Note: This is a guest post written by Shubham Singh. Thanks, Shubham!
Are you looking for a world-class lap dog with enticing looks? Those unusual bat ears, wrinkly faces, and stout bodies are vowed to bring smiles. In that case, a French Bulldog may be on your consideration list.
But it is a Frenchies lively and compassionate demeanor that truly wins hearts. This is a dog that was created to be your companion. They’re clever and playful, and believe your lap is the finest spot in the universe.
But wait, with all this Frenchie chatter, you probably don’t expect them to be a challenging breed to own. Just for a reality check: French Bulldogs can have health difficulties and personality quirks that necessitate a significant amount of commitment and lifestyle changes.
There are also some ethical questions that this raises as Frenchies have been bred to look a certain way; squashed faces, squat bodies, and cute wrinkles. This breeding has resulted in potential health concerns including breathing difficulties.
That being said, no one that ever owned a French Bulldog would take it back! But here are some of the common challenges that you may need to know while owning a French Bulldog.
Health problems
It’s no secret that French Bulldogs can suffer from a range of health issues like Hip dysplasia, allergies, Brachycephalic Syndrome, elongated soft palate, stenotic nares (pinched nostrils), and cherry eye to name a few.
This can result not just in heartache for you and pain for your dog, but also additional ongoing costs, for which I suggest you sign up for reliable pet insurance that is tailored to your unique needs – such as Lemonade Pet health insurance. The cushion of insurance coverage protects your furry friend with a financial safety net in times of health-related situations. It also helps keep a regular check on their health and can potentially save you an awful lot of money in the grand scheme of things.
Costs
The cost of a purebred French Bulldog ranges from $1,500 to $8,000 depending on the breed. While $8,000 is undoubtedly on the expensive end of the scale, it is not unusual to find Frenchies for $5,000, depending on the breeder.
A Frenchie puppy is not only costly, but their health concerns may soon add up to exorbitant sums.
Behavioural issues
French Bulldogs may have behavioral issues – just like any dog breed. Depending on the dog, these issues can have many different causes:
1. Separation anxiety
Separation anxiety is one of the most frequent behavioral issues in French Bulldogs.
Those that are extremely devoted to their owners, if left alone, especially for extended periods, tend to get furious and may create chaos around the house.
Separation anxiety in dogs manifests itself as severe discomfort when you leave the home. They’ll do ANYTHING to try and find you, even if it means they get hurt in the process.
2. Clingy
Just as Frenchies are prone to separation anxiety, they are also susceptible to clinging behavior. They may not only be clingy but also have many other needs that need to be addressed. They adore their owners! French Bulldogs have been deliberately developed to be reliant on their owners.
3. Sensitive to criticism
French Bulldogs are extremely sensitive and do not take criticism lightly. When you reprimand a Frenchie, it may take it personally and mope around the place. Positive reinforcement and encouragement are more beneficial with French Bulldogs.
4. Stubborn
Frenchies’ traits include their free-minded, rebellious attitude. It may be quite annoying when your Frenchie does not really care what you think and is stubborn. This trait also makes it challenging when training them, too!
Wrapping up
The listed challenges are tongue-in-cheek. We love French Bulldogs, who doesn’t? However, these are some things potential owners need to consider before taking the plunge into what will be (hopefully) a long-term commitment. Owning a dog is a huge responsibility and even more so with Frenchies.
Needless to say, the French Bulldog is a clever dog. They are capable of nearly anything; all you need to do is commit time to their education and growth. If you’re looking for a dog that will fit your character, we recommend you first check all the facts about a certain breed.
Is owning a French Bulldog as easy as it looks? Hmm… we are all aware that owning a dog is not an easy task at all. It entails that sometimes you may have to cancel a meeting or that long due weekend getaway. However, there is nothing better than knowing that you have someone who will always “have your back,” and Frenchies are one canine breed that is yearning for a human friend.
About the author:
Shubham Singh has been in the content creation industry for four years. He writes in a range of industries but LOVES dogs more than any. As you read this, he’s probably busy writing whilst having a questionable amount of caffeine in his system.