French Bulldogs | i Love Dogs

French Bulldog

A fashionable dog of the mid-1800s in France, the French Bulldog’s popularity has soared across both Europe and the United States. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), French Bulldogs rose in popularity from 73rd to 24th place during the first decade of the 2000s.

Recently TV host/heartthrob Mario Lopez helped make the breed become even more popular by becoming the doggie daddy of Julio, a chunky, pointy-eared “Frenchie,” as the breed is nicknamed.

Personality

Good-hearted little clowns that can get a laugh out of just about anyone
A charmer, a sweetheart and a bit of a goof, the French Bulldog is a wonderful companion
Lively, fun, affectionate and friendly

Size

24-28 pounds
11-13 inches at the withers (shoulders)

Lifestyle

Wonderful family pets; good with level-headed children as well as sturdy seniors
Great little busybodies who require human companionship to be both happy and non-destructive
Not suited for an overly active family since they overheat easily and, like other short-faced breeds, have breathing difficulties when overexerted
Ideal for city life given their minimal exercise needs

Training

Should be well socialized early on to override their sometimes possessive behavior of toys or their pet parents
Respond best to innovative, fun training; life is a party for this breed and training must be both exciting and lively for a Frenchie to respond

Exercise

While Frenchies require very moderate exercise due to their natural breathing difficulties, they must still be given 30-minute walks twice a day to keep them fit
An overweight French Bulldog can be as unhealthy as an overexerted one, because both can put an enormous strain on their breathing

Coat

Coats are generally black and white, brindle, fawn or all black
Low-maintenance coat requires a weekly brushing to remove dull hairs

Care

Must be kept fit so their breathing is not challenged
Require daily face cleansing, especially around the eye area, to remove dirt and prevent eye irritations

Health

Aside from breathing issues, can be genetically prone to hip dysplasia, cataracts and spinal problems

Lifespan

9-11 years

Rescue

Contact the French Bulldog Rescue League if you’re interested in adopting a Frenchie

PHOTO: gonzo

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