How are Frenchies likes?
Frenchies are unarguable, one of the cutest breeds of dogs you can ever own. Besides being your closest companion, they also make excellent show dogs. They are believed to have their roots among the English Bulldogs and are said to have been made as ‘lap warmers’ for the lacemakers who migrated to France. And who can blame them!
But before you head out to the pet shop to get your little furbaby, did you know that these Frenchies snore? And how!
They are not light snores that stir you in sleep from time to time. These are deep, loud snores that interrupt your sleep and steal your quiet hours. In short, if you are a light sleeper or easily disturbed by noises, French Bulldogs are not the dogs for you.
Here’s everything you need to know about why Frenchies snore and how to stop the snores.
Frenchies and their personality
French Bulldogs are one of the most loving and friendly breeds of dogs. They are not ferocious or big barkers and get along well with other dogs. They are delightfully fun and sociable, and just a 15-minute walk every day keeps them from getting overweight.
Frenchies are, however, prone to drooling and shedding and are also difficult to house train. These pooches thrive in the presence of companions and friends and enjoy nothing more than being the center of your attention.
It would do pet parents good to keep their furry companions away from water. Their bulbous head and stocky bodies make them bad swimmers and demand every ounce of your care around water bodies.
French Bulldogs are some of the greatest pet babysitters that you can ever have, and there is not a cuter sight than watching your kids fall asleep with these fur babies.
Frenchies promise to love you with all their heart and entice you in their affectionate little world like no other pet.
Frenchies and diet
French Bulldogs demand a well-balanced diet that includes a good amount of carbohydrates and proteins. Young puppies need a diet rich in vitamins and minerals to help their growth and keep them healthy and fit.
The right diet is also chosen based on Frenchie’s digestive system. If your furry companion develops an allergic reaction to grains or dairy products, it is necessary to exclude these items from the Frenchie’s diet.
Frenchies and toilet training
Potty training your Frenchie is one of the first lessons every pet parent must be ready with. The frequency of your Frenchie’s stools depends on the doggo’s age and appetite. Young dogs, with a healthy appetite, are likely to have more stools and the older ones.
Pet experts advise owners to use potty pads in the initial weeks with your puppy until they are old enough to be toilet trained. By around the sixth week, you can begin the toilet training for your furbabies.
As a pet parent, it becomes your responsibility to observe your furry companion’s potty schedule and find him a safe place that will serve as a toilet.
A Frenchie expresses his need to go to the toilet by various body languages – such as constant whining, waiting at the door, or walking from room to room. A pet parent must be adept at reading these signs and catering to them as necessary.
French Bulldogs and Snoring
As lovely as Frenchies are, their snoring is a pure menace even to the most loving pet owner. Keep reading to find out why Frenchies snore (oh so loud) and what you can do to minimize the noise.
Their Brachycephalic System
French Bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed, meaning they have short snouts that are scrunched up into the face. They have very narrow nostrils and respiratory paths, making passage of air difficult and often leading to repeated small injuries.
This physiology hampers the flow of air, thereby causing the loud snores, snorts, and other wheezy noises.
A few points that you must keep in mind as pet parents are:
- Loud snores: The narrow respiratory passage is responsible for your little doggo’s loud snores, and there’s little the furball can do to stop it.
- Gagging: Frenchies are prone to make gagging noises while eating or chewing, which is totally normal.
- Overheating: Frenchies do not do well in the heat. An air-conditioned room is its haven. Strenuous exercise can cause the body to overheat, and in extreme cases, may even lead to stroke.
Allergies
Bulldogs are prone to allergies that can only worsen their respiratory condition. Allergens are notorious for causing swelling in the respiratory tract and sinuses, which makes the Frenchie’s snoring even louder.
Some common allergies are:
- Food Allergies: Like any being alive, French Bulldogs also might prove to be allergic to certain food items. It is the pet owner’s responsibility to monitor the Frenchie’s food habits and tastes and take the necessary precautions.
- Medication Allergies: Side effects are common even among the vet-prescribed medicines. If your Frenchie develops an allergic reaction due to a new medication, it is advisable to visit the vet immediately and find a suitable cure.
- Allergies caused by pollen, dust, and other allergens: Allergens are likely to get into the pooch’s respiratory tract and cause inflammatory reactions. Therefore, it is always necessary to vacuum and dust your carpets and floors regularly.
Obesity
Obesity has never been a sign of good health, and it is no different for a Bulldog. Excessive fat may lead to fat accumulation in the throat region, thereby constricting the tract further and restricting the flow of air.
This will force your Frenchie to breathe harder and louder to get the right amount of oxygen. Hence, it is essential to get your little fur baby that 15-minute exercise.
Common Cold
Bulldogs are prone to catch common colds in the face of changing weather, and this might take a toll on their respiratory condition.
Here’s a list of remedies for you to follow if your Frenchie is fighting a cold:
- Give the Frenchie plenty of liquids and keep him hydrated.
- Continue with light and regular exercise to keep the body healthy to fight the cold.
- Ensure that your Frenchie’s diet includes a good amount of proteins and vitamins to help him build the immunity to fight the cols.
- Use a humidifier to open up nasal passages.
A humidifier may be used even under regular circumstances to help the Frenchie breathe freely and, therefore, reduce the snoring.
Sleeping Position
Just like us humans, a Frenchie lying on his back is likely to snore more than a Frenchie lying on his side. Each sleeping position opens up the respiratory passage in a different way, affecting the volume of air flowing and the noise produces.
FAQs
Are French Bulldogs good apartment dogs?
French Bulldogs are extremely docile and do not make a lot of noise. Frenchies do not bark as often and get along excellently with humans and other dogs. They are, therefore, the best apartment dogs you can find in the market.
Are French Bulldogs safe around children?
French Bulldogs are extremely friendly and are safe and cuddlesome with children. However, it might be prudent to let your child play with the Frenchie under supervision in the initial period.
Is snoring indicative of any ill health conditions among French Bulldogs?
Snoring is a genetic trait among the French Bulldogs and is perfectly normal. The snores are usually loud, and there is no cause of alarm. However, if the snores sound unusually strenuous, it is advisable to visit the vet.
