French Bulldog: all information about the breed

The French Bulldog is a breed of dog that invariably attracts great interest. Its history is also unusual, because the ancestors of these kids were dangerous participants in the battles. However, today French Bulldogs are rather charming companions, wonderful companions and loyal friends of man. They are distinguished by their peaceful nature, preferring a warm sofa to walking along a cold street.

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

The pet is always in a great mood, ready to do anything for the adored owner. Dogs easily master 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, France is not its historical homeland.

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

The first popularity of miniature dogs with unusual erect ears in the form of bat wings found it among artisans. In the 19th century, they were considered companions of seamstresses, merchants and other representatives of the wage-labor sphere. The rapid development of the factory business later forced many Englishmen to go to work in France. Pets also crossed the English Channel with them.

Not only were the unusual parameters of appearance noted, but also the working qualities of the 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, the amusing photogenic dogs fell in love with the ladies of the society of the time. Many photographs have survived, where hostesses from high society and the half-world were captured together with their pets.

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

By 1913, the breed had grown significantly. This was also facilitated by the separation of this breeding line from the English Bulldogs, to which it was attributed until 1905.

It was then that the dogs got their modern name - French Bulldog.

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

Artificial selection has led to the fact that French Bulldogs can hardly be called harmonious dogs. The description of the breed, although it strives for the ideal, still takes this feature into account. The first French Bulldog standard was developed at the end of the 19th century., and it is according to him that today animals are selected for victories at exhibitions and breeding.

The maximum weight of males normally does not exceed 10-15 kg, females are lighter, about 8-12 kg.

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

The coat is short, smooth, thin, and 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, liver shades of wool are considered disadvantages.

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

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

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

1. The body is square, strong, with a well-developed loin.
2. The hind legs are muscular, the forelegs are shortened. This imbalance leads to the fact that the animal looks hunched over, the spine becomes curved. The load is not properly distributed, which, combined with the heavy body, makes it difficult for the French Bulldog to do many things.
3. The ribcage is wide and deep, drooping below the level of the elbow. The belly is tucked up high.
4. The tail is short with a congenital kink, does not rise above the dorsal line.
5. The head is wide, square in shape, with pronounced jaws. The breed has a genetic predisposition for biting, cleft palate. The muzzle is short, covered with symmetrical folds extending outward from the center. The nose is strongly upturned, has a flattened shape. The eyes are expressive, round, bulging, dark brown.
6. The neck is folded, short, thick.
7. The ears are large, widely spaced, shaped like the wings of a bat. The tips are rounded, no cropping is performed.

During the show evaluation of dogs, their potential for use as breeding producers is established. Malformations and other factors that can affect the further formation of the characteristics of the breed are determined.

The temperament of French Bulldogs is optimal for keeping in a family. Dogs easily get along with owners leading a wide variety of lifestyles. They are equally eager to join in on the couch or go on an evening jog. Playful and friendly small dogs can be overly emotional, especially at a young age.

Over time, slowness, imposingness appears in the habits of the French Bulldog.

She will require affection, will follow the owner everywhere. Buying toys also does not always allow you to fully engage your pet - he will insist on having fun together. In general, in their quest for unity with their owners, French Bulldogs can be quite intrusive.

The dog is able to do without long walks, can relieve himself in the tray during the absence of the owner or in bad weather. French bulldogs have good abilities for empathy - they subtly feel the mood of the owner, try to cheer him up, entertain, brighten up loneliness. But you should not take them only as a pet dog - the fighting past of the ancestors will show itself if a person is in danger.

A bored French bulldog will spoil the interior, forget about following the rules of the toilet. The character of the animal will also change - it will feel itself the master of the situation, will begin to dictate its terms. Suffice it to mention that dogs of this breed are quite capable of getting into the habit of using the owner's bed for toilet needs out of boredom.

French Bulldogs get along pretty well with other pets, but only when it comes to pets with which they coexist side by side.

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

French Bulldogs are dogs capable of living a long and happy life.

In the absence of genetic abnormalities, the health of the dog will not be a problem. But there are typical difficulties and problems that can significantly shorten its lifespan.

