French Bulldogs or "Frenchie's" are part of the non-sporting group, with dogs like Dalmatians and Poodles. They actually originated in England - lace workers made them very popular, once they were displaced by the Industrial Revolution they went to France for work and that's how they became French Bulldogs. In the late 1900s, Americans were bringing Frenchie's back to America - almost like souvenirs of a trip.
By 1896 they were being exhibited at Westminster - and a Frenchie was even on the cover of the show catalog. In 1897 the judge of Frenchie's at Westminster only approved the "rose" ears - those are the ears that fold down; and not the bat ears - which stand up.
And that's why the French Bulldog Club of America was formed, making the bat ears the standard and that's why you predominantly see those today.
Most French Bulldogs weigh between 20 and 28 pounds, and have those unique bat ears, compact build, and expressive faces with that face you just want to squish!
They are loved for their affectionate and easygoing nature.
They make excellent apartment dogs due to their small size and low exercise needs - although they still enjoy short walks and playtime...they are NOT a dog you job with.
Their friendly charisma makes them wonderful family pets, great with children, and adaptable to many lifestyles.
However, with their flat faces breathing could be difficult and that's something to ask a breeder or veterinarian about because it can make them vulnerable in extreme temperatures.
Also, Frenches love human companionship and are known for their captivating personality; if you are considering a French Bulldog, are you why so many people have them as pets or just want to learn more?
French Bulldogs or "Frenchies" are NOT Pugs - they look similar but Frenchies actually weigh more and are more muscular.
French Bulldogs are part of the non-sporting group which varies wildly in size and purpose but generally speaking, most are fun house dogs - companions, like Dalmatians, Poodles, Bulldogs, and Chow Chows - some could be considered "watchdogs".
While their name would make you think they are from France, obviously - but like the case in some other dog breeds (ahem Great Dane) that is actually incorrect. They originate from England and were brought to France, and were popularized in France - from lace worker transplants in the late 1900s.
French Bulldogs were brought to the United States during this period from vacationing Americans and in 1896 they were being shown at Westminster.
In fact, they were on the cover of the show catalog that year! This "Frenchie" was similar, but not identical - to today's version, they weighed about 10 pounds back then!
Now, French Bulldogs weigh in the 20 to 28-pound range and are still considered to be lap pets; you would feed from a 1-quart pet bowl.
It can't be overstated enough that Frenchie's have fun personalities, they are even comfortable around Great Danes - with your outsize demeanor and big self-confidence.
The "bat" ears or the "rose" ears are purely cosmetic - which matters in Show competition, but for the average Frenchie lover - while you wouldn't Show this Frenchie, it doesn't affect their love-ability.
But, something that is concerning, that is NOT cosmetic is their breathing.
Because of their cute squishy faces breathing can be a concern - this is one of the concerns when adopting; they should breathe effortlessly and calmly, but you will want to discuss it with the breeder or veterinarian if necessary.
Some other things you will want to look for if you're interested in the show quality French Bulldog is making sure the front feet are not touching the back feet when they walk or run - because of their short structure, this is a possibility on the lower Frenchies.
French Bulldogs are not an overly aggressive breed - they are not guard dogs, but they should be assertive and alert - you'll want to make sure they are friendly, which is the main trait of the breed.
Ordinary care of a Frenchie is cleaning ears, using a soft hair brush to keep their coat in tip-top shape, and don't miss caring for the skin within the folds; trimming nails, and a bath now and again (monthly+).
Overall the upkeep is minimal, which makes them great for a variety of people and households - they are not prone to excessive barking, which makes them great for people in apartments; and the elderly - although they are short so bending down could potentially be an issue, but they are lite.
Busy people would be a good fit as well.
You need to be good with their small size - you will need to be careful with them under your feet!
You will need a crate and start them with typical house and obedience training as-soon-as-possible.
Keep in mind they do NOT like extreme heat or cold.
Speaking of things they don't like, do NOT subject them to long walks, or jogging, it is not what they enjoy and they will stop walking - and you will be carrying them the rest of the way.
They do like short walks and playing!
And most of all - they simply like sitting on your lap - exactly when they were bed for.
Now, if you want to develop closeness and camaraderie in a sport, they are good in companion events like Obedience, Rally, and Agility.
Sure, they aren't the fastest dogs, but if you just desire to share some quality time, and get some exercise, and have some fun...they are smart and you'll have a hoot!
...and now you know why the French Bulldog overtook the Labrador Retriever as the most popular dog breed in 2022!
