French Bulldog Day is January 13th! These cute, lovable pooches definitely have a lot to celebrate. They successfully knocked the Lab out of the top spot, and are now America’s favorite dog! Fido also did very well in the AKC’s kennel events this year. Here’s a look at the Frenchie from a local Fernley, NV vet.
French Bulldogs: Basic Breed Info
French Bulldogs usually weigh under 30 pounds. They have a big heart and a huge personality, both of which are packed into a small, compact body. These guys usually live about 10 to 12 years. On the beauty care side, they have short, sleek fur that is easy to maintain and requires little grooming.
What Makes Frenchies So Popular?
These dogs are charming, easy to care for, and lots of fun. They don’t require much exercise, and love nothing more than snuggling with their owners. They’re also often hilarious to watch. There’s a lot to be said for having a furry roommate that is constantly making you laugh!
Theft of French Bulldogs: Why Does This Happen So Often?
Unfortunately, French Bulldogs are among the most commonly stolen dogs. Because of their popularity and small size, they fetch top dollar. (There is also a fluffy variety of the breed, which can cost as much as $30,000.) They’re also small enough to be easily carried off. In fact, a woman in Washington D.C. recently received a ransom demand after her Frenchie was taken. (The pooch has since been located and is now safe at home.)
While you don’t need to hire a security team for your pup, it isn’t a bad idea to take some precautions. Make sure your canine buddy is microchipped and wearing ID tags. Never leave your dog unattended, and be extra vigilant in places such as parks or public areas, where someone could grab him. Spaying or neutering your dog will discourage breeders, and carries many other benefits as well. If Fido hasn’t been fixed yet, reach out to your vet. you may want to get a pet tracker, such as GPS tags. Finally, remember to keep your adoption paperwork. Being able to prove ownership is extremely important in a court case.
What Kind Of Temperament Do French Bulldogs Have?
It’s no wonder that Fido has become the most popular dog in America. Frenchies have wonderful personalities. They’re fun, playful, and affectionate, and tend to make friends with everyone.
However, that isn’t to say these guys are perfect. These guys can be a bit stubborn, and they tend to be quite protective. A good training and petiquette program is essential.
One thing to keep in mind before adopting a Frenchie is the fact that these guys get very attached to their humans. If left alone too long, they become lonely and unhappy. If your pup is going to be home alone a lot, you may want to either get him a buddy, or go with a more independent breed.
Health Concerns with French Bulldogs
Frenchies are brachycephalic, which means that they have very short airways. This makes them prone to a number of health problems. Respiratory and dental problems are the most common issues.
Fido is also susceptible to eye problems, like cherry eye, as well as skin problems, and, unfortunately, intervertebral disc disease. Several tests are recommended for this breed, including patella, hip, and ophthalmologist exams, as well as cardiac exams. For specific advice, contact your veterinarian.
History Of The French Bulldog
The French bulldog is a crossbreed of Paris’ ratter dogs and imported toy Bulldogs from England. The pups first trotted onto the scene in the mid nineteenth century. Although the bulldogs in Fido’s ancestry were historically used for bull-baiting and pit fighting, the French bulldog has always been a companion dog. When bull-baiting was outlawed in the 1830s, breeders worked towards removing aggressive traits from the breed. (They also stuck bat ears on Fido.) This effort proved to be very, very successful. The French bulldog soon became a beloved companion among French lacemakers.
What Makes French Bulldogs Special?
You may have heard the saying that beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. Fido may not have the intelligence of a Border Collie or the dignity and work ethic of a German Shepherd, but he certainly does have some unique charms. As mentioned above, they’re cute, lovable, fun, and loyal. They’re also pretty easy keepers. They don’t require much exercise or room and usually don’t bark without cause. (This makes them ideal for city dwellers.)
What Foods Are Unsafe For Frenchies?
Frenchies are prone to obesity, due to their love of food. You should avoid giving your dog foods high in fat. That includes fried foods, cheese, and fatty meats, like bacon and sausage. You should also avoid foods high in salt, since this can cause dehydration. (Sorry, buddy!)
Of course, you should also avoid foods that are unsafe for any dog, such as chocolate, garlic, onions, and avocado. Ask your Fernley, NV vet for more information.
Frenchies are very, very good at plying us with those sad expressions that are so effective in getting us to spend money on tasty treats. You may need to resist those adorable bug eyes!
What Is The Best Way To Take Care Of A French Bulldog?
Fido’s basic care requirements are similar to those of any other dog: proper nutrition, adequate physical activity, regular trips to the Fernley, NV vet, and, of course, plenty of affection. However, there are a few important considerations. Be very, very careful around water, as French Bulldogs are not able to swim. Because they’re so short, they can be in serious danger in just a few inches of water.
Brachycephalic breeds like Frenchies are particularly prone to overheating, because their short airways make it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. It’s important to prevent your dog from overexerting himself. Take extra precautions on hot days to keep him cool. Consider investing in a cooling mat or vest for your furry friend during the summer months.
Also, be mindful about what you have at Fido’s eye level. You don’t have to go overboard, but you should avoid placing sharp, thorny plants in places where he could run into them.
Are Dental Problems Common in French Bulldogs?
Dental problems aren’t uncommon for small dogs. The Frenchie is no exception. These guys don’t have much room for those 42 teeth! Fido is prone to issues such as overcrowding and misalignment. You will need to keep his choppers clean, and watch for warning signs, such as drooling, bad breath, and tartar buildup. Get specific advice from your Fernley, NV vet.
Which Celebrities Own French Bulldogs?
Fido has gained a number of notable admirers. The top dog in that group has to be actor and rapper Snoop Dogg. (Note: Dogg’s own dog, Frank, went missing in 2022, but eventually reunited with his owner.) Another famous pooch parent is Megan Thee Stallion, who owns six dogs including two Frenchies. One of her pups, 4oe, even has his own Instagram account and made an appearance on The Tonight Show in 2022. Other fellow Frenchie lovers include Reese Witherspoon and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, who sadly lost one of his canine companions, Brutus, after consuming a poisonous mushroom.
Contact us, your Fernley, NV local pet clinic, if you have questions about French Bulldog care. We’e dedicated to offering great care!