French Bulldog: All Breed Information

The French Bulldog is a breed of dog that invariably arouses great interest. Its history is also unusual, because the ancestors of these kids were dangerous participants in the battles. However, today the French bulldogs are rather charming companions, excellent companions and true friends of the person. They are distinguished by their peace-loving character, preferring a warm sofa for walks on a cold street.

With such a dog, you can spend time traveling, create unusual photos for social networks, and just enjoy life.

The pet is always in a great mood, for an adorable host he is ready to do anything. Dogs easily learn not only general training, but also a variety of tricks, quick-witted and sociable.

The French Bulldog is a breed that appeared in the 19th century and quickly spread throughout European countries. Contrary to the name, its historical homeland is not at all France.

The priority in breeding has become the compact size of the animal, docile nature. The smallest English bulldogs, pugs, and terriers became the starting material for breeding the new breed.

The first popularity of miniature dogs with unusual standing ears in the shape of bat wings was found precisely among artisans. In the XIX century, they were considered satellites of white-legged dogs, traders and other representatives of the wage labor industry. The rapid development of factory business later forced many Englishmen to go to work in France. With them crossed the English Channel and pets.

Not only unusual appearance parameters were noted, but also the working qualities of dogs. At that time, they were reputed to be excellent rat catchers, which was very important in Paris and its suburbs, where there were always problems with these “tenants”. In addition, funny photogenic dogs liked the ladies of the time. Quite a few photographs have survived, where the mistresses of high society and half light were captured with their pets.

Since 1880, the Bulldogs have become truly French; the main breeding population of these small companions was concentrated here. Another 10 years later, they set off on a journey across the ocean. In America, dogs also instantly became so popular that they were honored to create a breed club in 1897, just one year after their first exhibition demonstration. An authoritative dog show where the release of French bulldogs took place, of course, was held in England.

By 1913, the number of breed increased significantly. Contributed to this and the separation of this breeding line from the English Bulldogs, to which it was attributed until 1905.

That's when the dogs got their modern name - French Bulldog.

Today, they are not even among the top twenty favorites among companions, but retain a certain relevance among true connoisseurs of their unusual beauty.

Artificial selection has led to the fact that the French bulldogs can hardly be called harmonious dogs. The breed description, while striving for the ideal, nevertheless takes this feature into account. The first standard of the French Bulldogs was developed at the end of the XIX century.and it is according to him that today animals are selected for victories at exhibitions and breeding.

The maximum weight of dogs normally does not exceed 10-15 kg, bitches lighter, about 8-12 kg.

Such a characteristic as growth is not described in the standard. The norm is the limit of 25-35 cm - the dog looks like a mini-version of its English ancestor, but with some nuances of constitution.

The coat is short, smooth, thin, has a good fit.

French bulldogs give birth to puppies of black, fawn, white, red and other colors. But not all variations are recognized as a standard.

At the same time, blue, pure black, white, mouse, and liver shades of wool are considered disadvantages.

Beige tone adopted only by the American Dog Association. Popular merle color - marble tricolor with uneven distribution of spots, heterochromia, with the absence of a mask is also rejected (which, however, does not make it less popular).

Such French bulldogs are characterized by heterochromia, impaired hearing and vision, discoloration of the iris, malocclusion

According to breed standard the appearance of the dog must meet certain criteria.

1. The body is square, strong, with well-developed loin.
2. Hind limbs with muscular thighs, forelegs shortened. Such an imbalance leads to the fact that the animal appears to be slouched, a curvature of the spine appears. The load is distributed incorrectly, which in combination with a heavy body makes it difficult for the French bulldogs to do many things.
3. The chest is wide and deep, lowered below the level of the elbow. Belly high tucked up.
4. The tail is short with a congenital fracture, does not rise above the back line.
5. The head is wide, square in shape, with pronounced jaws. The breed has a genetic predisposition for snacking, splitting the sky. The muzzle is short, covered with symmetrical folds, diverging to the side of the center. The nose is strongly turned up, has the flat form. The eyes are expressive, round in shape, bulging, dark brown.
6. The neck is folded, short, thick.
7. The ears are large, widely spaced, shaped like bat wings. The tips are rounded, stopping is not performed.

At an exhibition assessment of dogs their potential for use as breeding producers is established. Defects and other factors that can influence the further formation of the characteristics of the breed are determined.

The temperament of the French bulldogs is best suited for keeping in the family. Dogs easily get along with the owners, leading the most different way of life. They are equally happily willing to make a company on the couch or go on an evening jog.Playful and friendly small dogs can show excessive emotionality, especially at a young age.

