By: Valablu6
How to help.
Let’s be honest—French Bulldogs are basically living, snorting, farting shadows. They follow you everywhere: bathroom trips, kitchen snack raids, even into the closet like it’s a grand adventure. But the second you dare to leave the house? Cue the meltdown. Whining, pacing, crying, and maybe a little “surprise” waiting for you when you return (and not the cute kind, like at all).
If that sounds familiar, congratulations—you’ve got yourself a Frenchie with separation anxiety. Don’t worry, it’s not your fault, you did not fail as a frenchie parent and it doesn’t mean your pup is doomed to a life of clingy chaos. Let’s break down the 7 major signs of separation anxiety in Frenchies—and how to help your drama-loving bestie chill out when you’re away.
Quick note: Some of the links below are affiliate links. That means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them—at no extra cost to you. Gotta fund my Frenchie’s toy addiction somehow!
1. The Frenchie Serenade (A.K.A. Excessive Barking or Whining)
Like music for everyone. If your neighbors start sending you concerned texts like, “Hey, is your dog auditioning for The Voice?”—you might have a case of Frenchie separation anxiety. Excessive barking, howling, or whining the moment you leave (or even pick up your keys) is a classic sign.
Fix It: Start with desensitization. Pick up your keys randomly throughout the day without leaving. Grab your coat and sit back down. I do this all the time because your girl here is freezing (I have the “I’m freezing” shirt to proof it.)You’re training your pup to realize those cues don’t always mean goodbye.
Try This: ThunderShirt Classic Dog Anxiety Jacket – It’s like a cozy hug for your anxious Frenchie, giving gentle pressure that helps them feel secure (and way less dramatic).
2. Destructive Behavior – Goodbye Couch, Hello Chaos
You come home and it looks like your Frenchie hosted a rave (Rude much). Torn pillows, those poor shredded shoes, and maybe a toppled trash can for good measure. Frenchies party hard and snore harder. This isn’t rebellion—it’s stress.
Frenchies with separation anxiety often chew, dig, or destroy things as a way to cope with their nervous energy.
Fix It: Give them something appropriate to destroy. Puzzle toys, chew toys, and interactive feeders are great ways to distract them and keep their little minds busy while you’re away.
Try This: KONG Classic Dog Toy – Stuff it with peanut butter, treats, or even freeze it for longer-lasting fun. Keeps your Frenchie entertained instead of tearing through your Frenchie faces throw pillows.
3. Potty Problems (Even if They’re Potty Trained)
If your perfectly trained Frenchie suddenly starts having “accidents” when you’re gone, that’s not bad behavior—it’s anxiety. Stress can cause them to lose control of their bladder or bowels.
Fix It: Rule out medical issues first with your vet (just to be safe). Then, create a calm departure routine. No big emotional goodbyes—just a casual “See ya later!”
Try This: Rocco & Roxie Stain & Odor Eliminator – Because, let’s face it, you’ll need something strong enough to erase the evidence (and the smell).
4. The Clingy Shadow Syndrome
Your Frenchie follows you everywhere—and I mean everywhere. If you can’t even shower without your little gremlin pressed against the door, separation anxiety might be brewing. Speaking of gremlins getting bathwater on your Frenchie wont make more Frenchies. You have to face facts.
Fix It: Practice independence training. Encourage your Frenchie to stay in another room with a treat or toy while you do something nearby. Build up their confidence gradually.
Try This: SmartPetLove Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Toy – Mimics a heartbeat and warmth, perfect for comforting your pup when you’re not around. It’s basically a stand-in for you (minus the coffee breath).
5. Over-the-Top Greeting Frenzy
If your Frenchie greets you like you’ve been missing for ten years every time you walk in the door, that’s not just love—it’s anxiety. Tail wagging is fine, but excessive jumping, whining, and hyper behavior can signal deeper emotional stress.
Fix It: Keep greetings calm and casual. Wait until your Frenchie settles down before giving attention. It teaches them that your return is no big deal (even if it secretly makes your day).
Try This: Zesty Paws Calming Bites – With ingredients like chamomile, L-theanine, and melatonin, these tasty chews can take the edge off your Frenchie’s excitement without turning them into a sleepy sloth.
6. Escape Attempts – The Great Frenchie Breakout
Your dog has suddenly become an escape artist. Scratching at doors, chewing through crates, or trying to dig their way out? Where is this dog trying to go, to space to fart where no Frenchie has farted before. Classic anxiety move. Frenchies can hurt themselves in the process, so it’s important to address this ASAP.
Fix It: Give them a secure, comforting space. Crate training (done right) can make them feel safe, not trapped. Make the crate cozy with soft bedding, toys, and maybe a worn T-shirt that smells like you. I wonder if anyone makes custom anti-anxiety plushies from owner’s old tees?
Try This: MidWest iCrate Starter Kit – Comes with everything your Frenchie needs for a safe little retreat, minus the jailbreak drama.
7. Sudden Depression or Withdrawal
If your usually happy-go-lucky Frenchie starts acting distant, refusing to eat, or looking mopey every time you leave, separation anxiety could be the culprit. Frenchies are emotional sponges—they pick up on your moods and routines. Happy you makes happy Frenchie.
Fix It: Increase daily exercise and mental stimulation. A tired Frenchie is a happy Frenchie. Also, try calming aids to help them relax when you’re away.
Try This: Adaptil Calm Home Diffuser – Releases dog-appeasing pheromones that mimic a mother’s natural scent, helping your pup feel safe and chill.
Bonus Tips for Your Overly Attached Frenchie:
- Start short: Leave the house for 5 minutes, then 10, then 30—gradually increase time away.
- Play the sound game: Leave the TV or calming music on for comfort (try “Relax My Dog” playlists on YouTube).
- Consistency is queen: Same feeding, walking, and bedtime routines make your Frenchie feel secure.
Final Thoughts: Less Drama, More Chill
Separation anxiety isn’t about disobedience—it’s your Frenchie’s way of saying, “You’re my whole world and I don’t know what to do without you!” (Dramatic? Absolutely. Adorable? Also yes.)
The good news? With patience, consistency, and a few clever tools, you can help your Frenchie feel confident, secure, and maybe even nap through your absence instead of launching a full-blown Frenchie opera.
Because at the end of the day, you’re not just their human—you’re their emotional support human. Until next time Viva La Frenchie! 🐾
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I may earn a small fee from qualifying purchases made through affiliate links in this post. This helps support my blog (and my Frenchie’s growing treat collection) at no extra cost to you.
