French bulldog puppy. Portrait on a white background

French Bulldog

Breed Characteristics

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.

Is the French Bulldog allowed as a pet in a Singapore HDB flat?

No

Origin

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.

Original Purpose

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.

Behaviour and Temperament

Well-behaved and mild-mannered, French Bulldogs are also playful, amiable, affectionate, cheerful, and curious dogs.

What are some Physical Features of the French Bulldog?

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.

Coat Type and Recommended Grooming

The French Bulldog sports an easy to care for short coat. Minimal care required; no trimming, just regular brushing. Frenchies are average shedders.

Life Expectancy of the French Bulldog

The life expectancy of the French Bulldog is between 9 and 12 years.

French Bulldog Puppies in the Community

Have a French Bulldog?

Health Concerns

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.

Exercise Needs

Low to moderate. Needs daily walks, however not in hot weather.

Housing

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.

Sociability

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.

Trainability

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.

Recommended Activities

Companionship.

French Bulldog Dog Club / Communities in Singapore

The most active French Bulldog Club in Singapore is Frenchies Lah!, a Facebook group with over 2000 active French Bulldog lovers.