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French Bullweiler Hybrid Description

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Hybrid Description

The French Bullweiler is not a purebred dog. It is a cross between the French Bulldog and the Rottweiler. The best way to determine the temperment of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross. It is possible you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. Not all of these designer hybrid dogs being bred are 50% purebred to 50% purebred. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generational crosses. Please review individual breeds for potential health issues.

French Bulldog Breed Description - Cross #1

The French Bulldog has the appearance of an active, intelligent, muscular dog of heavy bone, smooth coat, compactly built, and of medium or small structure. The hallmarks of the breed are the square head with bat ears and the roach back. Expression alert, curious, and interested.

He is a companion dog. The breed is small and muscular with heavy bone structure, a smooth coat, a short face and trademark "bat" ears. Prized for its affectionate nature and balanced disposition, they are generally active and alert, but not unduly boisterous. Frenchies can be brindle, fawn, white, and brindle and white.

Behavior

The French Bulldog, like many other companion dog breeds, requires close contact with humans. If left alone for more than a few hours, it may experience separation anxiety.

French Bulldog are often kept as companions. The breed is patient and affectionate with their owners, and can live with other breeds. French Bulldog are agreeable dogs, and are human-oriented, and this makes them easier to train, though they do have tendencies to be stubborn.

They are ranked 58th in Stanley Coren's The Intelligence of Dogs. There are certain exceptions to this average level of canine intelligence; a French Bulldog named Princess Jacqueline which died in 1934 was claimed to be able to speak 20 words, in appropriate situations.

The ideal city dog, he adapts well to apartment life. During walks, he must be taught not to pull on the leash, or he may develop a poor gait. He hates being separated from his owner. He needs daily brushing during the shedding season, as well as a bath every two months. His eyes and the folds on his face need regular attention.

Health

As a consequence of selective breeding, French Bulldog are disproportionately affected by health related problems:

  • Brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome
    The skull malformation brachycephaly was increased by breeding selection which led to the occurrence of the brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome. Therefore many French Bulldog often pant sticking out their tongue even at slight efforts like walking. The brachycephalic syndrome causes them to have multiple side effects, as in difficulty breathing (which includes snoring, loud breathing). It happens because they have narrow nostril openings, a long soft palate, and fairly narrow tracheas. This issue can lead to death in French Bulldog if they are not undergoing proper treatment.

    In order to treat these dogs and create a smoother airway to the lungs, a procedure must be done that takes out a portion of their soft palate. The results of the procedure show a minimum of 60% better airway passage to the lungs.

  • In 2013, a UK Medical Study reviewed the health of 2228 French Bulldog under veterinary care in the UK. The study found that 1612 (72.4%) of these French Bulldog had at least one recorded health issue: "The most common disorders recorded were ear infections (14.0%), diarrhea (7.5%) and conjunctivitis (3.2%). Skin problems were the most commonly reported group of disorders (17.9%). This study of over two thousand French Bulldog provides a framework to identify the most important health priorities in French Bulldog in the UK and can assist with reforms to improve health and welfare within the breed."

  • Temperature regulation-related issues
    The French Bulldog has only a single short coat, which combined with their compromised breathing system, makes it impossible for them to regulate their temperature efficiently. This means the dog may easily become cold, and are prone to heat stroke in hot and humid weather. French Bulldog are also prone to allergies, which can cause eczema on the body.

    As they are a brachycephalic breed, French Bulldog are banned by several commercial airlines due to the numbers that have died while in the air. This is because dogs with snub noses find it difficult to breathe when they are hot and stressed. The temperature in a cargo space in an aircraft can rise as high as 30 °C (86 °F) when waiting on the runway.

  • Birth and reproduction
    French Bulldog sometimes require artificial insemination and, frequently, Caesarean section to give birth, with over 80% of litters delivered this way.

  • Back and spine
    French Bulldog are prone to having congenital hemivertebrae (also called "butterfly vertebrae"), which will show on an X-ray.

