Golden retriever French bulldog, also known as French Retriever, is a hybrid breed that crosses between a golden retriever and a French bulldog.
These two breeds may seem like an odd combination, but they result in a unique and adorable dog that is highly sought after by many pet owners.
This guide will delve into the French retriever’s origin, features, temperament, exercise needs, diet, and common health problems.
BASIC TRAITS
Height
18-22 inches
Weight
40-60 lb
Lifespan
10-13 years
Group (of Breed)
Crossbreed
Best Suited For
active families with kids and other pets, experienced dog owners
Temperament
affectionate, loyal, playful, active, intelligent, protective
Origin
Golden retrievers are gentle and kind dogs that originated in Scotland in the 19th century.
They were primarily used for hunting birds. On the other hand, French bulldogs have their origins in France in the 1800s.
They were initially bred as companion dogs for dogs used in bull baiting; however, they became quite popular in Parisian society as lap dogs.
Golden retriever French bulldog crossbreeding began a few decades ago, and their offspring is a mix of both breeds’ best features.
Coat
The Golden Retriever French Bulldog Mix’s coat is usually dense and short coats, mostly in shades of gold or cream, and a black muzzle.
They shed a lot, and their grooming needs are moderate to high, requiring brushing every other day.
They may need a bath once every three months, depending on their exposure to dirt and other debris.
Their coats are hypoallergenic, making them an ideal breed if you have allergies.
Temperament/Behavior
French retrievers have great personalities and are social, friendly, loyal, and protective of their owners.
They have a calm and loving demeanor, making them great family pets, especially for those with young children.
They are intelligent, and with patience and positive reinforcement, they are easy to train.
French retrievers require socialization with other animals and humans as they may develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods.
Exercise Requirements
Both golden retrievers and French bulldogs have widely varying ranges of exercise needs.
French bulldogs are laid back and don’t require much exercise.
Golden retrievers, however, require plenty of exercises to prevent becoming overweight or destructive.
Therefore, Golden Retriever French Bulldog Mix’s exercise requirements depend on their inherited dominant genes.
Generally, they need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily, such as daily walks and playtime in a spacious backyard.
Always be mindful of their breathing after games of fetch or jogging sessions, as their flat faces make it hard for them to breathe.
Food/Diet
Feeding your French retriever ensures they lead a healthy and happy life.
As a hybrid breed, they may inherit a predisposition for certain conditions, such as digestive issues, so you must ensure you feed them with the right diet.
Quality dog food with a good balance of nutrients should make up the majority of their diet but also make some homemade meals to break up the monotony of dry kibble.
Treats must not exceed 10% of their total diet.
Common Health Problems
Being a hybrid breed, Golden Retriever French Bulldog Mix may inherit health issues from their parent breeds.
Here are some common health problems in the breed;
- Hip Dysplasia: It’s a genetic condition resulting from improper hip joint development.
- Elbow Dysplasia: Another common genetic condition that results in dislocated elbow bones, which could cause pain and lameness.
- Seborrhea: A skin condition characterized by greasy, flaky scales and severe itching.
- Allergies: French retrievers may develop allergies that lead to skin diseases and other conditions.
Conclusion
French retrievers are highly lovable breeds that make ideal family pets, thanks to their great personality and loyal nature.
They are easy to care for, needing minimal grooming and exercising needs, making them an excellent choice for busy households.
However, their breeding may also make them prone to various health issues.
As a pet owners, it’s crucial to monitor their health and consult with a veterinarian if there are any concerns.