What it's like to own a French Bulldog...
If you own a French Bulldog you’ll be well aware of the sounds and smells they give off but despite all the scary posts online about how they have breathing problems and how you should avoid buying this breed of dog, let me just say that all dogs come with their own set of health problems, no matter what breed.
Breathing problems are common in Frenchies because of their squashed faces, known as brachycephalic breeds, that they can suffer from brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) - also known in simpler terms as “breathing problems”. However both Rambo (my parents Frenchie) and Mikko (mine) have not needed this and are both happy healthy dogs, as are many others. This is not to say they don’t struggle on long walks or when it’s hot because they do, their tongue is huge and they pant ALOT. Rambo being the grand old age of 9 years old can only manage a short walk now, whereas Mikko at 2 and a half years old is still bouncing off the walls if he hasn’t had an hour (or more) of exercise a day. But understanding and knowing your dogs abilities is all part and parcel of becoming and being dog parents.
So now the factual stuff is out the way, let’s move on to all the fun stuff there is to know about Frenchies - they come with some extremely hilarious characteristics, so you best have a sense of humour on you to keep up with these lot!
Selective hearing - They have the biggest ears and despite the size of them they will still choose if they can hear you or not but don’t worry they will hear the opening of the fridge a mile off!
Fart machines - Frenchies can clear a room with the smell that comes out of their butts! There’s been times when I have come downstairs, opened the living room door and been hit by the most awful long lingering stench! Even the most expensive candles won’t clear this scent.
5 minutes alone time - What’s that? Seriously, if you like your privacy then opt for another breed, Frenchies like to sit with you while you pee, poo, or bath and they have no shame in doing so.
Sharing is caring - Be prepared to lose your bed and maybe your sleep or sex life as these furry little nutters will find their way into your bed whether you want them to or not. They’ll take up most of the space and then snore the whole night keeping you awake for hours.
Noises - The noises and wow there are some noises that these guys make, from snoring to burping (yep, these guys actually burp), eating and chewing and their breathing is so loud that sometimes you might think you brought a piglet home with you.
The code words don’t work - I swear Frenchies are humans trapped in dogs because they seem to understand everything you say to them, to the point where even spelling the word -P A R K or W A L K, he now knows what that is.
What’s mine is yours - The general rule all Frenchies live by I’m sure. Whether it’s crisps, cereal, roast dinners or cheese on toast (Mikkos fav), they will want what you’ve got, regardless of if they like it or not, they’ll give you the eyes and voila they got ya.
Please remember a dog is for life not just for Christmas or during a lockdown! They need love, attention and a lot of your time so please choose and think wisely about which breed of dog might be best suited to your lifestyle. Ps, I like dogs more than humans! Pps, if you have any questions please do reach out!