Charming French bulldogs are true gentlemen. What other dog breed looks so serious and funny at the same time? They also feel great in city apartments and cause almost no trouble to their owners. We tell you what you need to know and how to prepare for the arrival of a new four-legged friend!
Origin story
The toy version of the English bulldog, despite its small size, remains a fighting dog . For a long time they were used in dog fighting, but, fortunately, this period is long gone. French bulldogs began to be kept in houses to catch rats and just for fun, and soon the French elite fell in love with the adorable dogs.
General information about the breed
The French Bulldog is one of the most popular breeds in major American cities. Adult dogs are not too large – up to 30 cm at the withers and up to 13 kg, and males and females are almost the same in size. Despite its harsh appearance, it is a very friendly and sociable dog.
Appearance
Frenchies have a strong body, almost square in shape and with muscular legs. Despite their compact dimensions, they seem quite powerful and impressive. The fine fur is pressed so tightly against the skin that sometimes it looks as if it is not there at all.
The French Bulldog may appear a little stooped because the back legs are longer. Therefore, they often lie in funny positions that amuse new owners. The muzzle is just as wide and square, with a wrinkled forehead, a flattened nose and folds.
French Bulldogs’ ears are quite large and slightly rounded. The eyes are very kind and inquisitive, which is why the dog always looks welcoming and friendly. The color of Frenchies is not too strictly regulated: beige, black, white, spotted and others.
Nature
The French are affectionate, sweet and loving in everyday life. This is a charming and family dog, and also cheerful, inquisitive and resourceful. Even in adulthood, she is sociable and prefers to spend all her time with people.
French Bulldogs are very sensitive and understanding, and their intelligence is sometimes surprising. A gentle and balanced dog does not show aggression towards other animals and people. He will willingly and with interest participate in exhibitions and competitions.
At first, puppies can actively misbehave, and here you need to clearly define boundaries and leadership. Up to 4 months, you need to take care of socialization and accustom the dog to everyday procedures. Do not scold the bulldog or use force – it is enough to speak clearly and confidently.
Health and illness
With proper care and a balanced diet, French bulldogs can live up to 12 years. They require careful skin care to avoid allergies, irritation and peeling. Due to the structure of the skull, they suffer from a typical brachycephalic syndrome.
Like other miniature breeds, problems with the joints and spine are possible – dysplasia, developmental defects, dislocations, diseases of the intervertebral discs. Specific problems include an elongated palate or cleft palate.
Conditions of detention
French bulldogs are not very active, so regular walking and controlled diet are enough for them. They have a hard time surviving the heat and need life-saving coolness in the summer. Dogs make virtually no noise or cause any trouble, but they shed and may drool.
The breed is completely unsuited for street life, so it can only be kept at home. In summer you need air conditioning, in winter you need warm clothes for walking. Watch your dog when he plays near the water, because his body structure makes him a poor swimmer.
The breed is very stubborn and smart, so you will have to come up with different entertainment for the dog. Even training French Bulldogs with short play cycles is recommended. From the first days, accustom the puppy to a diaper , a bed and basic commands, because it is almost impossible to retrain the dog later.
Nutrition
Keep in mind that French Bulldogs are prone to eating disorders, allergies and obesity. It is not recommended to give food that is too hot or too cold. Make sure your dog eats his daily allowance and don’t let him overdo it with treats from childhood on.
It is best to give the portion evenly in three parts a day so that the bulldog does not overeat at one time. As they age, they become even more prone to weight gain, so diet and calorie intake should be adjusted to accommodate activity.
If you use natural food, then your diet must include meat and sea fish. You need bones, some dairy products, an egg once a week, fresh and cooked vegetables and herbs every day. Be sure to cook porridge with milk and water or broth.
Care
Although French bulldogs cannot boast of luxurious hair, they still need to be combed. To do this, use a soft massage brush about once a week. You can bathe your dog as needed, but use only mild products that do not dry out the skin.
Check your ears a couple of times a week, but remember that they are very sensitive. The eyes will have to be examined and cleaned every morning. To avoid skin diseases, wipe the skin between the folds with wet wipes without alcohol, and make sure that it is always clean and dry.
Training
Unlike many decorative breeds, the French Bulldog is highly trainable. Moreover, a smart dog is often even interested in learning new commands and exercises. It’s not for nothing that they are trained as companions for people with disabilities and the elderly. But you will need patience and loyalty, because the pet will not tolerate shouting and punishment.
French bulldog with owner
Dogs are very kind and attentive to their owner, but require respect in return. Relationships with a French bulldog should be built on mutual understanding and trust. And then the pet will grow up to be the most faithful, devoted and affectionate companion. The Frenchie does not tolerate eternal loneliness, and can wither away or become aggressive.
French bulldog with children
French bulldogs treat children as if they were their own puppies, so they take on the role of nanny for the kids. They love to play, are not at all aggressive and do not show jealousy if a newborn appears in the house.
French bulldog with other animals
Well-mannered and socialized bulldogs can get along with other dogs, although they are not always delighted with the forced proximity. But there can be problems with cats and small animals – sometimes the hunting instinct takes over.
