French Bulldog Facts And Info

The French Bulldog, also called the “Frenchie,” by its fans is best described as an affectionate companion with a goofball personality. There’s a lot you’ll want to know about this special breed. So here are the top French Bulldog facts.

Bat Ears

One of the most famous French Bulldog characteristics is its ears. They have a wide base; stand straight up, and a rounded top, making them look similar to those of a bat. They give the dog an alert look and are set on the head at around the eleven and one o’clock positions.

English And French History

During the industrial revolution, when English textile workers found themselves out of work due to the popularity of machines, they moved to France. They brought with them their Toy Bulldogs which were then crossed with the Pug and various terriers to create the French Bulldog.

The Gamin Influence

The French show dog Nellcote Gamin, which was brought to the U.S. in 1905 is believed to have been one of the biggest influences on the breed of all time. This undefeated winner in the ring was thought to be the closest representation of the breed standard at the time. He was therefore used as a stud dog regularly. This is so true that the majority of American-bred French Bulldogs today actually have Gamin in their pedigree.

Natural Therapy Dogs

The Frenchie makes a top-notch therapy dog. Its compact size and adorable looks aren’t threatening to patients and its short coat doesn’t shed too much. Add in the sweet French Bulldog temperament and you have an ideal therapy dog for visiting the sick and elderly.

Not A Hot Weather Pet

One of the French Bulldog health facts every owner needs to be aware of is that the breed does not regulate its body temperature well. Their short nose makes them extremely sensitive to both heat and cold. Hot and humid conditions in particular are especially dangerous for the breed.

They can cause the dog to overheat and even sometimes have fatal results. In the summer months keeping your Frenchie in the air conditioning is recommended. Many owners like to provide their pooch with a dog swimming pool as well so they can lounge in the water and beat the heat.

The French Bulldog Yodel

While it is a breed that will bark to alert its owner when something isn’t right, the Frenchie isn’t known for being a nuisance barker. However, it is known for letting out a high-pitched yodel when it is upset or lonely. Because it sounds similar to a trapped animal it’s often referred to as the French Bulldog death yodel.

Hard To Breed

The Frenchie is not a dog that is easy or inexpensive to breed. For example, they typically need to be artificially inseminated and have small litters. Also, puppies almost always must be delivered via C-section.

This can be looked at as a good thing as it has helped save the Frenchie from becoming a fad breed and all the problems that come along with it. Other breeds such as the German Shepherd, Dalmatian, American Pitbull Terrier, and more recently the Tibetan Mastiff have all suffered from the dark side of popularity.

A Sinker Not A Swimmer

The French Bulldog can swim. However, it is heavy and not very athletic which can cause it to sink. Therefore this is a breed that always needs supervision when allowed in the water. A Frenchie should also have a dog life vest to ensure that no accidents can happen.

Not A Boston Terrier

To the untrained eye, a black and white French Bulldog can sometimes be confused for the Boston Terrier. You can tell the two apart by the fact that the Frenchie never has a docked tail or cropped ears. It also is also more heavy-boned and dense in appearance.

Low-Maintenance Pet

Luckily for fans of the Frenchie, it is a low-maintenance breed. It doesn’t drool like its cousin the English Bulldog and typically does not have any doggie odor. It doesn’t shed much and French Bulldog grooming is simple because of its short coat. The breed also has minimal exercise requirements.

Separation Anxiety

As a companion breed, the French Bulldog becomes very attached to its owner and family. For this reason, it is also a dog that is highly likely to develop separation anxiety. To keep their pets from getting lonely when they’re out, it’s not uncommon for owners to purchase a second pooch.

Gassy Companion

One of the French Bulldog facts many people are surprised to learn is that they have a tendency to be quite gassy. To help combat their flatulence a change in diet can sometimes be a big help. Although some Frenchies are just naturally gassier than others, it depends on the individual dog.

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