Over time, in the habits of the French bulldog appears slowness, imposingly.

She will require affection, will follow the owner everywhere. Buying toys does not always allow you to fully take a pet - he will insist on joint entertainment. In general, in their quest for unity with the owners, the French bulldogs can be quite intrusive.

The dog is able to do without long-term walking, can relieve the need for a tray in the absence of the owner or in bad weather. French bulldogs have good empathy abilities - they are sensitive to the owner's mood, trying to cheer him, entertain, brighten up loneliness. But you should not take them only as a pet dog - the fighting past of ancestors will manifest itself if a person is in danger.

A bored French bulldog will spoil the interior, forget about the rules of the toilet. The nature of the animal will also change - it will feel itself the master of the situation, will begin to dictate its conditions. It is enough to mention that dogs of this breed are quite capable of making a habit of boredom to use the master's bed for toilet needs.

French bulldogs get along quite well with other pets, but only when it comes to pets with whom they coexist side by side.

Early socialization avoids these problems. If you approach the upbringing of the pet correctly, it will not become a source of discomfort during your stay on the street.

French Bulldogs are dogs that can live a long and happy life.

In the absence of genetic abnormalities, the dog’s health will not be a hassle. But there are typical difficulties and problems that can significantly reduce the duration of its life.

1. Congenital anomaly of the vertebral discs. Her breed adopted from their English ancestors.
2. Eyes - The structure of the century provides a predisposition to the development of cataracts, glaucoma. In addition, conjunctivitis is quite common. Third-century manifestations may occur, requiring surgical intervention.
3. Pregnancy and childbirth. The anatomical features of the French Bulldog bitches give them about 50% chance of a successful pregnancy, natural delivery. Even carrying the offspring, the dog most often needs a caesarean section. With natural birth puppies often die.
4. Bad thermoregulation. Dogs tolerate heat very poorly, because of the flattened muzzle, their heat transfer is disturbed. Combined with heart problems, this can lead to very negative consequences.
5. Respiratory disorders. Features of the structure of the body and nasopharynx in French bulldogs lead to the fact that each breath is given to them with difficulty. At night, it manifests itself in the form of powerful snoring. The obese dog, the stronger the acoustic effects.
6. Allergic reactions. Dermatitis in one form or another have all the livestock. As an allergen can be food, pollen, other external factors. Constant overload of the immune system leads to the fact that it is no longer necessary to count on the longevity of a pet.

All these moments can manifest themselves in a purebred puppy from the best champions, and in the usual pet of the pet class.

Acquiring a French bulldog as a pet requires special attention to detail. Choosing a puppy should be made taking into account future plans.

Where all dogs are carefully selected for breeding, they have top marks for the exterior.

Contacting the nursery allows you to avoid overpaying for an animal with defects: bad color and bite, genetic and behavioral problems. Here you can usually choose not only French bulldogs of the show class, but also dogs of the breed or pet category.

At the time of purchase, the baby should be at least two months old, along with him a puppy card, vaccination book, pedigree is transferred to the new owner.

The presence of dirt in the ears, lumps in the corners of the eyes, signs of dermatitis on the body - a reason for refusing to buy a pet. It is worth studying the genetics of parents and more distant relatives of a new friend. Most of the existing diseases have all chances to be inherited.

Rules for caring for a dog French bulldog breed are not too complicated. Even beginner breeders can easily cope with this task.

There are several mandatory procedures that need to be repeated regularly.

1. Combing wool It is performed at least 1 time per week, made using a special brush or massage gloves. It is necessary to carry out combing gently and carefully, from an early age. The massage effect allows the guard hair to be rid of dust, stimulate blood circulation, and improve fat metabolism in the sebaceous glands.
2. Bathing. Features of the coat with a protective layer, do not require frequent use of water procedures. It is necessary to bathe a pet on a regular basis only in case of certain medical indications. Normally, he needs to wash with shampoo only 5-7 times a year. After contact with water, it is necessary to use a well-absorbing towel, hair dryer (in the absence of fear in the dog).
3. Teeth cleaning. For dogs with impaired bite, this procedure is necessary on a weekly basis. To do this, use the paste recommended by the veterinarian, a special brush or attachment to the finger, as for infants. And you can also offer the dog special bones, designed to remove plaque. Dental calculus is removed in the dentist's office with special devices.
4. Auricle cleansing. French bulldogs have an anatomical structure of the ears, not predisposed to the accumulation of large amounts of sulfur. Insects and traces of contamination are dangerous. In order to prevent the need to regularly, at least 1 time per week, handle the inner surface with a cotton pad or sticks.
5. Claw care. They themselves do not grind the domestic dog. Trim the tips must be 1 time per month. The edges of the cut filed with special tools. When grazing the capillary, hydrogen peroxide is used.
6. Cleansing of skin folds. Features of the structure of the muzzle of the French bulldog make care for him quite specific. During the day, food particles, sebum, and dirt accumulate in the folds. In the absence of due attention, intertrigo is formed inside. To prevent their appearance will help daily hygienic treatment with a damp cloth.
7. Removal of discharge from the eyes. It is especially noticeable in light-colored dogs. The animal needs regular cleaning of contaminated areas. When detecting lens opacities, excessive tearing, be sure to contact your veterinarian.

