FRENCH BULLDOG

COUNTRY: France

WEJGHT: Under 22 pounds or 22-28 pounds

HEIGHT: 12 inches

COAT: Short, smooth

COLOR: Brindle, fawn (with or without white markings); piebald or white

OTHER NAMES: Bouledogue Francais

Group:Mastiff








During the 1860s, Bulldogs reached the height of popularity. Toy varieties appeared, which were highly favored, particularly around the English midlands where lace-making flourished. These diminutive Bullys may have been taken to France when some of the lacemakers moved there.

To say the Frenchie was developed totally from English stock is to ignore the fact that many other countries had, at this time, short-faced, bull-baiting and fighting dogs. Spain, especially, had erect-eared bull-baiting dogs. This new breed became highly visible in France, and visiting Americans brought it back to the USA.

Originally, many had the rose ear of their larger counterpart, but the erect, round-tipped "bat" ear has become their hallmark. Americans have been credited with fixing the bat ear. When this breed first "returned" to England to be shown, around 1900, a brouhaha arose. The English were highly insulted that the French had the nerve to use the name "Bulldog" since it was a symbol of Great Britain. Much controversy ensued: letters and editorials in the doggy press and opposition from the existing Miniature Bulldog faction. But despite all this, a specialty club was formed in England in 1903, and soon the Frenchie was recognized and is now known around the world.

Reliable sources on the sinking of the Titantic report a French Bulldog to be the only animal or pet to have perished in this historical disaster. The dog's owner sued for $1,500, a substantial sum for 1912.

The French Bulldog has less body bulk, exaggeration of wrinkle and bowing of legs than its English counterpart. He is born with a bobtail, eliminating the need for surgery. The breed standard is uniform throughout the world with the exception of color. The fawns and creams so favored in North America and Britain are disallowed in continental Europe.

The Frenchie has a bright, alert expression, conveying his fun-loving outlook. He enjoys a large or small family, adults or children. A delight in obedience, he is happy, bright and willing to please. The Frenchie character, alarm bark without yappiness and easy upkeep make these dogs a good choice as companions.