Thinking of Adding a French Bulldog to Your Family? Here's How to Avoid Scams

French Bulldogs or “Frenchies” have quickly become one of the most sought-after dog breeds in the world. Their playful personalities, compact size, and undeniable charm make them hard to resist. But sadly, with their growing popularity comes an increase in scams targeting hopeful pet owners.

At NorthCalFrenchies, we've been heartbroken to hear stories of scammers using our Frenchie photos to trick people into buying puppies that don’t exist. That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you stay safe, informed, and confident as you search for your perfect pup.

Why Frenchie Scams Happen

French Bulldogs are not only adorable, they’re also expensive, often ranging from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on their lineage, health, and coloring. Scammers know this and exploit the demand by:

• Stealing real breeder photos from social media or websites

• Creating fake accounts or pages using stolen content

• Offering unrealistically low prices to lure in unsuspecting buyers

Common Red Flags to Watch Out For

If you’re talking to a seller and something doesn’t feel right, here are some warning signs to look out for:

1. Stolen Photos If the photos look professional but the seller can’t offer basic details or keeps dodging questions, be careful.

Pro Tip: Try a reverse image search using Google Lens. If the same photo shows up on multiple unrelated sites, it’s probably been stolen.

2. Prices That Seem Too Good to Be True

Ethical breeding involves significant expenses. If you’re being offered a “purebred Frenchie” for $500–$1,000 with phrases like “Last one!” or “Need to rehome urgently!” it’s probably a scam. 3. Fake or Shady Online Presence

Some scammers now go the extra mile by setting up fake websites and active Facebook pages. But look closely, no meaningful engagement, fake reviews, or inconsistencies in posts are often clear signs. A real breeder’s presence online is built over time and includes genuine interactions from real people.

4. No Video Call or In-Person Meeting

Scammers avoid showing their face or the dog in real time. A trustworthy breeder will gladly hop on a video call to introduce you to the puppy, their parents, or even their home setup.

5. No Health Guarantee or Contract

Reputable breeders provide health guarantees, vaccination records, and contracts. If you’re only chatting via Facebook Messenger or text, and they can’t provide proper documentation, walk away.

6. Risky Payment Methods

CashApp, Zelle, Western Union, or gift cards are major red flags. A legitimate breeder will accept secure, traceable payments and always provide a receipt.

How to Protect Yourself

Conduct Thorough Research

• Before engaging with any breeder, take the time to research their name, business, or kennel. Look for Google reviews, Facebook activity, and tagged photos that reflect genuine client interactions. A reputable breeder will have an established online presence with consistent, traceable feedback from real buyers.
  

Request References and Proof of Legitimacy

• Ask the breeder for references from past clients who can vouch for their experience. Additionally, check for social media posts where real owners have tagged them, this is a strong indicator of authenticity and customer satisfaction. If the breeder hesitates or deflects, consider it a red flag.

Verify Images and Media

• To confirm that the photos shared are genuine, perform a reverse image search using tools like Google Lens. If the same images appear on multiple websites or accounts, it’s a clear sign of photo theft and potential fraud. Legitimate breeders should have unique, original content that is not widely circulated.

Trust Your Instincts and Be Cautious of Pressure Tactics

• Scammers often create a sense of urgency to rush decisions, claims like “Last one left!” or “We’re moving tomorrow!” are designed to pressure you into hasty commitments. If anything feels off, listen to your instincts. A responsible breeder will always prioritize transparency and allow you the time to make an informed decision.

⚠️ Urgent Notice: Beware of Fake Frenchie Listings!

We’ve been informed of a scam involving fake listings of our Frenchies. A Facebook page called Hellen's Frenchies and the website hellen-katefrenchies.com are using our photos and those from other breeders to advertise non-existent puppies.

Please help us stop this by reporting their page and website. Together, we can protect our community. ❤️

Conclusion

At NorthCalFrenchies, we are deeply passionate about French Bulldogs and the families who welcome them into their homes. Our breeding practices are grounded in responsibility, transparency, and genuine care for the wellbeing of our dogs. If you encounter anyone using our photos or falsely claiming affiliation with our team, we encourage you to contact us directly. We are more than happy to assist in verifying the legitimacy of sellers and protecting others from potential scams.

To see more of our beautiful Frenchies and get updates directly from us, follow our journey on Instagram at @northcalfrenchies. We regularly post authentic photos, behind-the-scenes moments, and happy updates from families who have welcomed our puppies into their homes. We understand that the journey to finding your perfect companion is both exciting and deeply personal. Our mission is to ensure that this experience is as safe, transparent, and joyful as possible.

Your safety and the wellbeing of our French Bulldogs remain our highest priority.