Big Rope French Bulldogs? 122 Most Correct Answers

– Girls: $9,990-10,990 – Boys: $8,990-9,990 Average price: We will have Isabella French Bulldog puppies for sale, contact us for more information!

Isabella French Bulldogs are considered to be the rarest in the Frenchie world. Similar to purple Frenchies, they’re the combination of blue and chocolate, but they’re a much more unique greyish-liver color. Isabella Frenchies are extremely hard to come by, making them incredibly valuable for breeding purposes.

French bulldogs are one of the most adorable dog breeds out there! They are typically identified by their bat-like triangular ears, powerful bodies, and outlandish personalities.

While Frenchies are undoubtedly one of the best dogs, many people don’t realize just how many variations there are!

There are said to be around 14 different types of French bulldogs. This wide range really offers some exciting options for those who want to own one of these cute dogs!

What is a French Merle Bulldog?

One specific species, the French Merle Bulldog, is a rare breed. The rarity of this breed makes it very desirable! The 14 different types of French bulldogs are defined by their coat coloration.

Typically, a French bulldog will come in solid colors, creams, or even chocolate. What really sets a merle strain apart is its color combination.

The color mix sets this breed variant apart from other Frenchies. Merle Frenchies share the same behavioral patterns as regular Frenchies.

They are so adorable and very attached to their owners. While their separation anxiety can be considered intense, they simply love their owners dearly.

Additionally, like other Frenchies, Merle Frenchies are not aggressive but can be stubborn. Her stubborn demeanor can be considered adorable. Merles are also playful and very affectionate.

Whether it’s a Merle Frenchie or another variation of Frenchie, these lovable dogs make iconic pets.

What makes Merle French Bulldogs so rare and unique?

Merle Frenchies are considered so rare and unique because of their coat coloration. While coat color is necessarily a “color,” it still makes them highly identifiable and desirable. The color scheme can be described more as a pattern scheme.

Merle Frenchies typically have a base color on their coat and then patches or patches that mottle their coat. This unique pattern is what makes this type of Frenchie so rare. This pattern often consists of dark, multicolored patches mixed into the fur.

This often covers all parts of their fur from head to tail. This beauty in her coat really makes a variety of Frenchie that appeals to most people.

While other variations are also popular, some people enjoy mixing artwork in the colors of the fur. These little masterpieces are adorable for new dog owners!

When assessing why Merle Frenchies are so unique and rare, it’s important to understand their backgrounds.

There are strict guidelines when it comes to breeding these special dogs. Due to an incredibly high rate of health issues, Merle Frenchies should never be bred to another Merle.

This often leads to problems with the eyes and other deformities. While not considered a “purebred” variety, they are still remarkable looking dogs.

A responsible seller and breeder will breed merle variations with solid color Frenchies to achieve the best results from a merle pattern Frenchie. Breeding Merles properly ensures they remain unique and rare.

When considering a Merle Frenchie, always look for the iconic patch color pattern and examine the eyes. The eyes can be light colored, which is another identifiable feature, but the eyes should be in good health. Any change in the eye indicates an irresponsible breeder.

The other features are obviously consistent with other Frenchie traits, including the bat-like ears and stout bodies.

Are Merle French Bulldogs Expensive?

When it comes to price, it’s important to remember that price reflects a responsible breeder. Breeders who don’t follow basic breeding rules may try to overcharge for a quick buck.

However, responsible breeders also command a higher price due to their meticulous breeding practices.

For this reason, it is absolutely essential to examine any Merle Frenchie before purchasing it.

Usually the price can also be determined by the color base with which the dog was bred. There are blue Frenchies with a slight blue tinge to their fur, and these are pretty rare Frenchies in and of themselves.

If these are used to breed with a Merle, the price can also go up. If you look at the exact price tags, a French Merle Bulldog can cost anywhere from $6,000 to $8,000.

While that price tag is quite steep, Merle Frenchies are just as cute as the Frenchies themselves, just with a little flair in the fur!

