There is a lot of debate about the true origins of the French Bulldog. Some people say this breed has lived in France for a very long time, and others say that it appeared at the end of the 18th century. There is the story that English lace workers tried to create their miniature version of the bulldog, crossbreeding it.
When moving to France, they brought the breed with them. True origins remain a secret up to this day.
During the 19th Century, they used Frenchies for hunting rats! After that period, the French aristocracy adopted this breed as a companion. Since then, the Frenchie has been a family dog.
Character and Temperament
French bulldogs are intelligent, curious, playful, adorable, and very friendly. Every dog has his personality, and sometimes they can even be a little naughty. They are a good fit for people who are not overly physically active. This breed does not require a lot of exercise. Frenchies might have occasional bursts of energy, but in general, they love to sleep and relax.
They don’t bark too often, so they are more appropriate for urban areas. They love to be a part of the family and get firmly attached to the owner.
The owner needs to be patient, determined, loving, and have enough time to spend with the dog.
This breed needs a lot of attention and company, and they suffer when lonely.
Socialization and Training
They are trainable but can be very stubborn. More than exercise, Frenchies love to rest and relax. When training, never use punishment. Rather than that, you have to be patient and use positive reinforcement (attention, play, snacks).
Snacks are an excellent reward when training, but be careful, as they don’t exercise too much. They will require a certain amount of training, starting small. Treats will help with any behavioral problems and moderate their stubborn nature. In the end, if treated with love, care, and patience, they will make excellent family dogs.
This breed can sometimes have problems when potty training. Patience and consistency is a must.
Compatibility with Children
They are gentle and loving to children, but can sometimes be possessive. This possessiveness can happen if there are other pets in the household that get more attention. That might make the Frenchie jealous and possessive. As they do get along with small children, they prefer teenage couch potatoes due to their lazy nature. When properly socialized from a puppy, they also get along with other pets but might have an occasional quarrel with the cat.
Exercise Requirements
Frenchies don’t require long walks and expeditions. A short walk a day is just enough. Too much exercise can even be harmful. However, they still need lots of attention from their family, in the form of cuddling, relaxing, and interaction. This breed can still participate in dog sports, such as obedience, agility, etc. but be careful not to exceed their limits.
Due to their flat nose, they do have breathing problems. They don’t bear excessive heat. They do enjoy warm sunny days (not hot). In the summer, we have to keep them well hydrated and cool.
General Health
Due to their body form, this breed can’t swim, and you should always monitor them when they are around bodies of water.
Because of their flat nose, they have breathing problems, especially in hot and humid conditions.
Sometimes they suffer from eye conditions, such as cataracts or cherry eye, spinal disorders, and heart problems.
We can avoid many problems (hyp and elbow dysplasia, and a few other conditions), with a certified breeder.
Grooming
Their coat doesn’t shed too much. We have to brush them once a week. Brushing will remove dead hair and distribute oils through the fur. Pay attention to their face, especially the nose, always keeping it clean.
You need to trim their nails regularly. Otherwise, they can be painful.
Conclusion:
French Bulldogs make wonderful pets. The reason they rank in the top with Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Beagles is that they are smart and easy to get along with.
Sources for inspiration:
https://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/french-bulldog#/slide/1
http://www.vetstreet.com/dogs/french-bulldog
https://www.yourpurebredpuppy.com/reviews/frenchbulldogs.html
