Looking like a small, bat-eared version of the Bulldog, the French Bulldog is a completely different dog from his English cousin. In the mid-1800s, the English developed several types of miniature Bulldogs. They never became popular in England, but in France the idea caught on. The dog that developed in France, often called the Frenchie, has a unique appearance, set off by his wide, rounded ears and dome-shaped forehead.

The French Bulldog is a mild-tempered companion dog looking for friendship with people and animals alike. Sturdy and muscular, he enjoys playing with children, but sometimes favors the company of one special person.

He’s a clean dog. His short coat requires only weekly brushing. Although he is an excellent watchdog, he doesn’t bark without a cause.

French Bulldogs have short, smooth, shiny coats that come in brindle (brown with black stripes), fawn, white, and brindle and white. They should not be solid black, mouse, liver, black and tan, or black and white. The “bat” ears are broad at the base, long, and have rounded tips. His nose is black.

Excerpts from the Standard

General Appearance: Active, intelligent, muscular, with a smooth coat and alert and interested expression.

Size, Proportion, and Substance: Weight—not more than 28 pounds.

Fun Facts

When the weather gets hot, Frenchies like to stay inside in an air conditioned setting. For all the short-faced dogs, breathing can be difficult in muggy, hot conditions. Frenchies can really feel the heat.

Excerpted from The Complete Dog Book For Kids © 1996, John Wiley & Sons, Inc.