Description
The French Bulldog is compact, sturdy, and heavily boned. He is short and cobby , with a small to medium build. The height at the withers, should be approximately the same as the length from withers to tail-set. Massive chest, with tapering hindquarters. French Bulldogs have large, rounded bat-like ears, square flat heads with a slightly domed forehead, large rounded eyes, and flat muzzle. French Bulldogs are a smooth coated breed. The French Bulldog has the appearance of an intelligent, alert, active and curious nature. Frenchies are hardy and robust little busy-bodies. The French Bulldog can have a corkscrew tail or a straight tail. Although bred as a companion , they can also make a good watchdog, and will sound off at any potential sign of danger to their families.
Coat Description
Moderately fine, short and smooth. Skin is soft and loose, especially at the head and shoulders, forming wrinkles. The French Bulldog does shed their coats during the change of the seasons and can continue throughout the year. The hair is fine and not as noticeable as other breeds.
History
There is much speculation as to the origin of the French Bulldog. The most prevalent is that it originates from the miniature bulldog that was brought to France by Nottingham lace workers during the industrial revolution. When the workers of Nottingham moved to France in search of work, they brought their smaller bulldogs with them because they were suited to the cramped living conditions, and were excellent ratters. In the 1860\'s, the export of miniature bulldogs became so popular, that they practically became extinct in England. They were then thought to have been crossed with a native breed, the Terrier Boule , and eventually giving rise to the French Bulldog. It soon became a star of the working class Parisians society. Its physique, small size, and enchanting personality, soon made this little petite Boule the darling of flat faced breed fanciers. As the new smaller breed bulldog gained in popularity in France, they quickly gained favor with the "ladies of the night". The French Bulldog made its first appearance in the united states in 1896 at the Westminster Kennel Club show in New York. In England, the French Bulldog Club was formed in 1902.
Temperament
The French Bulldog is an extreme lover. He is affectionate, playful and demanding of attention, from all that he comes into contact with. He does not do well left alone in a backyard. A Frenchie needs the constant companionship of his family. He makes an excellent companion for children, although very small children may not tolerate his over enthusiastic nature. He generally gets along well with other animals, as long as they are of as playful a nature as he is. They are generally not given to excessive barking. They will protect their homes and alert owners to intruders as well as when people are at the door. They do not sound vicious, but do have a deep bark. Most Frenchies tend to sit back and let others make a commotion. They are often referred to as "little clowns," and a more fitting description could not be found. The Frenchie is at his utmost content when he is being showered with affection. he will return the favor to his utmost capabilities. He is a true lapdog, an extreme lover, a bodyguard, a playful companion, and a true "best friend".
Thyroid Disease - Low Risk
The French Bulldog ranks #134 among all breeds for autoimmune thyroiditis prevalence. This is considered a low risk breed so your chances of obtaining a dog with the disease is small. It is still suggested that dogs meant for breeding still be tested to help bring the incidence of disease even lower (or even eliminate it).
| Rank Among Breeds |
Number of Dogs Tested |
Percent of Dogs With Disease |
| #134 |
357 |
1.1% |
You can download the full report (on all breeds) by the Michigan State University Diagnostic Center for Population and Animal Health. Here
Other Health Problems
- Elongated Soft Palate
- Stenotic Nares
- Hemivertebrae and Premature Disc Degeneration
- Patellar luxation
- Pyometra
- Difficulty whelping
- Allergies.
Some common health problems in the French Bulldog are respiratory and eye problems. If they become overweight, they can have trouble with their breathing. This is caused when the abdomen becomes swollen and pushes on their lungs. They can also be gassy, snore and wheeze. Females may have to have a caesarean for the birth of the puppies because the puppy's heads are rather large.
In some French Bulldogs, a surgery can be preformed to widen the nostrils for better breathing. This does help the bulldog cool better in heat. Their breathing greatly improves and they have fewer problems with snoring and wheezing.
Some bulldogs are prone to skin dryness that results in small bald spots. A vet can prescribe a medication to relieve the dry skin.
