French Bulldogs: Adorable Clowns
From English bull-baiting pits to Parisian cafés, French Bulldogs have become our beloved companions.
Compact, quirky, and full of personality, the French Bulldog has a history as charming as its bat-like ears. This episode traces the breed’s origins from 14th century mastiff-type dogs used for bull-baiting, to 19th-century England, where lace workers bred miniature bulldogs, to its rise in popularity among Parisian café society after being brought to France during the Industrial Revolution. Along the way these small companions became favorites of artists, aristocrats, and everyday city dwellers, eventually making their way across the Atlantic to become one of America’s most beloved breeds.
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Doggone History is written, edited, and produced by Rich Napolitano. Original theme music by Rich Napolitano.
All episodes, show notes, and transcripts can be found at doggonehistory.com.
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