Frenchies are one of the most popular small breeds in the country, and they are also a flat-faced breed that does not like a hot afternoon. The plan for a Frenchie stay is simple: a roomy indoor run, short outdoor sessions and no hard play in the heat.
Size and the right kennel
The AKC lists the French Bulldog at 11 to 13 inches tall and under 28 pounds. That is a compact, heavy-boned little dog, and Economy is plenty of room: about 16 square feet inside plus 48 outside, with a Kuranda bed and blankets. Two Frenchies from one home can share an Economy run, $52 for the first and $44 for the second on the 2026 rates.
If your dog is nervous without you, sharing with a housemate often helps more than extra floor space.
Coat and bath cell
The coat is short, fine and smooth, so it sits in the Extra Short column of the bath chart. On the chart effective January 1, 2024, that is $30 in the 16 to 25 pound row and $35 in the 26 to 50 pound row. Skin folds on the face are worth a mention at drop-off; tell the staff if your dog has a wrinkle-care routine, and please ask to confirm the bath price.
Heat is the main planning point
A normal summer near Dixon brings about 100 days of 90 degrees or more, and about 28 days of 100 or more, by the NOAA 1991-2020 normals for nearby Vacaville. Short-nosed dogs shed heat less easily than long-nosed ones, so use the air-conditioned inside half of the run and keep outdoor time to the cooler hours. The doggie door lets your Frenchie choose.
Our guide to flat-faced dogs in the heat goes through the signs of trouble in more detail.
Energy and play
AKC rates the breed's energy at 3 of 5 and calls it playful and adaptable. That fits a boarding week well: short play sessions, a lot of lounging, and a good appetite. Frenchies can gulp food, so bring a slow-feeder bowl if you use one at home, or write the cups down for the house food.
Drop-off for a short-nosed dog
Arrive during the morning window (7:30 to 11:30 AM) when it is coolest, and leave your Frenchie in the car until the staff come out. They carry belongings and walk your dog in, and on hot pavement they may scoop a small dog up and hurry. Remove any harness that presses on the throat and bring a flat collar; metal pinch (prong) collars come off at check-in.
A Frenchie that snores, snorts or wheezes a little at home is normal for the breed, but tell the staff what normal sounds like for your dog so they can tell the difference.
Food and meals
The house food is grain-free kibble with wet food, and it is free. Many Frenchies have touchy stomachs or skin, so you can bring their own diet in the original bag, with the amount written in cups and the times on the form. Medications are given at no extra charge, including allergy tablets. Treats such as farm-fresh eggs and hot dogs are part of the house menu, so say so if your dog should skip them.