A cousin of the Boston Terrier, as well as the American and English Bulldogs, the intelligent, friendly, comical and quite affectionate French Bulldog has been a loving companion and fun family pet.
Spear makers in England miniaturized their English Bulldogs to create a lap dog for companionship. During Europe’s Industrial Revolution, many emigrated to France, taking their small dogs with them. Soon, they were a huge hit in France and were referred to as the French Bulldog.
As a testament to their docile temperament and cheerful personality, when the original Boston Terriers were modified from vicious fighting dogs to gentle companion pets, a dash of French Bulldog was added to the mix. To this day, the Boston Terrier carries the best of the Frenchies’ cool traits.
Affectionately called the Frenchie, frog dog, and/or clown dog, this little rascal is a favorite family pet and a wonderful companion for older owners. His antics keep young and old entertained for hours. They love attention and will do anything for it.
The French love people! Ask their owners to describe them and you’ll hear: silly, comical, laid back, sweet, adorable, intelligent, kind, active, funny, devoted, playful, nosy, loving everything, calm, alert, happy, and stubborn. Intact males can sometimes be overly aggressive, especially with other males. It is suggested not to have Frenchies of the same sex under the same roof. They generally do better when paired with the opposite sex.
As always, they should be supervised by younger children, who should not be encouraged to pick them up and carry them. They usually do better with older children as they can be rambunctious, get carried away and play a little rough at times. For the most part, they get along well with other small animals but should be supervised as they can be energetic.
Their exercise needs are fairly minimal compared to other breeds. A couple of brisk walks, followed by some interactive playtime with their owner, and they’re usually ready to go in and relax. Some do quite well in rally, agility, flyball, and obedience competitions.
They are smart and love to learn. It is suggested to take your little one to positive reinforcement, no punishment puppy daycare, socialization and obedience classes. In addition to helping your puppy or dog become a well-behaved and balanced dog, it will help you learn to be a better leader. Like many small breeds, if a Frenchie feels a lack of leadership, the negative behavioral issues of Small Dog Syndrome could set in.
An excellent apartment and condo pet, this breed does not tend to be barking or obsessive about barking.
His energy level ranges from a laid-back, laid-back couch potato to a wacky pooch with no OFF button. That being the case, make sure the one you choose fits his lifestyle.
Frenchies are a brachycephalic breed; which means “short head”. This makes them not only sensitive to extreme temperatures, but makes them camps in the snoring, snorting, and farting categories!
They are not an outdoor dog. This is a dog that is not happy when they throw it in the garden and forget about it. If that’s the kind of dog you’re looking for, don’t buy a dog!
Most Frenchies are conceived by artificial insemination and are delivered by cesarean section. They average 20 to 30 pounds in weight, with a lifespan of 10 to 12 years. The French Bulldog belongs to the Mastiff family, a non-sporting group.
Health problems include: heat stroke, obesity, Von Willebrands disease, back and spine problems, skin allergies, thyroid problems, eye problems, joint disease, and heart disease. They are prone to megaesophagus or regurgitation, which can cause aspiration pneumonia. They also have a problem with standard anesthesia. Talk to your vet about other options should the need arise.
Don’t overfeed them. They are affectionate and manipulative charmers and will do anything to charm you with an extra treat or two. Obesity can lead to serious health problems.
Preparation is a piece of cake! Most of the time, rubbing with a damp towel and a quick brushing is enough. They are minimal changes. Bathe them only when necessary. Check and clean those huge bat ears regularly.
Bottom line: do your homework. Research the breed. Talk to French bulldog owners. This is a great pet for the right person or family. Run; don’t walk away from puppies in pet stores, classifieds, and flea markets. They just perpetuate creepy puppy mills and careless and inexperienced backyard breeders. It may cost a bit more, but a reputable and responsible breeder is the best option for a happy and healthy dog. If you can’t afford a good breeder, check with shelters and rescues. Since Frenchies are so popular with older owners, many give themselves up for nothing more than life’s circumstances. You may find your new best friend there, patiently waiting for you and in a forever home.
