04/22/2023
For the first time ever, The American Kennel Club registry touts the French Bulldog as the top canine pet owned in the US.
Due to their popularity right now byb's and puppy mills abound with French Bulldogs. Buyers looking for a cheap price or even worse, a rare color, can currently find listings upon listings of these puppies being sold. Cheap prices are usually your first red flag. Healthy French Bulldog puppies range from 1k - 3k depending on the breeder.
Size is another red flag. Weight should not exceed 28 lbs. Unscrupulous breeders will often proclaim rare 'teacup' French Bulldogs. Don't be fooled by this gimmick. These are simply runts of the litter who often come with health problems.
Rare colors are a huge red flag. These colors are rare for a reason. Reputable breeders not only preserve breeds to conformation and temperament but coat color as well. Colors such as solid black, black and white, black and tan, blue, blue fawn, liver, and merle are disqualifications for this breed. Some such as solid black threaten to phase out other acceptable colors, others come with other genetic health issues. Acceptable colors are white, cream, fawn (ranging from light fawn to a red fawn), or any combinations of the foregoing. Markings and patterns are: brindle, piebald, black masks, black shadings, and white markings.
When speaking with a breeder; ask to see their health testing results or refer to OFA’s website and look for their kennel name. This will help to insure that you are dealing with someone who is actively working to protect the breed. OFA currently has several Databases for French Bulldogs that have been health tested and evaluated to help breeders to make good sound breeding decisions that improve the overall health and longevity of the breed. These listings also help pet owners to seek out a reputable breeder.
The Frenchie's short, sleek coat does shed. Weekly brushing with a medium-bristle brush, a rubber grooming mitt or tool, or a hound glove will help to remove shed hair and keep him looking his best. Brushing promotes new hair growth and distributes skin oils throughout the coat to help keep it healthy. A regular grooming schedule with your professional groomer can be extremely beneficial as well.
Any time we see a popular canine breed promoted through the media, we see an uptick in the litters for that breed. Again, this is because byb's and puppy mills are attempting to make fast money from their popularity.
If you are interested in this little breed, ask your professional groomer for guidance. They may be able to steer you to a reputable breeder or can help you find one!