Major concerns: Stenotic nares, elongated soft palate, intervertebral disc degeneration, hemivertebrae
Life span: 9 – 11 years
Occasionally seen: Distichiasis, cataract, deafness
Note: This breed does not tolerate heat well, and may be sensitive to anesthesia.
Avg Size of Female: Height: 11 – 13 inches, Weight: 28 pounds
Avg Size of Male: Height: 11 – 13 inches, Weight: 28 pounds
Suggested tests: Hip, spine, knee, eye
Minor concerns: CHD, patellar luxation, entropion
Brief History on French Bulldog Origin
The background origin of the breeding of the French bulldog differs. A few stories credit the breed to a crossing of a miniature version of the English Bulldog with a French Terrier. Others theories state that it was the crossing of a type of tiny Toy Bulldog with an English Bulldog that resulted in what we know today as the French Bulldog breed. Whatever the exact origin is, the “Frenchie” became well known in the United States sometime in the late 1800s. After the dog was brought back to England for exhibition, there was considerable amounts of controversy arising about the name “French Bulldog”, particularly because the Bulldog is a traditional and known symbol of the English culture. An American French Bulldog club was formed and it sponsored a show specifically for French bulldogs in 1898. This elegant show drew the attention of many wealthy dog enthusiasts, and soon the Frenchie became very popular in America. By 1913, this breed of dog was one of the most sought after in the United States.
French Bulldog Breed Appearance
The Frenchie is a short, sturdy and muscular breed. The toned front legs are set widely apart, and are short and stout in appearance. The hind legs are also very strong and muscular, and are slightly shorter than the front set. The medium sized feet feature compact toes and short, stubby nails. The back set of feet are slightly larger than the front set. The French Bulldog is known for it’s large, squarely shaped head. It features round, dark eyes that are set far apart yet low on the skull. The bat-like ears are carried erect, and are set high on the head. The ears are pretty wide at the base and round at the top, and they are velvety soft in texture. The broad muzzle features a black nose and a wide, square underjaw. The thick neck of the French Bulldog features loose skin at the throat. Short and round, the body of this breed has a very broad chest. The tail of the Frenchie can either be straight or screwed, and it is carried low when the dog is at rest. Short and smooth, the coat is fine in texture and comes in a variety of colors and shades. Including fawn, brindle, white, or brindle and white.
French Bulldog Breed Temperament
The Frenchie makes for a wonderful family pet, due to it’s natural friendly and goofy demeanor. It is known for its love of clowning around, but is it equally happy to cuddle with its master. This breed usually gets along relatively well with other animals and strangers, but tends to make a particularly strong bond with one person in the household. Occasionally the male French Bulldog may exhibit aggressive or dominant behavior towards other dogs. This type of dog thrives on human companionship, and is not a breed that should be ignored or kept at home alone for long periods of time. A patient owner will be able to train their Frenchie with consistent and firm training. This breed is better matched to a home with older children, as it is known to not respond well to being teased excessively. It is overall a clean dog, although some may drool or slobber like some other breeds.
French Bulldog Breed Maintenance
The coat of the Frenchie is quite easy to maintain. However, it is required to clean the facial wrinkles on a weekly basis. The reason is because those deep crevices and wrinkles harbor bacteria, and can eventually cause rash, infection and severe irritation if not cleaned properly and often. While this type of dog is full of exuberance and curiosity, it does not require great amounts of physical exercise or activity. Many have quite high energy levels and prefer to run and play for long periods of time, meaning a medium fenced yard would be ideal. It should be noted that the Frenchie does respond well to hot or humid weather, and overheating should be avoided at all costs in order to prevent heat stroke. Adjust your indoor temperatures accordingly when the warmer months roll around, and make sure there is shade and cold water provided if taken outdoors. Many Frenchies have difficulty swimming. Appropriate exercise includes short walks on a leash on nice days. This breed can do well in an apartment if it has enough space and toys to get it’s energy out. It is quite active while indoors, and is definitely not considered to be an outdoor dog. The French Bulldog has a short windpipe, which tends to cause breathing problems in hot weather, and it also sometimes causes difficulties for veterinarians while trying to intubate the dog for surgical reasons. This breed may drool and usually snores when asleep, and wheezes whilst awake.
Toledo, United States.
