The french bulldog is the third most popular dog in Australia 
Are they a large breed or a small breed?
They are a smaller breed. To Reduce their size, they were crossed with terriers while some were crossed pugs
Were they bred for a certain reason?
They were used for blood sports but they were outlawed in 1835 which left them unemployed. Since then they have been breed from a sporting breed to a companion breed. 
Is a French Bulldog registered with the AKC? I was thinking about possibly getting one, but want something recognized by the AKC?
Yes, they are the 6th most popular breed of AKC registered dogs
What kind of temperament do they have? I want something not too needy.
They have an even temperament. They have been breed as a companion 
Do you know if they are known for any specific health problems?