1. Congenital anomaly of the vertebral discs. Her breed took over from their English ancestors.
2. Eyes - the structure of the eyelid provides a predisposition to the development of cataracts, glaucoma. In addition, conjunctivitis is quite common. Manifestations of the third eyelid may appear, requiring surgical intervention.
3. Pregnancy and childbirth. The anatomical features of French Bulldog bitches give them about a 50% chance of a successful pregnancy, vaginal delivery. Even after bearing offspring, the dog most often needs a cesarean section. During natural childbirth, puppies often die.
4. Poor thermoregulation. Dogs do not tolerate heat very well, due to their flattened muzzle, heat exchange is disturbed. In combination with heart problems, this can lead to very negative consequences.
5. Respiratory disorders. The structural features of the body and nasopharynx in French Bulldogs lead to the fact that each breath is given to them with difficulty. At night this manifests itself in the form of powerful snoring. The more obese the dog, the stronger the acoustic effects.
6. Allergic reactions. All livestock have dermatitis in one form or another. Food, pollen, and other external factors can act as an allergen. The constant overload of the immune system leads to the fact that it is no longer necessary to count on the longevity of the pet.

All these moments can manifest themselves both in a thoroughbred puppy from the best champions, and in an ordinary pet of the pet-class.

Acquiring a French Bulldog as a pet requires special attention to detail. The choice of a puppy should be made taking into account future plans.

Where all dogs for breeding are carefully selected, they have the highest marks for conformation.

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

At the time of purchase, the baby must be at least two months old, together with him a puppy card, vaccination book, pedigree are 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 is a reason to refuse to buy a pet. It is worth studying the genetics of the parents and more distant relatives of a new friend. Most of the existing diseases have every chance of being inherited.

The rules for caring for a French Bulldog dog are not too complicated. Even novice dog breeders can easily cope with this task.

There are several mandatory procedures that you need to repeat regularly.

1. Combing the coat. It is performed at least 1 time a week, using a special brush or gloves for massage. Brushing should be done delicately and carefully, from an early age. The massage effect removes dust from the outer hair, stimulates blood circulation, and improves fat metabolism in the sebaceous glands.
2. Bathing. Features of the coat, which has a protective layer, does not require frequent use of water procedures. You will have to bathe your 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 imperative to use a well-absorbent towel, hair dryer (if the dog has no fear).
3. Teeth cleaning. For dogs with malocclusion, this procedure is required on a weekly basis. To do this, use a paste recommended by your veterinarian, a special brush or a fingertip, as for babies. You can also offer your dog special bones designed to remove plaque.Tartar is removed in the dentist's office with special devices.
4. Cleansing the auricles. French Bulldogs have an anatomical ear structure that is not prone to the accumulation of large amounts of sulfur. Dangers are insects and traces of contamination. For prevention purposes, you need to regularly, at least 1 time a week, treat the inner surfaces with a cotton pad or stick.
5. Nail care. They themselves do not grind off a domestic dog. It is imperative to trim the ends once a month. The cut edges are sawn off with special tools. When the capillary is touched, hydrogen peroxide is applied.
6. Cleaning skin folds. The features of the structure of the muzzle of the French Bulldog make caring for him quite specific. During the day, food particles, sebum, and dirt accumulate in the folds. In the absence of proper attention, diaper rash forms inside. Daily hygienic treatment with a damp cloth will help prevent their appearance.
7. Removal of eye discharge. It is especially noticeable in dogs of light color. The animal needs regular cleaning of the contaminated areas. If there is a clouding of the lens, profuse lacrimation, be sure to contact your veterinarian.

The organization of dog walking also belongs to the rules of care.

But the animal necessarily needs to adjust the nutrition, taking into account the loads received. If the dog is a couch potato, the diet will have to be significantly reduced.

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

When choosing products, you should give preference to trusted breeders, professional super-premium diets or holistic ones. They have everything a dog needs, there are no dangerous dyes and preservatives. There is no need to be afraid of high costs - expensive feed is much more economical in consumption.

Among the leaders of the rating, according to the owners of French Bulldogs, are several popular products.

1. Grandorf. The brand produces completely natural food without artificial additives. Grain-free formula does not add empty calories, contains 60% animal protein (lamb, rabbit, duck, turkey), healthy vegetables and fruits, omega acids, prebiotics that have a beneficial effect on digestion. The advantages include the pleasant cost of the product.
2. Acana. For French Bulldogs, this Canadian brand's grain-free chicken and flounder foods are suitable. A healthy diet is complemented by sources of valuable fiber, vitamin and mineral formula. The proportion of meat in the composition of more than 70%, an almost carbohydrate-free diet is optimal for dogs with a tendency to obesity.
3. Go! Natural - Canadian line of quality feed. It contains only natural ingredients, grain-free products with an increased proportion of protein and fiber. The food was developed with the participation of veterinarians, it is hypoallergenic.

