The Frenchie is the little engine that could—that is, could unseat the reigning top dog in America as the new #1 AKC breed. With good reason: With the face of a gargoyle, ears of a bat, and personality of a clown, it’s impossible not to smile when a Frenchie enters your life.

The Frenchie started its climb to the top several years ago, but in recent years has rocketed in popularity. But some longtime French Bulldog lovers fear that with popularity comes problems, and they caution owners to do their research before buying.