French Bulldog

The French Bulldog or "Frenchie" evolved from a long line of Mastiff and Bulldog ancestors to become a much-prized companion dog.

History:

There are two theories regarding the development of the French Bulldog. The first is that the French Bulldog was bred in the mid-1800s from the British Bulldog and smaller Bulldogs to minimize its size. It was known as the Bouledogue Francais. Then there are some who believe the breed to have originated with the Dogue de Bordeaux, which still exists as a large Mastiff type, but which was miniaturized to produce both the Bulldog and the French Bulldog. Whatever theory may be true, it was the American breeders who introduced the bat-ears which are the trademark of the French Bulldog, and the breed was recognized there in 1898. The British Kennel Club officially recognized the breed in 1902.

Physical characteristics:

A small or medium-sized dog with a compact and muscular build. Height: not specified. Weight: 28 lb (12.7 kg) for the dog and 24 lb (11 kg) for the bitch. Under Canadian standards: less than 22 lb (10 kg) for the lightweight variety, 22 - 28 lb (10 to 12.7 kg) for the heavyweight variety.

The head of the French Bulldog is massive, broad and square, with a domed forehead. The loose skin forms almost symmetrical lines across the face. The stop is well-defined and the muzzle is broad and deep, with well-developed cheek muscles. The nose is black, short, and wide with open nostrils, and the line between is well-defined. The lips are thick and cover the teeth completely.

The jaws are broad, square and powerful, and slightly undershot. The eyes are set wide apart and are round and fairly prominent. The bat-ears are of medium size, wide at the base, rounded at the tip, set high and carried erect. The neck is short and thick with loose skin at the throat. The body is short, cobby, well-rounded and muscular, with a broad back. The shoulders and chest are broad, with the body narrowing towards the loin. The forequarters are set wide apart for a straight, strong stance. The hindquarters are a little longer than the forelegs, and are strong and well-muscled.

The coat of the French Bulldog is short, soft and close, with a lustrous texture. The skin is soft and loose, with wrinkles on the head and shoulders. The colors are brindle (a mixture of black and colored hair), pied (where white predominates over the brindle), and fawn (which may contain some brindle hairs, but has black eye rims and eyelashes).

Behavior:

This charming dog makes an ideal companion animal. These dogs are even-tempered and seem to really enjoy the company of people. They may be a little shy at first, but once they get to know you, they expect lots of pats and attention. They make good watch-dogs and produce a characteristic throaty bark. These dogs do not need a lot of space to run around in, but most certainly appreciate being taken out for a walk. Their coat is easy to care for but attention must be given to their eyes and ears, which are prone to infections. Problems of snuffling and difficulty in breathing should be checked out by your veterinarian

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