French Bulldogs are one of the most beloved dog breeds, but their adorable squished faces and compact ears also come with a downside — they’re prone to eye and ear infections. According to a 2024 American Pet Health Study, more than 60% of French Bulldogs experience at least one ear or eye issue before the age of three.

If your Frenchie is constantly pawing at their ears, shaking their head, or waking up with crusty eye discharge, you’re not alone. This guide will walk you through the real reasons behind these common problems, and give you 12 vet-informed, easy-to-follow tips to keep your pup healthy — all without a trip to the vet.

Why French Bulldogs Often Get Eye and Ear Infections

1. Bulging eyes and short muzzle
   Frenchies have shallow eye sockets that make their eyes more exposed to wind, dust, and allergens. This leads to frequent discharge and irritation.
2. Narrow ear canals
   Their deep, poorly ventilated ear canals trap moisture and wax easily — a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast.
3. Facial folds around the eyes and ears
   These folds can trap dirt, oil, and bacteria. If not cleaned regularly, they can lead to chronic inflammation and infection.

5 Easy Eye Care Habits to Prevent Infections

1. Wipe away discharge daily
   Use unscented, alcohol-free dog eye wipes each morning. Avoid baby wipes — they can irritate the eye area.
2. Monitor for excessive tear stains
   Sudden tear staining could signal a food sensitivity or allergy, especially to chicken, grains, or artificial additives.
3. Keep humidity between 40%–60% indoors
   Too much moisture in the air can irritate your dog’s eyes and make them water excessively.
4. Rinse eyes after walks or outdoor play
   Use a gentle saline solution to remove pollen or dust, especially during allergy season.
5. Watch for signs of cherry eye or infection
   Look for red bulges, cloudy eyes, or mucous-like discharge. Early treatment is key to avoid long-term damage.

Common Signs of Eye Infection in French Bulldogs

Yellow or green discharge

Squinting or blinking more than usual

Redness or swelling

Cloudy or dull-looking eyes

Pawing at the face or eyes

These may indicate conjunctivitis, corneal ulcers, or cherry eye — all of which require vet attention.

7 Ear Care Tips to Avoid Painful Infections

1. Clean ears weekly with a pH-balanced solution
   Apply 5–10 drops of alcohol-free dog ear cleaner. Massage the base of the ear, then let your dog shake. Wipe with a cotton pad.
2. Dry ears thoroughly after baths or swimming
   Moisture trapped in the ear canal is a leading cause of yeast infectionsin French Bulldogs.
3. Never use cotton swabs inside the ear
   They can push debris deeper and damage the eardrum. Stick to the outer ear with soft gauze or cotton pads.
4. Check for food allergies
   Dogs that get repeated ear infections may be reacting to their food. Try switching to a limited-ingredient or grain-free diet.
5. Inspect ears after outdoor activities
   Grass seeds and small debris can get stuck and cause irritation if not removed.
6. Don’t ignore mild odor or wax buildup
   A slightly sweet or yeasty smell can be the first sign of an infection. Address it early.
7. Keep ear hair trimmed if necessary
   Too much hair can block airflow and trap wax and moisture.

Signs Your French Bulldog Has an Ear Infection

Frequent head shaking

Scratching or pawing at the ears

Dark brown or smelly ear wax

Redness, swelling, or crust in the ear canal

Sensitivity when touching the ears

Tilted head or balance issues

If symptoms persist more than 2–3 days after cleaning, see your vet.

Vet-Approved At-Home Remedies for Early Symptoms

Warm compress (100–104°F) on the ear for 5 minutes, twice daily

Witch hazel or chamomile pads for folds and outer ear cleaning

Omega-3 rich diet to reduce inflammation and support immune health

Daily visual checks of ears and eyes with a flashlight

Avoid human products or essential oils unless approved by your vet

Studies show that weekly ear cleaning can reduce chronic infection risk by up to 68% in French Bulldogs.

Final Thoughts: 5 Minutes a Day for a Healthier, Happier Frenchie

Preventing infections isn’t about complicated routines or expensive products — it’s about paying attention. Whether it’s wiping their eyes in the morning or checking for ear odor after a walk, small actions make a big difference.

Your Frenchie can’t tell you when something feels wrong — but your care, consistency, and a few mindful habits can help them stay comfortable and infection-free for life.