In the Franco-Prussian War, the 8th Dragoons would be highly active, following their reinstatement as a regiment, serving in the Battles of Borny and Gravelotte. They were part of the force that tried to relieve forces participating in the siege in Metz along with the Army of the Rhine. It would be followed by skirmishes in Lorcy. Following an uprising in Paris by the French Communes, the 8th Dragoons were put under the command of the Army of Versailles, participating in the Bloody Week, acts of reprisal against the rebellion.