Linda Whitwam - The French Bulldog Handbook

This book has been written to provide helpful information on French Bulldogs. It is not meant to be used, nor should it be used, to diagnose or treat any medical condition. For diagnosis or treatment of any animal medical problem, consult a qualified veterinarian. The author is not responsible for any specific health or allergy conditions that may require medical supervision and is not liable for any damages or negative consequences from any treatment, action, application or preparation, to any person reading or following the information in this book. References are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute endorsement of any websites or other sources.

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Authors Note: For ease of reading the masculine pronoun he is intended to represent both male and female dogs.

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LINDA WHITWAM

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ISBN: 978-1500439170

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The French Bulldog has progressed through the Kennel Club rankings on both sides of the Atlantic quicker than any other breed. Today it is one of the most popular dogs in the world. So what is the reason for the Frenchies meteoric rise to fame?

Its true that all breeds are different, but this breed is quite unique - not only in terms of his instantly recognisable appearance, but also in terms of his playful and winning personality. He is also extremely affectionate - some owners even go so far as to describe Frenchies as their little love machines!

Add to that the fact that the Frenchie is adaptable, he doesnt need a lot of exercise, hes suitable for apartment life, old people and families, and you see why he ticks so many boxes for so many people.

His big bat ears and doe eyes, squashed, wrinkly face and an expression that says hes seen it all before all prove an irresistible combination for many dog lovers. And if youre out and about with your Frenchie, you may well find that hes a people magnet.

The French Bulldog is a companion dog without equal. He loves to be with his people and hell keep you amused with his antics and sense of fun. If you are out at work all day, dont get a Frenchie, go for a breed which is less dependent on humans for happiness.

The Frenchie has one of the strangest nicknames of all dogs: A clown in the cloak of a philosopher. This is a breed with a mind of its own, sometimes unpredictable in that you cant guess what he might do next but it will probably make you smile. Underneath all of that is a huge heart from a loyal companion who is only too eager to please you.

The American Kennel Club breed standard describes the Frenchie as: an active, intelligent, muscular dog of heavy bone, smooth coat, compactly built, and of medium or small structure. Expression is alert, curious and interested.

Frenchies also have a reputation for being good with children, some would say they seem to have a natural affinity and protective instinct towards youngsters. However, small children and dogs should always be supervised.

Your French Bulldogs character will depend largely on two things. The first is his temperament, which he inherits - and presumably one of the reasons why you have chosen a Frenchie. What many owners do not realise is that as well as being born with those wrinkles, big ears and other trademark physical features, your dog has also inherited his temperament from his parents and ancestors.

Good breeders select their breeding stock based not only on appearance, but also on what sort of disposition he or she has. And thats another reason to take your time to find a good, responsible breeder. The French Bull Dog Club of America (FBDCA) describes the temperament of a well-bred Frenchie as: Well behaved, adaptable, and comfortable companions with an affectionate nature and even disposition; generally active, alert, and playful, but not unduly boisterous.

The second factor is environment or how you rear and treat your dog. In other words, its a combination of Nature and Nurture. The first few months in a dogs life are so important. Once he has left the litter, he takes his lead from you as he learns to react to the world around him. One essential aspect of nurture is socialisation. Even though Frenchies are generally affectionate and even-tempered, it is essential to spend time introducing yours to other dogs and humans, as well as loud noises and traffic, from an early age. A dog comfortable in his surroundings without fear or anxieties is less likely to display unwanted behaviour.

Through your guidance and good socialisation your Frenchie learns whom he can trust, whether to be afraid - which in turn may cause an aggressive or fearful reaction in him - how much he can get away with, and so on.

To say all dogs of the same breed are alike would be akin to saying that all Americans are optimistic and friendly and all Brits are polite and reserved. It is, of course, a huge generalisation. There are grumpy, unfriendly Americans or rude in-your-face Brits. However, it is also true to say that being friendly and optimistic are general American traits, as is being polite in Britain.

Its the same with the French Bulldog. Each individual dog has his or her unique character, but there are certain traits which are common within the breed. Also, the Frenchie is known as one of the Bully breeds, in other words, it originated from the Bulldog and all Bully breeds share certain characteristics, which include a single-mindedness or bullishness, even!

So here are some typical French Bulldog traits:

• They are very loving, loyal and enjoy spending time with their owners
• They make unparalleled companion dogs, provided you can give them the time they need
• They are even tempered and adaptable to your lifestyle. Raised properly they are very affectionate without being needy
• They can be attention-seeking, sometimes jealous, and demand your attention for their happiness
• Despite their muscular appearance, Frenchies are not aggressive dogs. They are stocky lapdogs who love cuddling up
• They often have a comical or clownish personality and do funny, illogical things. Some Frenchies love to have a mad few minutes and dash around, grabbing things in their mouths, play bowing or chasing - and they love to be chased