  • In October 2010, the UK French Bulldog Health Scheme was launched. The scheme consists of three levels: the first level, Bronze, designates a basic veterinary check which covers all the Kennel Club Breed Watch points of concern for the breed. The next level, Silver, requires a DNA test for hereditary cataracts, a simple cardiology test, and patella grading. The final level, Gold, requires a hip score and a spine evaluation. The European and UK French Bulldog fanciers and Kennel Clubs are moving away from the screw, cork-screw or 'tight' tail (which is an inbreed spinal defect), and returning to the short drop tail which the breed originally had. The UK breed standard now states that the tail should be "undocked, short, set low, thick at root, tapering quickly towards tip, preferably straight, and long enough to cover anus. Never curling over back nor carried gaily."

    The French Bulldog may develop skin fold dermatitis.



    Rottweiler Breed Description - Cross #2

    The ideal Rottweiler is a medium large, robust and powerful dog, black with clearly defined rust markings. His compact and substantial build denotes great strength, agility and endurance. Dogs are characteristically more massive throughout with larger frame and heavier bone than bitches. Bitches are distinctly feminine, but without weakness of substance or structure. For additional detailed information please click on the tab below.

    Behavior

    Rottweilers are a powerful breed with well-developed genetic herding and guarding instincts. Potentially dangerous behavior in Rottweilers usually results from irresponsible ownership, abuse, neglect, or lack of socialisation and training. However, the exceptional strength of the Rottweiler is an additional risk factor not to be neglected. It is for this reason that breed experts declare that formal training and extensive socialisation are essential for all Rottweilers. According to the AKC, Rottweilers love their owners and may behave in a clownish manner toward family and friends, but they are also protective of their territory and do not welcome strangers until properly introduced. Obedience training and socialization are required.

    One study published in 2008 found that male Rottweilers have higher confidence, sharpness, and defense and play drives than females.

    A 2008 study surveying breed club members found that while Rottweilers were average in aggressiveness (bites or bite attempts) towards owners and other dogs, it indicated they tend to be more aggressive than average toward strangers. This aggression appears correlated with watchdog and territorial instincts.

    In the Rottweiler Handbook, Joan H. Walker states that "The Rottweiler is very territorial", meaning that the owner will have to regularly work with the dog to control its territorial aggressiveness.

    Generally speaking, Rottweilers are good with children – a combination protector, and playmate. However, as with all dogs, caution must be exercised when infants and children are in their proximity. Infants and children should never be left unattended around any dog, including Rottweilers. Knowing and understanding the temperament of your Rottweiler is your responsibility. Remember that no dog should be brought into your home as a baby sitter. You need to teach the dog to respect your children, and teach your children to respect the dog.

    The dog’s size can be a serious problem. Rottweilers have accidentally caused injuries to small children by bumping into them and knocking them down or into furniture. This bumping is a natural behavior of the Rottweiler, a legacy from the days when the breed was used to herd cattle. Rottweilers will bump and herd children or elderly family members. Some breeders recommend waiting until children are at least school age or older before bringing a Rottweiler into your home. The amount of space in your home, the age of your children, and the amount of time the dog will be in contact with your children should be part of your decision-making process.

    Some Questions You Should Ask Yourself

    So, before you go any further, here is a list of things to consider. This is not meant to frighten you, but rather to make certain that you understand what is required of you as a Rottweiler owner:

    Am I willing to give my dog regular discipline and basic obedience training?
    We believe that any dog, and especially a large protective dog, needs regular day-to-day discipline. Every dog must grow up knowing that he has limits of behavior, that he must respect people and property, and that he is, after all, a dog.

    Will I see to it that both the kids and the dog treat each other properly?
    Although a Rottweiler makes an excellent pet for families with children, and while they are sturdier than most other dogs, they are not punching bags and are NOT meant to be tormented or harassed any more then is any other living thing. By the same token, the playful pup should not be allowed to jump on the kids, pull their britches, or steal their toys. Too often, when puppy still looks like a fuzzy toy, these antics are cute, but they aren’t so funny when the dog hits 100 pounds.

