French Bulldog Club of NSW Inc.

From about 1850 to 1860 the English textile and clothing industries were in turmoil. Machinery was replacing man. Cottage industries in the English Midlands were being abandoned. The lacemakers of Nottingham who worked by hand no longer had jobs and emigrated to France, where the old traditional work continued.

Nottingham in England was a great centre for British Bulldogs, including the toy or miniature bulldogs. Nottingham lacemakers took their miniature bulldogs with them because of the dogs size, companionship and being good ratters. These miniature bulldogs are thought to have been crossed with terriers and pugs and the French Bulldog evolved.

French Bulldogs became popular among the ladies of the night and became a status symbol of French Society. Artisans and aristocrats were seduced by this gargoyle-faced little clown. Even the European crown heads were enchanted by him. He could be seen on the lap of King Edward VII or in one of Nickolai II's dachas.

Wealthy Americans visiting Europe became entranced with Le Bouledogue Francais and took them back to their homeland. The French Bulldog is one of only a few breeds which owe its existence to the efforts of breeders in different countries – France, America, England, and Germany. Certainly the continuance of the unique bat ears at the turn of last century was due largely to America and there was immense popularity for the Frenchie in Europe and America from then, for instance ranking 11th in the most popular breed list in America in 2013. The UK and Australia saw the French Bulldog rank in the top 10 for the first time in 2013 – 7th most popular breed in England and 8th most popular here in Australia.