Preparing Your Home

Complete home preparation guide — supplies checklist, room-by-room puppy-proofing, safe zone setup, and temperature control for brachycephalic breeds.

Chapter 1: Preparing Your Home

Bringing your French Bulldog puppy home is one of the most exciting moments of your life. But before that day arrives, your home must be transformed into a safe, controlled environment. French Bulldogs are curious, compact, and brachycephalic (flat-faced) — which means they face unique risks that other breeds don't. This chapter walks you through every preparation step.

1. Essential Supplies Checklist

Gather these items before your puppy arrives. Having everything ready reduces stress on day one.

Food & Nutrition

• [ ] Puppy food (the same brand your breeder uses — transition gradually over 7–10 days)
• [ ] Stainless steel or ceramic food bowl (shallow, wide design for flat faces)
• [ ] Stainless steel water bowl (shallow, wide design)
• [ ] Measuring scoop (for precise portioning)
• [ ] Treat pouch with soft training treats

Comfort & Sleep

• [ ] Crate (see sizing guide below)
• [ ] Crate mat or washable bedding
• [ ] Exercise pen or play yard (minimum 36" × 36")
• [ ] Washable pee pads
• [ ] Snuggle toy or heartbeat toy (helps with first-night anxiety)

Health & Safety

• [ ] Nasal bulb syringe (infant size — see Chapter