The rules of care and organization of walking the dog.

But the animal is required to adjust the power to the received loads. If the dog is a homebody, the diet will have to be significantly reduced.

Proper feeding of the French bulldog has a huge impact on his health, life expectancy. These dogs are predisposed to the development of obesity, heart disease, have breathing problems, are prone to dermatitis and need a particularly careful selection of the diet.

When choosing products, you should give preference to proven breeders, professional rations of super premium class or holistics. They have everything you need for a dog, there are no dangerous dyes and preservatives. You should not be afraid of high costs - expensive feed is much more economical in consumption.

According to the owners of the French Bulldogs, there are several popular products among the leaders of the rating.

1. Grandorf. The brand produces all-natural feed without artificial additives. The grainless formula does not add empty calories, as a part of 60% of animal protein (meat of a lamb, a rabbit, a duck, a turkey), useful vegetables and fruit, Omega acids, prebiotics, well influencing digestion. The advantages include the pleasant cost of the product.
2. Acana. For the French bulldogs, grainless feed of this Canadian brand is suitable based on chicken and flounder meat. Healthy diet supplement sources of valuable fiber, vitamin-mineral formula. The proportion of meat in the composition of more than 70%, almost carbohydrate-free diet is optimal for dogs with a tendency to obesity.
3. Go! Natural - Canadian line of quality feed. As part of only natural ingredients, grainless products with an increased proportion of protein and fiber. Food developed with the participation of veterinarians, hypoallergenic.

If you plan to feed your dog home-cooked food, it is worth making a full menu based on:

• natural meat, raw, chopped, convenient for chewing (beef, lamb, rabbit, turkey);
• sea ​​fish - fillet cooked without bones;
• easily digestible porridge - rice, buckwheat;
• green vegetables and fruits - apples, zucchini, cucumbers;
• chicken eggs;
• fermented milk products (in the absence of a reaction in the form of diarrhea).

You can not give products that provoke an increased formation of gases in the intestines, sweets, bread and pastries, fish with small bones, fatty and smoked products.

The general principles of feeding French Bulldogs should be considered. For dogs of a given breed, it is not only what they eat that matters, but also how the process as a whole is organized.

A puppy is fed 5-6 times a day for up to half a year, then the frequency of feeding is reduced to 8-12 months. Adult animals eat twice a day, with a significant level of physical activity, you can add another snack during the day. When using the finished feed, the norms specified by the manufacturer are necessarily taken into account.

Upon reaching the age of 6 years, the metabolism of the French Bulldog slows down significantly. Elderly dogs at this time begin to give preventive complexes to prevent diseases of the joints.

In the selection of the finished diet, it is necessary to pay attention to the content of calcium and potassium - their excess can lead to kidney diseases, the development of urolithiasis.

Bowl in the intervals between feedings, regardless of the type of food, must be clean.

Avoid overheating or cooling food. To feed the dog from the master's table is strictly prohibited.

The basic rules of education for the French bulldogs are to refuse from coercion. The dog should receive knowledge and skills without aggression in his address.

To train did not bother, it is necessary to alternate the proposed actions of the dog. We'll have to stock up and treats, for which the dog will be ready to compromise in his stubbornness.

It is better to pass it under the control of an experienced dog handler, in this case there will be no problems with mastering the commands, and the animal will master the basic set of commands. When self-organizing classes is better to give preference to game methods of training. Short sessions of training will be more useful and interesting for the dog than a full hour training.

It is important to take into account the adaptation period for puppies.

Even the kids of the French bulldogs are quite sentimental, they hardly part with the familiar atmosphere.

The process of education should not be postponed for long. In 2-3 months, you can quickly teach a new inhabitant the rules of behavior in the house. The beginning of the training is usually complicated by the ability of the French bulldogs to melt the most severe heart with the plaintive look of expressive eyes.

