Dog food for French bulldogs test

French Bulldogs: Loyal, cute companions

The french bulldog, from fans and connoisseurs also lovingly Frenchie or bully called, is nowadays an affectionate, cuddly, child-loving and social fellow.

You can't actually tell that his breed has a much bloodier background: as representatives of the Molossians, the ancestors of today's bullies were unfortunately used for brutal dog fights.

Since these animal cruel events were banned in the 19th century, the picture has changed a lot – today's Frenchies actually have nothing in common with their inglorious ancestors in terms of character.

Profile

  • Country of origin: France
  • Height at withers: Males 27-35 cm, females 24-32 cm
  • Weight: Males 9-14 kg, females 8-13 kg
  • fur: Tight short hair, no undercoat
  • Typical colors: Fawn (beige), brindle & piebald

Source: FCI & VDH

Origins in England, continued breeding in France

Dog fighting with bulldogs was very popular in England. From there the animals came to France and began a new career: as an alternative to cats, they were used primarily in craft businesses and butcher shops Rat controlg used.

Over time, bulldogs were then crossed with other breeds: First of all Pugs, Spitz and Terriers mixed with the immigrants from the island. A new breed slowly developed from this: the relatively large and hunting-loving four-legged friends became the rather small, stocky Bully.

Popular city dog ​​today

As sanitary conditions improved in France in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, bulldogs were soon no longer needed as working dogs. Then something amazing happened: The emerging urban middle class discovered the breed for themselves, and having a bully was suddenly all the rage. A “poor man’s animal” became one of these Status symbol for wealthy people.

The first ones soon arrived Breeding standards set. Today the French Bulldog is an FCI-recognized breed that is bred worldwide and is primarily known as City and family dog enjoyed great popularity.

Physique of the breed

Unfortunately, French bulldogs are often bought not only because of their temperament, but also because of their appearance. Bullies simply look cute, fit the childish mold and therefore unconsciously awaken our protective instincts.

Unfortunately, this also has its downsides: for the dogs themselves anatomy also some problems. Their stocky, muscular bodies suggest that they are real powerhouses that could be extensively supported. Unfortunately, that is not the case at all – Instead, bullies need to be treated very gently.

Problematic head shape

This is mainly due to the Head shape of the animals: The breed standard for French bulldogs states that the head is “characterized by the shortened upper jaw and nose area and by a nose that slopes slightly backwards”. Furthermore, “the nose is directed slightly upwards”, the “lower jaw is in front of the upper jaw and runs upwards in an arc”.

This gives the bullies their characteristic and cute appearance, but is anything but pleasant for the animals: the body structure is very unnatural and the dogs suffer from one from birth brachycephaly, i.e. short-headedness. Consequences of this include:

  • Severe shortness of breath
  • Problems regulating body temperature
  • Eye problems
  • Degeneration of the dental apparatus or also
  • Problems with the spine and joints.

Often referred to as “torture breeding” classified

The breed has therefore been increasingly popular for some time Criticism: Bullies are increasingly being referred to as “torture breeding” because their appearance inevitably means that they will suffer from health problems in their lives.

Some countries forbid There is now even a trade in French bulldogs – the German animal protection law is not quite as clear in this regard, which is why breeding continues.

Furthermore, the precise breeding with initially only a few animals has also meant that Frenchies often have innate sensitivities. The breed is relatively easy to care for when it comes to temperament, but otherwise you will have to take care of a few things over the course of the dog's life problems set.