It’s no surprise that the French Bulldog is one of the most popular breeds in cities like New York. Because of their compact size, they make wonderful apartment dogs. They only require a minimal amount of exercise and are generally quiet. On the other hand, you may need to spend the time you save at the park taking your pooch to training classes or to the vet. French Bulldog’s can be stubborn and often have genetic health issues.
Size:
19-28 lbs.
Exercise Requirements:
French Bulldogs only need a minimal amount of daily exercise. Their flat faces (while very cute) can cause these dogs to have difficulty breathing and they can overexert themselves very easily. Thus, Frenchies only need a brief walk every day to help them stay trim. Keep in mind: if you have a pool or pond on your property, make sure to keep a watchful eye on your French Bulldog. These dogs are too top-heavy to swim.
Mess Factor:
Surprisingly, French Bulldogs can shed a good deal despite their short coats. You’ll need to have your vacuum cleaner handy to keep your floors and furniture hair-free. Frenchies have a tendency to slobber due to the shape of their mouths.
Barking and Volume:
Another reason why the Frenchie is such a good apartment dog? It’s a relatively quiet pooch. Your neighbors can sleep soundly at night with this breed living next door. On the other hand, you may be kept awake by the dog’s snoring.
Training Requirements:
The French Bulldog’s stubborn nature means that parents will need to have plenty of patience in order to train this breed. When a Frenchie misbehaves, you will need to correct the dog immediately with calm authority. Children will also need to exercise confident leadership or else the Frenchie will assume he’s the alpha dog. A puppy class is a must.
Ongoing Costs:
Health Factors: Frenchies often suffer from joint diseases, heart defects and respiratory disorders. These dogs are also prone to heatstroke and can develop severe breathing problems if they become overweight. Expect a big vet bill with this high-maintenance breed. * A reputable breeder can help minimize the risk of genetic disorders.
Grooming: French Bulldogs need minimal grooming. A thorough brushing every week will suffice.
Training: A puppy class is an absolute must for this hardheaded breed. Depending on your dog, you may need additional obedience classes to teach basic commands.
Other: Be prepared to pull out your credit card if you want to purchase a French Bulldog. Breeders can charge over $1200 for a puppy because Frenchie females can only get pregnant through artificial insemination.
Grooming Requirements:
With their short coats, French Bulldogs require little grooming — a quick brushing once a week is sufficient. When the Frenchie gets dirty, simply wipe him down with a wet cloth. Additionally, parents should clean their dog’s face folds on a regular basis to prevent bacterial growth.
Kid Compatibility:
If you have young children in your family, the French Bulldog may not be the best dog for your household. Since these dogs like to roughhouse, they aren’t always compatible with babies and toddlers. Older children will do just fine with this breed.
Longevity:
10 to 12 years.
Friendliness Towards Animals:
Members of this breed love to play with other dogs and get along with some pets. The French Bulldog may not do well in a home with rodents, though, because they are known to hunt mice.
Friendliness Towards People:
French Bulldogs adore spending time with their parents and thrive on human companionship. Nicknamed the “little clown,” Frenchies are true lapdogs who will clamor for your attention whenever they feel neglected. These dogs will definitely keep you entertained.
BE PREPARED FOR: Lots of snoring and slobbering from this small dog with a big heart.
