About the Breed

 

  • Breed History

Lacemakers in 19th Century Nottingham, England selectively bred the early bulldog for a downsized or "toy" bulldog, for use as a lap pet. When the Industrial Revolution displaced some lacemakers to France, they took the dogs with them, and soon the "toy" bulldogs became popular in France, where wealthy Americans doing the Grand Tour saw and fell in love with them. In the late 1800s these "toy bulldogs" became known as French Bulldogs.  

The characteristic ‘bat-like’ ears and short tail.  Their popularity is still growing around the world and it is not hard to see why.  These playful dogs are a joy to have around and never seem to get disheartened by anything.  They have often been described as clown-like due to their playful nature, something that makes them a great playmate and friend for children. They are also willing to show their affection to anyone who is willing to accept it, and they will enjoy the attention that goes with it.  It is this friendly and easy-going nature which makes the French Bulldog attractive to those who want a dog that isn’t too high maintenance.

French Bulldog is always willing to participate in your family activities.  They may not always be able to cope due to their short nose, which can cause breathing difficulties, but they will always give it a go.  This includes accompanying you on any chores you have around the house, and this will make up most of their daily exercise needs.  A short walk around the neighbourhood to supplement this will be all these Bulldogs need.  It is important not to put them under too much strain, especially during the summer when the heat can cause them problems.  What they will enjoy is socialising with other dogs and people, as they love to be the centre of attention and have company.  If you manage to include this on a regular basis, your French Bulldog will be extremely happy.

 

 

  • Right Breed for You?

Frenchies are indoor dogs, but require air conditioning in warm weather. While good at alerting their owners to danger (Look! The Postman is coming!), their main role is that of lap warmer. The Frenchie requires minimal exercise and grooming. Puppy from 4 months of age can stay at home without you up to 4-5 hours with some toys - just don't let feel your puppy boring. Frenchies are really good with children, elderly people, other pets - best and secure compamy and friend for all your family.

  •   Living Conditions
Frenchies are good for apartment life. They can be fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard. Does not do well in temperature extremes.
  • Exercise  
The French Bulldog needs to be taken on a daily walk, where the dog is made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead, as instinct tells a dog the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. Simply running around a large yard is not going to satisfy their migration instinct. Take care in hot weather. They love to run and play and can play for hours if you let them. Some have higher energy levels than others.

Training of the French Bulldog is a great way to bond with your dog.  Surprisingly for such a small dog, they can be quite stubborn although this is rare when they have a fondness for their owner.  The best way to conduct training is by making it appealing to your dog, especially if it allows them to show off their ability.  Whatever you do, do not use harsh commands as they will withdraw and be even less willing to listen.  After training is a good time to groom your Frenchie, although they don’t require much attention.  A quick going over with a soft brush will suffice, although you should clean and dry their face wrinkles as the French Bulldog can be susceptible to infection in these areas.
  • Life Expectancy  
About 10-12 years.
  • Grooming
Very little grooming is needed. Regular brushings will do. This breed is an average shedder.
  • Health Problems
 French Bulldogs are prone to joint diseases, spinal disorders, heart defects and eye problems. Dams often have to deliver pups by cesarean section, because pups have relatively large heads. They often have respiratory problems. They tend to wheeze and snore and have trouble in hot weather. Prone to heat stroke. An overweight Frenchie may have trouble breathing, because of a swollen abdomen. Do not overfeed this breed. Putting them under anesthesia is risky because of their breathing issues. French Bulldogs are high maintenance and potential owners need to be aware that their vet bills may be high. Take this into consideration before choosing a Frenchie puppy.

Aditional info

 
  • It is fairly well established that one of the ancestors of the French Bulldog is, not surprisingly, the English Bulldog (most likely one of the toy variety).
  • Two distinctive features of the French Bulldog are its bat ears and half-flat, half-domed skull.
  • Originally called the Boule-Dog Francais, though the english later scoffed at the idea of calling an English dog by a French name.
  • Had it not been for the objections of American fanciers, the bat ear of the French Bulldog would have been bred out of the breed and replaced with a rose ear, resulting in a miniaturized version of the English Bulldog.
  • The first specialty club was the French Bulldog Club of America, and fanciers gave a specialty show in the ballroom of the Waldorf-Astoria in NYC in 1898, the first specialty show to be held in such deluxe quarters. Receiving serious press coverage, French Bulldogs were thrust into vogue, reaching a peak in 1913 with an entry of 100 at the Westminster Kennel Club.
  • While bred primarily as pets and companions, Frenchies are remarkably intelligent and serve as good watchdogs.