French Bulldog
French Bulldog
(Bouledogue Francais)
Form and Function
Frenchies have a low center of gravity, wide body, heavy bone, muscular build, and large, square head with soft loose skin forming wrinkles about the head and shoulders. Entertaining home companions, these lapdogs are alert, with a curious expression, aided by bar ears, and unrestrained and free movement.
Breed Traits
ENERGY LEVEL 3 out of 5
EXERCISE REQUIREMENTS 1 out of 5
PLAYFULNESS 3 out of 5
AFFECTION LEVEL 3 out of 5
FRIENDLINESS TO DOGS 3 out of 5
FRIENDLINESS TO OTHER PETS 4 out of 5
FRIENDLINESS TO STRANGERS 1 out of 5
WATCHFULNESS 1 out of 5
EASE OF TRAINING 2 out of 5
GROOMING REQUIREMENTS 1 out of 5
HEAT SENSITIVITY 5 out of 5
VOCALITY 3 out of 5
Breed Attributes
TYPE Non-sporting
WEIGHT 28 lb
HEIGHT 11-13"
FAMILY Mastiff, Bull
AREA OF ORIGIN France
DATE OF ORIGIN 1800s
OTHER NAMES Bouledogue Francais
History
In the nineteenth century, the Bulldog was fairly popular in England, especially around Nottingham. When many of the lace workers of the region went to France for work in the mid-1800s, they took their “Toy” Bulldogs with them.
The French women, especially, were attracted to these little Bulldogs, especially those with erect ears (a common but disliked feature in England). Dog dealers brought more of the clownish little dogs to France, where they soon became the rage of Paris.
The dogs were dubbed Bouledogue Francais. French breeders sought to consistently produce the erect “bat ears,” much to the chagrin of English breeders.
How big do French Bulldogs get?
Some Bulldogs are quite small weighing less than 25 lbs, however, dogs in this breed on average, weigh 28 lbs. and can grow to be between 11” – 13” in size.
Do French Bulldogs shed?
Frenchies have a short, easy-to-maintain coat that doesn’t shed much.
What are some French Bulldog facts and information?
Facts
French Bulldogs are best known for:
- Bat ears
- Comical, clown-like behavior
- Being a solid lapdog
- Frenchies cannot swim
- Not tolerating heat well at all
Information
By the late 1800s, the breed had caught the attention of the upper class and had moved into some of the finer homes in France. Around this same time, American visitors to France brought several back to America and began to breed the dogs in earnest.
Amid continued controversy over which ear type was correct, an American club was formed and, in 1898, sponsored one of the most elegant dog shows (just for French Bulldogs) ever held. The gracious setting attracted wealthy spectators, and the Frenchie had soon conquered America.
Their popularity among high society soared, and by 1913 they were among the most popular show dogs in America. The breed has since been passed by many others in popularity, but it still boasts some of the most elite and ardent fans in dogdom.
What are the French Bulldog colors?
Brindle, cream, fawn and white.
How long do French Bulldogs live?
Lifespan: 9–11 years.
Temperament
The French Bulldog is a clown in a lapdog. They enjoy playing and entertaining their family, as well as cuddling and snoozing with their favorite person. They are amiable, sweet, companionable, and willing to please.
Upkeep
What do French Bulldogs eat and how to care for this breed?
- Minimal exercise
- Enjoys outdoors, but don’t exercise in hot, humid weather.
- A short walk on lead is sufficient to meet most of its physical needs.
- Frenchie snores and may wheeze and drool.
- Require minimal coat care
- Facial wrinkles should be regularly cleaned.
- Maintain a French Bulldog’s ideal body condition, and weight with food best suited for this breed.
Health
Major concerns
- Brachycephalic syndrome (stenotic nares, elongated soft palate)
- Intervertebral disk disease
- CHD (seldom causes symptoms or problems)
- Allergies