Florida couple fights to reclaim $1.2 million worth of seized French bulldogs

Aimee Cabo Nikolov and her husband Boris are battling the City of Fort Pierce in civil court to regain custody of over 50 French bulldogs seized from their home.

Mar. 26, 2026 at 10:52pm

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More than 50 French bulldogs allegedly worth around $1.2 million have been seized from the Fort Pierce home of author and podcast host Aimee Cabo Nikolov and her husband Boris. The City of Fort Pierce claims the dogs were found living in poor conditions, but the Nikolovs deny any abuse or neglect and are fighting in civil court to regain custody of the animals.

Why it matters

This case highlights the high-stakes world of French bulldog breeding, where valuable dogs can be at the center of legal disputes. It also raises questions about animal welfare regulations and the rights of pet owners versus government authorities when it comes to seizing animals.

The details

Investigators say they seized the dogs from the Nikolov home because the animals were found in distress and living in bad conditions, with some dogs kept in crowded, feces-covered spaces. However, Aimee Cabo Nikolov denies any abuse or neglect, claiming she was simply trying to improve the French bulldog breed. The city alleges Cabo Nikolov did not have a proper breeder's license and was trying to create a new mixed breed, which is not recognized by the American Kennel Club.

  • The dogs were seized from the Nikolov home in May and June 2025.
  • The civil trial to determine custody of the dogs began on March 26, 2026 and is expected to continue next week.

The players

Aimee Cabo Nikolov

An author and podcast host in Fort Pierce, Florida who was breeding French bulldogs in an attempt to improve the breed.

Boris Nikolov

Aimee Cabo Nikolov's husband, who was also involved in the French bulldog breeding operation.

City of Fort Pierce

The local government authority that seized the French bulldogs from the Nikolov home, alleging the animals were found in distress and living in poor conditions.

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What they’re saying

“There has been no abuse or neglect. I love these dogs. This is a travesty of justice.”

— Aimee Cabo Nikolov

“I'm an artist. I want to improve the breed. I feel that the Frenchie breeds, that we've lost some of the Frenchie breed's structure.”

— Aimee Cabo Nikolov

What’s next

The civil trial to determine custody of the seized French bulldogs is set to continue next Tuesday.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complex legal and ethical issues surrounding high-value dog breeding, with authorities and pet owners clashing over animal welfare concerns and property rights. It underscores the need for clear regulations and oversight in the lucrative French bulldog industry.