This price range is typical of responsibly bred Merle Frenchies. If the price is well over $8,000, there is a big chance that something is wrong. Again, it’s important to always examine Frenchies to make sure they look both perfectly colored and healthy.

10 Facts About French Merle Bulldogs

Merle French Bulldogs are sweet creatures and knowing some wonderful facts about them will help anyone make the decision to add them to their family! Below are 10 facts about French Merle Bulldogs!

1. They are known to be bred with Chichiuas

Chichiuas are another popular small dog breed and are sometimes bred with Merle Frenchies.

2. They are so loyal to their owners!

Merle Frenchies will always be loyal to their owners.

3. They love affection

Merle French bulldogs are cuddly creatures and love to snuggle up to some pets.

4. You can be stubborn

Like other Frenchies, Merles can be stubborn. This can take the form of cuddling, playing, or even making food choices.

I recommend Barkbox, a great surprise your Frenchie will love

5. Merle can’t swim

Just like other French people, Merle cannot swim. They are just too small in their height and build, especially their larger heads.

6. You can live long!

Frenchies and Merle French Bulldogs have been known to live up to 14 years. With the right care and attention, these lovable dogs can live quite a long life!

7. They are protective

While Merle Frenchies (or other Frenchies!) may not be aggressive, they are still fiercely protective. This includes protecting their owners and their family members.

8. Merle French bulldogs are sociable

Merle Frenchies are just other Frenchies and are very sociable! They love being the center of attention. Part of their sociable nature includes being talkative. It helps them feel included in any social situation!

9. You can be sensitive

Like regular Frenchmen, French Merle Bulldogs do not take criticism very well. They are happy dogs that do not respond well to overly assertive discipline. When they feel they are being criticized too much, they often become depressed and dally. It is important to have a structured path to discipline. This is mostly done through positive reinforcement!

10. Merle French bulldogs are a dominant gene

When it comes to DNA, the Merle pattern is considered the dominant gene. For this reason, Merle’s should not be bred with other Merle Frenchies. Science proves that dominant and recessive genes mix better.

The dilution gene

The dilution gene occurs at the D locus. It’s recessive, so d is diluted and D is non-diluted, and for a dog to be diluted it must have the genotype dd. A dog that is Dd or DD has normal (non-diluted) pigment.

The dilution gene affects eumelanin (black and liver), although phaeomelanin (red) can also be lightened. If a dog has two copies of the d allele, a black dog will become blue (aka slate) and a liver (chocolate) dog will become Isabella (aka lilac). A blue or isabella can have any coat pattern, but whatever they have, any black or liver in the coat will turn into a blue or isabella. It is genetically impossible for a blue dog to have a black coat or for an Isabella to have liver.

In general, the number one sign that a dog is thin is its nose color. For example, the coat may be full sable or recessive red, but if the dog has a blue nose, it is genetically pigmented blue.

Black nose (left) and blue nose (right).

However, Isabella is a bit trickier. The dogs below show nicely pigmented liver and isabella noses, but it is common for both colors to have very light, even pink noses, and it is also common for isabellas to have dark noses that look like liver. It is therefore very difficult to tell a Liver from an Isabella unless there is some Liver/Isabella in the coat.

Liver nose (left) and Isabella nose (right). Most Isabella noses aren’t that dark, but they can be.

The dilution gene also causes the eyes to lighten amber. The color is probably paler than the amber eyes of liver dogs.

See the eye and nose pages for more information on the effects of dilution on eye and nose color, as well as more photo examples.

** A number of dilution mutations have recently been discovered (three, at the time of writing). As with the liver, the various d alleles all behave and interact in the same way and do not appear to change the shade of the coat. The only relevance is in genetic testing – if d locus results are important to you, make sure you choose a lab that tests for all currently known d locus mutations in your breed.

Most labs use numbering to denote the D locus mutations – e.g. d1, d2 etc. **

French bulldog colors. The standard and the rare.

Standard colors brindle

cream

fawn

Black

Any mix of everything above + pied

Exotic colors blue

Merle

purple

Isabella

chocolate

Blue fawn

*furry

Any mix of everything above + tan

I get so many questions about French bulldog colors on a daily basis. I’ve been scrolling online to find an article covering all French Bulldog colors to show my clients as an example, but nothing extensive has turned up so I’ve decided it’s time to make my own write.

