This entry was posted on 2014-07-31 by Schalk.

For many years the French Bulldog has been seen as a companion dog. It has a small well-muscled build and a soft coat. Its face is short and its ears are like that of a bat. Nicknamed Frenchie, it is adored for its captivating nature and stable temperament.

Traits
•    Other name: Bouledogue Francais
•    Nicknames: Frenchie
•    Weight: 9-13 kg
•    Height: 30 cm
•    Coat: Medium-short, smooth and fine
•    Colour: Fawn, brindle, black and white, and different combinations.
•    Litter size: About 3-5 puppies
•    Life span: 9-11 years

Physical Characteristics

The Frenchies facial expression is that of curiosity and alertness, magnified by its bat like ears. Its movement, that is uncontrolled and free, is what differs it form the English Bulldog. The skin surrounding the head and shoulders is smooth and loose creating wrinkles. As a home dog this breed is tough and comical in addition to being a stable lapdog companion.

Having many of the same attributes then that of its Bulldog ancestors, the Frenchie has a broad body and big bones, large squared head, muscular structure, its center of gravity is low, and has a thin, smooth, short coat which comes in a range of different colours and combinations of fawn, brindle, black and white.

Personality and Temperament

Always eager to please the Frenchie is good natured, likeable and easy going. A clownish creature that loves to entertain and play. It is not shy to show its affection towards people its fond of, sleeping with and snuggling when ever possible.

The Frenchie can be relatively stubborn, as it grows older, so you must start training at an early age. The Frenchie is fairly easy to train but can be a bit rowdy, amusing and give you that puppy dog look that you just cant resist, which may lead you off track. To prevent this you must ensure that you are consistent with your training.

Care

Even though the Frenchie is a fun and quirky dog, it doesn’t require much exercise. A nice romp in the park or walk down the road will keep your Frenchie happy. It doesn’t do well in warm and moist climates. This breed cannot swim and isn’t suited to live outdoors. Its coat doesn’t need much care, you must just wipe between the wrinkles on its face regularly. If you feel the need, a bath now and again will keep your Frenchie smelling and looking clean. Frenchies like the English Bulldog also tend to slobber, wheeze and snore.

Health

The average life span of a Frenchie is 9-11 years. The major health problems that it is susceptible to are intervertebral disk disease (IVDD), brachycephalic syndrome, canine hip dysplasia (CHD), and allergies. The minor issues include hemivertebra and patellar luxation. The Frenchie is susceptible to anesthesia and heat. As it has such a large head its puppies must be birthed via a Caesarean section. It is advised that you take your Frenchie for yearly eye, hip, knee and spinal tests.

History & Background

In England, 1800s the Bulldog was a very popular choice and could commonly be seen in the areas that surround Nottingham. Weighing at about 11kg some small Bulldogs were taken to France by lace workers in the middle of the 19th century.

The size but specifically the dogs with erect ears intrigued the French women. This feature ironically was not appreciated in England. Many of these cute little dogs known as Bouledogue Francais, were introduced to France creating quite an uproar in Paris. Creating even more annoyed English breeders, French breeders continued to advance the straight haired, bat eared dog.

Towards the late 19th century, higher-class people started to develop a fondness for the breed, adding the dog to numerous grand French homes. Americans vacationing in France at about the same time relocated some dogs to the U.S and began breeding.

Even though there was much debate about the right ear type, an American club was created, sponsoring a fancy dog show specifically for the French Bulldog in 1898. The sophisticated show attracted many rich American onlookers and soon many began to appreciate the French Bulldog. The dog also became very sought after among those of high society. In the United States by 1913 the French Bulldog was the victor among many of the best show dogs. Today this breed has an excellent reputation and is loved by many.

Nutrition

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