French Bulldog: all breed information

The French Bulldog is a breed of dog that invariably arouses great interest in itself. Her story 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 faithful friends of man. They are distinguished by their peaceful nature; they prefer a warm sofa to walks along a cold street.

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

The pet is always in a good mood, for the adorable owner is ready to do anything. Dogs can easily master not only general training, but also a variety of tricks, smart and sociable.

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 France at all.

The priority in breeding was the compact size of the animal, an easygoing character. The starting material for breeding a new breed was the smallest English bulldogs, pugs, terriers.

Miniature dogs with unusual standing ears in the shape of bat wings were first found among artisans. In the XIX century, they were considered companions of seamstresses, traders and other representatives of the sphere of wage labor. The rapid development of factory business later forced many British to go to work in France. Pets crossed with them across the English Channel.

Not only unusual appearance parameters were noted, but also the working qualities of dogs. At that time they were known as excellent pied pipers, which was very important in Paris and its suburbs, where there were always problems with these "residents". In addition, funny photogenic dogs appealed to secular ladies of that time. Many photographs have been preserved, where housewives from high society and half the world were captured with their pets.

Since 1880, the bulldogs became truly French, the main breeding stock of these small companions was concentrated here. Another 10 years later they went on a journey across the ocean. In America, dogs also instantly became so popular that they were honored with the creation of a pedigree club in 1897 - just a year after their first exhibition demonstration. An authoritative dog show, where French bulldogs were released, of course, took place in England.

By 1913, the number of breeds increased significantly. The separation of this breeding line from the English bulldogs, to which it was attributed until 1905, also contributed to this.

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

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

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

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

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

Coat 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 by the standard.

In this case, blue, pure black, white, mouse, liver shades of wool are considered flaws.

The beige tone is accepted only by the American Association of Cynologists. A popular color is merle - 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 case is square, strong, with a well-developed lower back.
2. The hind limbs with muscular thighs, the forelimbs are shortened. Such an imbalance leads to the fact that the animal looks hunched, a curvature of the spine appears. The load is not distributed correctly, which in combination with a heavy hull makes many activities difficult for French bulldogs.
3. The chest is wide and deep, lowered below the level of the elbow. The abdomen is taut.
4. The tail is short with a congenital fracture; it does not rise above the line of the back.
5. The head is wide, square in shape, with pronounced jaws. The breed has a genetic predisposition to snack, cleavage of the sky. The muzzle is short, covered with symmetrical folds diverging to the sides from the center. The nose is strongly upturned, has a flattened shape. Expressive eyes, round, convex, dark brown shade.
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.

In the exhibition evaluation of dogs, their potential for use as pedigree producers is established. Defects of development and other factors that can affect the further formation of rock characteristics are determined.

The temperament of French bulldogs is optimally suited for keeping a family. Dogs can easily get along with owners, leading a very different lifestyle. They are equally joyfully ready to keep company on the couch or go for an evening jog. Playful and friendly little dogs can be overly emotional, especially at a young age.

Over time, the habits of the French bulldog appears slowness, imposingness.

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

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

A bored French bulldog will spoil the interior, forget about observing 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 own conditions. It is enough to mention that dogs of this breed are quite capable of making a habit of boredom using the owner’s bed for toilet needs.

French bulldogs get along pretty 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 properly approach the upbringing of the pet, it will not become a source of discomfort while staying on the street.

French bulldogs are dogs that can live long and happy lives.

In the absence of genetic abnormalities, the dog’s health will not cause trouble. But there are typical difficulties and problems that can significantly shorten her life.

1. Congenital anomaly of the vertebral discs. Her breed adopted from their English ancestors.
2. Eyes - The structure of the eyelid provides a predisposition to the development of cataracts, glaucoma. In addition, conjunctivitis often develops. Third-century manifestations requiring surgical intervention may appear.
3. Pregnancy and childbirth. The anatomical features of the French bulldog bitches give them about 50% of the chances of a successful pregnancy, delivery by natural means. Even with offspring, the dog most often needs a caesarean section. During natural birth, puppies often die.
4. Poor thermoregulation. Dogs do not tolerate heat very well, due to a flattened muzzle, their heat transfer is impaired. In combination with heart problems, this can lead to very negative consequences.
5. Breathing problems. The structural features of the body and nasopharynx in French bulldogs lead to the fact that every breath is given to them with difficulty. At night, this manifests itself in the form of powerful snoring. The fatter the dog, the stronger the acoustic effects.
6. Allergic reactions. Dermatitis in one form or another is present in the entire population. As an allergen, food, plant pollen, and other external factors can act. The constant overload of the immune system leads to the fact that you no longer have to rely on the longevity of the pet.

