When you hear the name French Bulldog, you can’t help but assume that it originated from France. But the truth is, this dog was primarily developed in England as a miniature English Bulldog. When this breed reached France, the French raved all over this breed that it was named the French Bulldog.
It was said that around the mid 1800s, lace workers from England went to France in search for jobs and they brought with them little bulldogs. In their settlements, these little bulldogs became popular as ratters and loyal companions until such time that their populations grew. These dogs were then further developed using French Terriers and the resulting breed became a rage in Paris.
During these times, the French Bulldog became the favorite of Parisian street walkers. It was believed that the exotic looks of the Frenchie caught the attention of passersby and this allowed possible chats between the owner and the stranger. Even French postcards were then illustrated with French prostitutes posing with their Frenchies and soon after, artistic people across Europe owned this breed.
Well-known personalities around the world were seen to have Frenchies and these include: the Russian royal family, King Edward VII, Collete the author, and Toulouse-Lautrec. However, the current appearance of the Frenchie is credited to the American breeders who further improved this breed at the start of the century. The American fanciers were also the first people to create the very first French Bulldog Club.
The Frenchie weighs 20 to 28 pounds and has a body that is compact and muscular. It has the head of the English Bulldog only smaller, which is flat and square. The nose of the Frenchie is likened to the nose of a Pug, the ears are erect and bat like, and the tail is short and corkscrew or straight.
This dog has a short, soft and smooth coat. Its skin is fairly lose and pleasant to touch. The coat colors commonly come in shades of brindle, fawn, white and every combination of these.
The Frenchie makes a good companion because it has a pleasant and easy going personality. Although not excessively active, this dog is nonetheless playful, sweet and affectionate. This dog will also draw a hearty laugh from you because of its hilarious and comical ways.
This little breed is intelligent, alert and curious and so it needs daily exercise out in the open. However, be warned that this dog is extremely sensitive to hot temperatures and this may sometimes cause him heat stroke. This dog prefers cool climates and an apartment type of dwelling makes him comfortable enough.
