If you’ve been thinking about getting a new dog then you’re not alone – Kennel Club figures show that the number of people looking for puppies has surged to record levels in the last few years.
But with 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest four-legged addition – those with active lifestyles might want to consider a larger dog, while somebody with allergies will be looking for a hypoallergenic dog.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
One dog that often appears at the top of people’s canine wishlists is the French Bulldog – they were the UK’s second most popular pet in 2020 (just being pipped to the post by the Labrador Retriever) and have a range of positive attributes that make them a great family pet.
Here are 10 fun and interesting facts about the breed.
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9. Lap warmers
The French Bulldogs' ancestors were used to keep workers in Nottingham lacemaking factories warm. The small dogs curled up in the workers' laps - acting like hot water bottles. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
10. Small but perfectly formed
The reason that the French Bulldog is a small breed is that more diminutive dogs were considered unfashionable in England, so British breeders exported the tinest pups across the Channel. Photo: Canva/Getty Images