All these points can be manifested both in a thoroughbred puppy from the best champions, and in an ordinary pet-class pet.

The acquisition of 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 ratings of the exterior.

Contacting the nursery avoids overpayments for animals with defects: wrong color and bite, genetic and behavioral problems. Here you can usually choose not only French bulldogs of a show class, but also dogs of the breed or pet category.

At the time of purchase, the baby must be at least two months old, along with it the 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 to refuse 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 every chance of being inherited.

The rules for caring for a dog of the French Bulldog breed are not too complicated. Even novice dog 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, using a special brush or massage gloves. It is necessary to conduct combing delicately and carefully, from an early age. Massage effect allows you to save the remaining hair from dust, stimulate blood circulation, improve fat metabolism in the sebaceous glands.
2. Bathing. Features of the coat, which has a protective layer, do not require frequent admission of water procedures. You will have to bathe your pet on a regular basis only in case of certain medical indications. Normally, he only needs to wash with shampoo 5-7 times a year. After contact with water, it is mandatory to use a well-absorbing towel, hair dryer (in the absence of fear in the dog).
3. Teeth cleaning. Dogs with malocclusion need this procedure on a weekly basis. To do this, use a paste recommended by a veterinarian, a special brush or a nozzle on the finger, as for babies. And you can also offer the dog special bones designed to remove plaque.Tartar 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 a large amount of sulfur. Danger are insects and traces of pollution. For prevention, you need to regularly, at least 1 time per week, treat the internal surfaces with a cotton pad or stick.
5. Claw Care. They themselves do not grind at a domestic dog. Trim the ends necessarily 1 time per month. Cut edges are filed with special tools. When grazing the capillary, hydrogen peroxide is used.
6. Cleansing skin folds. The structural features of the face of the French bulldog make caring for it quite specific. Particles of food, sebum, and dirt accumulate in the folds during the day. In the absence of proper attention, diaper rash is formed inside. To prevent their appearance, daily hygienic treatment with a damp cloth will help.
7. Removal of discharge from the eyes. It is especially noticeable in dogs of light color. The animal needs regular cleaning of contaminated areas. When revealing a clouding of the lens, profuse lacrimation, you should definitely contact your veterinarian.

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

But the animal necessarily requires nutritional adjustment taking into account 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 a product, it is worth giving preference to proven breeders, professional rations of super-premium class or holistic. They have everything necessary for a dog, there are no dangerous dyes and preservatives. There is no reason to be afraid of large 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 all-natural feed without artificial additives. The grainless formula does not add empty calories, consisting of 60% of animal protein (lamb, rabbit, duck, turkey), healthy vegetables and fruits, omega acids, prebiotics, which 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 feed based on chicken and flounder is suitable. A healthy diet is supplemented by sources of valuable fiber, a vitamin and mineral formula. The proportion of meat in the composition is 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. Food developed with the participation of veterinarians, hypoallergenic.

If you plan to feed your dog food of their own preparation, it is worth making a full menu based on:

• natural meat, raw, cut into slices convenient for chewing (beef, lamb, rabbit, turkey);
• sea ​​fish - fillet boiled without bones;
• easily digestible cereals - rice, buckwheat;
• green vegetables and fruits - apples, zucchini, cucumbers;
• chicken eggs;
• dairy 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 for feeding French bulldogs should be considered. For dogs of this breed, not only what they eat matters, but also how the process as a whole is organized.

The puppy is fed 5-6 times a day until six months, then the frequency of nutrition 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 must be taken into account.

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

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

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

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

The basic rules of upbringing for French bulldogs are to give up coercion. The dog should receive knowledge and skills without aggression against him.

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

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

It is important to consider the adaptation period for puppies.

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

The process of education should not be postponed for a long time. In 2-3 months, you can quickly teach the new occupant the rules of behavior in the house. Complicating the onset of training is usually the ability of French bulldogs to melt the sternest heart with the plaintive gaze of expressive eyes.

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

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

The puppy must clearly distinguish the purpose of each room in the human home. It is important to highlight a number of first points in the education of French bulldogs.

1. The first teams that can be mastered at home - "Fu", "You can not", "To me." And also the puppy should know its name, get used to wearing a collar, not be afraid of a leash.
2. The most difficult period of education is up to 8 months. At this time, the French bulldog will check the owner’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 speak commands in a powerful, confident voice. Obedience is obligatory. In this case, it will be easier to find contact with the pet.
3. The period of basic socialization occurs in the dog until the execution of 16 weeks. At this point, it is imperative to teach the pet basic hygiene skills, adapt it to regular cosmetic procedures, and introduce the street.

