Are Frenchies Manipulative?

Dec 19, 2021 | Smart French Bulldogs

If you have a French Bulldog, you already know that your beautiful furry friend is the most loving, affectionate, and loyal dog on the planet. When it comes to Frenchies, what you see is what you get – it’s not in their nature to be disingenuous, meaning that you always know where you stand with them.

However, not being disingenuous isn’t the same thing as not being manipulative.

“But no,” you cry! “My lovely Mr. Mittens couldn’t possibly be manipulative!”

Unfortunately for you, that’s exactly where you’re wrong.

Manipulative… But Pure of Heart

Sick French Bulldog

This is not to say that French Bulldogs are malicious or inherently evil. On the contrary, they are faithfully what you know them to be. However, they’re also a very intelligent breed of dog, which can end up meaning that they learn to trick you into getting what they want.

Recent research has shown that dogs are even more intelligent than we give them credit for. They might be able to control their facial expressions to make them look more pitiful or happier, depending on how they’re feeling.

However, even knowing that you’re being tricked… you might still allow yourself to be tricked! It’s so hard to turn away your dog’s beautiful face when it’s asking you for something, even if you know that you’re being manipulated.

French Bulldog Manipulation Tactics

French Bulldog Xray
Research has also shown that French Bulldogs, like toddlers, can mimic crying and other mournful acts to call for attention. Fortunately, French Bulldogs use their manipulation powers – mostly – for good instead of evil.

Because of how intelligent French Bulldogs are, you may find yourself on the losing side of a stubborn challenger. French Bulldogs can identify what they want and the best way to get it.

They can suss out which of their owners is the weaker link and follow that owner around for additional treats or belly scratches.

What Prompts A French Bulldog’s Manipulation?

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Additionally, French Bulldogs tend to be extremely stubborn. Even if you tell them no, they might stand there and look chastised as if your words have gotten through to them… but then, a few minutes later, you might find them doing the exact thing you just scolded them for.

This is another form of manipulation. They will make you think they understand what you’re asking and promising that they’ll do better in the future… just to make sure you get away from them and stop paying attention.

As soon as your back is turned, they’ll be jumping on the couch, or eating food straight off your plate, or rolling around in the mud. That’s why, if possible, it’s best to train these sorts of stubborn traits out of your Frenchie as quickly as possible.

If you don’t, you might find yourself with a manipulative – but still very lovely and friendly – companion.

Takeaway

Your French Bulldog has you wrapped around their nonexistent fingers. You may not recognize how you’re being manipulated, but it’s highly likely that your Frenchie is manipulating you because they are very stubborn, intelligent creatures who know how to think outside the box to get what they want.

Keep an eye on your Frenchie’s behaviors and see how they might be pulling the wool over your eyes!