If you plan to feed your dog with your own food, you should create a complete menu based on:

• natural meat, raw, cut into pieces that are easy to chew (beef, lamb, rabbit, turkey);
• sea ​​fish - boiled boneless fillet;
• easily digestible cereals - 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).

Do not give foods that provoke increased gas formation in the intestines, sweets, bread and pastries, fish with small bones, fatty and smoked foods.

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

The puppy is fed up to six months 5-6 times a day, then up to 8-12 months the frequency of feeding is reduced. Adult animals eat twice a day, with a significant level of physical activity, you can add another snack during the day. When using ready-made feed, the norms specified by the manufacturer must be 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 prophylactic complexes to prevent joint diseases.

When choosing a ready-made diet, it is imperative to pay attention to the content of calcium and potassium - their excess can lead to kidney disease, the development of urolithiasis.

The bowl between feedings, regardless of the type of food, must be clean.

Overheating or cooling of food should be avoided. It is strictly forbidden to feed the dog from the master's table.

The basic rules of parenting for French Bulldogs is not to be coerced. The dog should receive knowledge and skills without aggression towards him.

So that the training does not get bored, it is worth alternating the actions offered to the dog. We'll have to stock up on treats for which the dog will be willing to compromise in his stubbornness.

It is better to pass it under the supervision 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 organizing classes on your own, it is better to give preference to play methods of training. Short sessions of training will be more beneficial and interesting for the dog than a full hour of training.

It is important to consider the adaptation period for puppies.

Even toddlers of French Bulldogs are quite sentimental, they hardly part with their familiar surroundings.

The upbringing process should not be postponed for long. In 2-3 months, you can quickly teach a new inhabitant the rules of conduct in the house. Usually complicating the beginning of training is the ability of French Bulldogs to melt the most severe heart with a plaintive gaze of expressive eyes.

At the slightest attempt by the puppy to play "king of the hill" or to growl in response to touching the bowl, it is worth regaining its authority.

If this moment is missed, it will be incredibly difficult to correct behavior in adulthood.

The puppy must clearly distinguish the purpose of each room in a person's dwelling. It is important to highlight a number of the first moments in the education of French Bulldogs.

1. The first commands that can be mastered at home are "Fu", "You can't", "Come to me". And also the puppy should know his name, get used to wearing a collar, not be intimidated by the leash.
2. The most difficult period of upbringing is up to 8 months. At this time, the French bulldog will test the owner's nerves for strength, be naughty, and in every possible way violate the boundaries of what is permitted.The owner's behavior must be balanced. He must deliver commands in an imperious, confident voice. Praise is required in obedience. In this case, it will be easier to find contact with the pet.
3. The period of basic socialization occurs in the dog until 16 weeks of age. By this time, it is imperative to teach the pet basic hygiene skills, adapt it to regular cosmetic procedures, and introduce it to the street.

Considering all these points, many behavioral problems can be avoided and a trusting, loving relationship with your pet can be ensured.

When buying a French Bulldog, you should immediately get ready to buy an impressive "dowry" for a new tenant. Among the accessories that must be purchased, there will definitely be:

• harness - for a more even distribution of the load on the back;
• blanket, helping 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 will fit perfectly;
• leash - one for walking, 1 meter in length, the second for training, longer;
• ringovka - a special version for exhibitions;
• muzzle, which accurately takes into account the anatomy of the dog's muzzle, soft, made of leather;
• stove bench - should be easy to clean, have soft filling, optimal dimensions;
• bowls for food and water made of metal or durable ceramic;
• training whistle that allows you to call the animal for a walk.

When choosing accessories, you should avoid brightly colored things, obvious chemical treatment of leather or fabrics.

French Bulldogs are quite strong and tenacious dogs. On a walk, they demonstrate enviable towing ability, and the accessories must withstand the pull and pull of the animal.

For safety reasons, it is worth purchasing a special token, engraving information about the dog on it.

Apart from accessories, the breed needs clothing 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 building a pet's wardrobe using a range of essential clothing items.

1. Lightweight raincoats. Demi-season waterproof raincoats and blankets are produced both in open cut and with elastic bands that provide a snug fit to the body on the legs and back. Despite the high requirements for moisture resistance, you need to make sure that the fabric is quite hygroscopic, breathable.
2. Jumpsuits. You will need a light summer, in case of bad weather, a demi-season, winter insulated version. There must be a soft lining inside.
3. Hats. Soft knitted accessories help protect delicate ears and head from hypothermia.
4. Shoes. In addition to stylish addition to the image, it also solves purely practical problems. The feet are protected from dirt, chemicals and other irritants. Winter "boots" should be chosen with insulation.

