French Bulldog

The French Bulldog originated in England from early Bulldogs that were used for bull baiting. It was the toy-size version of the dogs that were later bred as companions after the sport was banned in the 1835. When lace workers migrated to France, they brought with them their miniature Bulldogs. The popularity of these dogs led to a trade where breeders in England sent over Bulldogs considered faults like those that were too small or with erect ears.

The small type eventually became an official breed and was called Bouledogue Francais. As the breed further diverged away from its roots, it is said that the French Bulldogs were crossed with terriers and pugs.

Four years after the French Bulldog Club of England was formed in 1902, the Kennel Club officially recognised the breed. It is now one of the most popular breeds in the UK and registrations continue to increase.

How big do French Bulldogs get?

Frenchies are sturdy and compact dogs with distinctive bat ears . These small dogs weigh 20 to 28 pounds and stand 11 to 12 inches tall at the withers. Their neck is powerful and thick.

Can French Bulldogs swim?

They have a square head with a slightly flat skull between the ears and short snouts, because their Brachycephaly, the French Bulldogs can’t naturally swim.

Do French Bulldogs shed?

The French Bulldog has a short, smooth and shiny coat that doesn’t shed much. Its skin is loose, soft and wrinkled, especially at the head and shoulders. The colours accepted by The Kennel Club are brindle, fawn and pied. Whites are classified with pieds during shows. Any whites should be clear with no spots.

Grooming is quite easy since its coat only needs occasional brushing. Bathing can also be done once a month or as needed. Make sure to regularly wipe its face to keep its wrinkles and mouth clean as it has a tendency to drool.

Oral hygiene is also important. Make sure to brush the teeth regularly to prevent halitosis or bad breath. Regular brushing will also help reduce plaque and the possibility of gum disease.

Monthly nail clipping is also part of grooming a Frenchie. If the dog is sensitive to clipping, you might need to bring it to the vet.

The French Bulldog is an adorable, alert, loving, and comical companion. It prefers to be always by its owner’s side, whether playing or lazing around. Since it requires close human contact, it tends to have separation anxiety when left alone for long periods.

Because it is an easy-going pooch that rarely barks, it does really well in apartments. It gets along with children especially if they are raised together. Although they are friendly by nature, some can get territorial and would bicker with other dogs. Like most Bulldogs, Frenchies are accompanied by snorting, snuffling and flatulence.

French Bulldogs are smart and could retain information really well. However, there are times they choose to follow their free-thinking and stubborn nature. Training can be easier when it is done in the form of games and paired with a lot of food and praises. They definitely love to be the centre of attention and please their owners.

Several factors affect the behaviour of dogs. What comes into play is the nature versus nurture debate, which is also applicable to dogs. All dog breeds have their common traits and predispositions attributed to their genes and ancestry. However, a dog’s personal experiences such as early socialisation and training are also considerable influences in shaping a dog’s personality and behaviour.

Always do your research about the breed and ask for tips regarding nutrition from your trusted veterinarian. Typical calorie needs of adult French Bulldog per day:

• Senior and less active: up to 470 calories daily
• Typical adults: up to 580 calories daily
• Physically active/working dogs: up to 920 calories daily

This breed is prone to skin allergies and gas so make sure carbs come from complex plan sources. Low-quality fillers like soy and corn not only cause allergies but aggravate farting. Omega fatty acids are important to maintain a healthy coat.

How much are French Bulldogs?

French Bulldogs are considered among the most expensive dog breeds, a French bulldog puppy is priced at £1,500 to £2,300 from a reputable French Bulldog breeder. What are other costs involved in owning and raising a French Bulldog? Here are the following estimated cost annually:

• Food - £180 - £350
• Pet Insurance - £100 - £300
• Vet Fees - £100 - £200
• Grooming - £200
• Toys and Treats - £120