French Bulldog Guide: What Do You Need to Know?

French Bulldog Guide: What Do You Need to Know?

Why do you need a French Bulldog? There are multiple reasons why they are particularly famous in the canine world. If you’ve been hanging around on Instagram, French Bulldogs, or ‘Frenchie’ star all over the platform.

Their downcast appearance might get you the wrong impression because, ironically, they have an easygoing personality that could unquestionably capture anyone’s heart. 

Appearance

When you look at Frenchies, you can say that they are similar to pugs and terriers. They are a variant of British Bulldogs that have muscular bodies, a thick build.

There are two prominent characteristics of French Bulldogs. One of them is their visible protruding bat ears. It’s a distinguishable characteristic that sets French Bulldogs apart from the British Bulldogs.
 

In addition to these bat ears jutting out, another characteristic of French Bulldogs is their wrinkly face. Both the French Bulldogs and British Bulldogs have wrinkles on their faces, giving them an adorable, aged look.

However, research says that British Bulldogs have slightly more wrinkles on their faces. But the owners should be cautious about these dogs’ facial folds because these could cause a health problem.
 

The French Bulldog has a shiny coat of colors, including pied, brindle, cream, fawn, or black. They can also have patterned coats of splattered colors.

In rare cases, a Frenchie can be blue or lilac. Overall, French Bulldogs overload with cuteness.

History

French Bulldogs trace its roots back to the mid-1800s. And although it’s named after the French, this breed has actually originated in England. Yes, that’s right. It’s English.

Formerly, toy-bulldogs were the mascots for Nottingham’s lace-making industry. Amid the Industrial Revolution, the lace-making industry moved its business elsewhere.

Thus they relocated to northern France, bringing their bulldogs along. This toy-bulldog became well-known across France, and sooner, they crossbred with pugs or terriers perhaps.

In the 1900s, French Bulldogs’ fame spread across the world, and they are clearly perceptible for their striking bat ears.

Personality

Generally, they are charmers, bright and affectionate to the people around them. A lively one, as assumed, Frenchies are frisky, perfect for playtime outdoors chasing balls.

They are companion dogs that prefer close contact with humans.

If you leave them alone for a few hours, they may experience separation anxiety. They are loyal to owners and sociable to other animals, as well as the human species.
  

Frenchies are, in total, a friend and a playmate. They can cheer you up with their goofy nature whenever you feel down at certain times.

At home, they can cozily lie next to you, snuggling up. You won’t struggle with excessive barking because Frenchies are relatively quiet.

But somehow, this could be a disadvantage if you’re worried about burglars. They aren’t suitable to guard the house outside. Nevertheless, their alertness qualifies them to be a watchdog in a way.
 

Training won’t be an issue as long as you follow the right way to do it because Frenchies are highly trainable. Stubbornness may arise as an obstacle during the training process, but if you stay patient, your efforts are paid off in the long run.
 

In history, a French Bulldog named Princess Jacqueline is notable for speaking 20 words in fitting situations. In other words, there are a million possibilities.

If you decide to get a Frenchie for yourself, with proper training, your dog could be like the legendary Princess Jacqueline. Don’t you think so?

Health and Life Expectancy

This energetic breed can live up to 10-13 years in your household, given that there are no underlying issues that they are experiencing in their lifetime.

They can keep you company outside, but they aren’t athletic dogs; hence, they don’t need as much exercise as other dogs do.

If your house has a pool, be cautious and pay attention to your Frenchie. They’re muscular, yet they have small arms; therefore, they aren’t made to be swimmers.
 

These are some risks you should be watchful of. Some of these are primarily caused by genetics which isn’t specifically curable but is possible for treatment.

These are some examples:

• Allergies – Flat-faced breeds like French Bulldogs are more prone to the development of allergies. They can gradually develop allergies within their lifetime, a fact that must not be ignored. Pet allergies come from food; some are seasonal or environmental, while others are caused by drugs. 

• Hip Dysplasia – Since French Bulldogs have physical deformities genetically, they are prone to hip dysplasia, too: a skeletal-related condition wherein the ball socket and joint of the hip is disfigured.

• Brachycephalic Syndrome (BOS) – This condition is related to their shortened and wrinkly facial features. Due to their flattened features, it would be hard for them to breathe, induced by decreased air passage space. This causes them to pant and snort most of the time.

• Pinkeye – this is a common occurrence, mainly caused by various things such as allergies, dry eye, or other irritants. 

Caring for a Frenchie

Food is vital in a Frenchie’s survival. There are concerns about obesity which the owner must take note of. A high-quality food specific for a Frenchie’s age (puppy, adult, or senior) is essential to proper nutrition.

For his grooming, he sheds regularly; that is why his coat must be brushed weekly to keep him looking dapper every day.

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Author

Gina Sarador

I’m a family woman, a loving wife to my husband, and a dedicated mother of two. I’m an elementary school teacher who loves to write about many things. My kids, Kate and Krei, also love literature as I do.