Why Do French Bulldogs Scream? And Make Other Weird Noises

In this research you will know the answer to the query “Why Do French Bulldogs Scream? And Make Other Weird Noises“.

The French bulldog is one of the strangest and most wonderful breeds out there whether you love their faces or their farts. In this research you will learn why they squeal how to train them and what their sounds mean. The purpose of this research is to give you an insight into your French bulldogs breathing and to explain why its so unique.

Why do French bulldogs scream and squeal?

French bulldog owners have approached us with questions or videos about their little pups squealing like pigs although this is not extremely common.

The reasons for the high-pitched screams and squeals coming from Frenchies are unknown but can be narrowed down to their Brachycephalic breed and excitable personalities.

Brachycephalic breeds experience a variety of anatomic disadvantages from years of domestic breeding resulting in stenotic nares elongated soft palate hypoplastic trachea and more. When a French bulldog has a hypoplastic trachea the windpipes are abnormally narrow which makes breathing difficult.

These animals exert high-pitched noises out of their tiny bodies in response to overexcitement fear boredom and other emotions. Squeals are often animals’ way of communicating their need for love especially if the animal is in no pain and has not been harmed.

Squealing is generally considered normal for most dogs regardless of how they are feeling including bulldogs and their brachycephalic traits. When French bulldogs and other dogs with hypoplastic tracheas scream or squeal they are not always in pain because a lot of air is leaving their tiny bodies and organs so fast. 

What are the most common noises that a French bulldog makes?

It is a small and sweet breed of dog taking on the role of a common house pet in many countries around the world but due to the breeds stature it poses some serious health risks as well. The most common medical issues French bulldogs suffer from stem from their Brachycephalic breed history Brachycephalic meaning “short-headed” in Latin which causes them to struggle with a variety of respiratory issues.

The small body and short snouts of these animals create a variety of sounds and concerns due to their elongated palates and upper airways. Snoring snorting sneezing farting whining crying slurping gagging and panting are some of the noises you might hear from the nose and lungs of your French bulldog. Even though French Bulldogs are known for their creative and talkative nature it is important to monitor any excess experiences of the sounds above to ensure sickness is not picking on anatomical weaknesses.

If your Frenchie has always farted then you should not worry about ripping another one-off but if your animal has never farted much it is possible that there is an additional anatomic abnormality. Due to the fact that French bulldogs and other Brachycephalic breeds in general have breathing and health issues its important to monitor and track your fur baby at least tri-monthly. Despite their anatomic disadvantages the majority of French bulldogs live happy healthy lives with the help of awesome owners. Its okay to consider a farting Frenchie as long as you can provide them with a loving home. They’re a blast to be around.

6 noises to be most worried about?

It has been stated above that French bulldogs communicate through strange noises. While most of the noises we’re about to list are normal among most dog breeds in moderation especially for those with brachycephalic traits they should be greatly considered in excess. Any dog will cry for attention or food but when that crying continues throughout the situation then it may be a sign that your pet needs your assistance. Do not worry if you see a sound your Frenchie makes below only an excess should make you concerned. Among the sounds you should be concerned about:

Whimpering/whining

Generally French bulldogs are known for their vocalizations whether from excitement or boredom but excessive whining may be an indication of stress or injury. When they do not respond to your love or food its best to visit your vet for a checkup.

Snoring

The common phenomenon of Frenchies snoring while they sleep some more than others isnot something to be concerned about unless they did not do it before. French bulldogs who snore louder or more than usual may be experiencing some health issues that need to be assessed as soon as possible.

Snorting

While it is considered normal for bulldogs to snort when drinking water or breathing continuous snorting or fits can often indicate narrow nasal passageways or weak flaps that make it difficult for your dog to breathe. Talk to your veterinarian about options for assisting airflow. 

Reverse sneezing

In spite of reverse sneezing being common among many breeds of dogs brachycephalic dogs are more prone to it due to their elongated soft palates. The feeling is common although it does not look comfortable so it should pass quickly. Your bulldog may be experiencing allergies or an annoying nose if they reverse sneeze more often than sometimes. Consult their veterinarian if you notice this happening. 

Barking/growling

French bulldogs are a friendly breed not known for barking except in rare circumstances. While most dogs bark or growl when scared French bulldogs are not known for that behavior. Its not uncommon for them to make 100 different noises but barking isnot one of them. Growling or barking may be a sign that your French bulldog is experiencing anxiety food aggression or guarding behavior. It is important not to ignore this behavior.

Panting

Breathing and body regulation are especially challenging for brachycephalic dogs which does not make them ideal hiking companions. The best way to cool down your Frenchie is to give him some ice water or open the windows. Talk to your veterinarian about cooling pads and other options to help your pup cope with the heat if it persists.

Although most of these noises are normal among French bulldogs excessive monitoring should be addressed. Although French Bulldogs are not an easy breed to own they offer just as much love and value so it is essential for you to keep an eye on them to ensure that any additional issues are not overlooked. 

Why do they snort and make weird breathing noises?

French bulldogs are a Brachycephalic breed which can cause a variety of potential airway issues. Some breeding issues they may inherit from your Frenchie are stenotic nares elongated soft palates hypoplastic tracheas and overly enlarged tonsils.

Although some issues may not cause problems or can be contained and treated owners need to know why their dog is making so many strange noises. Snorting and snoring are common in most flat-faced animals including cats as a result of all that cuteness.

Although breeders tried to preserve the cuteness of Frenchies and refine their flat faces other organs had to take the back door which was down a dark and narrow alley. Frenchies breath is down that alley. Because of their skulls being shrunk by breeders French bulldogs are likely to have narrow nostrils; a restricted windpipe; sacs along the voicebox that block the trachea and more.

Although not every French bulldog has every issue most of them are common among their breed. If your pups body is too small compared to its organs then these organs may be pushed against each other or restricted.

Snorting and snoring are quite common among all Brachycephalic breeds so do not worry too much about them unless they are excessive. Take advantage of the various vocal styles your French bulldog performs. 

How can I make my French bulldog more quiet and calm?

With the exception of their farts and slurps Bulldogs are generally considered to be one of the quietest dog breeds today with French bulldogs following in their footsteps. You do not often hear a Frenchie barking or crying over nothing; they will whine for attention and whimper when you yell but they are generally quiet animals unless they are communicating with you directly.

Anatomical reasons may cause them to sneeze fart snore and more but they would not growl or whine without reason. If your animal has never been a noisy friend they may be calling out for help attention or medical attention. You should speak to your veterinarian about potential problems and solutions if the noises are involuntary.

If your new Frenchie has always been a noise-maker or if you just got him there are a few ways to teach him about talking time. All behavior problems such as anxiety guarding and food aggression should be assessed and rehabilitated by professionals.

All dog owners struggle with happy barking but they have overcome it. The “quiet” command can be taught by rewarding such as telling your animal to be quiet in a loud firm voice until they stop; they will be rewarded with a treat when they stop.

Stay calm when your dog barks so that they would not associate their barking with your attention. Please avoid coming aggressively as this may further trigger your dogs barking. When combined with threats exposure or desensitization therapy should help your dog stop barking at a specific person or noise.

Its best to let a professional assess and assist your Frenchie if its having trouble training as the problem may go deeper than just barking. 

Conclusion

The purpose of this research was to help you gain a deeper understanding of French Bulldogs’ inner workings and breathing systems. This talkative little breed has a special place in our hearts and ears from farting to sneezing to squealing. You can find more information about other breeds on our website.

If you want to read more about dog health tips read here: Dog Health Tips and Tricks.

Why Do French Bulldogs Scream? And Make Other Weird Noises (Watch Video)