For your information, I’ve enumerated below the ideal length of walking time a French Bulldog can be taken out for a walk based on age.
If you notice, I began walking my pup at 4 months. Then I increased it to just 3 minutes per month of age.
- 4 months old: 12 minutes
- 5 months old: 15 minutes
- 6 months old: 18 minutes
- 7 months old: 21 minutes
- 8 months old: 24 minutes
- 9 months old: 27 minutes
- Adult Frenchies: 30 to 45 minutes
- Senior and older Frenchies: Dependent on health
KEEP IN MIND: When I talk about walking times for my French Bulldog, it doesn’t mean she’s walking non-stop. That time includes everything we do outside: walking, sniffing things, playing, bathroom breaks, and resting. So, she’s not always moving. It’s just the total amount of time we’re outdoors.
I’ve also mentioned a little earlier that puppies should not be overexercised, lest it will have detrimental effects on their bone and joint development.
Plus, puppies are still developing their stamina for walking.
As they grow older, fur parents like you can gradually increase the length of walking times without overdoing it.
What Temperature Is Too Hot To Walk A French Bulldog?
A heat index of 80℉ and above is enough to cause heat exhaustion to your brachycephalic French Bulldog.
I always do a 7-second test to check if the pavement is too hot. If the back of my hand cannot tolerate the heat, then I wouldn’t take my Frenchie for a walk.
When Is It Too Cold To Walk A French Bulldog?
It is already considered too cold if the outside temperature reaches 40℉ to 45℉. French Bulldogs have short coats with minimal to no undercoat which makes them more likely to get cold easily.
You may be interested in: Fluffy French Bulldog (Complete Guide)
Signs Of Overexertion In Frenchies
Brachycephalic dog breeds, like the French Bulldog, are more susceptible to overheating. This is because they cannot properly cool their bodies due to their shortened respiratory structure.
Here are some signs that they may be having heat exhaustion:
- Dry mouth
- Excessive panting
- Excessive drooling
- Blue or bright red gums
- Fast breathing
- Sunken or glazed eyes
- Disorientation
- Loss of skin elasticity due to dehydration
- Lethargy
- Rapid heart rate
- Fever
- Lack of coordination
- Dizziness
- Convulsions
- Loss of consciousness
So, How Often Should You Walk A French Bulldog?
You can walk with your adult French Bulldog every day. In fact, even an elderly French Bulldog can be taken out for a walk every day but at a slower pace and at a shorter distance.
What about sick French Bulldogs? In this case, it’s best to consult a veterinarian before heading out for a walk with your ill dog. Because in some cases, even a short walk can exacerbate their medical conditions.
Every Frenchie is unique and each have its own needs in terms of how much they need to be exercised.
Typically, it is recommended that they be taken for 2 to 3 several short walks throughout the day so as not to overexert them.
Whether you walk your Frenchie with a harness or a French Bulldog leash, there are several factors to consider on how often you should walk your pooch.
Age
French Bulldog puppies and seniors have different exercise needs compared to regular adult Frenchie due to their limitations and health condition.
Fitness Level
The stamina and endurance vary from each individual Frenchie and some can have a faster walking pace than others.
Health
Each French Bulldog have their own health issues that can limit how often they can be walked.
Energy Level
Some Frenchies are lively and active, while some may be more lethargic or lazy.
Weather Condition
Frenchies have short muzzles, which make it difficult for them to adequately cool or warm their bodies, making them vulnerable to extreme heat and cold.
How Often Should You Walk A French Bulldog Puppy?
You can have a fun walk with your puppy every day. Just don’t over-exert her so as not to damage her developing bones and joints.
Do French Bulldogs Like To Walk?
Yes, French Bulldogs are inquisitive dogs that love to explore the outdoors. Though they may not be as active and super intelligent as a German Shepherd, still there’s nothing like playing and walking around the neighborhood.
French Bulldog puppy walking outside of your home can begin 10 days after her final set of core vaccinations. That should be around 4 months of age or thereabouts.
How Far Can French Bulldog Puppies Walk?
Below is an example of how long and fast can a French Bulldog walk by age:
- 4 month old: 0.62 miles at a walking speed of 2 miles per hour
- 5 month old: 0.78 miles at a walking speed of 2 miles per hour
- 6 month old: 0.93 miles at a walking speed of still 2 miles per hour
- 7 month old: 1.1 miles at a walking speed of 2 miles per hour
- 8 month old: 1.5 miles at a speed of 2 miles per hour
- 9 month old: 2 miles at a speed of 2 miles per hour
At adulthood, a French Bulldog can walk longer and at a slightly faster pace of 3 miles at a speed of 3 miles per hour.
How Long Should You Walk A French Bulldog Puppy?
When my Frenchie was still a 4-month-old puppy, I walked her around the neighborhood for a period of 12 minutes but I divided it into 2 walking sessions.
I recommend that you do the same because walking is also the best time to train your puppy how to be comfortable wearing a harness.
As she developed her stamina, I gradually increased the time to an additional 3 minutes per month.
- 4 Month Old French Bulldog Puppy: 12 minute walking time
- 5 Month Old French Bulldog Puppy: 15 minute walk time
- 6 Month Old French Bulldog Puppy: 18 minute walk time
- 7 Month Old French Bulldog Puppy: 21 minute walk time
- 8 Month Old French Bulldog Puppy: 24 minute walk time
- 9 Month Old French Bulldog Puppy: 27 minute walk time
How Much Walking Does A French Bulldog Need?
An adult French Bulldog ideally needs 30 to 45 minutes of exercise daily. The amount of walking time they need really depends on how much exercise they are already getting from other activities.
How Many Walks Does A French Bulldog Need?
To prevent overexertion, I would often take my Frenchie for 2 walks every day – once in the morning before breakfast and another one in the late afternoon.
Both times are ideal for walking for the outside temperature is not too high, especially during the summer.
Walking A French Bulldog: 10 Helpful Tips
- The Frenchies are quite stubborn, so introduce walking outdoors as young as 4 months old.
- Select the appropriate French Bulldog Leash. The Frenchies can benefit from a soft leash because this does not strain their necks and reduces pressure on their tracheas.
- Use a harness and not a neck collar because it reduces injuries caused by pulling.
- Keep the walking session short to avoid overexertion.
- French Bulldogs are sensitive to extreme temperatures. The best time to walk them is at the break of dawn or late afternoon.
- Take water breaks in between.
- If your schedule permits, it’s best to divide the total walking time into 2 sessions.
- Stick to a routine to bring down anxiety levels.
- Give nice treats after your walk.
- Avoid long-distance walking because your Frenchie’s anatomy is not designed for it.
So, How Far Can French Bulldogs Walk?
How far a French Bulldog can walk really depends on their overall health and ability. Some can only tolerate short distances while others can go for more than 3 miles per day.
The main goal in taking your Frenchie for a walk is to improve his physical and mental health. But also to provide exposure to the world around him with an awareness of his limitations.
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With over five years of specialized experience as an animal writer, my expertise lies in dog nutrition, health, behavior, grooming, and training. I am dedicated to delivering helpful and informative content that caters to the well-being of our furry friends. My primary goal is to empower pet owners with knowledge and ensure our canine companions thrive in health and happiness. In my free time, I love volunteering at local dog rescue centers.
