Stories of the French Buddy
The history of the French Buddy dates back to the 19th century, although it has its roots in the history of the English Buddy, a much older breed. It is believed that the ancestors of the French Budies were brought from England to France in the mid-19th century during the Industrial Revolution, when English workers emigrated to France in search of work.
In England, the original Bulldogs were used in bull and bear-baiting, a cruel practice that was banned in 1835. However, some of these Bulldogs found their way to France and were crossed with local dogs, including terriers and “Boule” type breeds, which were popular small companion dog breeds in Paris at that time.
The crossbreeding with local breeds resulted in a smaller and more affectionate version of the English Bulldog, which quickly gained popularity among the working class and bourgeoisie in Paris. These little Budies became beloved pets in the city and earned the nickname “Bouledogue Français” or French Bulldog.
As the popularity of French buddies grew, they became an important part of Parisian culture. They were often seen accompanying artists, workers, and high society women as they strolled the streets of Paris.
In the 1880s, Frenchie buddy became a symbol of fashion and luxury in Paris. The breed caught the attention of breeders, and they began to focus on establishing distinctive traits and specific characteristics for the breed. Careful selection resulted in a small dog with a round head and bat-like ears, features that developed into distinctive traits of the Frenchie buddy.
During the two World Wars, the breed suffered a decline due to food shortages and the difficulty of keeping pets in those challenging times. However, after World War II, their popularity resurged and eventually extended beyond French borders.
Today, the Frenchie buddy is among the most popular breeds in the world. Their compact size, friendly temperament, and adorable appearance have made them a popular choice for families and pet owners everywhere. Although they have left behind their past as fighting dogs, their history as loyal and affectionate companions continues to this day.
