The Hairless French Bulldog has been gaining popularity and is fast becoming one of the latest designer dog trends. They are a cross between French Bulldogs, Pugs, and Chinese Crested Dogs and are a concerning example of what extreme breeding can look like.
It is said that the trend began in China in 2020, though the first Hairless French Bulldog, named Bonsai, was brought to the U.S.1 All purebred dogs, including Hairless French Bulldogs, are bred to include specific traits or appearances. What some dog owners don’t realize is that breeding trends can result in severe genetic problems.
Furthermore, some breeders have their eyes only on profit, and the health and well-being of the dogs are disregarded. The ethicality of a specialized breed is a controversial topic, so with the rising popularity of the Hairless French Bulldog, let’s discuss the medical and ethical concerns so you can decide if this dog is the right choice for you.
How Are Hairless French Bulldogs Bred?
French Bulldogs are difficult to breed and the process can be costly. The likelihood of two Frenchies reproducing naturally and independently is extremely rare because of the way that they have been bred. French Bulldogs were once more likely to give birth naturally, but due to extensive crossbreeding with other small breeds, they have changed significantly in appearance.
Although the males can still produce semen, their short legs paired with small and narrow bodies make it difficult for them to mount females. The females have the same physical characteristics, and although they have wombs with eggs and ovaries, pregnancy and the birth process can be extremely risky for them.
French Bulldog puppies have large heads, and adult females have narrow hips, which means puppies can get stuck in the birth canal, resulting in a tragic outcome. Therefore, C-sections are the best options for birth.
The most common path taken by professional French Bulldog breeders is artificial insemination and Cesarean sections. Since French Bulldogs can’t reproduce naturally, they are considered a valuable breed and can be sold at high 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 brachycephalic syndrome. The abnormalities include a narrow windpipe, a long soft palate, and narrow nasal passages. These 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. Due to their hairless skin, Hairless Frenchies are likely to face even more challenges. They may struggle to stay warm and may be more susceptible to sunburn and skin infections. They can 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 because it is a highly profitable business that can have sad consequences. These breeders are usually driven by profit; the health and well-being of the dogs are not a priority.
In this environment, there is little concern for the animals. There is a lack of necessary veterinary care, puppies are taken from their moms at a young age, and when the mothers 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 Frenchie from a reputable breeder can reduce the likelihood of them developing health problems.
Never buy online without research or on impulse, as 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 dog with unspecified health issues.
Keep Your Hairless French Bulldog Safe
Hairless French Bulldogs are popular, 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 pup or having them microchipped. Install a doggy door that can stay locked when not in use, and if possible, try not to leave your Frenchie unattended.
Here are a few more tips for keeping your Hairless French Bulldog safe and healthy:
- Frenchies cannot swim, so don’t leave your dog unattended near a pool or body of water.
- Their nails should be trimmed regularly because if they are left too long, they can cause your dog pain.
- Their facial folds should be kept clean and dry.
- If the weather is hot and humid, keep activity to a minimum, since these dogs 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 to their 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 cancer. When out in the sun, they should be slathered in pet-friendly sunscreen.
- They should be bathed once or twice a week with lukewarm water and a mild shampoo.
Conclusion
Whether Hairless French Bulldogs are ethical will always be debatable, and there are definitely extreme breeding trends out there. Hairless Frenchies are considered trendy, and their demand is high, making them profitable for the illegal puppy trade, and that’s what’s problematic. They are also 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 already in need of a home and loving family before deciding to purchase a special breed puppy.
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Featured Image Credit: Eric Isselee, Shutterstock
