The French Bulldog or Frenchie is a small, muscular, and fairly active member of the bulldog breed. This chunky breed is characterized by its erect bat-shaped ears.
Frenchies have a short, smooth, shiny and dense coat. Coat colors can be roan but are usually fawn and white with streaked patches or tiger markings. There are many different types of Frenchies.
These dogs stand 11 to 14 inches tall at shoulder height and weigh from 17 to 26 pounds. Frenchies are members of the American Kennel Club (AKC) Non-Sporting Dog Group.
History of The French Bulldog
French Bulldogs were probably derived from undersized English Bulldogs that British workers brought to France in the 19th century.
These little bulldogs became popular as ratters and companions of European artists. The Frenchie makes a terrific companion dog and is ranked 49th out of 154 dog breeds in 2004 AKC registrations.
Temperament of The French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are one of the nicest, most amusing and amiable of all dog breeds. The Frenchie is a perfect apartment dog that is clean, easy to groom and sheds very little.
This Bulldog is easy to train and doesn’t require a lot of exercise. Frenchies like to be the centre of attention but do make good family pets and will tolerate children.
These Bulldogs will do best with an older couple without children or other pets to compete for their affection.
This breed is entirely suitable for novice or first-time dog owners. French Bulldogs can even adapt to being left alone during the day if they receive lots of attention before and after work.
Exercise
Frenchies are temperature sensitive and must be protected from overheating during the summer and cold during the winter.
These Bulldogs are prone to gaining weight and should be walked regularly for exercise. This breed makes a perfect apartment dog. French Bulldogs can not swim and will drown if they fall in a pool.
Grooming
You should brush their coats occasionally with a rubber brush to remove loose hair. French Bulldog’s ears need to be cleaned and the creases on their face need to be treated with Vaseline.
Health Considerations
French Bulldogs should live from 10 to 12 years and like most short-faced dogs they can suffer from respiratory problems. One other concern is that the Frenchie’s protruding eyes are susceptible to lacerations and other injuries.