For many years, the French Bulldog was a popular pet. Originally designed in England as a toy version of the Bulldog, these dogs made their way to France with lacemakers from the United Kingdom, where they were given the "Frenchie" moniker.
Historically, they were also used as effective ratters, but today their primary function is as wonderful companions for families and competitors in dog shows. This friendly breed is great for anybody, from experienced pet owners to those who have never owned a pet before. The following is an exhaustive catalogue of French Bulldog characteristics and information.
Highlights
- French Bulldogs do not require strenuous exercise, but they do require daily walks.
- Because of their sensitivity to heat, French Bulldogs require close supervision on hot days to prevent them from overheating and collapsing.
- French Bulldogs have a mixed reputation for being easy or difficult to train. When training this breed, you must be both patient and firm.
- The French Bulldog is not the best choice for those who place a high value on tidiness, since he has a tendency to drool, pass gas, and shed a little bit. In addition, he can be challenging to housetrain.
- As with every generalisation, though, there are always exceptions to every rule. French Bulldogs are not typically renowned as a barking breed.
- French Bulldogs are great apartment companions because they are not known for being extreme barkers.
- The French Bulldog is great with kids, but they should always be under adult supervision when they're together.
- French Bulldogs are excellent guard dogs, but they have a tendency to be possessive. Overindulging them in this trait can cause behavioural issues because they enjoy the spotlight.
- French bulldogs are best kept as companion animals since they require consistent interaction with people. They aren't the type of dog that would do well if abandoned for extended periods or kept outside.
- If you want a healthy dog, you should never buy one from a pet store, pet store, or a breeder who doesn't care about the welfare of their puppies.
Characteristics
Social Appearance
Adaptability
It's a common misconception that a little dog is better suited to living in a limited space. Many tiny dogs have too much energy and are too yappy to live in an apartment building. An apartment dog's best attributes include being quiet, low energy, somewhat peaceful indoors, and respectful to the other inhabitants. Your dog's personal space in your apartment can be improved by purchasing one of these fantastic dog cages.
Sensitivity Level
Depending on the dog, a strong rebuke can be taken in stride by some, while others regard even the tiniest hint of disapproval as a personal attack. If you have a loud or pushy owner, a chaotic home, or a routine that is unpredictable or variable, your low-sensitivity dog, often known as "easy-going," "tolerant," "resilient," or even "thick-skinned," will be able to handle it better. Do you have young children, host a lot of parties, or have a hectic lifestyle? Choose a dog that isn't overly sensitive.
Intensity
You can't tell from looking at them whether or not they're hyperactive, but when they do anything, they do it vigorously. They tug at their leashes (unless you teach them not to), they push their way through barriers, and they down their meals in huge, gobbling gulps. A home with young children or an elderly or feeble person may not be the best place for these dynamos to learn proper etiquette. On the other side, a dog with poor vitality adopts a more reserved demeanor.
Potential for Playfulness
The playful nature of certain dogs never fades away, and they're always ready for a game, whereas the reserved and serious tendencies of other dogs develop through time. Think about how many times a day you want to play fetch or tag with your dog, and whether or not you have children or other dogs who can act as substitutes.
Personality Appearance
Intelligence
In the same way as working dogs, such as those that herd sheep, are bred for intelligence and decision-making, working dogs like those who run all day need to exercise their bodies. The two most common activities that a bored pet engages in are digging and chewing, both of which require mental stimulation. There are several ways to keep a dog's brain active, including obedience training, interactive dog toys like tug of war, and dog sports like agility and search and rescue.
Energy Level
Energy-draining dogs are always on the lookout for a new activity. There are several jobs that require a lot of stamina from dogs, such as herding livestock or recovering prey for hunters. Children are more likely to engage in activities such as jumping, playing and exploring new sights and smells as a result of this change in their environment
A low-energy dog is more like a couch potato than a dog that needs a lot of exercise. Think about your level of physical activity and whether or not you find a hyperactive dog irritating before making your final choice.
Easy To Train
Easy to train dogs can more easily form associations between a cue (like "sit"), an action (like sitting), and a reward than dogs that are more difficult to train. Dogs that require more time, patience, and repetition are more difficult to train.
Getting your dog interested in training will require incentives and games because many breeds are intelligent but have a "What's in it for me?" mentality when it comes to learning new things.
Family Affection Level
Affectionate With Family
Since puppyhood, some breeds remain aloof and independent; others form deep bonds with one individual but are uninterested in the rest of the family; still other types shower their entire family with affection. Canines raised in homes with people tend to be more open to human interaction and develop stronger ties, regardless of their breed or upbringing.
Kid-Friendly
Kids-friendly dogs are calm, strong enough to bear the hefty hugs and pets kids can dish out, and have an unfazed attitude about rushing, scream-inducing children. There are several names you may not expect to see on the list: Fierce-looking Both Boxers and American Staffordshire Terriers are regarded as family dogs (which are considered Pit Bulls). Chihuahuas, which are small, sensitive, and potentially sharp, are not always family-friendly.
