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French Bulldog History |
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The most prevalent opinion as to the origin
of the French Bulldog is that in the mid 19th century the Normandy
lace workers traveled from England to France taking smaller
variations of Bulldogs with them, as they sought work. This was the
time of the Industrial Revolution, and many of the cottage
industries were being hard hit. This brought about mass movement of
these workers from England to France and elsewhere. The lace workers
settled among the farming communities of northern France, and the
little bulldogs started on their way to popularity. Despite their
diminutive size their love of family and loyalty was as large as
their "big cousins" in England. This coupled with their proficiency
as ratters assured them a place within the community. Over the next
50 years "Les Bouledogues Francais" became established as a separate
breed.
From their foothold in the farming communities of northern France
these dogs gained entrance to Paris as the companions of the "Belles
de Nuit" - "Ladies of the Evening". This association gave the breed
a notorious reputation. The well-to-do classes sought these animals
as a statement of their "daring nature". The personality of these
dogs being a blend of tenacious ratter, guardian and loyal companion
while retaining their "dignified air" facilitated their
proliferation throughout the french classes.
Unfortunately the french neglected to record pedigrees making it
impossible to know exact lineage of these animals. It can be
surmised that terriers and pugs were contributors in this breed's
development - but to what extent and which specific dogs were used
will never be known.
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