Pros and cons of the French Bulldog breed

French bulldogs, despite their rather serious and slightly formidable appearance, are distinguished by their good nature and cheerful character. The ancestors of the breed were English bulldogs, which workers brought from England. At first, dogs were not particularly popular in France, but over time they became favorites of the aristocracy and the beau monde.

French bulldogs have an outstanding appearance that distinguishes them from their English and American counterparts. "French" belong to decorative dogs, because they are characterized by small size. The main parameters of the French bulldog:

• height 28–35 cm;
• weight 8-14 kg;
• the body is compact, dense, with well-developed muscles and a strong skeleton;
• the head is rather large, the transition from the forehead to the nose is very expressive;
• eyes set wide;
• ears are large, erect, have narrowed tips;
• the muzzle is short, with a slightly raised black nose;
• muscular short neck;
• the limbs of the animal are squat;
• the chest is quite wide;
• the stomach is tight;
• narrow pelvis;
• tail hanging, thin;
• approved color is white, brindle, fawn, spotted (although there are blue, black, cream and brown bulldogs);
• the coat is short and smooth, without undercoat;
• life expectancy from 10 to 13 years.

The "French" are very good-natured and welcoming. Thanks to their cheerful nature and sociability, puppies quickly and easily make contacts with children, they are very curious and active, they love different games, in addition, they are distinguished by the absence of aggression, which is important. With age, the dog becomes more passive, a characteristic feature of the breed begins to appear: laziness.

French Bulldogs are not hostile to other pets and strangersalthough they are considered good guards. Dogs of this breed love to be in the spotlight. They differ in intelligence, they quickly memorize teams.

Like any animals, French bulldogs have their pros and cons, which should be considered when choosing a pet. The positive aspects, first of all, are the simplicity of the content and the light character of the dog.

• The animal has a compact size, which is very convenient, especially if the apartment is small.
• They quickly adapt to different situations, they can sleep with pleasure both on the hands of the owners and on the couch.
• Short paws do not prevent dogs from being active and playful: animals love to run and play.
• Despite the small size, the dogs are excellent guards, they will always let you know about someone's approach or some kind of noise.
• Able to protect the owner, even if the enemy is much larger.
• They are friendly to other animals (with proper upbringing) and to people. They get along very well with children, they like to play active games with them.
• Due to their quick wit and intelligence, bulldogs quickly learn teams, but it is important not to forget to praise and encourage the pet.
• Due to the short coat, the breed is quite easy to care for, there is no unpleasant odor and it is often necessary to wash the animal.
• The tail does not need to be stopped, because it is broken by nature.
• They do not need long walks, and they can go to the toilet in a tray or on a diaper.
• They can remain alone in the apartment without making too much noise.

In addition to a large number of pluses, French bulldogs also have some disadvantages, which are due to physiological characteristics.

• Due to the short coat, animals are sensitive to temperature conditions. In the summer, you need to avoid overheating in the sun, and in winter - wear overalls. Dogs are sensitive to drafts and cold water, easily catch a cold.
• Due to the peculiar structure of the skull and respiratory tract, dogs snore during sleep and sometimes make sounds similar to grunts.
• For the same reason, the "French" have increased salivation.
• Quite often, dogs have problems with the digestive system, in particular flatulence. A pet's stomach may not absorb some foods.
• They are prone to allergies to certain foods, diseases of the eyes and the circulatory system, as well as obesity and spinal problems.
• The skin of French bulldogs requires careful care. Fungal infections and foci of inflammation or suppuration may appear in the folds on the muzzle and in the area of ​​the closely adjacent tail.
• Big ears need to be cleaned, which the animals actively resist.
• The breed is characterized by such features as stubbornness and laziness, so their training requires sufficient patience from the owner.
• Because of their fearlessness, they can be injured, especially if the opponent predominates in size.
• Poor bulldogs endure prolonged loneliness, need to communicate with the owner.
• Most dogs are afraid of water, in addition, a large head prevents them from swimming.
• Due to their specific physique, females have a difficult time giving birth, and almost always the birth takes place with cesarean section.
• Life expectancy, in comparison with other breeds, is not too long.

The French Bulldog is considered a companion dog that will brighten up life and, if necessary, protect. The dog does not require much attention, you do not need to walk with it for a long time and, besides this, the care is quite simple. Animals of this breed are very good with children, they are patient and non-aggressive. "French" are great for families with children, because they get along with them wonderfully and find in their person loyal partners for the game.

The dog finds a common language with all members of the family, very fond of being in the spotlight. Although the animal adores companies, it is by its nature very calm and balanced. It will never intrusively demand attention, but quietly expects the owner to want to play. A French bulldog will create a pleasant company for a single person and brighten his life, as he is able to distinguish between a person’s mood and has a sense of humor. The animal may be alone in the apartment, but not for too long.

Concerning the breed is not suitable for busy people who are rarely at home and are not able to spend time with the pet. Long loneliness can cause stress in the animal. It is better for active people and athletes not to choose a “Frenchman” for their pets. It is not designed for long runs or walks, hiking, and also does not like ponds.

Reviews of the French Bulldogs are mostly positive. Many owners note the loyalty, kindness and friendliness of the "French". In addition, they mention the excellent qualities of a guard and the fearlessness of dogs that are able to protect their owner, despite their small size. Often the owners talk about the calm, balanced nature of the pet, a good attitude to other pets. A tolerant attitude towards children is also noted.

But also the owners complain about the rather poor health of pets, allergies and frequent illnesses. Many owners of bulldogs mention sniffing and snoring, although some speak of their absence. And also note that despite very rare bathing, the dog does not have a characteristic unpleasant odor.

On the pros and cons of the French Bulldog, see the next video.