History: The French Bulldog originated in 19th century Nottingham, England. Lace makers bred the dog wanting a smaller version of the English Bulldog and referred to it as the ‘ Toy Bulldog’ . The Industrial Revolution in the 1860’s drove many craftsmen to France, they took their dogs with them, where they became popular and were given the name French Bulldog. The breed was later entered into the England dog shows, Brits were not happy with the name French when the breed originated from England, but the name remained.
Class: Utility
Height: 30cm
Weight: Dogs: 12.5kg; bitches: 11kg
Average lifespan: 10 – 14yrs
Coat: Short, average shedding and little grooming required. Breed standard colours states brindle, pied, or fawn. There are some tan, mouse, and grey/blue but these are not desirable by breeders or the show ring.
Health: The French Bulldog is generally a healthy breed but the following can be a problem in some.
Hereditary cataracts: Due to a mutant gene. The gene is recessive so a puppy will only be affected if it is passed on by both parents.
Respiratory problems: Short faced dogs can suffer with breathing problems due to their airways being blocked or too small,the condition can be managed but may need surgery.
Overheating problems: They can struggle to regulate their own temperature, although they like a little warmth in hot weather they should always have shade and water. Note: In very cold weather their bodies also struggle and care should be taken to keep them comfortable.
Temperament: Loveable and laid back nature likes the company of its owners. Generally good with children but as with all breeds should be supervised when around very young children. Usually lives well with other dogs and cats, but again with all breeds controlled and supervised introductions are essential to begin with, followed by close monitoring until all parties are relaxed and happy to be together. Independent thinker, the French Bulldog can be stubborn, but they do enjoy praise and rewards making training a little easier and more fun. Although they are not a high energy dog they do enjoy a nice walk not too strenuous and prefer a daily routine. Safety around water is important when out and about, their bodies are not made for swimming and they can quickly get into difficulty.
Viewpoint by Audrey & Mu Mu’s owner, Jane
I have owned dogs for many years now, frenchies however have been in my life for the last 3 years. I love them to bits, they are so comical with big personalities!
My personal experience of owning Frenchies starts with their loyalty, they are so loving and sweet and just love to sit on my knee, they are constantly under my feet so they can be really close to me, they are super quirky and lots of fun, they grunt and snore! They have very small tails and wiggle their bodies instead of wagging it, they do shed hair quite a lot at certain times of the year, sometimes I wonder how they are not bald! Frenchies can suffer with skin problems so I feed mine on a raw diet which minimises the risk of allergies from food.
The worst trait of a French bulldog in my opinion is just disgusting, they love to eat poo, not their own, anyone’s will do I thought it was just mine, but no after researching it, it seems lots do it, a Frenchies thing! The kitty litter box is the worst thing ever, it’s like an all day buffet for them with those tasty nuggets! They then try to give kisses, yuk! Luckily as they grow up they seem to stop that horrible habit, thank goodness.
They are very good on the lead, they don’t pull at all so we can have nice relaxing walks. But not long walks especially if the weather is warm as they can overheat easily.
They are a very addictive breed and one is never enough, but you need deep pockets as they are expensive to buy!