I’ll try to keep it as simple as possible and answer some basic pricing questions. Keep in mind that prices vary based on color, bloodlines, and breed rights. It will cost you more to get a specific dog with a full AKC registration than just getting them as a family pet.

Check out our available puppies

Standard French Bulldog colors and patterns

What are the Standard French Bulldog Colors and Patterns? Let’s start at the beginning..

In 1897 the only original breed standard was considered brindle. After the standard revision of 1911, they approved additional standard colors and patterns such as fawn, cream, piebald, etc. To this day, any deviation from the standard results in disqualification. The French Bulldog’s standard colors are the only ones allowed to compete in the ring.

Acceptable Colors – All brindle, fawn, white, brindle and white and all colors except those that constitute a disqualification. All colors are acceptable except solid black, mouse, liver, black and tan, black and white, and white with black, which will result in disqualification. Black means black without a trace of brindle.

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AKC, American Kennel Club

If you’re trying to invest in a full-color French Bulldog from a responsible breeder – as a pet only, you’ll typically see prices between $2,500 and $3,000.

However, a standard color price can still be as high as $5,000-$6,000 when purchased from a breeder with champion bloodlines and amazing quality French bulldogs.

French bulldog brindle pattern

Brindle is one of the most common French bulldog patterns.

Brindle French Bulldog has a base coat of fawn hair through which black hairs extend in bands to create a coat that ranges from a tiger brindle in which fawn hair predominates to the more common dark brindle in which the black hair predominates, can be enough. Also known as the “reverse brindle,” the light-colored version, with deer hair predominating, is generally rarer.

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piebald pattern

The check is not a French bulldog color, but a pattern. A piebald animal has a pattern of pigmented spots on an unpigmented (white) hair background.

The piebald French bulldog is available in several standard color variations. Brindle piebald, fawn piebald, reddish brown piebald, etc. Of course there are also piebalds in an exotic color variant, but we will go into more detail on that later.

Cream colored french bulldog

What is a Cream French Bulldog? Many light brown French Bulldogs are mistaken for a cream breed.

A true off-white Frenchie will appear slightly off-white throughout – one color. It is a recessive dilution of the deerskin.

They have no markings, they have black pigment, black noses, black eye rims, black paw pads and black lips. The DNA of a true cream French bulldog is different from that of the light-colored deer.

Click here to learn more about the differences between these French Bulldog colors.

Fawn colored french bulldog

The fawn colors of the French Bulldog come in a variety of shades, from very light, almost cream, to a deep red fawn. They can have a mask, like the one pictured above, or be maskless.

Fawn can also be combined with an exotic color where the dilution affects the “black mask”, eyes, nose and paw pads (blue fawn, lilac fawn, chocolate fawn,..)

Black and black piebald french bulldog colors

A non-standard color in the price range of standard colors. These beauties deviate from the acceptable coat colors, but are still in the lower price segment.

A French bulldog is considered black when the coat color is solid and shows no signs of brindle, which is rare. Even if a puppy appears black, it may not be. A true black French bulldog has unique a/a DNA.

It will cost you around $3500 to $5000 to bring home a black or black piebald French bulldog.

Exotic French Bulldog colors and patterns

Exotic Colors and Patterns in the French Bulldog Breed _Accare are those that are not AKC approved and cannot compete in the ring. They can still be AKC registered and are 100% French Bulldogs but unfortunately cannot compete as their coat color is an immediate disqualification.

Blue french bulldog

The French Bulldog’s beautiful blue (grey) color is the result of a dilution gene. The dilution gene affects eumelanin (liver and black coat), in some cases also the red coat.

If a dog has two copies of the d allele (dd), a black dog will turn blue. The range of fur is wide – from very light gray to almost black, but even in this case it can be seen that the dog is dd by looking at the shade of its nose.

The blue French bulldog is in the rare or exotic color price bracket. It will cost you between $4000 and $6000 to get a blue dog companion.

