The Hairless French Bulldog has been gaining popularity and is fast becoming the latest designer dog trend. They are a cross between French Bulldogs, Pugs, and Chinese Crested Dogs and are a concerning example of what extreme breeding can look like today.
It is said that the trend of the Hairless French Bulldog began in China in 2020, and the first Hairless French Bulldog, named Bonsai, was brought to the U.S. All purebred dogs, including Hairless French Bulldogs, are bred to include specific traits or appearances, and what some dog owners don’t realize is that this breeding trend can result in severe genetic problems.
Furthermore, some breeders have their eyes only on profit, while the health and well-being of the dogs are disregarded. The ethicality of a specialized breed is a controversial topic, and with the rising popularity of the Hairless French Bulldog trend breed, we’ll discuss some medical and ethical concerns to help you decide if this breed is the right choice for you.
How are Hairless French Bulldogs Bred?
French Bulldogs are difficult to breed, and the process can be very costly. The likelihood of two Frenchie’s reproducing naturally and independently is extremely rare.
It is difficult for French Bulldogs to reproduce on their own because of the way they have been bred. Several decades ago, French bulldogs were more likely to give birth naturally, but because of the extensive crossbreeding with other small dog breeds, Frenchies have evolved significantly in appearance.
Although the males can produce semen, the short legs paired with a small and narrow body make it difficult for them to mount the female. The female carries the same physical characteristics, and although they have a womb with eggs and ovaries, pregnancy and the birth process can be extremely risky.
Because French Bulldog puppies have large heads, and the females have narrow hips, puppies can get stuck in the birth canal, resulting in a tragic outcome, so C-Sections are the best option for birth.
The most common path taken by professional French Bulldog breeders is artificial insemination and cesarean sections. Because French Bulldogs can’t breed naturally, they are a more valuable breed, and they can be sold at higher prices.
Do Hairless French Bulldogs have Health Problems?
Crossing breeds with unique health issues may result in puppies with the worst of both worlds. Most health issues seen in French Bulldogs today can be blamed on selective breeding, which has resulted in these dogs being highly inbred.
Brachycephalic dogs have a slew of health issues: the most serious of which is a brachycephalic syndrome. Some abnormalities include a narrow windpipe, a long soft palate, and narrow nasal passages.
These abnormalities can result in labored breathing for the dogs. They typically find it harder to breathe normally, resulting in noisy breathing and gagging, and exercise can be strenuous, causing them to overheat.
Unfortunately, breeding these dogs to have flatter noses has hampered their ability to dissipate heat, making them susceptible to heat stroke. Dogs can also collapse in severe cases due to low blood oxygen levels.
In addition to breathing problems, brachycephalic dogs are predisposed to dental, skin, and eye problems. Because of their hairless skin, they are likely to face additional challenges. They may struggle to stay warm and are more susceptible to sunburn and skin infections. They also have difficulty regulating their body temperature.
Dog Breeding and Illegal Trade
Crossbreeding dogs has been a question of ethics for many years and is still debated today. The illegal puppy trade is a huge concern as it is a highly profitable business that can have some sad consequences. These breeders are usually driven by profit; sadly, the health and well-being of the dogs are not a priority.
In this environment, there is very little care for the animals. There is a lack of necessary veterinary care, puppies are taken from their moms at a young age, and when the moms can no longer reproduce, they are discarded.
Illegally imported puppies are not protected by the breeding standards of a breeding club and are far more likely to develop inherited disorders and behavioral issues later in life. Unethical breeding practices include inbreeding and breeding between animals with known genetic diseases. As a result, puppies suffer for the rest of their lives due to inherited health issues.
How to Safely Buy a Hairless French Bulldog?
If you are considering adopting a Hairless French Bulldog now or in the future, finding a reputable breeder who adheres to good breeding standards and practices is essential. Purchasing your Hairless French Bulldog from a reputable breeder can reduce the likelihood of your Frenchie developing health problems.
Never buy online without research or on impulse because you may unknowingly support the demand for puppies bred inhumanely on puppy farms. Be wary of puppies with prices that seem too good to be true; some breeders may be trying to get rid of a puppy with unspecified health issues.
Keep Your Hairless French Bulldog Safe
As we mentioned before, Hairless French Bulldogs are a popular breed, and unfortunately, this poses a risk of your dog being stolen. This opens a whole new can of worms regarding ethics. Consider getting a pet tracker for your Frenchie or having it microchipped. Install a doggy door, and if possible, try not to leave your Frenchie unattended.
Here are a few more tips for keeping your Hairless French Bulldog Safe:
- Frenchies cannot swim, so don’t leave your dog unattended near a pool or body of water.
- Their nails should be trimmed regularly, as they can cause your dog pain if they are left too long.
- Their facial folds should be kept clean and dry.
- If the weather is hot and humid, keep activity to a minimum since they can overexert themselves due to their breathing difficulties.
- Obesity is a risk factor for Frenchies, and it’s critical to keep an eye on their caloric intake and weight to reduce the risks of their breeds’ health
All species of hairless pets have sensitive skin and require special care:
- They are susceptible to cold because they don’t have natural insulation from fur, and they may require a jacket, especially in winter.
- They are sun sensitive and can develop sunburn and skin cancers and should be slathered in a pet-friendly sunblock when out in the sun.
- They should be bathed once or twice a week with lukewarm water and a mild shampoo.
Conclusion
Whether or not Hairless French Bulldogs are ethical will always be debatable, and there are definitely some extreme breeding trends that are absolutely unethical. Hairless French Bulldogs are considered trendy breeds, and their demand is high, making them a profitable breed for the illegal puppy trade. They are also a breed that is specifically bred for their appearance and traits, which can put them at risk for many health and genetic issues.
Thorough research is imperative when looking for a Hairless French Bulldog, and we implore you to consider adopting a dog that is in need of a home and loving family before deciding on purchasing a special breed.
See also:
- Is a French Bulldog Good for a First-Time Dog Owner?
- 8 Hairless Dog Breeds: Pictures, Facts & History
Featured Image Credit: Eric Isselee, Shutterstock
