French Bullweiler -- French Bulldog X Rottweiler

		French Bullweiler
		He is not recognized by the F.C.I.


Origin			France <> Germany -> U.S.A.
Translation			Francis Vandersteen

A brief presentation of the French Bullweiler

The French Bullweiler is a cross between the French Bulldog and the Rottweiler. The French Bullweiler has a short, dense coat that is considered low-maintenance, although the Rottweiler parent sheds moderately to heavily. Because of the size difference between these two breeds, the French Bullweiler can be a medium to large dog breed. Other characteristics that this specific crossbreed can inherit are the tendency to be calm, the need for early socialization and competence in obedience training. Its Rottweiler side can make it territorial and aggressive towards other dogs of the same sex. They are happiest living in an urban or rural home.

History of the French Bullweiler

With a breed as new and unusual as the French Bullweiler, we have to look to the parent breeds for their history.

	A little of the French Bulldog
	The English Industrial Revolution replaced many workers with machines. By the 1850s and 1860s, lacemakers were out of work. English lacemakers began moving to France to find work. They brought their dogs, which were small, miniature Bulldogs. Eventually bred with the native French Bulldog, today's French Bulldog was born. In 1885, a breeding program for American French Bulldogs was launched. Once in America, the breed became popular with society women. The breed was shown at the Westminster Kennel Club dog show in 1896. The only winners in the French Bulldog group were those with "pink ears", not breed members with "erect bat ears". The ladies of the society disagreed with the judge's decision. They formed the French Bulldog Club of America, which went on to create the breed standard. The "erect bat ear" was the correct type. In the early 20th century, the breed was owned by the Rockefeller family and the J.P. Morgan family. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1898. By 1906, the French Bulldog was the 5th most popular dog breed in America.

	Standard of the French Bulldog
	A little of the Rottweiler
	The Rottweiler breed is thought to be descended from the ancient Drover dogs used by the Romans. Drover dogs were used to herd and protect livestock. The Roman army traveled with their herds and loyal dogs. Germany defeated and expelled the Romans around 200 AD. Many Roman dogs were left behind, and these dogs bred with the local dogs. The Rottweiler was named after the town of Rottweil in southern Germany, which was founded by the Romans in 73 AD. The American Kennel Club admitted the Rottweiler to its Stud Book in 1931. In 1948, the first Rottweiler was awarded a championship title by the American Kennel Club. The American Rottweiler Club was formed in 1971.

	Standard of the Rottweiler

Appearance of the French Bullweiler

The mixing of two pure breeds can produce a litter with similarities in appearance to both breeds. Sometimes, a certain trait from one of the parents will be passed on to the litter. Many French Bullweiler puppies have the facial markings of the Rottweiler breed. The markings are on the eyes, cheeks and either side of the muzzle. There may also be tan markings on the chest, lower legs and under the tail. The French Bullweiler will have a short, dense coat. The hybrid may be medium to large and shorter than the Rottweiler, and its body will be robust and muscular. The head will be broad and square, and the French Bullweiler may have floppy or pricked ears. The tail can be long like that of the Rottweiler or short like that of the French Bulldog. Most Rottweilers you see have short tails because they have been docked. However, Rottweiler tails are naturally long.

Temperament of the French Bullweiler

The French Bullweiler will have the behavior and personality traits of both its parents. Even among the same littermates, you may notice different appearances and habits. Your hybrid will be highly intelligent and loyal. It's important that your French Bullweiler puppy is socialized from an early age. Obedience training is also recommended when he's young. Because he can be a little stubborn, consistency and patience will be necessary. Be a leader for your French Bullweiler and he should excel in his classes. The Rottweiler can be territorial and aggressive towards dogs, while the French Bulldog side can make him a clown. Your French Bullweiler will be happiest if he gets plenty of attention and love from you. Don't leave him alone for long periods, as he may start behaving anxiously, chewing furniture or barking excessively.

Needs and activities of the French Bullweiler

Your French Bullweiler may have moderate to high energy levels. It's important to take him for daily walks where he has the opportunity to sniff and explore. Don't rush him, take your time and let him enjoy your company. He'll love playing fetch and running in a fenced-in yard. Your French Bullweiler will also enjoy visiting a dog park, which will help him socialize with other dogs. French Bulldogs and Rottweilers don't do well in hot weather, so your French Bullweiler shouldn't be exposed to extreme temperatures. During the summer months, he should be walked in shady streets, ideally during the coolest hours of the day.

Maintenance of the French Bullweiler

The French Bullweiler has a short, dense coat that only needs combing and brushing once a week to remove loose hairs. If necessary, they can be bathed with a mild dog shampoo. His Rottweiler side can make him shed a lot. If your French Bullweiler has floppy ears, he'll need weekly ear cleaning to remove dirt. Excess moisture can be a problem, so make sure the ear is dry at all times. Your hybrid's teeth should be brushed a few times a week, and a visit to the dentist is recommended every year to ensure that the hygiene routine you've put in place is sufficient. Your French Bullweiler's nails shouldn't be neglected, so check them for breaks or tears after exercise and trim them if necessary.