For many New Yorkers, early adulthood can be a never-ending stream of one-bedroom apartments with nothing but the occasional cactus or bonsai for company. For the courageous New Yorker (with time on their hands and enough money for a daily walker), purchasing a dog might be the answer. For New York Francophones, some of these authentic, French dog breeds might be your perfect match! Believe it or not, the poodle is actually a German creation, but there a plenty of other options for the dog-lover with French tastes.
The French Bulldog (Picture above)
With roots in England, the first French bulldogs were bred in Normandy from the now extinct toy bulldog breed. The result of breeding the English bulldog with pugs, the French bulldog was favored by Parisian city-dwellers for its small size, loyal temperament, and attention-seeking personality. Known for its short muzzle, waddling movements, and cute grunts in place of barks, the French bulldog appeals to many with the “so-ugly-it’s-cute” mentality, and today, is one of the most popular purebred breeds in New York City. They are relatively active indoors, but do not require a significant amount of outdoor space, so long as they are walked regularly. French bulldogs are not hypoallergenic, but have been
reported to do well with owners with mild allergies. They are known for great temperaments, and do well with small children, cats, and other dogs. For more information on adopting a French bulldog, you can visit the Long Island Bulldog Rescue website (www.longislandbulldogrescue.org), which finds homes for both the French and English breeds, or the French Bulldog Rescue Network, which is a national organization .
The Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is descended from the water spaniel and standard poodle. The name comes from the Middle French word bichon, which means “small, long-haired dog,” and is also the origin of a modern-day, English language profanity (try and guess which one). Favored by the French King Henry III, the Spanish Infantas, and even Napoleon himself, these precocious little dogs have become a favored city companion for their small size and loyal nature. Although not well suited for families with small children, the Bichon is perfect for adults who live alone, families with older children, and seniors. Although active indoors, the Bichon does not require as much space as most larger dogs, although regular walks are, of course, a must! Bichon Frises are also hypoallergenic. For more information, visit Small Paws, a national rescue organization specifically for Bichons.
The Papillon
Known as “the butterfly dog,” or “the squirrel dog,” for it’s pronounced, fluffy ears and wispy tail, the papillon is known as one of the dog world’s most intelligent breeds. Once a favored dog of the European nobility, the papillon has been immortalized in great works of art by artists such as Titian and Fragonard. So popular was this little dog among the French elite that it is said Marie Antoinette walked to the guillotine clutching her papillon under her arm. While the truth of that tale is unlikely, numerous paintings and etchings confirm that the infamous, last queen of France was a proud papillon owner. While papillons are bred for their suitability as urban, companion dogs, they are not particularly suitable for families with small children. That said, they are hypoallergenic and don’t require as much energy as larger dogs, so are perfect for the lonely, overworked New Yorker just looking for simple companionship. For more information on adopting a Papillion, visit Papillion Haven, a national network of papillons in foster care currently awaiting new homes.
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen
Bred from the well-known basset hound, the petit basset has longer hair than its adorable cousin, but an equally friendly demeanor. Originally bred in Vendée, France to track rabbits and badgers through the brambly undergrowth, the petit basset has evolved into the perfect, urban companion dog. Squat-legged and long-bodied, many petit basset owners love their dogs for their quirky appearance. Like the originally basset, the petit basset has an excellent temperament and does exceptionally well in families with small children, and if socialized early, can live in households with one or more cats. One thing to note about the petit basset is its “bray,” or howl. All hounds are howlers, but bassets (both original and petit) are less active indoors, and subsequently less disruptive, than some of their larger cousins. They are not hypoallergenic, but like the French bulldog, are reasonably shorthaired and do well with owners with mild conditions. For more information about adopting a petit basset, the Petit Basset Griffon Vandéen Club of America maintains a detailed directory of foster and adoption organizations.
The Brittany Spaniel
For the New Yorker looking for a slightly larger and more active option to the lap dog, the Brittany spaniel might be the dog for you. Although generally active both outdoors and in, the Brittany spaniel has been reported to do well in city environments, so long as they are walked regularly. More suited to the Brooklynite than the Manhattanite, the Brittany spaniel usually does better in a living situation that includes a small amount of yard. Bred, as the name suggests, to hunt waterfowl in Brittany, the spaniel has been favored by centuries of French aristocrats. They possess a loyal and playful temperament, although are not recommended for families with toddlers, as they have been known to play rough. Best for single-person homes, families without children, or families with older children, the Brittany spaniel is by far the most rambunctious dog on this list, so prepare for several months to years of training and patience. Nevertheless, the Brittany spaniel is perfect for the active New Yorker. For more information on adopting a Brittany spaniel, visit the national network American Brittany Rescue .
By Jake Flanagin
