French bulldog, sometimes called the Frenchie, is a muscular little dog known for its compact face and erect, batlike ears. It has a large, square head and a short nose. Its chunky body is broader in front than in back, with a naturally short tail. The dog has soft, loose skin that usually is wrinkled on the face and shoulders. However, the French bulldog has a less wrinkled face than does the English bulldog. The French bulldog has a smooth coat that may be brindle (streaked light and dark), fawn (light yellowish-brown), white, or brindle and white. The dog measures 11 to 13 inches (28 to 33 centimeters) tall at the shoulder and weighs from 18 to 28 pounds (8 to 13 kilograms).
Frenchies originated in France in the 1400’s. They are primarily bred to be pets. The French bulldog is intelligent, affectionate, easygoing, and playful. It makes a great companion and watchdog. However, it can also be somewhat stubborn. Frenchies require less grooming and exercise than many other breeds.
French bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed. Brachycephalic breeds are purposefully bred to have broad, flat heads. This exaggerated head shape makes them vulnerable to health problems, especially brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). BOAS is a condition in which brachycephalic dogs cannot breathe normally, due to their small nostrils, abnormal throat tissue, and—in some cases—narrow airway. As many as 45 percent of all French bulldogs may have BOAS.
Since the 2010’s, French bulldogs have ranked among the most popular breeds in the United States. The dogs are especially popular pets among city dwellers because they can adapt well to living in an apartment or condominium.
