French Bull Tzu

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

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

A brief presentation of the French Bull Tzu

The French Bull Tzu is a hybrid breed where the feisty French Bulldog is crossed with the majestic Shih Tzu. Small with medium to long hair and seen in a variety of colors, French Bull Tzu hybrids are cheerful and affectionate and will love spending time with humans. Early socialization and obedience training will be useful for your French Bull Tzu to ensure he'll be comfortable with children. The French Bull Tzu will not require much exercise, a daily walk being sufficient.

History of the French Bull Tzu

It's highly likely that this hybrid, too, got its start somewhere in the USA over the last 30 years. And no matter whether your own French Bull Tzu comes from an intentionally bred litter or was born of accidental mating, you can be sure of its qualities, as they generally inherit many traits from 2 pure breeds.

 

        

A little of the French Bulldog

        
French Bulldogs are most likely closely related to a variety of English Bulldog toys. These dogs were very popular in England around the 1850s and 1860s, and could often be found as pets for lacemakers in a region of the English Midlands called Nottingham. When the English began to lose interest in the breed, many of these dogs were sent to France, where they were named French Bulldogs. After being crossed with a variety of dog breeds, they made a big impression on wealthy urban women and rural landowners. The creation of the French Bulldog Club of America dates back to 1897, and in 1898 the organization staged a specialized show in New York's Waldorf-Astoria ballroom, greatly increasing the breed's popularity. 1902 was the founding year of the French Bulldog Club of England, and they held their first show in 1903. The breed lost popularity after the First World War and even more so during the Great Depression of the 1930s, but regained it in the 1980s and 1990s.
Standard of the French Bulldog

A little of the Shih Tzu

Most experts believe that the parent breed, the Shih Tzu, is a cross between the Lhasa Apso from Tibet and a small dog from China (a Pekingese, for example). Often favored by Chinese royalty, they graced the royal courts of the Tang dynasty (618-907). The Shih Tzu became popular among commoners during the Ming dynasty, however, during the Chinese revolution, the breed was almost eradicated, with only seven dogs of each sex rescued. It is from these dogs that the modern Shih Tzu is descended. In the early 20th century, Shih Tzus were imported to other countries such as Norway, England and the USA. A standard for defining the Shih Tzu was established in 1938. Many World War II veterans returned to the U.S. with their beloved Shih Tzu companion, and the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969.
Standard of the Shih Tzu

Appearance of the French Bull Tzu

The endearing French Bull Tzu is a small dog weighing between 7 and 11.5 kilos on average. They can be seen in a variety of colors, often in mixtures of red, white, black and brown. With a face very similar to the French Bulldog parent, the coat is most often medium to long in length and is generally silky and fine. The body shape is a mix between the two parents, and can be slightly corpulent like the French Bulldog or long like the Shih Tzu. The tail is long and carried straight. The dark eyes are often framed by fur and sparkle with mischief. The muzzle is often short or flat.

Temperament of the French Bull Tzu

The French Bull Tzu is a cheerful dog that will be very affectionate. He'll love being with his humans and savoring their affection, although he can be hesitant around noisy, exuberant children. He can be stubborn, but is generally not difficult to train, as he really enjoys learning and being involved in the action. He'll have plenty of energy to enjoy obedience classes, so give him the opportunity to branch out and get comfortable with other dogs and people.

Needs and activities of the French Bull Tzu

The French Bull Tzu has lots of energy and will thrive on the opportunity to walk around the neighborhood twice a day. He'll enjoy practicing his social skills with the kids next door and the dog down the street. In fact, trips to the dog park may be just what he needs to become a versatile dog. Be sure to provide him with what he needs during all types of weather, whether it's a sweater in cold weather or shade in hot weather. The French Bull Tzu should not be over-exercised in hot weather. He adapts to all living environments and is not known for excessive barking.

Maintenance of the French Bull Tzu

Although a medium to long-haired dog, the French Bull Tzu requires minimal maintenance. Brushing its coat three times a week will ensure that it is shiny and tangle-free. A pincushion brush can be used, and you may want to trim the fur around his eyes a little if it starts to interfere with his vision. Some owners use clippers if the coat is dense and thick. Nails should be trimmed every few weeks so they don't curl or break, and teeth need daily care, as small dogs can be prone to tooth decay.

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