All coat colors can come in a variation with one pattern (piebald, brindle, merle) + another color. The puppy picture above is a Blue Pied.

Click here to view our available blue french bulldog puppies

French bulldog purple colors

These rare lilacs are the result of the blue and chocolate DNA of their parents. The same dilution gene that causes a black dog to turn blue (as mentioned above) causes a chocolate/liver dog to turn purple.

Click here to learn more about this type of dilution

A purple French Bulldog dog has the genotype bbdd (homozygous for liver, homozygous for dilution). Purple dogs are usually very light blue, almost silver in appearance, with light eyes and a pink tinge to the muzzle.

Because of their unique looks, they are in the higher price range of $5000-7000.

chocolate/liver

In the case of the chocolate color, the dilution of the black color occurs at the B locus. It’s recessive, so b is liver and B is non-liver, and for a dog to be liver it must have genotype bb.

Merle pattern

The merle gene creates mottled patches of color in a solid or piebald coat and can also affect skin pigment. This pattern is very controversial in the French bulldog community as it can cause serious health problems if two merles are bred together.

A merle should only be bred to a dog with a solid coat color. The merle gene itself does not cause any health problems.

Merle dogs usually have light blue eyes or odd looking eyes (heterochromia iridum). Heterochromia Iridium is a difference in the coloring of the iris. Merle French Bulldog colors are rare and of course in the higher price range.

French bulldog in platinum

An exotic, off-white color is called platinum. Their coat color is cream, but you can see signs of thinning by looking at their nose, eyes, lips, and paw pads.

While a regular cream French Bulldog would have a black nose, dark eyes, and black foot pads, the Platinum French Bulldog will have a diluted version of these.

Fluffy french bulldog

Ok, Fluffy obviously isn’t a color or a pattern, but it’s becoming such a big part of the French Bulldog world that it just has to be included in this list.

Fluffy or also called Furry French Bulldog is a long-haired Frenchie. They are adorable and look like little teddy bears due to the rare L longhair gene.

There is much debate as to the origin of the L gene in the French bulldog breed. Some people believe it’s a rare gene that presented as a mutation, others believe another breed of dog was mixed in to make the introduction.

Nonetheless, they are becoming increasingly popular among French bulldog lovers.

You will spend between 8,000 and up to 50,000 for a fluffy French bulldog. The price range is of course large and what determines the price is the color and buying the dog only as a pet vs. with breeding rights.

Fluffy French Bulldogs tend to overheat faster than a regular French Bulldog because their hair is thicker and longer. We would not recommend getting a fluffy French Bulldog if you live in a hot and humid area.

The fluffy French bulldog comes in all colors mentioned on this blog. Anything from a blue fluffy french bulldog to a fluffy merle french bulldog, you name it, they’re out there and they’re taking over.

Isabella French bulldog coat color

Let us introduce you to the Isabella French Bulldog, this is the new shade of lilac also known as ‘true lilac’ or ‘double lilac’.

Just like the regular purple French Bulldog – the color is a combination of blue and chocolate, but in this case the chocolate is testable.

We won’t go into much detail if you are unfamiliar with coat color genetics, but this is currently the rarest French bulldog coat color.

And while she is still not very well known in the general French Bulldog community, she is definitely an extremely unique, beautiful and high on every French Bulldog breeder’s wish list.

An Isabella French Bulldog will cost you a pretty penny, anywhere from $15,000 to $40,000, if you buy the breed-licensed dog.

Blue Fawn French Bulldog

Blue fawn French Bulldogs or fawn French Bulldogs with any other color dilution such as lilac fawn French Bulldogs or chocolate fawn French Bulldogs are fawn French Bulldogs with the signs of dilution on their mask, nose, ears and paw pads.

They are easily distinguishable from the regular brown Frenchie with a black mask because of the lighter eye color and, as I mentioned, the different mask color.

Blue kitted French bulldog prices vary from breeder to breeder, but they can range from $4,000 to $10,000. Lilac Frenchies could go even further, again depending on your location and the quality of the bloodlines. Read here to learn more about Blue Fawn French Bulldogs.

