It’s French Bulldog Day on January 13th! These cute, lovable pooches are certainly celebrating. You may not expect a little pooch with bat ears and a squashed face to win the title of America’s most popular dog, but Fido managed. Knocking the Labrador off that number one slot is no easy feat, especially considering that the Lab had been happily panting and looking adorable in that top spot for three decades. We didn’t see that one coming! A local Marquette, MI veterinarian discusses these plucky little dogs in this article.
Breed Basics:
Frenchies have a big heart and a huge personality, both of which are crammed into a small, compact body. These guys usually live for about 10 to 12 years on average. They usually weigh under 30 pounds. As far as beauty care goes, they have short, sleek fur that requires little grooming and is easy to maintain.
Why Are Frenchies Such Popular Dogs?
Frenchies are charming, easy to take care of, and a lot of fun. They do not require much exercise, and love snuggling with their owners. They’re also often hilarious to watch. Who doesn’t want a furry roommate that makes you laugh constantly?
Why Do French Bulldogs Get Stolen So Often?
French Bulldogs are frequently stolen. Due to their popularity, they fetch high prices. (There is also a fluffy variety, which can go for up to $30,000.) They’re also small enough to be carried away easily. In fact, a woman in Washington D.C. recently received a ransom demand after her Frenchie was taken. (The pooch is now safely back at home.)
You may want to take a few precautions. Make sure that your canine companion has a microchip and identification tags. Never leave your dog unattended and exercise extra caution in areas like parks or public spaces, where he could potentially be taken. Spaying or neutering your dog will help fend away breeders. It also offers other health benefits. If your furry pal has not yet been fixed, seek advice from your Marquette, MI veterinarian.
Consider getting a pet tracker, such as GPS tags, for added peace of mind. And don’t forget to keep documentation of the adoption papers; proving ownership can be crucial in a court case.
What Is The French Bulldog’s Temperament?
There’s no wonder Fido has become the most popular dog in America. Frenchies are fun, playful, affectionate, and make friends easily.
A good training and petiquette program is essential for these guys, as they can be stubborn and protective.
Frenchies get very attached to their humans. If left alone too long, they become lonely and unhappy. If your pup will be at home by himself a lot, you may want to either get him a playmate or find a breed that is more independent.
French Bulldog Health Concerns
Frenchies are brachycephalic, which means that they have very short airways, and are prone to respiratory problems. That composition is responsible for their adorable, slightly smooshed-looking faces, but it can also cause a slew of health issues. (This also plays a huge role in Fido’s care needs.)
Additionally, Fido is susceptible to dental issues; eye problems, like cherry eye; skin problems; and intervertebral disc disease. Several tests are recommended for this breed, including patella, hip, ophthalmologist, and cardiac exams.
French Bulldog History
The French bulldog is a beloved companion dog that originated in the mid nineteenth century as a crossbreed of Paris’ ratter dogs and toy Bulldogs imported from England. While his ancestors were previously used for bull-baiting and pit fighting, Fido has always been a companion dog. Breeders worked hard to remove aggressive traits from the breed after bull-baiting was outlawed in the 1830s. (They also stuck bat ears on Fido.) The French bulldog quickly became a cherished companion among French lacemakers.
French Bulldogs: What Makes Them Special?
There is a saying that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Fido may not have the dignity and work ethic of a German Shepherd or the intelligence of a Border Collie, but he certainly has his own charms. Frenchies are cute, lovable, fun, and loyal, and they’re also pretty easy to keep. They don’t require much exercise or room, and generally don’t bark without cause. In fact, they’re ideal for city dwellers and anyone who lives in an apartment or condo.
Are French Bulldogs Prone To Dental Problems?
Many small dogs are prone to dental problems, and the Frenchie is no exception. These guys don’t have a lot of room for those 42 teeth! Fido is prone to dental issues like overcrowding and misalignment. Keep your pup’s choppers clean, and watch for warning signs, such as drooling, bad breath, and tartar buildup.
What Stars have French Bulldogs?
Fido has attracted some impressive fans, including actor and rapper Snoop Dogg and singer Megan Thee Stallion. Other well-known admirers of the breed include Reese Witherspoon and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, who tragically lost his beloved canine companion Brutus to accidental mushroom ingestion. It’s probably safe to say that list is going to keep growing!
What Do I Not Feed My Frenchie?
You should avoid giving your dog foods high in fat. This includes fried foods, cheese, and fatty meats, like bacon and sausages. You should also avoid foods high in salt, because the salt can cause dehydration.
Of course, you should also avoid the foods that are unsafe for all dogs, such as chocolate, garlic, grapes and raisins, onions, and avocados. Ask your Marquette, MI vet for more information.
Keep in mind that Frenchies are very good at plying their humans with sad expressions. This is very effective in getting us to offer tasty treats. You may need to steel yourself to resist Fido’s adorable bug eyes!
How Do I Care For A French Bulldog?
Like any other dog, Fido needs good food, suitable exercise, regular visits to his Marquette, MI vet, and affection.
French Bulldogs are unable to swim, so be very careful around water. Because they are so small, they can be in big trouble even in just a foot of water. You can let your little buddy wade and splash in a kiddie pool, as long as the water is very shallow.
Because their short airways make it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature, brachycephalic breeds like Frenchies tend to overheat very easily. You’ll need to be careful to keep your dog from overexerting himself. Consider investing in a cooling mat or vest for your furry pal.
We’d also advise being careful about what you have at Fido’s eye level. You don’t have to go overboard, but you should avoid placing sharp, thorny plants or pointy objects where he could run into them. Aside from that, don’t be shy about asking your veterinarian for care tips. That’s what we’re here for!
In conclusion, the French Bulldog is a charming, lovable little dog that is fun, playful, and a bit extra. They do have some specific care needs, so be sure to do lots of research before adopting one.
Do you have questions about French Bulldog care? Feel free to contact us, your Marquette, MI animal clinic. We are always happy to help!
