Animal spotlight: French Bulldogs

It is difficult to overstate the extent of the craze surrounding French Bulldogs over the past decade. Frenchies, as they are affectionately called, have become the 6th most popular pet dog breed in the United States, according to American Kennel Club (AKC).

They’re known for their brassy personalities and are easily recognizable due to their distinctive features, which include bat-like ears and adorably large foreheads. Frenchies require minimal exercise, which explains their love of sleeping in followed by extensive napping.

Because of their bulky shape and snub noses, which make breathing difficult, Frenchies have a difficult time controlling their body temperature and often become overheated. In extreme circumstances, this can even be lethal for the dogs who otherwise live an average lifespan of 11 to 13 years.

Historically, the Frenchie breed developed from the English Bulldog across Europe in the early 1800s. French Bulldogs did not appear in the United States in significant numbers until 1885, when a new breeding program was established by a group of society ladies at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show of 1896.

As a result, french bulldogs became fashionable in high society. The wrinkly-faced pooches soon cost upwards of $3,000 each, and were acquired by members of both the Rockefeller and J.P. Morgan families.

French bulldog popularity declined somewhat in the mid-20th century, but in the past decade have made an impressive comeback. According to the AKC, in 2003, frenchies were the 54th most popular breed in the United States, but by 2013, they jumped up to 11th most popular.

Today, the momentum of French Bulldog mania shows no sign of slowing, as the notoriously stubborn breed continues its quest toward world domination.

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By Rory Arnold, Earth.com Staff Writer

Source: Frankly Hank