Dog Friendly
Dog friendship and human friendship are two entirely different things. The fact that a dog is friendly with humans doesn't mean it's immune to aggression or aggression from other dogs; some canines choose to play rather than fight; others will just run away. The type of animal isn't the only consideration. Dogs who have spent a lot of time playing with their littermates and their mother at the age of six to eight weeks are more likely to be socially competent.
Physical Appearance
Amount of Shedding
Having a dog in the house means that you'll have to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothing and in the home. It's worth noting, however, that shedding varies widely among breeds. Some dogs shed all year long, while others ``blow" just during specific times of the year, and still others don't shed at all. If you're a stickler for cleanliness, you'll need to choose a breed that sheds less or lower your expectations. You can use a deshedding tool to keep your house a little cleaner.
Drooling Potential
While greeting you, some dogs may cover their arms with ropes of drool and create large, wet patches on your clothing. If you don't mind a little drool, go for it; but if you're a stickler for cleanliness, you may want to look for a dog with a low drool rating.
Easy To Groom
Some breeds of dogs can simply be brushed and left alone, while others require frequent washing, trimming, and other grooming in order to maintain their health and appearance. If you don't have the time or money to take care of a dog that requires a lot of grooming, you may want to look into hiring a professional.
Exercise Needs
Evening walks around the neighbourhood are perfectly acceptable for some breeds. Others, particularly those trained for physically demanding vocations like herding or hunting, require regular, rigorous exercise.
They can gain weight and release their pent-up energy in ways you don't like, including barking, chewing, and digging, if not given enough exercise. Those looking to train their dog for an energetic canine activity, such as agility, should consider getting a dog that needs a lot of exercise.
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed
Height:
11 to 12 inches tall at the shoulder
Weight:
16 to 28 pounds
Life Span:
11 to 14 years
History
The Bulldog, a breed developed in the United States, enjoyed moderate popularity in nineteenth-century England, particularly in the city of Nottingham. Around the middle of the 1800s, many of the area's lace workers relocated to France, bringing their "Toy" Bulldogs with them.
These small Bulldogs, especially ones with perked ears, were a big hit with the French women (a common but disliked feature in England). More of the goofy tiny pups were introduced to France by dog traders, and they quickly became all the rage in Paris.
The French name for the dogs is Bouledogue. French breeders tried to create a steady supply of animals with upright "bat ears," much to the displeasure of their English counterparts.
Personality and Temperament
The French bulldog is a great family pet since he or she is calm and sociable. Indeed, he insists upon it! This dog is best suited for a single individual rather than a family because he may try to steal your attention away from your significant other or other pets. The French bulldog is not a dog that barks frequently; rather, he only does so when he is very excited.
In the form of a lapdog, the French Bulldog is a true clown. They love to have fun with their loved ones and put on shows for them, as well as spend quality time with their favourite person by playing, entertaining, and napping with them. They are friendly, nice, companionable, and easy to get along with.
Care
When compared to other popular dog breeds, French bulldogs have far lower maintenance needs in terms of both physical activity and grooming. However, some may benefit from further training. As long as you take the time to introduce your new Frenchie to a variety of people and different animals, they should settle in quickly and become a loving member of your family.
Health
According to the breed organisation, the average lifetime is 12–14 years, but a recent poll in the UK found that the true average may be closer to 8–10 years. Multiple health issues might influence the French Bulldog's quality of life. This is at least in part the result of severe selection for particular traits, and there is presently an effort to promote more responsible breeding in order to lower the prevalence of such issues.
Hereditary Cataract, Early Onset (HC - EHC)
Increasing cloudiness of the lens or capsule. In addition to doing DNA testing on breeding dogs, it is recommended that all dogs be tested once a year.
Degenerative Spinal Myelopathy
A degenerative condition of the spinal cord that strikes elderly dogs and leads them to lose control of their hind legs until they are unable to walk. Incontinence and other comparable symptoms in the front limbs may also be present. It's not painful, and there's no therapy for now, but the problem is diagnosed by elimination.
Brachycephalic Syndrome
This results in BOAS (Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome), which is characterised by a skull that is abnormally small and leaves little room for the brain and other vital organs inside the skull. The collapse of the larynx, which makes breathing difficult, is one result of this lack of room.
An abnormally lengthy soft palate can cause or exacerbate breathing difficulties. When temperatures rise or stress levels rise, this condition becomes more apparent. Dogs with breathing problems should be kept cool and not exercised in hot weather.
Cleft Lip & Cleft Palate
As a result of this abnormality, the nasal and oral canals do not join together at birth. Depending on how severe it is, this can cause nasal discharge and feeding issues.
Chondrodysplasia
A kind of dwarfism characterised by improper bone and cartilage development that results in small stature and, in some cases, overcrowding of the teeth.
Spinal Malformations
The French Bulldog Club of England suggests using x-rays as a screening tool to catch any potential health problems early.
