The History of French Bulldogs: Tracing the Evolution of this Beloved Breed

Do you love the French bulldog you see today? Are you aware that these bat-eared dogs weren’t the same in the past as we see them today? Let us enlighten you with a brief overview of the history of French bulldogs in the article.

Wait! Why is the history of French bulldogs important? It is because one should know how their small pets were earlier. And how can one enjoy them to the heart’s content now? Moreover, you should know this small brachycephalic breed moods and preferences in the modern world.

Despite their name, you can trace the roots of French bulldogs back to England. Their type is one of the most unique among all other global varieties. Read more to learn about the history of French bulldogs.

History of French Bulldogs

The history of French bulldogs goes all the way to ancient Greece. The Molossians, or ancient Grecian tribes, bred dogs for war and labor. The dog breed back then was famous as the Molossus breed.

However, the Molossus breed introduced its subfamily, which includes Rottweilers, Pitbulls, St. Bernards, Bullenbeissers, etc. Bullenbeissers were known to be robust and used in Bull-baiting, where the dog pulled a bull to the ground by holding their snout.

Luckily, Britain outlawed the sport as a brutal play. The Bullenbeisser breed was used for breeding newer dogs by crossing them with other species, such as pugs. The result is what we see today as miniature dogs with bat-shaped ears, known as French bulldogs.

French Bulldogs in Europe

Bulldogs, especially the more miniature bulldogs, were used as toy dogs after the ban on bull-baiting. The lacemakers carried the dogs throughout the day. However, the history of French bulldogs continues. 

As the industrial revolution came, lacemakers were unemployed, which led to their European migration. Hence the era of bulldogs in Europe began. Bulldogs were seen with prostitutes in Paris and considered icebreakers between women and their clients.

Later, all the art and paintings began to revolve around bulldogs. The famous Henri Toulouse-Lautrec has several illustrations of bulldogs under his umbrella. Westminster Kennel Club also hosted a French bulldog show in 1896.

The French bulldogs came outside the brothel and soon became pets of the elite class. Nonetheless, the credit goes to the painters and artists. Their popularity skyrocketed and soon were used to exchange thousands of dollars when they came to the US.

To help you understand the history of french bulldogs, we have attached a link to the youtube video below. Go through the video for easy understanding.

Watch this video: The History of French Bulldogs: Tracing the Evolution of this Beloved Breed

French Bulldogs in America

According to the history of French bulldogs, France is not the only country that loves french bulldogs. By 1885, French bulldogs reached America. The Americans traveling through Europe found bulldogs as cute. Therefore, the elite class fell in love with these dogs.

Soon, French bulldogs had their name and fame in America in no time. The French bulldogs were imported from France and England to America. According to the American Kennel Club study book published in 1898, the first registered bulldog litter in America was from imported parents.

The breed then saw no boundaries, and it kept on going. By 1906, the Boston Terrier Club formed a dedicated branch promoting French bulldogs. Many clubs have been established for health care, socializing, and basic needs. 

The influential American and french bulldog owners such as J.P. Morgan showed haste and helped form and recognize American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1898. Little one knows how these Grecians made their way up to the American elite class.

Furthermore, the love for the bulldogs was not limited to a single country or state. The final shape they got into made the world, America in particular, fall in love with bulldogs.

Formation of Breed Clubs and Standards

In 1873, the Kennel Club came into being. The aim of creating the club was to have consistent rules and a governing body to ensure dog activities and trials. The Kennel clubs have been up and running since then for the betterment of canines.

The French bulldogs are now recognized as a separate breed of dogs in the history of French bulldogs. The AKC arranges annual global competitions such as Crufts or the Westminster show in London.

You might love to read Discover the Top Foods: What Can French Bulldogs Eat for a Happy, Healthy Life

The French Bulldogs Today

According to the history of French Bulldogs,they are the most popular breeds in the world today. They are so adored because of their compact size, adorable faces, and easy-going personalities. But what makes these dogs so unique is their signature bat ears.

The Popularity of French Bulldogs

As time has flown, french bulldogs have become popular pets globally. According to statistics, french bulldogs were ranked the fourth most popular dog breed in 2020. Moreover, more and more people are inclined towards the species as a pet now.

How did they gain popularity? As the history of french bulldogs suggests, these cute little dogs have short snouts that look adorable. Moreover, they have a friendly nature, and they are lazybones. Hence you only need a little time for their activity.

Recognition by Kennel Clubs

The AKC recognized french bulldogs in 1898, and since then, it hasn’t looked back. European Kennel Clubs also recognize the french bulldogs separately. However, now there are two varieties of french bulldogs, the standard and miniature french bulldogs.

However, if you intend to lay your hands on a french bulldog, you should go with a purebred dog from a registered breeder. The breeders are known to provide healthy puppies with appropriate lineage.

French Bulldog in Media and Pop Culture   

As time has flown, you can notice that celebrities own french bulldogs and often share pictures on social media. Lady Gaga also holds a Frenchie who is named Asia. Moreover, various television shows host french bulldogs.

You’ve got enormous examples showing these dogs’ popularity as we go through the history of french bulldogs. French bulldogs are versatile and endearing companions if kept with proper care and affection.

Conclusion- The History of French Bulldogs

While we discuss the history of french bulldogs, it is essential to remember their origin. French bulldogs are bred initially from English bulldogs to create their smaller counterparts. The rags-to-riches story of the history of french bulldogs speaks for itself.

The popularity of these friendly dogs knows no boundaries. As the history of french bulldogs suggests, they have come a long way in spreading their cuteness in Europe, Australia, America, and Japan. French bulldogs are one of the most renowned canine species today.

French bulldog breed type is known for clamping down its strong jaws. They feature heavy bones and thick muscles. This breed that captures hearts with its wrinkly face has a soft and loose coat. You can take them to dog shows with you. These little bulldogs are known for their bat ear.

Early in the breed’s history, though, one could find many Frenchies with rose ears, i.e. folded over like an English bulldog’s ears. French bulldogs can get their erect ears anytime from 6 weeks to 18 months.

The canine species, however, has a huge fan following in and out of the pet industry. However, their signature trait of bat ears makes them speckled pups. Hence, everyone adores this trait of bulldogs.

These small bulldogs have short airway that often leads to respiratory issues (brachycephalic syndrome). Moreover, they are prone to skin allergies, ear infections, and eye problems. They may also have genetic health problems. Therefore, breeding flat faced dogs is only possible if you do so to improve their health.