1. Where do French Bulldogs come from?
Frenchies originated from the English Bulldog. Some breeders began to develop a smaller version of the bulldog and these became very popular with French lacemakers in England. When the Industrial Revolution forced the lacemakers out of business they went back to France and took their little friends with them. The French continued to breed them and developed a more uniform breed. Soon traveling Americans fell in love with them (what's not to love!!!). We have the French Bulldog Club of America to thank for the breed standard we enjoy today. The Club insisted on the erect "bat" ear which give the Frenchie it's distinct look. French Bulldogs are one of the few breeds which have been bred only for companionship. Their primary purpose has always been to provide love and companionship for their owners. They do this very well!
2. Do French Bulldogs have health problems?
All breeds have issues that should be of concern to owners - Frenchies are no exception. One issue is the most obvious - their famous flat faces! This is responsible for their adorable snorting and snuffling sounds but can also make breathing difficult. A shortened airway makes it difficult to cool themselves down by panting and they are at high risk of heat stroke. A Frenchie should have limited exposure to hot temperatures and plenty of access to shade and water to stay cool. Frenchies are not "outside dogs" and should never be left outdoors for long periods of time or locked in a car. Your Frenchie can die quickly from heat stroke and it is vital to their health to be kept at moderate temperatures.
Frenchies are usually very healthy dogs and we make it a policy to health screen our adults and make sure we are breeding only the best. If you are not familiar with the bulldog breeds we encourage you to research and ask lots of questions. Breeders and veteranarians are great resources as well as other Frenchie owners.
3. Are Frenchies easy to house train?
Patience, patience, patience! We get the training started for you by having them paper trained. Puppies usually have to potty after sleeping, eating or playing so by paying attention and getting them to their "potty spot" quickly you can avoid discouragement. Be sure to praise when they do it right (maybe a treat every now & then) and don't punish if they slip up. Remember, practice makes perfect!
4. French Bulldogs are stocky and muscular - how athletic are they?
If you enjoy jogging or swimming and want to take your Frenchie with you then you should reconsider your choice of breed. However, if you enjoy leisurely walks or short bursts of fun with toys followed by a long snooze on the couch then the Frenchie is your friend! French Bulldogs overheat easily and don't have much endurance. They have heavy heads and broad shoulders with short legs and tend to sink instead of swim. Frenchies do love to play in the water so a small plastic playpool with a shallow amount of water is fun for them. Whenever we take our dogs near the lake or a swimming pool they all wear doggie lifejackets. Remember to dry their ears well after a swimming adventure so they don't get an ear infection!
5. How much noise do French Bulldogs make?
It depends on what you consider noise! Those famous little flat faces are responsible for lots of snorting, snuffling and, sometimes, snoring! Generally they tend to be sensible barkers and bark only to alert you to danger however, their idea of danger and yours might vary!