French Bulldog Facts
French Bulldog Breed History
Theories abound concerning the origin of French Bulldogs. Traditionally it is held that Normandy lace workers from England during the 1800's took a smaller breed of Bulldog with them to France during the industrial revolution and economic crisis that befell England. This small Bulldog interbred with the native terrier, this cross breed eventually gave rise to the French Bulldog. These little Bulldogs quickly gained popularity not only as loyal family companions; they also served a practical purpose as ratters. As the new, smaller Bulldog breed gained popularity in France; they became favorites of the Parisian street-walkers for their eccentric appearance. The aura of notoriety conveyed with ownership of the little Bulldogs soon made them a fashionable statement for the well to do classes in showing off how daring they were. They soon became favorites of the "artistic" set across Europe. Their popularity spread like wildfire across every socioeconomic boundary, everyone from coach drivers, shoemakers and street traders to the police became fans of the "petit Boule". Frenchies soon became the star of working class Parisian society. Its physique, small size, peculiar physiognomy and enchanting personality made it the darling of flat-faced dog lovers.
The French Bulldog first appeared in the U.S. in 1896 at the Westminster Kennel Club's show in New York, and was first registered by the American Kennel Club in 1898 in the non-sporting dog group. Britain accepted the breed's club membership in 1912.
Others speculate about a more ancient origin to the French Bulldog breed. Artwork and skeletal finds of the Indian Cincha Bulldog, which lived in ancient Central Peru from 1100 to 1400 AD., bears a striking resemblance to the French Bulldog with numerous anatomical similarities. The only significant difference is that the cranium of the Cincha Bulldog was pear-shaped, not spherical like the Frenchie. The gap in the French Bulldog history from ancient times to the English Revolution has yet to be filled by breed historians and still remains a mystery.
Without the influence of dedicated, turn of the century American fanciers the French Bulldog breed would not be what it is today. They organized the very first French Bulldog Club in the world and insisted that the "bat" ear associated with the breed today was correct. French Bulldogs are an International Breed with fanciers from many nations being responsible for the creation of these loving dogs.
French Bulldog Appearance
The French Bulldog is a smooth coated member of the Non Sporting Group. French Bulldogs are recognized by the FCI, The Kennel Club of Great Britain, the AKC and the CKC. Though the French Bulldog in not a rare breed, Frenchies are not commonly seen and rank 81st in popularity. Registrations of French Bulldogs have been climbing steadily for the last twenty years.
The American and Canadian Breed Standard, has the maximum weight for a French Bulldog as 28 lbs.; the average weight for a male ranges between 20-28 lbs. while the female's range is 15-24 lbs. This size makes the French Bulldog a nice, sturdy, smaller sized dog, without the inherent frailty of many of the toy breeds. The French Bulldog's body is similar in type to the Bulldog, with less exaggeration. For example, while the French Bulldog jaw is also undershot, it is not to the same degree as the English Bulldog's.
The French Bulldog ears are of significant importance to the appearance of the Frenchie, and should always be "bat." Equally important is that indescribable, elusive expression of the French Bulldog. Most fanciers will describe "that face" as being one of their primary reasons for choosing the French Bulldog. With their gently wrinkled brow, clear gaze and alert, intense gaze, few breeds can give as clear an impression that they not only hear but can understand everything being said.
French Bulldogs come in a gorgeous array of colors. All except for black, meaning without a single white or other colored hair, are allowed in the show ring.
French Bulldog Home Environment
Frenchies make excellent pets for either apartments or homes, and are comfortable as either city or country dwellers. Frenchies have the overwhelming need to be in close contact with the person they love. Due to the inability of the French Bulldog to tolerate temperature extremes, housing a Frenchie outdoors is not a consideration. French Bulldogs requirement for exercise is minimal; Frenchies enjoy long walks or car drives.
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