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French Bulldog

French Bulldog
History:

Country/Date of Origin: France/1800s

The history of the Gallic Bulldog is entwined with that of the English Bulldog. There is considerable debate about whether the dog was a miniature version of the Englishman and was shipped off to France as an undesirable or was developed on the Continent and later brought to England. At any rate, the Frenchie is without doubt a miniature version of its stouter Anglo Saxon cousin. There are two rather significant differences beyond the obvious size one. The Frenchie's wide set bat ears are unique to it and its skull is flat between the ears and domed as it comes down toward the nose. In the larger Bulldog the ears are held in the tightly curled rose position and the skull must show no signs of a bulging dome. The Frenchie was traditionally a woman's pet. It was shown in the United States in 1898 in the ballroom of the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York, the first time a dog show had been held in anyplace so grand. It caused quite a sensation.

 Other Names Body Type Personality Coat Health Concerns

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Bouledogue Francais

AKC Group: Non-Sporting

Breed Club: French Bull Dog Club of America

Rescue Club: French Bulldog Club of America Rescue League

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Body Type:

  • In appearance, a miniature Bulldog with erect ears
  • The head is very big and the body wedge shaped - wide at the front tapering to the rear
  • Height: 12 inches (at shoulder)
  • Weight: Up to 28 pounds. An average would be 18 pounds The naturally short tail is set low and can be either straight or screwed but not curly The ears are erect and have a distinctive batlike shape. These identifying hallmarks of the breed are not altered

Personality:

  • A perfect little companion. Although the Frenchie tends to be a one-person dog, it is cordial to all
  • Loves kids
  • Always ready to play
  • Sweet tempered and dependably cheerful
  • Quiet. Bark little as a rule

Coat:

  • Short, fine coat that lies close to the body
  • Permissible colors include all brindles, solid colors with the exception of liver, mouse or black. The acceptable colors may or may not be combined with white
  • Minimal grooming required

Health Concerns:

  • Subject to respiratory problems
  • Sensitive to heat stroke
  • Subject to eye injuries and cataracts
  • Whelping difficulties
  • The large head of the breed makes cesarean deliveries the norm
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Tasty Tidbits:
  • A breed on the comeback trail
  • Once one of the most popular dogs in America, the French was out of favor for many years
  • Today, its registrations are on the rise again, and deservedly so
  • This is an excellent pet for an apartment dweller