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French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is a sturdy companion breed that is social and curious. They should remain indoors to avoid hot temperatures.
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Breed Facts
Finding a French Bulldog
Physical Characteristics
- Sturdy and muscular
- Pug nose
- Bat-like ears
- Coat: Short, soft hair colored in brindle, fawn, white, brindle and white
- Soft, loose skin
- Dark, round eyes
- Tail may be straight or corkscrew
- Height: 12 inches
- Weight: 22-28 pounds
- Average lifespan: 9-12 years
Temperament
- Sweet, entertaining, curious, alert
- Interaction with people: Good with mature children; wary of strangers. Good companion dog
- Interaction with animals: Good with other pets
- Level of attention needed: Often bonds strongly to one family member; needs significant human companionship
- Training: Responds to patient, consistent training
- Bark: Minimally vocal
Medical Conditions
- Brachycephalic syndrome
- Hemivertebra (malformed vertebrae)
- Hip dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Intervertabral disc disease
- Opthlalmic disorders (including cherry eye, entropion and cataracts)
- Patellar luxation
- Skin disorders
While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
At Home
- OK for apartments
- Needs daily walks
- Sensitive to extreme climates; overheating may cause heat strokes
- Practice caution with swimming pools; many cannot swim due to their build
Grooming
- Average shedder
- Needs regular brushing
- Facial wrinkles should be cleaned regularly
Other Facts
- Bat ears and half-flat/half-domed skull are two distinctive features
- Also known as the Bouledogue Francais, a name it acquired when it became popular in France
- Bred primarily as pets and companions, but are remarkably intelligent and good watchdogs
Breed History
- Native to England; originally bred to hunt rats in the 1800s
- Brought to France by English lace workers in the mid-1800s
- These "toy" bulldogs were adopted by French women, who viewed them as adorable and clownish
- Almost eliminated when many wanted to replace it with a miniature version of the English bulldog; American dog fanciers objected and saved the breed
- By 1913 it was the most popular show dog in America
For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the French Bulldog Club of America For breed rescue opportunities, visit French Bulldog Rescue Network
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