French Bulldogs And All Their Glory

Wednesday, April 12, 2017 12:43:26 PM America/Los_Angeles

French Bulldog puppy Source: Angel Sallade

Even after being around for centuries, French bulldogs still melt peoples' hearts. French bulldogs, or Frenchies, are ranked in the top 10 most popular dog breeds. They are smart dogs who learn tricks easily and require little potty training (especially if they're given a DoggieLawn which is real grass for indoor use!) There are different types of bulldogs that are available in a variety of patterns and colors. 

The History of French Bulldogs

The French bulldog is popular around the world, but is most popular in England, America, and France. The modern French bulldog originated where many dog breeds originated--in England. The bulldog was miniaturized by French breeders 150-200 years ago after the bulldog was changed by Americans to appear bigger and heavier than the modern French bulldog. Breeders across the globe had their version of the Bulldog. Some breeders crossbred the bulldog with different terrier breeds, creating the popular bull-terrier. Many breeders crossbred these dogs and used them for unspeakable acts such as ratting and dog fighting. But some breeders had different plans for the bulldog. Instead of having a massive dog, the toy bulldog was created. These dogs have distinct features, including upright positioned ears and round foreheads. 

Bulldogs became popular with society ladies in 1896 as well as with artisans who were in the lace-making business. Shortly after, the Westminster Kennel Club featured a French Bulldog on its 1897 catalog. During this time, the French bulldog was not approved as an AKC breed but shot up in popularity in the US when the Bulldog Club of America was formed. Due to an English judge who only wished to exhibit rose-eared bulldogs, lovers of other bulldog breeds were overlooked, prompting the formation of the French Bulldog Club of America. French bulldogs remain a popular breed today, especially in England.

Size (Weight and Height)

Many dog breeds vary in weight and height depending on gender, but the French bulldog's height and weight for a male and female are the same. The average weight of both ranges between 22 and 28 pounds with their height ranging between 11 and 13 inches. 

Temperament

The French bulldog is a companion breed which means they require a lot of attention and close contact, so you can expect a clingy dog that has some amount of seperation anxiety. Like most companion breeds, French bulldogs suffer from separation anxiety and cannot be left alone for more than a few hours without missing you and being upset that they're not with their favorite person--you!  Although staying at home with them 24/7 is not a realistic option for many of us, you can help make them comfortable while they dutifully wait for you at home. Consider purchasing a potty grass for dogs, such as DoggieLawn that will ease their separation anxiety by reducing their dependency on you.

Bonding time is important for these dogs, especially when they are puppies. Frenchies are affectionate and patient. But when these bulldogs are left alone for long periods of time, they become destructive, which can include tearing furniture apart, chewing household items, and going to the bathroom in the house if left alone for extended periods of time. These dogs are the perfect companion, and the only time they bark is when they need attention.

Housetraining when they are young is key, as is training them to know where an acceptable place to potty indoors is. However, Frenchies are smart and will pick up on things quickly. It's important that when they're left home alone they have a place to relieve themselves so they don't become frustrated waiting for you to come home. Having a real grass indoor dog potty like DoggieLawn will make your Frenchie a very happy puppy!

How Difficult Are French Bulldogs to Train?

Bulldogs are easy to train, but you need to be firm because they can be stubborn at times. When these dogs are stubborn, you need to have patience. During training, you'll need to address potty training. When you leave your home, your pup needs to have a place to use the bathroom and know where the potty is. Instead of laying unsightlypee pads in the corner of a room, you can use an alternative solution like DoggieLawn. This potty grass is disposable, convenient, clean, and eco-friendly. The natural smell of the grass entices a dog to use the bathroom. Your pet will have a sense of belonging when he/she has their own spot to use the bathroom.

Physical Activity

French bulldogs are not big on exercise, but they do require short walks every day. These bulldogs have only one coat and cannot regulate their temperature efficiently, and because of this, they get cold easily and require a shirt, coat, or something of similar material to keep them warmy during the winter. Conversely, they overheat easily during the summer. You may want to consider getting an indoor grass potty for dogs. A real grass pad allows your dog to conveniently use the bathroom without you constantly have to take him/her outside. This is especially useful if you live in a place where they would experience extreme cold or heat. 

Recent Popularity

The recent popularity of French bulldogs is due to celebrities like Lady Gaga and Lauren Goodger and their lovely bulldogs. Breeding experts believe the French bulldog will exceed the Labrador Retriever in popularity. Labs have been the top dog for many years (since 1990) but recent studies reveal a decrease in the number of people who have Labs. Famous French bulldogs include Manny the Frenchie, Sir Charles Barkley, Trotter, Muu, and Miss Piggy. Manny the Frenchie has over 150,000 Instagram followers and loves his shark outfit. Sir Charles Barkley enjoys taking pictures, eating ice cream, and taking naps. Trotter loves dressing up and enjoys Christmas. Muu enjoys watching TV with his companion, Tasuku, and taking naps. Miss Piggy lives in Florida and looks glamorous on Instagram.

Apartment Life: Yes or No?

Contrary to the popular belief of many pet owners, French bulldogs are great at adapting and don't mind apartment life. These dogs are quiet, have low energy, are usually calm indoors, and are well-behaved. These characteristics make them great for apartment living. Whether your apartment is large or small, having an indoor dog potty like Doggielawn will be convenient for you and your dog. We still recommend taking your dog out to exercise but having a DoggieLawn handy is convenient for those middle of the night situations when your dog just HAS to go! (If you have friends who would like to try this solution you can send them a big discount using this link!)

Lifespan 

French bulldogs live 10 to 12 years when they are taken care of properly. In comparison with other small dog breeds, the Boston terrier has the longest lifespan, averaging 13 to 15 years. The pug follows, averaging 12 to 15 years. The modern bulldog's lifespan averages 8 to 10 years.

The Ideal Pet Owner

The ideal pet owner for these adorable dogs are people who can provide undivided attention for long periods of time, and a person who loves to cuddle and show affection. These cute pups require a lot of time, and their ideal companion would be a person who's a homebody or someone who doesn't mind taking their pet with them when they run errands.

Health Issues

Like any other dog breed, the French bulldog has a few health issues you should be aware of. The bulldog has a short snout that can affect their breathing. Due to less efficient breathing brought on by their unique facial structure, bulldogs in particular are not well-equipped to tolerate heat, excessive exercise, and stress.

We hope this blog has given you a little more information about these adorable French Bulldogs and helped you decide whether this is the right lifelong companion for you. Once you decide on bringing a little furry one home, don't forget your DoggieLawn!