This dog is ranked as the top most popular dog breed by the American Kennel Club (AKC), but its popularity doesn’t just stop in the United States. The French Bulldog is the seventh most popular dog breed in the world and number one in the United States. You don’t have to spend much time with this dog to understand why. The French Bulldog is truly a lovable breed, and their personality and temperament are a big part of their appeal, all wrapped up in one adorable package.
As you learn about the French Bulldog, you’ll fall in love with this dog. It’s hard to believe that this breed is a descendant of the Molosser of the Roman Empire, an early fighting dog related to today’s Mastiffs. Still, there are several reasons why this breed is so popular.
10 reasons why French Bulldogs are so popular
1. Cuteness
First, let’s address the least important of the many reasons owners are drawn to French Bulldogs: these puppies are seriously cute! Humans have developed a caring side, not only towards their own children, but also towards animals that have infantile characteristics. This is called the “cuteness factor”. This often involves small animals with small eyes, small mouths and plump cheeks relative to the size of their heads. So, let’s take a look at French Bulldogs. Their large eyes and ears are their distinctive features, and it’s no wonder humans are naturally drawn to these dogs. More on this later!
2. Familiarity
The French Bulldog captured the hearts of lacemakers in the textile hub of Nottingham, England, who, believe it or not, often used the dogs as lap dogs to keep warm. And when the textile industry became industrialized, they took them to Paris, where they caught the attention of wealthy Americans traveling on the continent, who noticed that one of the breed’s trademarks was its friendly nature.
These new interactions have likely led to an open attitude towards strangers. French Bulldogs can be a little protective, but not overly so. These dogs love their family and have no problem showing it.
3. They get along well with children
French Bulldogs are open to people and open to children, which is why many parents consider them as family pets. These dogs are not particularly biting, which is another of their advantages. They also tend not to leave the house. This breed is a small animal, but not too small, making it a good size for interacting with small children under parental supervision.
4. Playfulness
French Bulldogs are not just cute. These puppies love to play, which underscores that last point. French Bulldogs are active, but not overly strenuous. They love interaction and attention. They prefer to be with their family rather than being alone. That’s why French Bulldogs are best suited to active homes where someone is always there to provide enrichment and mental stimulation.
5. Relatively quiet
Many small dogs compensate for their size with a loud voice. Scientists have many theories about what causes this ferocity. The French Bulldog shatters that preconception. Despite being playful, this dog only barks when necessary or to warn you. Behavioral problems are a common complaint of relinquished pets, but the French Bulldog just wants your love and attention and is more than happy to please.
6. Adaptability
Many owners choose this breed because of its adaptability. It makes a great companion for apartment dwellers. Its activity level is also well suited to apartment living. French Bulldogs are also a great dog for first-time pet owners. They are easy to train, but can be a little stubborn. However, consistency and positive reinforcement are the keys to success in overcoming stubbornness early on.
7. Minimum grooming standards
Grooming is a time-consuming but essential task for any dog owner. Grooming involves keeping your animal’s fur neatly trimmed, but it’s also a great opportunity to bond with your pet and check their skin, ears and nails. French Bulldogs are easy to groom, thanks to their smooth, short fur. Brushing once a week with a hound’s glove or curry brush will help keep your pup looking their best.
Shedding is also a factor to consider – this dog does shed, but not as much as a Samoyed or Golden Retriever – but with regular grooming and a healthy diet, it’s easy to keep under control.
8. Laid-back personality
We have already mentioned the French Bulldog’s adaptability. This trait goes hand in hand with its easy-going nature, which is the product of selective breeding. Interestingly, this temperament is reflected in the breed standard, which requires that puppies have a “gentle disposition.”
9. The right size
The right size is important when considering how you will interact with your pet. 95% of owners We view our pets as part of the family, and being the right size fits that bill. Smaller pets are easier to take on vacations or to the lake, and vet care and lodging are more affordable, which makes a big difference for many people.
10. Companion Dog
While many dogs have had other jobs, such as herding, guarding, or hunting, the French Bulldog has a long history as a pet. The French Bulldog has an advantage because fanciers have carefully selected and bred puppies to cultivate desirable traits. They don’t have the burden of wandering, prey instincts, or independence. Frenchies just want to be with you, making them a true best friend.
About the baby French Bulldog’s face
Our research has led us down an interesting path: the appearance impressions of French Bulldogs, especially other brachycephalic breeds, and human emotions towards these dogs. Evidence shows that our love for these puppies is inevitable; it comes down to the shape of the animal’s face and skull. Scientists explain the human-like features of these dogs as part of the baby schema, which means that to us they appear almost toddler-like, as mentioned in the first point.
the study Maternal cognition is deeply rooted in humans and has been shown to be expressed in neural responses in the female brain. These responses appear to cross species boundaries with shared communal feelings. Think about when you see a cute puppy. Your instinct may be to pet the dog, asking permission of course. You and the owner spend time together talking about the puppy. These interactions support this hypothesis.
Other evidence They point out the short noses and large bodies of dogs like French bulldogs, both characteristics that correlate with perceptions of cuteness. the study These feelings persist across species, not just in babies but also in puppies. Scientists call this concept the “Kintchenschema.”
Why do humans have this instinct? For humans, helping babies helps us survive. Brachycephalic dogs like French bulldogs trigger this response. Our brains perceive animals with large foreheads, eyes and short noses as babies, and they give us the stimulation we need.
Interestingly, it can also affect our behavior. study They found that seeing pictures of cute dogs increased participants’ reaction times and made them more cautious in their actions. It makes evolutionary sense to be more aggressive when survival is at stake. But this instinct does have an effect on brachycephalic dog breeds like French bulldogs.
Treating dogs like babies is sure to confuse scientists with anthropomorphic language — puppies are not little people, and shouldn’t be treated that way — but some argue that anthropomorphism has helped humans survive: assigning emotions to animals might have made us better hunters, able to spot more effective strategies.
Another theory states that anthropomorphism evolved in humans over 40,000 years ago. This led to dogs becoming pets and eventually support animals. Some even say that animal companions are a factor in human survival. No doubt, some French Bulldog owners would agree with this. However, the uncertainty surrounding this breed is a result of the demand for dogs, which affects their welfare.
Important things to know before buying a French Bulldog
The global popularity of this breed speaks to the universal perception of this breed. French Bulldogs are on a roll. However, there are concerns about the health risks of this breed due to selective breeding. Unfortunately, this breed is prone to several health problems, including respiratory diseases, heat stroke, exercise intolerance, and spinal disorders.
If you are considering purchasing a French Bulldog, we strongly encourage you to only buy from sellers who perform the recommended pre-breeding health tests. Do not purchase a dog from individuals who do not provide this information or offer a health guarantee. After all, some diseases develop later in a dog’s life.
of American Great Pyrenees Club The Code of Ethics is the highest standard when dealing with breeders. It states that “Breeders shall provide the purchaser with all necessary advice, reasonable assistance and support throughout the life of the dog.” With French Bulldogs, the Code of Ethics is more important than ever, given the breed’s popularity. Unfortunately, puppies are subject to exploitation. Be smart and ask questions, including requesting to meet the mother and siblings.
Conclusion
French Bulldogs are well-deserving of their top dog status. They are friendly and affectionate pets, ticking many of the boxes pet owners look for. They are adaptable and relatively docile, and they get along well with children, making them a welcome addition to any home. However, understanding their unique needs is essential for their physical and mental health.
Featured Image Credit: Tanya Consaul Photography, Shutterstock
