Why Does My French Bulldog Cry? Whining Causes and Solutions

Common reasons Frenchies whine

• Wanting attention or play. Frenchies were bred as companion dogs and often love being close to people.
• Needing the bathroom. Especially puppies and seniors.
• Hunger or excitement around mealtimes and walks.
• Boredom. Not enough gentle exercise, play or puzzle toys.
• Anxiety. New places, loud noises, visitors or being left alone.
• Discomfort. Too hot, too cold, an itchy spot, a full bladder.

Crying that may mean pain

Call your vet if crying is new, sudden or comes with:

• Yelping when picked up, touched on the back, or when turning the head. Cornell notes dogs with disc problems may "avoid turning their head in one direction" and walk with "a wobbly gait."^[1]
• Reluctance to climb stairs, jump or walk
• Shaking ears, scratching or licking one spot
• Straining to pee or poop
• Hiding, restlessness or panting at rest

Sudden weakness or dragging the back legs is an emergency.

Is it crying or a breathing sound?

Owners sometimes mistake breathing noise for whining. The University of Cambridge lists respiratory noise, sleep apnea and gagging as signs of BOAS, the breed's airway disease.^[2] If the sound happens with each breath, gets worse with exercise or heat, or happens when your dog is asleep, mention it to your vet and take a short video.

Puppy crying at night

A new puppy has just left its mother and littermates, so crying the first nights is normal.

• Put the crate next to your bed for the first weeks so the puppy can hear and smell you.
• Take the puppy out to potty right before bed and once during the night if needed.
• Add a soft blanket and a safe chew toy.
• Keep night trips boring: quick potty, back to bed, no play.
• Make the crate a happy place during the day with treats and meals.

Crying when left alone

• Practice short departures, a few seconds then a few minutes, and build up slowly.
• Leave a food puzzle or lick mat when you go.
• Keep arrivals and departures calm.
• A camera can show whether your dog settles or stays distressed.
• If your dog howls, drools, destroys things or has accidents every time you leave, talk to your vet. Separation-related problems can be treated, sometimes with medication alongside training.

How to reduce attention whining

1. Meet the need first: potty, water, food, exercise, comfort.
2. Wait for a moment of quiet, then reward with attention or a treat.
3. Do not reward the whine. If whining always gets a response, it becomes a habit.
4. Never punish crying. AVSAB recommends "only reward-based training methods" for all dog training, including behavior problems.^[3]
5. Add enrichment: sniff walks, short training sessions, chew toys.