Given all these points, you can avoid many behavioral problems and secure a trusting, gentle 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 must-have accessories will definitely be:

• harness - for a more even distribution of load on the back;
• a blanket to help 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;
• leash - one walking, 1 meter long, the second training, longer;
• ringing - a special option for exhibitions;
• muzzle, accurately taking into account the anatomy of the dog's face, soft, made of leather;
• Lounger - should be easy to clean, have a soft filling, optimal size;
• bowls for food and water made of metal or durable ceramics;
• a whistle for training, allowing you to call the animal for a walk.

When choosing accessories, it is worth avoiding brightly colored things, an explicit chemical treatment of the skin or tissues.

French bulldogs are quite strong and stubborn dogs. On a walk, they demonstrate an enviable towing ability, and accessories must withstand the jerk and traction of the animal.

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

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

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

Experienced breeders are advised 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 an 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, allows air to pass through.
2. Overalls. It will take a light summer, in case of bad weather, a demi-season, winter warmed version. There must be a soft lining inside.
3. Hats. Soft knitted accessories help protect delicate ears and head from hypothermia.
4. Footwear. In addition to a stylish complement to the image, it solves purely practical problems. Feet are protected from dirt, chemicals and other irritants. Winter "boots" should be chosen with insulation.

Outfits for the summer are usually made shortened and lightweight, simplifying the cut 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 earlier than 3-5 months, until the skeleton is formed.

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

It is worth going out only after the French Bulldog fully adapts to its uniform for walking.

The name for the French bulldog should be matched to 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 also have home names that are much simpler and easier to pronounce.

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

For girls of the French Bulldog breed, it is customary to select names with the grassing "p". Bridget, Dory, Iris, Curry, Suri perfectly complement the graceful nobility of the little pet. The nicknames of the two syllables are also popular. All kinds of Josie, Mimi, Zazi, Sisi are perfect for such dogs. For ladies with character, you can choose more serious names: Gertrude, Gorgon, Butch, Yar, Fury.

Dogs of the French Bulldog breed triumphantly burst into the world cynological arena in the 19th century and quickly gained high popularity. Among those who gave their hearts to this little “bat”, there are many truly famous and noble people. 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 that time, Frenchwoman Colette, distinguished French bulldogs from all other breeds. Actor Douglas Fairbanks, 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 population of these animals for a fabulous amount at that time.

After the death of the dog, its owner by the name of Daniels was paid astronomical compensation of $ 750 (for comparison, the rare Ford cars 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 be shot with his young mistress and rested with her. Held by French Bulldogs and Prince Felix Yusupov. The poet of the revolution Mayakovsky preferred this breed.

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

Many photographs and even paintings have been preserved depicting the legend of the opera scene in the company of charming 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. In his house, more than one generation of French bulldogs changed, and they all wore the same nickname - Man, only serial numbers changed. Such constancy can only be envied. Prefers these dogs and the designer Tommy Hilfiger - he immediately has two bulldogs.

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 paparazzi in the company of her pet in black. No less often pamper fans with pictures of home French bulldogs Ashley Simpson and Hugh Jackman. The real champion in the number of charming dogs in the house is the 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 pet class favorites are raised. The reviews of the owners are almost unambiguous: this is a pet that gives a feeling of love.

But do not assume that the first months side by side with your pet will be an easy walk. By virtue of their origin, French bulldogs are rather stubborn and ready to compete for leadership in the family.

In the absence of education, a small dog can turn into a home tyrant.

Among the advantages of the dog, its owners note a truly compact size - the contents 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 does not have the mood for playing with a pet, the French bulldog will easily occupy himself.

Goodwill towards children is a very important point. 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 bark - the dog will give voice 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 plant pollen, insect bites, and other external factors. Another common problem is obesity, which develops in dogs with the slightest excess of caloric intake.

At the same time, the dogs are quite voracious, not averse to beg for a treat or eat something illegal during a walk. The owners and the difficulties associated with genetic problems are noted.

They are incurable, and the dog is forced to endure pain periodically all his life. According to various estimates, 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 the good-natured lumps with a charming appearance. But owner reviews easily expose this myth.

You definitely won’t 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 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 hot climate. The rest of the compact dog will not cause trouble and will delight the owners with its perky character for many years.

About the French Bulldog breed, see the video below.