The birth of the Hairless French Bulldog sparked outrage in the dog community. Developing this canine has serious repercussions on the progressively deteriorating health of the Frenchie breed.
We will break down the controversy surrounding the Bald French Bulldog for you to make your own conclusion if owning one is deemed ethical.
The Origins of the Hairless French Bulldog
The exact origins of Hairless French Bulldogs are quite murky. However, China was assumed to be their homeland as their very first appearance was on a Chinese Facebook post in 2020.
Several photos and videos of Bald Frenchie puppies began circulating on the social media platform with the caption “Chinese Dushi Hairless French Bulldogs.”
The existence of these peculiar-looking dogs spread like wildfire on the internet. It did not take long for people from other countries to procure one.
In November 2020, an announcement was made by a member of the Facebook group Major League Frenchies, stating that they brought in a Bald French Bulldog named Bonsai to the US.
Not long after, it was found that a French Bulldog Club in the UK acquired a Hairless French Bulldog from a breeder in Scotland.
An undercover investigation revealed that the breeder was a man named Gary Hemming, a resident of Edinburgh. He is one of the extreme breeders of Bulldog and Bully breeds.
Apart from the US, UK, and China, Hairless French Bulldogs are swiftly gaining popularity in Canada and Canada and a few other countries.
The Purpose of The Hairless French Bulldog’s Existence
However, some speculate that the Hairless French Bulldog was created by crossing a Frenchie with a Pug and a Chinese Crested Dog. Others believe the Xoloitzcuintli was also used for breeding.
Having a hairless breed as one of his parents, the Bald French Bulldog has folded skin that hangs loosely on his body. Although named bald or hairless, he is not completely devoid of fur.
In most cases, the bodies of Hairless Frenchies are covered with very short, sparse hair. Some of them have a growth of medium-length hair on top of their head.
The Controversy Behind Hairless French Bulldog Breeding
Several dog organisations were horrified to learn about the Hairless French Bulldogs and rightfully so. The French Bulldog is already considered one of the unhealthiest breeds to ever exist.
As a result, the breed is riddled with hereditary and congenital ailments such as spinal problems, narrowed nostrils, breathing issues, and dermatological disorders.
Researchers even stated that Frenchies have higher chances of getting diagnosed with 20 common disorders compared to other breeds of dogs.
Crossing the French Bulldog with other pedigree canines also prone to unique health issues will lead to drastic consequences.
Introducing hairlessness into the French Bulldog’s genes leaves them highly vulnerable to more health issues, specifically skin problems like sunburn, skin cancers, and severe skin infections.
The hairless gene is responsible for dental problems as well such as missing teeth or dental hypoplasia. This could make eating a difficult task for Hairless French Bulldogs, which may cause digestive issues.
The lack of fur can impair the body temperature regulation of the Bald French Bulldog. It leaves him highly prone to overheating, hypothermia, and severe exercise intolerance.
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The Unfortunate Future of Hairless French Bulldogs
Mixed-breed dogs are often said to be healthier compared to their purebred parents. This is not always true, especially in the case of Hairless French Bulldogs.
Breeding these pooches was done primarily for profiteering, not for developing a healthier breed of dog.
However, because Bald French Bulldogs are seen as a novelty and a status symbol, many people flock to own one of these canines without considering the numerous health issues linked to the breed.
Dog enthusiasts may only start to realise the heavy responsibility of caring for Hairless French Bulldogs when they are saddled with exorbitant vet bills.
Pawrents might end up drowning in debt trying to keep their Bald Frenchie free from ailments. Others might opt to rehome or give up their pet for adoption.
In grim circumstances, Hairless French Bulldogs could end up abandoned by their human companions and not receive the proper care and medical help they need.
The Absence of Kennel Club Recognition for the Hairless French Bulldog
The concern and outrage towards the inhumane development of this mixed-breed dog will very likely stop any push for formal recognition.
Moreover, advocates for ethical dog breeding continue to discourage dog competitions from rewarding and giving the spotlight to canines with distinctive traits linked to poor health conditions.
Is It a Good Idea to Own a Hairless French Bulldogs?
The Bald French Bulldog is an unfortunate result of extreme breeding practices. So do not fall for the temptation of owning a one-of-a-kind dog.
We advise against acquiring this pooch from a breeder to avoid bolstering their business, which contributes to the persistent problems caused by unethical breeding.
If possible, look for Hairless French Bulldogs in animal shelters and rehoming organisations in your area. These dogs desperately need a loving family who can provide stability in their lives.
But before you start searching for an adoptable Bald Frenchie, do your research. Remember that these dogs come with numerous special needs, which will often require a big chunk of your time, attention, and money.
If you are ready for this responsibility, then you will make a wonderful Hairless French Bulldog owner. If not, it would be better to find a different canine companion that fits your caring capabilities.
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FAQs About Hairless French Bulldogs
1. Do Hairless Dog Breeds Exist?
Hairless dog breeds do exist such as the Chinese Crested dog, Xoloitzcuintli, and Peruvian Inca Orchid Dog. Lack of hair naturally occurs in these canines due to a rare genetic mutation.
Hairlessness is not a trait found in French Bulldogs. For them to possess this unique feature, they need to be crossed with naturally hairless dogs.
2. Is There Such a Thing as a Hairless French Bulldog?
There is such a thing as a Hairless French Bulldog. This type of dog is developed by mating a Frenchie with a Pug and a Chinese Crested Dog or a Xoloitzcuintli.
However, breeding Bald French Bulldogs is found to be problematic. The Frenchie dog breed is already prone to skin disorders, dental problems, and overheating. Hairlessness severely exacerbates these breed-specific health issues.
3. Are Hairless French Bulldogs Healthy?
Hairless French Bulldogs are not considered healthy. The Frenchie dog breed by itself is already suffering from many ailments because of physical abnormalities due to unethical breeding.
Adding hairlessness to Frenchie’s distinctive traits introduces more serious health issues as mentioned above.
4. What Problems Do Hairless Dogs Have?
Dermatological issues are some of the most prevalent problems hairless dogs like the Bald French Bulldogs have. Their lack of fur leaves them vulnerable to acne, skin infections, sunburns, and skin cancers.
They need to be slathered with sunblock and wear a doggy T-shirt before going outdoors to protect their skin from the sun’s harmful rays. During baths, the use of mild shampoo is advised to avoid irritating their skin.
Conclusion
The Hairless French Bulldog was born from the extreme breeding practices of unscrupulous breeders. His lack of hair increases his chances of developing several debilitating diseases.
Acquiring a Bald French Bulldog from a breeder is a bad idea. It makes budding dog owners complicit in the cruelty of unethical breeding. Thus, go for adoption as you are opening your home to a neglected dog direly in need of love and care.
Visit our Pets for Adoption page to search for a Hairless French Bulldog looking for a forever home.