At the slightest attempt of a puppy to play in the "king of the hill" or growl in response to a touch of a bowl, it is worth regaining credibility.

If you miss this point, in adulthood the behavior will be incredibly difficult to correct.

A puppy should clearly share the purpose of each room in a person’s home. It is important to highlight a number of first moments in the education of French bulldogs.

1. The first teams that can be mastered at home are “Fu,” “Unable,” “To me.” And also the puppy should know your name, get used to wearing a collar, not be afraid of the leash.
2. The most difficult period of education is up to 8 months. At this time, the French bulldog will check the host’s nerves for strength, naughty, in every way violate the boundaries of what is permitted. The behavior of the owner must be balanced. He must pronounce commands in a powerful, confident voice. Obedience requires praise. In this case, it will be easier to find contact with the pet.
3. The period of basic socialization takes place in the dog until 16 weeks of age. By this time, it is imperative to teach your pet basic hygiene skills, adapt it to regular cosmetic procedures, and introduce you to the street.

Considering all these moments, you can avoid many behavioral problems and secure a trusting, tender relationship with your pet.

When buying a French bulldog, you should immediately prepare for the purchase of an impressive “dowry” for a new tenant. Among the required to purchase accessories will be exactly:

• harness - for a more even distribution of the load on the back;
• a blanket that helps to avoid the first cold weather, to survive the period without heating in the apartment;
• collar - a reliable model made of leather with a durable buckle fits perfectly;
• a leash - one walking, on 1 meter of length, the second training, longer;
• Ringovka - a special option for exhibitions;
• muzzle, precisely taking into account the anatomy of the dog's muzzle, soft, made of skin;
• the bed - should be easy to clean, have a soft filling, optimal size;
• food and water bowls made of metal or durable ceramic;
• a whistle for training, allowing to call an animal for a walk.

In the selection of accessories should avoid brightly colored things, obvious chemical treatment of the skin or fabrics.

The French Bulldogs are quite strong and stubborn dogs. During the walk, they demonstrate an enviable ability to tow, and accessories must withstand jerk and animal cravings.

For security reasons, you should purchase a special token, engrave information about the dog on it.

In addition to accessories, the breed needs clothes for dogs.

Difficulties with thermoregulation make representatives of this breed shiver from the cold even with a slight change in air temperature.

Experienced breeders advise to form a pet wardrobe using a number of necessary items of clothing.

1. Light raincoats. Demi-season raincoats and blankets are available both in the open version of the cut, and with elastic bands, providing a snug fit to the body on the legs and back. Despite the high demands on moisture resistance, you need to make sure that the fabric is quite hygroscopic, it allows air to pass through.
2. Overalls. It will take a light summer, in case of bad weather, a demi-season, winter warmed version. Inside there must be a soft lining.
3. Caps. Soft knitted accessories help protect delicate ears and head from hypothermia.
4. Footwear. In addition to the stylish addition of the image, it solves purely practical problems. Paws are protected from dirt, chemicals and other irritants. Winter "boots" should be chosen with warming.

Summer outfits are usually shortened and lightweight, simplifying the cutting of the fabric.

The first fitting should be carried out in the most comfortable environment, familiar to the pet. Do not start wearing clothes and shoes in the past 3-5 months, while the backbone is formed.

You can give the dog to sniff outfits, gradually acquaint him with the acquisition. You should not swear if the dog is trying to remove unusual clothes. It is better to distract the animal, play with it, gradually increasing the duration of walking in dress.

It’s worth going out only after the French Bulldog fully adapts to his walking uniform.

The name for the French bulldog should be a match for the breed - loud and sonorous. In the pedigree it is indicated taking into account the name of the nursery and the first letter assigned by the club. But very many pets of this breed have also domestic names, which are much simpler and more convenient in pronunciation.

The best name for boys is sonorous and clear in pronunciation. Suit options: Ajax, Wolf, Walter, Gaston, Jean, Jacques, Corsair, Picard, Frank, Ecru. A pet with a character can be given a thematic name: Buyan, Bonza, Hurricane, Thunder, Whirlwind. For a cute baby who does not promise to grow into a formidable dog, the names Perchik, Donut, Butuz, Chimp will do.

For girls of the French Bulldog breed, it is customary to select names with a “p”. Bridget, Dory, Iris, Curry, Suri perfectly set off the graceful nobility of the little darling. Popular and nicknames of two syllables. All sorts of Josy, Mimi, Zazi, Sisi such a great dog. For ladies with character, you can choose more serious names: Gertrude, Gorgon, Butch, Yara, Fury.

