French Bulldogs are more popular than ever.
They’re now the fourth most popular dogs in the US.
Also known as Frenchies, their distinctive features and friendly personalities make them easy to love.
Want to know more? Keep reading to find out some fun and interesting facts about French Bulldogs.
1. French Bulldogs Aren’t French
French Bulldogs aren’t actually from France. They are descended from English Bulldogs.
English Bulldogs were traditionally used for bull-baiting, where they would fight against a bull. When this sport was banned in 1835, breeders began to produce smaller dog breeds.
These smaller English Bulldogs were popular with lacemakers in England. The smaller pups would sit on the lace makers’ laps while they worked, keeping them warm.
During the Industrial Revolution, lace working became mechanized. Many lacemakers moved to France and took their small English Bulldogs with them.
The small English Bulldogs that they took to France then bred with terriers. This created the French Bulldogs that are popular today.
2. They Have Two Styles of Ears
French Bulldogs originally had rose-shaped ears, like the English Bulldogs.
They arrived in the United States in the 19th century. The French Bull Dog Club of America (FBDCA) officially recognized the breed in 1897.
However, American breeders preferred French Bulldogs to have bat-shaped ears. The FBDCA hosted its first specialty show in New York in 1898, where rose-eared French Bulldogs were not welcome.
Over the years, American breeders have fought to showcase French Bulldogs with bat-shaped ears. Today, the French Bulldog breed has moved away from rose-shaped ears entirely.
3. There Are Nine Standard Colors
Did you know that there are nine standard colors of the French Bulldog? These are the colors that are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), breeders, clubs, and judges.
These colors are:
- Brindle
- Brindle and white
- Cream
- Fawn
- Fawn and white
- Fawn brindle
- White
- White and brindle
- White and fawn
4. They Are a Brachycephalic Breed
This means that French Bulldogs have quite short noses and flat faces.
This can sometimes lead to health issues. This could include difficulty breathing, problems eating and overheating. That’s why it’s important to choose French Bulldog breeders that you can trust to breed happy, healthy Frenchies.
What if your Frenchie is struggling? The best way to handle this is to limit strenuous exercise, keep the dog’s weight in a healthy range, avoid stressful situations and prevent overheating. If the problem continues, it’s best to visit your local vet.
5. They Can’t Swim
French Bulldogs are not great swimmers.
Their short noses and flat faces mean that they have to tilt their faces higher to keep them out of the water. Their faces have to be lifted so high that they find it difficult to remain afloat.
They also tend to have a heavy torso, short legs, and a wide head. This build also makes it difficult for them to float in water.
6. It’s Difficult for Them To Fly
Their facial structure also means that flying can be dangerous for French Bulldogs. Flying is often stressful, uncomfortable, and warm for dogs. Their short noses and flat faces mean that they may overhead and struggle to breathe during the flight.
Sadly, many brachycephalic breeds have passed away during flights. As a result, many airlines have banned them from flying.
However, some airlines are especially for pets. Dogs with special needs can travel on their own flights, with humans on board to care for any that become sick, stressed, or scared.
7. They’re Talkative
French Bulldogs don’t bark a lot. But they do like to talk.
They communicate with a series of yawns, gargles, and yips. They use a variety of different sounds to communicate with their owners and other dogs.
It can sometimes sound like they’re talking their own language.
8. They Usually Need Help To Breed
French Bulldogs can find it very difficult to breed and often need intervention. This is mainly because of their unusual proportions, including their slim hips, and their short snouts.
This can make it difficult for the male to reach the female and naturally reproduce. The male can quickly become overheated and exhausted. That’s why artificial insemination is often used instead.
These characteristics also mean that females often have problems giving birth. Many undergo a cesarean section to ensure the health of the mother and her pups.
9. They Are the Perfect Companion
French Bulldogs are friendly, affectionate, and loving. They are playful, full of energy, and get along well with other dogs.
They don’t bark a lot and don’t need excessive exercise or grooming. They are the perfect companion for adults and children.
Do remember that they are a sensitive dog. If they are scolded, they can take it very seriously and become quite upset. They respond better to encouragement and positive reinforcement.
Interesting Facts About French Bulldogs
French Bulldogs are an adorable, unique, and famous breed of dog.
Now you know these facts about French Bulldogs, take a look at some of our other articles about popular pets.