Intervertebral Disc Disease
Herniated discs between the vertebrae can put pressure on the spinal cord, resulting in neurological symptoms and, in extreme cases, paralysis. Although surgical intervention is not always necessary, it is often the first line of treatment for conditions of this severity.
Cherry Eye
third eyelid protrusion Caused by having overly wide eyes, this condition gives the affected person a "cherry" look.
Entropion
When eyelashes curl inward, they rub against the eye and cause discomfort.
Patellar Luxation
Dislocation of the tibial plateau, the rear leg's homologue of the kneecap. The English French Bulldog Club advises testing for this.
Pulmonic stenosis
A condition characterised by abnormally narrowing pulmonary arteries and ultimately to heart failure. In addition, the French Bulldog Club of England suggests having your dog tested for this.
Dermatitis
Excess folds of skin that don't get enough air can get irritated and infected, a common source of skin disorders.
Reproductive Health
Due to the small size of the female dog's pelvis and the big size of the puppies' heads, natural reproduction is difficult, and it is typical for French Bulldog mothers to need artificial insemination or caesarean sections.
Recommended Health Tests
- Patella Evaluation
- Hip Evaluation
- Cardiac Exam
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
Nutrition
The average French bulldog needs two meals per day. Dry dog food, up to 3/4 cup per meal, or homemade dog food prepared under veterinary supervision is acceptable. Talk to your vet about your Frenchie's specific nutritional needs, including its size, activity level, age, and medical history, so that you can create a diet that works for its body and lifestyle. Canine obesity can shorten a dog's life and create uncomfortable living conditions at any age, so keeping an eye on your dog's weight is essential.
Grooming
Frenchie’s, like most other dogs, have a smooth coat and moderately shed. The breed needs only a weekly brushing and minimal maintenance in terms of grooming. Brushing them more frequently in the spring and fall is recommended because that is when they shed their undercoat.
Bathing your Frenchie with a skin-soothing shampoo and keeping his ears clean on a regular basis may help prevent skin problems. Perhaps a damp cloth or baby wipe and a thorough drying are in order to remove debris from the deep skin folds.
Nails on canine paws should be trimmed regularly to avoid cracking and splitting. Brushing its teeth twice or thrice weekly is also recommended as a preventative measure against the breed's common gum infections and dental problems.
Exercise
Even though the Frenchie is better suited to being a lapdog than a jogging partner, regular exercise is still essential. The short, stubby nose and possible airway problems in this breed make it vulnerable to overheating. Keep active every day, but don't overdo it; short bursts of activity, like playing with toys inside or running around the yard, are ideal. According to the French Bulldog Rescue Network, Frenchies aren't the best swimmers, so you'll need to keep an eye on them if they're ever near a body of water.
Training
Your relationship will flourish if you take advantage of your Frenchie's intelligence and eagerness to learn by providing them with regular training. One of the best things about this breed is that it responds well to food motivation in training. The AKC acknowledges that French bulldogs can be challenging to housetrain and suggests that crate training may be helpful.
A well-adjusted Frenchie is a happy Frenchie, and socialisation is a key component of that. Puppies of this breed can benefit from attending training and socialisation classes once they reach the appropriate age, which is around eight weeks. An added benefit of socialising your dog with other dogs and new people is that it will learn new commands much more quickly.
When properly socialised, most French bulldogs can live peacefully with other pets. However, there are some that may chase cats or smaller dogs. An unsocialized French bulldog may exhibit aggressive behaviour toward other dogs of the same sex. Having multiple dogs in the home can bring out the worst in this breed. While most rescue dogs are good with kids, it's important to ask about their past interactions with other animals and family members before bringing one home.
Children And Other Pets
French bulldogs are great family pets because they are patient, friendly, and not too small to share a home with a young child. However, it is not safe for any dog to be left alone with a child. Keeping an eye on things and making sure that nobody is poking or harassing the other is just good sense.
Frenchies do well around other pets like dogs and cats if they are introduced to them when they are young. However, spoiled Frenchies may develop jealousy if they see that their owner is spending time with another dog.
Puppies
Puppies require care that is remarkably close to that of an adult. Instead of one large meal at the end of the day, you should feed a child three to four smaller meals spread out throughout the day.
In order to ensure the dog's obedience as it matures, training should begin when the puppy is still young.
Dogs Similar to French Bulldogs
Many other dog breeds can win your heart if you decide a French bulldog isn't a good fit for your family. Some other canines that share similar traits are listed below.
Boston Terrier
The French Bulldog is a close relative of these dogs (as evidenced above). But they also differ in their gaits, bark volumes, and coat densities.
Dogs Golden Retriever
Like French Bulldogs, these dogs are warm and loving. Their high energy levels and need for regular walks make them a poor choice for an apartment, but their friendly demeanour makes them an ideal family pet.
Havanese
Cuba is home to a breed of dog with fluffy fur and a gentle disposition. As a group, they are friendly and easy to instruct (like the French bulldog).