French Bulldog Day is coming up on January 13th, and these cute, lovable dogs 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 breed, but Fido managed. Taking that top spot is no easy feat, especially considering that the Labrador Retriever had been happily panting and looking adorable in that top spot for over three decades. A Haddon Township, NJ vet discusses French Bulldogs in this article.
Breed Basics For The French Bulldog
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. Having a furry roommate that makes you laugh constantly is a great thing!
Fido has a big heart and a huge personality, both of which are stuffed into a small, compact body. These guys usually live for about 10 to 12 years on average. They usually weigh under 30 pounds. They have short, sleek fur that requires little grooming and is easy to maintain.
Why Are Frenchies So Often Dognapped?
French Bulldogs are frequently stolen. There are a few reasons for this. 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 picked up and carried off. In fact, a woman in Washington D.C. recently received a ransom demand after her Frenchie was taken. (Fortunately, that pooch is now safely back at home.)
You may want to take a few precautions to keep your canine pal safe from dognappers.
- Make sure Fido has a microchip and identification tags.
- Never leave your dog unattended and be extra careful in public spaces, where Fido could potentially be taken.
- Spaying or neutering your dog will help fend away breeders. It also offers other health benefits. If your dog has not yet been fixed, seek advice from your Haddon Township, NJ veterinarian.
- Consider getting a pet tracker, such as GPS tags, for added peace of mind.
- Keep all adoption papers; proving ownership can be crucial in a court case.
What Is The French Bulldog’s Disposition?
There really is a lot to love about these charming, dogs. It’s really 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 a must: these guys can be stubborn and protective. (Did we mention the fact that these guys are a little extra?)
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 buddy, or find a breed that is more independent.
What Health Issues Do French Bulldogs Have?
Like all other breeds, the Frenchie is prone to a few specific health issues. Respiratory and dental problems are at the top of the list. Frenchies are brachycephalic, and have short airways. That feature is responsible for their adorable, smooshed-looking faces, but it can also cause a slew of health issues, particularly respiratory problems. (This also plays a huge role in Fido’s care needs.)
Additionally, the Frenchie 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. Ask your animal hospital for more information.
French Bulldog Breed History
A crossbreed of Paris’ ratter dogs and toy Bulldogs imported from England, the French bulldog originated in the mid nineteenth century, and quickly became a cherished companion of French lacemakers. Although Fido’s ancestors were previously used for bull-baiting and pit fighting, the French bulldog 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 gave Fido his trademark bat ears.)
Why Are Frenchies So Special?
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.
We know, not everyone is drawn to these little guys. You know what they say: beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
What Should French Bulldogs Eat?
Like any other pooch, Fido should have a high quality pet food. Avoid giving your canine buddy foods that are 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 of our canine pals, such as chocolate, garlic, grapes and raisins, onions, and avocados. Ask your Haddon Township, NJ vet for more information, including tips on portion sizes and feeding practices.
It’s worth noting that these guys are very, very good at plying their humans with sad expressions that are so effective in getting us to fork over tasty treats. You may need to steel yourself against Fido’s adorable bug eyes and pleading expression!
Are French Bulldogs Prone To Dental Problems?
Dental problems are not uncommon in smaller dogs. French Bulldogs are 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. Ask your Haddon Township, NJ vet for specific advice.
What Stars have French Bulldogs As Pets?
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.
How Do I Take Care Of A French Bulldog?
Like any other dog, Fido needs good food, suitable exercise, and affection. Proper veterinary care is also crucial.
French Bulldogs are unable to swim, so be very careful around water. These little dogs can be in big trouble even in just a foot of water!
Brachycephalic breeds like Frenchies tend to overheat very easily, because their short airways make it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. Don’t let your dog overexert himself! Consider investing in a cooling mat or vest for him to have in summer.
Finally, be cautious about what you have at Fido’s eye level. Avoid placing sharp, thorny plants or pointy objects where he could run into them.
Do you have questions about caring for a Frenchie? Is your canine buddy due for a veterinary exam? Please contact us, your Haddon Township, NJ animal clinic, for all of your pet’s veterinary care needs. We are dedicated to providing excellent care in 2024 and beyond!
