Frenchies
A French Bulldog Profile
Country of Origin – England
Between the Classical Greek times and the Industrial Revolution, dogs were bred for the sole purpose of competition, brutal competition. An especially valued family breed was the Mollossian, these were large dogs used in war and fight clubs. Phoenician traders liked these dogs for how they helped them on their trade routes. These dogs then became the Mastiff family. Mastiffs were further perfect warriors, guardians and workers. The subtypes of the Molossians were called the Bullenbeissers. These dogs resemble the modern day Pit Bull. These dogs were used to control cattle and became useful in butcher sports to bite the cows; the butchers believed it made the cow’s meat tender. This sport was banned in 1835 and the dogs had to retire and find new jobs. Some became farmer dogs while some stayed in larger cities like London and became companion dogs. Over time these dogs were bred smaller and smaller. But it wasn’t until the Industrial Revolution that the dogs become much smaller. During the Industrial Revolution, people from all over Europe moved to France and England (mainly cities like Bordeaux, Paris, London, Normandy even cities in the US) to take on industrial jobs. Because the corridors were smaller during those times, dogs were being bred smaller and smaller. The English loved the Bulldogs, they were already a source of national pride, but as the French artisans in England bred them with terriers, the Frenchie’s version of the bulldog started to change from the tradition English bulldog to a French version. By 1860 the English bulldog market didn’t like how the ears stood up and England was pretty much dry of bat eared bullies. The French however had no problem taking these miniature bulldogs in. Thus the Frenchie was born.
French Bulldog breeders weren’t that good at record keeping as the English were, so their breeding history is unclear.
Original Function – Companionship
The frenchie soon became a hit in Paris and other parts of France and made a living as lap warmers, gypsie-theives, artisan helpers, flea magnets, vermin chasers and companions. They became so popular that they started to be exported to the United Sates. Nineteen French Bulldogs debut in 1896 by some of socialite’s who’s who, the next year, they doubled. The following year all the winning dogs in the Westminster Dog Show had ears sticking up. This was the same trait not preferred by the English. In 1898, the most prominent ladies of the day held the first French Bulldog specialty show at the Waldorf-Astoria. It attracted the highest class of society. The French Bulldog received AKC recognition. Every aspiring lady and women of wealthy men had to have this $3,000 dollar dog next to them while shopping, out to tea or in their carriages. As you could imagine $3,000 in the early 1900’s was a lot of money. Even big people had their stakes in Frenchies like J.P. Morgan and the Rockefellers. By 1906 one hundred Frenchies were featured at the Westminster dog show and became the 5th most popular dog in America. The Frenchies main job was to be cute and to keep its bat ears standing upright.
Average Height -
The AKC standard is 11 to 14 inches.
Average Weight -
No more than 28 pounds. If the French Bulldog weighs more than 28 pound, it is a disqualification. Typical Frenchies weigh 20 to 28 lbs.
Temperament – Calm, but Active
Since the beginning of their lives French Bulldogs have always been well behaved, adaptable and comfortable with people. They are very curious and alert. It’s inherently in their blood to be playful and active. They’re sociable without being manic. The French Bulldog is a friendly dog. They like to meet strangers, and they are always up for a snuggle or cuddle. But unlike some other breed that demands pats or attention by jumping up, running around and acting like maniacs, the Frenchie stays calm and collective while soliciting and accepting affection. The frenchie is comical and thoughtful. They are known as clowns in philosopher’s robes. These abilities make the Frenchie an awesome therapy companion. Frenchies are notorious for being good at sensing your moods and working their way into being the perfect companion.
Socialization – Friendly
French bulldogs love people and welcome attention. Puppies should be socialized with other dogs at a young age to ensure they get along with all creatures.
Colors – AKC Qualified
Brindle, fawn, white, and brindle and white. There are other colors too. But they are disqualifications from AKC dog shows. You can see color examples here.
Coat Type – Short
Moderately fine, brilliant, short and smooth
Grooming Needs – Not Much
An average shedder, regular brushing is all that’s required for this easy-to-groom breed. Check out our Frenchie Grooming Tips.
Energy Level – Moderate
Exercise Needs – Moderate
Moderate Exercise should be sufficient for this breed. Because of their flat face, the French bulldog should not exercise in hot weather.
Training Needs – Much
Training the French Bulldog takes planning, time and repetition. Frenchies respond well to training that is made into a game. Check out or French Bulldog Training Category for Frenchie Training Tips.