    Am I willing to invest the time necessary to raise my Rottweiler?
    Rottweilers need human companionship and attention. If your idea of raising a dog is to tie him to a stake in the backyard and feed him once in awhile, do yourself a favor and don’t buy a dog. He will be miserable, you won’t have any fun, and the dog will turn into a problem instead of a joy. Rottweilers need regular grooming. This should be part of their routine from the time they get home. Regular brushing will reduce the dog hair problem, help eliminate doggy odors, and reduce the chances of skin problems. If you don’t know how to groom a Rottweiler, check with your breeder or veterinarian.

    Am I willing to provide a good home for my Rottweiler?
    While a Rottweiler is happy to live in the house with the rest of the family, there are times when you will want to keep him outside. A fenced-in yard is ideal when you are not outdoors with him. A ROTTWEILER SHOULD NEVER BE ALLOWED TO RUN LOOSE! His size and demeanor may frighten someone. His big feet and inquisitive nose can be disastrous to a neighbor’s flower bed. He has no fear of cars and could easily become a casualty. And a loose dog is an open invitation to dognappers. Your Rottweiler represents a substantial investment – one which you should protect. Although it is not a good situation; if your Rottweiler is to live outdoors, be sure that he has a clean, well-insulated, draft-free doghouse that provides a cool shady retreat or protection from inclement weather. He must always have fresh drinking water and some protection from insects.

    Will I provide proper veterinary care for my dog?
    Your Rottweiler will require certain routine health care. Dogs are subject to many of the same diseases as man, plus some of their own. In addition to your regular visits to the vet for “shots” (vaccinations) or titer testing to protect against various diseases, a regular check-up by the veterinarian is certainly desirable for your dog. Your veterinarian should also be contacted whenever you see any signs of illness or abnormal behavior.

    Am I sure that all of my family will share in this venture?
    It is a big mistake to “buy the dog for the kids” when it requires the management of responsible adults. It is also unfortunate for a pup to go into a home where it is resented by one family member who might have preferred another breed.

    UNLESS YOUR ANSWERS TO ALL OF THESE QUESTIONS ARE AN UNQUALIFIED “YES,” WE URGE YOU TO CONSIDER ANOTHER BREED OF DOG.

    You may think it strange that we seem to be discouraging you. In a way, we are, but only because we want to be sure Rottweilers only go to people who will commit to being suitable owners for the lifetime of a Rottweiler. A fine dog, like a child, does not raise itself.

    Please take the time to consider carefully if you have the time, the interest, and the resources to devote to your Rottweiler.

    If You Decide to Buy a Rottweiler
    Observe the behavior of the sire (if he is on the premises) and the dam. Ideally the dam will be calm and steady, possibly even curious and friendly. It is quite correct for her to be reserved. An openly hostile bitch who does not respond to her master’s reassurances is undesirable. Cowardice and shyness are also undesirable traits. The sire’s temperament is as important as the dam’s. Puppies should be playful, inquisitive, and trusting of people. They should submit to gentle handling and respond to their environment. Clarance Pfaffenberger’s book New Knowledge of Dog Behavior will help you pick the best puppy for you.

  • American Rottweiler Club
  • Health

    Rottweilers are a relatively healthy, disease-free breed. As with most large breeds, hip dysplasia can be a problem. For this reason, the various Rottweiler breed clubs have had X-ray testing regimens in place for many years. Osteochondritis dissecans, a condition affecting the shoulder joints, can also be a problem due to the breed's rapid growth rate. A reputable breeder will have the hips and elbows of all breeding stock X-rayed and read by a recognised specialist, and will have the paperwork to prove it.

    They will also have certificates that their breeding animals do not have entropion or ectropion and that they have full and complete dentition with a scissor bite.

    As with any breed, hereditary conditions occur in some lines. The Rottweiler is very prone to osteosarcoma, which is among the most common causes of early death in Rottweilers. For unknown reasons, Rottweilers are more susceptible than other breeds to become infected with parvovirus, a highly contagious and deadly disease of puppies and young dogs.

    If overfed or under-exercised, Rottweilers are prone to obesity. Some of the consequences of obesity can be very serious, including arthritis, breathing difficulties, diabetes, heart failure, reproductive problems, skin disease, reduced resistance to disease and overheating caused by the thick jacket of fat under the skin.

    As with the vast majority of large-breed dogs, Rottweilers are also predisposed to dilated cardiomyopathy.


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