This Hairless French Bulldog Was Too ‘Ugly’ to Sell – Now Everyone Wants Him!
Richie Ramases Lagarto is no ordinary puppy. Born from a cross between a Xolo and a French Bulldog, this hairless Frenchie found himself in a precarious situation from the moment he entered the world.
Source: @roadogs
His breeder, driven by the lucrative market for designer dog breeds, deemed Richie’s appearance “undesirable.” The puppy didn’t meet the aesthetic standards that typically command high prices for hairless Frenchies. Shockingly, instead of finding an alternative home for Richie, the breeder made the callous decision to euthanize him. (watch the video below)
Saving Richie
This grim fate might have been Richie’s end, but fortune intervened in the form of Amanda from Retired To Rescue . Amanda learned of Richie’s plight and took swift action, convincing the breeder to surrender the puppy instead of ending his life. From there, Richie’s journey took a turn for the better as he found his way toRoadogs Rescue, who provided him with a loving foster home.
Source: @roadogs
Richie’s story sheds light on a troubling trend in the world of designer dog breeds. As demand for unique crossbreeds like Frenchie mixes grows, some breeders resort to unethical practices in pursuit of the “perfect” puppy. Those born without the desired traits often face dire consequences, as noted by Pet Rescue Advocate Rocky Kanaka: “Even dogs are not immune to being judged for their looks and experiencing the resulting consequences.”
Now at 9 months old, Richie is thriving in foster care, proving that his unconventional appearance has no bearing on his capacity for love and affection. He’s just as playful and cuddle-worthy as any other puppy, eagerly awaiting a forever home that will cherish him for who he is.
Dogs like Richie, who are bred from unethical practices, do not deserve to die. The 9-month-old hairless Frenchie puppy is just as cute, cuddly, and loving as other puppies can be, so all he needs is someone to love and care for him.
The rescue @roadogs posted a video comparing Richie to the “Dogpool” character in the new Deadpool & Wolverine movie in order to generate more awareness about him. The two dogs surely look alike with their tongues hanging out of their mouths Thus, any moviegoers who fell in love with Dogpool must consider giving Richie a home.
Source: @roadogs
Open Your Home To This Unconventional Pup
Since hairless Frenchies are a new type of designer dog breed, potential owners should be aware of Richie’s needs and temperament. As per the rescue’s website, since he is a half-Xolo, this breed is not suitable for first-time owners because this breed requires a lot of exercise and regulated play sessions. Without it they can become destructive and develop behavioral issues.
Richie can be shy with new people, and large crowds can overwhelm him. However, once he forms a bond with someone, he can be extremely loving and protective of them.
Since he practically has no fur, you may think that Richie doesn’t require much grooming care. But in reality, being hairless makes his skin sensitive and susceptible to sunburn. So, his owners would have to apply doggy sunscreen and moisturizer on him. In addition, he needs to be protected from chemicals and harsh climate conditions.
If you’re able to fulfill these needs, you will realize how amazing Richie can be. His favorite hobbies are cuddling with his foster parents and playing with stuffed toys and his foster siblings. Apply for his adoption and take this little pup home.
Why You Shouldn’t Buy Hairless Frenchies
According to the American Kennel Club, French Bulldogs are the most popular dog breed in the United States, with 98,500 Frenchies registered in 2023. Seeing this popularity, breeders all over the country are putting their best efforts to cater to this demand. Some are going a step further and trying to produce unique designer breeds by mixed Frenchie breeds.
Veterinarians are expressing strong opposition to the breeding of hairless French bulldogs, citing concerns over “extreme breeding” practices that jeopardize the long-term health of these pets. These short-faced dogs, already prone to numerous health issues such as breathing difficulties and spinal problems, could face additional complications due to their hairless condition, including increased susceptibility to sunburn, skin infections, and temperature regulation issues.
“Every dog deserves a loving home,” says Rocky Kanaka, pet rescue advocate. “While I wouldn’t suggest seeking out a breeder for a hairless frenchie, if you find one in a shelter or rescue, like Richie, consider yourself lucky and adopt!”
Medical Repercussions of Producing Haireless Frenchies
The trend of hairless Frenchies, which reportedly began around 2020 in China, has quickly spread, with breeders in the U.S. and the UK now participating. The first known litter of hairless French bulldogs in the UK has sparked significant backlash. British Veterinary Association President Justine Shotton emphasized that breeding dogs to meet aesthetic preferences, particularly in ways that can cause harm and suffering, is unacceptable. The health risks of brachycephalic breeds, such as French bulldogs, are well-documented, with recent studies showing these dogs are significantly more likely to develop conditions like cherry eye, further complicating their health profiles.
The controversy underscores broader concerns about the ethics and consequences of selective breeding. In response to these issues, some countries, including the Netherlands, have implemented stricter regulations on breeding practices. Additionally, some breeders have attempted to cross-breed brachycephalic dogs with other breeds to reintroduce healthier traits. However, experts warn that such cross-breeding, especially when driven by the desire to create novel designer breeds like hairless Frenchies, does not necessarily lead to healthier dogs and can perpetuate harmful breeding practices.
