French Bulldog
Often described as "a clown in the cloak of a philosopher," the French Bulldog originated as, and continues to be used as a companion dog. The breed is small and muscular with heavy bone structure, a smooth coat, a short face and trademark "bat" ears. Prized for their affectionate natures and even dispositions, they are generally active and alert, but not unduly boisterous. Frenchies can be brindle, fawn, white, and brindle and white.
Breed Profile
The French Bulldog is well behaved, adaptable, and a comfortable companion with an affectionate nature and even disposition. They are generally active, alert, and playful, but not unduly boisterous.
Grooming
The Frenchie does require regular bathing and grooming. This lively and intelligent little dog can be bathed as frequently as every week up to no more than every six weeks depending on his lifestyle. With this smooth coated breed, regular bathing is essential to maintain healthy skin and coat. Selecting the correct products to match your pet’s skin and coat is essential to achieve optimal results.
Before bathing your Frenchie, it is recommended to go over the dog’s entire body with a high velocity dryer in order loosen any dirt and dander from the skin and remove any excess loose coat. Lightly card the coat to help accelerate shedding. Once you have selected the best products for your dog, it is bath time!
One area to pay particular attention to detail is the facial area. A facial cleanser allows you to focus on the entire facial surface as well as any facial wrinkles. Any wrinkles, however minor they may be, can hold bacteria. It is imperative to pay particular attention to those areas. The facial scrub can be used in between baths in order maintain freshness and good hygiene.
Finishing the Dog: Tools and Finish Grooming
This friendly, alert, and spirited little dog should be bathed and groomed on a regular basis. In order to keep the short, smooth coat in prime condition, it is always beneficial to use a hydrating spray following the bath and drying process. This allows the skin and coat to lock in moisture in order to maintain perfect hydration. As a finishing touch, before using a hydrating spray, use a grooming mitt and massage in a circular motion to stimulate the release of natural oils in addition to the removal of any excess loose hairs. Then finish with a hydrating spray.
General Health Care
Prep work is the foundation of all grooming. Prep work includes ear cleaning, nail trimming, anal glands, and proper dental hygiene. Mastering these skills sets the professional pet stylist apart from the rest. Prep work should be done before every bathing and grooming appointment. All dogs need to have their ears checked and cleaned on a regular basis. Proper nail care is also very important. Long, unsightly nails are uncomfortable for the dog, as well as anyone they might jump on. Long nails also compromise the shape of the foot. Trimming the pads of the foot helps give the dog good traction on different surfaces and can minimize the amount of dirt the dog tracks into the house. It also affords the opportunity to treat and condition the paws from cracks and abrasions. Anal glands should also be checked and expressed if they are full. Some caring pet owners prefer to have the anal glands done by their veterinarian. Good dental hygiene is essential for a healthy pet as well.
Nutritional Care
In order to maintain healthy skin and coat as well as overall health, it is important to provide good nutrition to your dog through a well-balanced diet, vitamins, and healthy treats.
Do they require a lot of grooming?
If you are not a fan of cutting hair, then you have made the right selection of choosing a French Bulldog. This smooth, short haired bundle of joy requires minimal grooming. However, weekly brushing is recommended. It is important to wash their face and pay particular attention to the wrinkles at least weekly if not twice a week.
What is a common problem in French Bulldogs?
The shortened muzzles of Frenchies predispose them to respiratory issues. Owners must use caution when the temperatures and humidity are high because they can overheat very easily. Other issues that are common are cataracts, a degenerative condition that may lead to blindness. In addition to cataracts, Allergic Dermatitis is one of the most common skin problems encountered in the breed. Typically, it requires a dermatologist to perform allergy testing to determine the cause of the dermatitis.
Do French Bulldogs shed or cause allergies?
Shedding is minimal with Frenchies due to their single coat. This breed produces less dander than many other breeds. However, the amount of dander a dog produces is different, and depends on the health of the skin and coat, as well as nutrition. Since they produce less dander, they should do better with people who are allergic to dogs. However, before bringing a Frenchie into your home if you suffer from allergies, you should spend some time around the breed to make sure you do not have an allergic reaction.
Are French Bulldogs good with children?
Frenchies are quirky little dogs that are full of personality. If children treat them well, they enjoy romping around with kids. They love company and need to be an integral part of a family.
What if I have a show dog?
Whether you have a show dog or a companion quality dog, the same basic care is given regarding nutrition, socialization, and hygiene. The difference is the conditioning of the dog and conformation training. It is always quite helpful if your breeder can help mentor you to lead you in the right direction upon entering the wonderful world of dog shows. A great place to start is with the national breed club like the French Bulldog Club of America, www.frenchbulldogclubofamerica.org
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