Often described as "a clown in the cloak of a philosopher," the French Bulldog originated as, and continues to be used as a companion
dog. The breed is small and muscular with heavy bone structure, a smooth coat, a short face and trademark "bat" ears. Prized for their
affectionate natures and even dispositions, they are generally active and alert, but not unduly boisterous.
Learn more about the French Bulldog Standard by AKC.
Learn more about the French Bulldog Standard by FCI.
TEMPERAMENT
Frenchies in any environment have one overwhelming need, and that is to be in close contact with the person they love. Due to their inability to
tolerate either extreme cold or extreme heat, it is not a consideration to house a Frenchie outdoors. Regardless of temperature, a French
Bulldog is happiest when with it's owner, and they enjoy long walks or car drives as much as any breed of dog you may hope to meet.
Although the temperament of men as the temperament of dogs is different the Frenchman most often is a real source of joy in the life of his
owner. The French Bulldog is extremely fond of children feeling some kind of companionship with them. When seeing a child the French Bulldog
is filled with enthusiasm, he wants at once to play with "this lovely two-legged creature". The French Bulldog also likes to be the centre of
attention so one must quite sincerely admit that the Frenchman is not meant to be a watchdog.
The French Bulldog is astoundingly full of himself so they have no need to bark or fear other dogs. This is clearly a trait that baffles other
dogs because it is not a customary behavior of little dogs. So the Frenchie has to be a tiny puppy of a big dog... or a French Bulldog.
Frenchie should have a sound temperament as well as a sound body.
Although any dog may develop a bad disposition if maltreated, it is possible for a line of dogs to show bad temperaments. Even a perfect
conformation cannot compensate for a bad temperament in a dog whose
primary function is to be a companion.
LIFESTYLE
Frenchies make excellent pets for either apartments or homes, and they
are comfortable as either city dogs or country dwellers (If asked for
their preference, most French Bulldogs state that a Park Avenue Mansion
with round the clock maid and room service is to be strongly preferred).
They are able to adjust to anything (at least almost anything), they are
always willing to make long walks or short romps or to play with you,
but on the other hand they are far too comfort-loving to do anything at
all.
Usually most French Bulldog never bark so the neighbors do not always
even know there is a dog living on the other side of the wall.
LEISURE
The French Bulldog is quite happy just going out around the block or he
might like really big long walks. But before that,
learn more about what
a brachycephalic breed is and what you should be aware of before going
out for walks.
Vis-a-vis the company he keeps the French Bulldog is not very selective,
if necessary he plays happily alone with himself. As the Frenchie is a
born leader there might sometimes occur problems with big dogs if the
bigger dogs do not give up voluntarily the leadership. But sometimes the
big ones do not always comprehend that they have already given up the
leadership because they have difficulties in dealing with this eternal
child...
PARTICULARITIES
The worst thing about the French Bulldog is the dependency that he
creates in his owner. After having experienced a life with a Frenchman
you are liable to find other breeds a real bore. You have to take in
consideration that the French Bulldog has some weaknesses due to his
body structure. They're not a good swimmer, so falling into water may
end fatally. Also the danger for heat strokes is great so it is not
recommended to take long walks on sunny days. Some skin problems may
occur, typical for dogs with short hair as well as some heart or spine
diseases typical for small breeds. Generally speaking the breeds with a
broad and large nose do not live long, and this applies also to the
French Bulldog.
Regardless of how critical you try to be towards the French Bulldog you
always end up with the same conclusion. It is no doubt the best breed in
the world, at least worthwhile to make acquaintance with. So we can
finish off by saying that the Frenchman is not just any breed but rather
a concept.
Adapted from:
Akc.org,
French BulldogZ,
French Bulldog Club of America
Vixbull,
