French Bulldog

The origin of the French Bulldog is actually tied to Britain. In the 19th century, lace workers in Nottingham, England, kept small bulldogs (Toy Bulldogs) as companion dogs, and later the Industrial Revolution led workers to emigrate to France, taking these small bulldogs with them, where they became very popular.

French breeders crossed these small bulldogs with other breeds (possibly including pugs and terriers) to produce a new variety with bat ears — today's French Bulldog. In the late 19th century the Frenchie reached the United States, and the bat ear became their signature feature (there had earlier been a dispute between rose ears and bat ears).

The French Bulldog is small and muscular with bat ears and a flat face, giving it a highly recognisable appearance. They are gentle, affectionate and adaptable, don't need much exercise, and are the classic "city dog" — particularly suited to families living in small flats. They don't like to bark much and are friendly to neighbours, but they are extremely clingy and unhappy when left alone for long periods. Note that Frenchies are a flat-faced breed prone to breathing problems, so in summer avoid heatstroke and skip strenuous exercise.