Outfits for the summer are usually made short and lightweight, simplifying the cut of the fabric.

The first fitting should be carried out in the most comfortable environment familiar to the pet. You should not start wearing clothes and shoes earlier than 3-5 months, while the skeleton is forming.

You can let the dog sniff at the outfits, gradually acquaint him with the acquisition. Do not swear if your dog is trying to take off unusual clothing. It is better to distract the animal, play with it, gradually increasing the duration of walking in the outfit.

You should only go outside after the French Bulldog has fully adapted to his walking uniform.

The name for the French Bulldog should match the breed - loud and sonorous. In the pedigree it is indicated taking into account the name of the cattery and the first letter assigned by the club. But many pets of this breed also have home names, which are much simpler and easier to pronounce.

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

For girls of the French Bulldog breed, it is customary to select names with a grazing "r". Bridget, Dory, Iris, Curry, Suri perfectly set off the graceful nobility of a little darling. Nicknames of two syllables are also popular. All kinds of Josie, Mimi, Zazie, Sisi are perfect for such dogs. For ladies with character, you can choose more serious names: Gertrude, Gorgon, Bucha, Yara, Furia.

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 heart to this little "bat", there are many truly famous and noble 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 decorative dogs hit Hollywood.

The literary star of the time, Frenchwoman Colette, distinguished the French Bulldogs from all other breeds. The film actor Douglas Fairbanks, who became famous in the era of silent films, loved to pose for reporters with his pet.

One of the representatives of this breed was a passenger of the Titanic. A dog named Gamin was bought in France to improve the American herd of these animals for a fabulous sum at that time.

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

The Russian history of 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. A dog named Ortino bravely went to the execution along with his young mistress and rested with her. Kept French Bulldogs and Prince Felix Yusupov. This breed was preferred by the poet of the revolution Mayakovsky.

But the most famous Russian breeder was the famous bass Fyodor Chaliapin... There were always French Bulldogs in his house in Russia and in his Paris apartment.

Many photographs and even paintings have survived depicting the legend of the opera scene in the company of adorable pets - dogs.

Among the fans of the breed was the famous French painter Henri Toulouse-Lautrec... Bulldog breeder is an actress and vocalist Elizabeth McGovern... And the 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 bore the same nickname - Man, only the serial numbers changed. Such constancy can only be envied. Prefers these dogs and the designer Tommy Hilfiger - he has two bulldogs living at once.

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

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

For many years, French Bulldogs in Russia were practically not bred, being considered a relic of the bourgeois past. Today, the number of breeding stock is quite large, there are many kennels where dogs with champion potential and just pets of the pet class are raised. The owners' reviews are almost unambiguous: this is a pet that gives a feeling of love.

But do not assume that the first months alongside your pet will be an easy walk. By virtue of their origin, French Bulldogs are quite stubborn and ready to compete 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 a dog, its owners note a truly compact size - the content will not cause trouble even in a small apartment.

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

Child friendliness is very important. In addition, dogs of this breed get along well with other pets, and only at first can show jealousy.

You can forget about empty barking - the dog will give voice only on a serious occasion.

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

They need a special diet, in addition, allergies can manifest themselves to pollen, insect bites, and other external factors. Another common problem is obesity, which develops in dogs with the slightest excess of calories in the diet.

At the same time, the dogs are quite gluttonous, they do not mind begging for a treat or eating something unlawful during a walk. The hosts and difficulties associated with genetic problems are noted.

They are incurable, and periodically the dog has to endure pain all his life. According to various estimates, from 12 to 15% of animals remain free from defective genetic heritage. In addition, there are high risks of developing heart disease.

The first impression of the French Bulldogs is that they are good-natured bumps with charming looks. But owner reviews easily expose this myth.

You will definitely not be bored with such an animal. The pet will willingly support the owner in his walks at any time of the year - the main thing is to choose the right wardrobe.

The general impression of the French Bulldogs is extremely positive.

If you choose a place to live, then the best solution would be a country house or a spacious apartment in a region with a cool climate. The rest of the compact dog will not cause trouble and will delight its owners for many years with its perky character.

For the French Bulldog breed, see the video below.