French Bulldogs make very good watch dogs. Due to its short muzzle, the Frenchie does not handle hot weather well. Some wheeze and snore, but a good percentage does not.
England, 1800s. Contrary to the name, the French Bulldog’s origin traces back to Nottingham, England. The breed was created by lace makers who wanted a miniature version of the English Bulldog. They named these lap-versioned dogs ‘toy bulldog’. The 1860s Industrial Revolution drove these craftsmen to France, where they brought along their dogs. These dogs gained popularity in France and were given the ‘French Bulldog’ name. The breed subsequently made its way back to England as show dogs. Even though the Brits weren’t pleased with the ‘French’ prefix given that the dog originated from England, the name stuck. Also known as the Bouledogue Francais.
The French Bulldog enjoyed a long history as a companion dog, and at one time served as a ratter. Today, this rare breed is happy being a family friend.
Well-behaved and mild-mannered, French Bulldogs are also playful, amiable, affectionate, cheerful, and curious dogs.
The French Bulldog stands between 28 to 33 cm tall, and usually weighs under 12.5 kg. Sports a sturdy build. The French Bulldog is most famous for his “bat” ears and perfectly flat skull. Colours are fawn, brindle, white, brindle-and-white. It can have a black mask, be brindled, piebald, spotted or have white markings.
The French Bulldog sports an easy to care for short coat. Minimal care required; no trimming, just regular brushing. Frenchies are average shedders.
French Bulldogs are predisposed to heart defects, spinal disorders, joint diseases and eye problems. The breed also tends to have respiratory problems. May wheeze and snore and have difficulty coping with Singapore’s hot weather. Not suited for anaesthesia because of their breathing issues. French Bulldogs tend to have comparatively higher vet bills.
Low to moderate. Needs daily walks, however not in hot weather.
Can adapt to any living situation. The French Bulldog is fairly active indoors and will do fine even without a yard. Frenchies do not tolerate extreme temperatures well, may suffer on hot days in Singapore.
Often a one-person dog. The French Bulldog gets along relatively well with strangers. Not always good with children, best with children that are taught to be considerate towards dogs. Can get along well with other canine pets. The French Bulldog retains his ratter instincts and is a relentless hunter of mice, not to be trusted with other small animals.
Average. The Frenchie is intelligent, and training sessions should be relatively easy as long they are conducted like a game. That said, the French Bulldog needs a consistent and patient trainer. Not best suited for obedience and agility training, but some have risen to the challenge.
Companionship.
The most active French Bulldog Club in Singapore is Frenchies Lah!, a Facebook group with over 2000 active French Bulldog lovers.
