9781422278413

how your French Bulldog is feeling—which typically ranges from alert, playful, and loving, to on the lookout for mischief! Because the French Bulldog has a very short tail, he cannot signal his feel- ings that way. But most owners reckon that the French Bulldog has more than made up for this with the unique way he uses his ears. The French Bulldog has a powerful, muscular body, and is heavy for his size. He should be active and move freely, and will delight you with his sudden, unexpected bursts of energy. The coat is short, smooth, and easy to care for, and you have a wide choice of colors and combinations. Brachycephalic breeds The French Bulldog is brachycephalic breed. Like the Pug, the Pekingese, Boston Terrier, Boxer, and Bulldog, he has a broad, short skull, with a foreshortened muzzle and a pushed-back nose. These features should be distinctive, but never exaggerated. This type of conformation, when exaggerated, can result in serious health prob- lems, including labored breathing. Some Frenchies are noisy or have labored breathing. They may have a longer tongue or an excessive soft palate that is obstructing their airway. Smaller nose openings can exaggerate their already noisy breathing. All brachycephalic breeds need extra care in hot weather, when exercise may be trying for them. They also need regular face clean- ing and extra care of the skin in and around the facial folds. The shortened muzzle accounts for another Frenchie specialty— this is a breed that snores! However, most owners find the snuffles and snores of a sleeping dog most endearing. Temperament Where to start? French Bulldogs have the most wonderful tem- perament, and although they share many outstanding characteris-

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