Dogs of the French Bulldog breed triumphantly broke into the world canine arena in the 19th century and quickly gained high popularity. Among those who gave their hearts to this little “bat,” there are quite a few truly famous and distinguished persons.So, the British monarch Edward VII loved to pose with his pet for photographs in an informal setting. But the real boom began after these ornamental dogs hit Hollywood.

The literary star of that time, the Frenchwoman Colette, singled out the French bulldogs among all other breeds. Film actor Douglas Fairbanks, who became famous in the era of silent films, liked to pose for reporters with his pet.

One of the representatives of this breed was a passenger of the Titanic. A dog by the name of Gamin was bought in France to improve the American livestock of these animals for a fabulous sum for those times.

After the death of the dog, its owner, Daniels, was paid astronomical compensation of $ 750 (for comparison, rare Ford cars at that time cost three times less).

The Russian history of the French bulldogs also began with the royal family. It is known that one of the daughters of Emperor Nicholas II was the owner of such a dog. The dog named Ortino bravely went to be shot along with his young mistress and rested with her. The prince Felix Yusupov kept the French bulldogs. This breed was favored by the poet of the revolution Mayakovsky.

But The most famous Russian breeder was the famous bass Fedor Shalyapin. There were always French bulldogs in his house in Russia and in a Paris apartment.

Many photographs have been preserved and even paintings depicting the legend of the operatic stage in the company of charming pets - dogs.

Among the fans of the breed was the famous French painter Henri Toulouse-Lautrec. Bulldogs breeder is an actress and vocalist Elizabeth McGovern. A writer and psychotherapist Jonathan Kellerman even made the French Bulldog Blanche a full-fledged heroine of his literary works.

Another passionate fan of the breed is the famous couturier. Yves Saint Laurent. More than one generation of French bulldogs changed in his house, and they all wore the same nickname - Man, only their numbers changed. This constancy can only envy. Prefer these dogs and designer Tommy hilfiger - he has two bulldogs at once.

Among the Hollywood fans of these dogs can be noted Malcolm McDowell, Leonardo DiCaprio, Jason Priestley, Zac Efron, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson.

Outrageous Lady Gaga likes to appear in lenses paparazzi in the company of his pet black. No less often, fans indulge in shots with homemade French bulldogs. Ashlee Simpson and Hugh Jackman. The real champion in the number of charming dogs in the house is a Hollywood actress Denise Richards.

For many years, the French bulldogs in Russia were practically not divorced, being considered a relic of the bourgeois past. Today, the number of breeding livestock is quite large, there are many kennels where they grow dogs with champion potential and just pet class pets. Reviews of the owners are almost unequivocal: this is a pet that gives a feeling of love.

But do not assume that the first months side by side with a pet will be a cakewalk. Because of their origin, the French Bulldogs are rather stubborn and ready to fight for leadership in the family.

In the absence of upbringing, a small-sized dog may well turn into a domestic tyrant.

Among the advantages of the dog, its owners note a truly compact size - the content will not cause trouble even in a small apartment.

In addition, they are well adapted to the conditions of detention and the mood of the owner. If the owner is not in the mood for playing with a pet, the French bulldog will easily occupy himself.

Friendliness to children is a very important moment. In addition, dogs of this breed get along well with other pets, and only at first can be jealous.

You can forget about the empty barking - the dog will give a vote only for a serious reason.

The main negative impressions about the breed are associated with serious health problems.

They need a special diet, in addition, allergies can occur on pollen, insect bites, and other external factors. Another common problem is obesity, which develops in dogs with the slightest excess of caloric intake.

In this case, the dogs are quite voracious, not averse to beg for a treat or eat the unlawful while walking. Note the owners and the difficulties associated with genetic problems.

They are incurable, and from time to time the dog is forced to endure the pain for the whole life. According to various estimates, from 12 to 15% of animals remain free from the defective genetic heritage. In addition, there are high risks of developing heart disease.

The first impression of the French bulldogs - good-natured lodgers with a charming appearance. But the reviews of the owners easily expose this myth.

To miss this animal just will not have to. Pet willingly support the owner in his walks at any time of the year - the main thing is to choose the right wardrobe.

The overall impression of the French bulldogs is extremely positive.

If you choose a place to stay, then the best solution would be a country house or a spacious apartment in a region with a not hot climate. For the rest, the compact dog will not be troublesome and will please the owners with its perky character for many years.

About breed French Bulldog, see the video below.