Dogs in the Spotlight: French Bulldog
French Bulldogs, often fondly referred to as “Frenchies”, are increasingly becoming an American favorite because of their small size and big personalities. But it’s not only Americans who love this breed. Their popularity has grown in many countries since the 1800s when the Parisians crossbred English Toy Bulldogs with Parisian ratters to reduce the Toy Bulldog’s size.
Lifespan
Generally speaking, a French Bulldog’s life expectancy is anywhere from 11 – 13 years; females tend to live about a year longer than males.
Size and physique
Frenchies may be on the smaller side, but they are certainly not dainty dogs! They are muscular and agile with powerful jaws and strong legs. Weighing in at between 18 – 28 pounds, and standing about a foot tall, they’re just a tad big to be lap dogs — though their gregarious and loving natures make them happy to give lap cuddles a try.
Appearance
One of the most recognizable traits of French Bulldogs is their large, wide-set eyes, which help them to express their intelligence and emotions to their human companions. Other recognizable features include a short, scrunched muzzle, flanked by deep jowls hanging from their mouths. Large ears, often described as “bat-like”, stand up straight at attention. And their coats are known for being thin, soft, and silky; while they shed a bit, it’s not excessive.
Personality traits
One of the main reasons these dogs are so popular and beloved is due to their personalities. Pet owners say these lively dogs keep them entertained, and get a kick out of their spritely demeanors. Frenchies love to interact with their owners through a game of fetch or chase, but are equally happy to relax with their human on the couch.
They’ll bark — though not too much — and they’re protective, making them excellent watchdogs. They also can be vocal. There’s something known as the “Frenchie Wail”, which can come about from a scolding or loneliness. It’s usually not a sign of physical distress but instead a means of communicating displeasure.
There are certainly a lot of pros when it comes to this breed’s personality. Some of what owners say they love about Frenchies is that they are:
- frisky
- playful and comical
- affectionate and friendly
- usually get along well with other pets
- intelligent
- stout but athletic and active (though not good swimmers)
Like any dog, they aren’t without a few downsides to their personality. One of the big cons when it comes to personality is stubbornness — which can make them challenging to train.
Health-related complications
As delightful as their personalities are, breeding has left them with some rather undesirable physical maladies.
Breathing issues and noisiness
Frenchies have trouble breathing because of their short muzzles, which restricts their air intake and makes them prone to a lot of breathing issues — issues like snorting, snoring, drooling, and even gassiness.
Their short muzzles also mean they’re prone to allergies and overheating. Allergies can mean extra trips to the vet for testing and special diets but are generally easy enough to manage. Their inability to regulate body temperature means that you’ll need to take care to make sure your Frenchie isn’t exposed to heat for extended periods, and in air-conditioned spaces if you’re experiencing a heatwave.
Skin irritations
Another common health condition to watch for with French Bulldogs are skin irritations, like eczema and hives. They’re also not hypoallergenic. While their short hair makes them less prone to aggravating allergies in humans than some breeds, there might be a better breed for you.
Issues with build
French Bulldogs have narrow hips, and can sometimes make reproduction and birthing litters difficult. Their build can make it difficult for males to mount females, which can result in the need for artificial insemination. Females often have to have Caesarean sections because their hips are too narrow for pups to pass through the birthing canal.
This breed is also especially prone to back and spine problems, like herniated disks, because of the strain their short hind legs puts on their spines.
Eye problems
Frenchies are known for their sweet, wide eyes. Unfortunately, those same eyes can bring their fair share of eye problems. They can be susceptible to everything from Glaucoma, to retinal fold dysplasia, corneal ulcers, dry eyes, and Cherry eye (which is an everted third eyelid).
Please note that this blog is intended to inform only and is not intended as a tool for diagnosis. If your pet is suffering from any of the above conditions, please consult with a veterinarian.
Medical breakthroughs for beloved breeds
The good news is that new advancements for health support are here. Stem cell therapies utilize your pup’s own stem cells to help alleviate conditions that may slow them down as they age. Stem cell therapies have been shown to improve the quality of life of dogs with issues like chronic dry eye and skin conditions, age-related conditions like osteoarthritis, diseases that affect kidney, bowels, and spine, and injuries like torn ligaments and tendons. To reap the benefits of stem cell therapy, these precious stem cells can easily be collected and banked during the spay/neuter procedure.
If you are an ardent lover of French Bulldogs, don’t be swayed by fear of stubbornness or health conditions. Working with a reputable breeder will significantly minimize health risks. Adopting an adult from a French Bulldog rescue can let you get to know a dog’s personality before bringing your furry friend home.
Learn more about regenerative medicine and its potential for increasing the happy, healthy years you and your French Bulldog spend together.