Coat color combined with tan points

Another very beautiful and unique coloring. The price range is wide. You can expect to pay $7000 for a black and tan French bulldog, up to $9000-12000 for a lilac and tan or merle and tan.

Merle French Bulldog

What is a French Merle Bulldog?

The French Merle Bulldog has a gene that creates mottled patches of color in a solid or piebald coat, and it can also affect skin pigment. This pattern is very controversial in the French Bulldog community as it can cause serious health problems if two French Bulldogs of the Merles type are bred together. A Merle French Bulldog should only be bred to a dog with a solid coat color. The merle gene itself does not cause any health problems. Merle dogs usually, BUT NOT ALWAYS, have bright blue eyes or odd looking eyes (heterochromia iridium). Heterochromia Iridium is a difference in the coloring of the iris. Merle French Bulldog colors are rare and of course in the higher price range.

One of the most popular merle colors right now is the Blue Merle French Bulldogs?. Blue Merle Frenchie has a light gray base with darker gray patches. They also often have bright blue eyes that stay that way forever. Keep in mind that this is the only French bulldog gene that has the ability to create permanent blue eyes. If you’re looking for a blue-eyed French bulldog whose eyes don’t change as they grow and mature, then a merle is your only option. Above is our Blue merle Pied Frenchie, named Bronson. He is all white with small blue merle patches and beautiful baby blues. Merle French Bulldogs definitely don’t come cheap, especially when they are responsibly bred and come from excellent bloodlines. Read more about Merle French Bulldogs.

Buying a French Merle Bulldog is definitely an investment and can cost you anywhere from $6,000 to $15,000. Coat color, breeder investment, and genetics all play a big part in the final price.

Black and brown french bulldog

Black and Tan French Bulldog is a solid black Frenchie with tan points. Tan spots are markings that usually appear in the form of “eyebrows”, patches on the sides of the cheeks, paws and occasionally on the tail.

Have you ever seen a black and tan French bulldog in person? Let us know in the comments.

Blue and brown french bulldog

The blue and tan French Bulldog is a blue dog with brown spots. The same rule always applies to tan points. The dog has the ability to make marks on these specific parts of the body.

BUT tan spots can also be masked and overpowered by other coat colors and patterns, making them invisible. When a blue and tan French Bulldog is covered in cream, it will appear creamy on the outside.

However, the dog is still a tan spitz dog on DNA and can produce tan spitz offspring or pass on the gene and produce a pup that is a carrier

Lilac and Tan French Bulldog

Purple and tan French Bulldogs used to be very rare but started to gain popularity in 2018 and now we are definitely seeing more and more purple and tan French Bulldogs exploring the streets, especially here in NYC.

The next extremely rare coat color is the already mentioned Isabella, the “real lilac”, and the Isabella coat color can also be found with a tan-pointed combination, which is still very rare at the moment. Only a handful live in the US and are mostly owned by breeders.

By 2023, the French Bulldog community will become more and more familiar with this rare and beautiful color combination – Isabella and tan French Bulldog.

For now, let’s give the purple and tan Frenchie his spotlight and recognition.

Merle and Tan French Bulldog

Merle is a pattern, not a color, so literally any of the above French Bulldog colors except cream and pied can be found with a merle pattern combination.

Merle Tan French Bulldogs are adorable and still quite rare. We may be expecting some Merle Tan French Bulldogs early next year. So if you prefer this color, don’t hesitate to get in touch and be put on the waiting list.

Have you ever seen a blue and tan Merle French Bulldog, purple and tan Merle French Bulldog or black and tan Merle French Bulldog like the one pictured below? Let us know in the comments.

Do you own an interesting colored Merle French Bulldog or are you curious about your Frenchie’s coat color? Send us a message via Instagram and we’ll help you determine your Doggos color combination. Click here to get in touch.

French Bulldog in Chocolate & Tan

Chocolate & Tan French Bulldogs are still fairly rare, even though the color has been around for quite a while. And of course Chocolate can be combined with Tan Points like any other color = Chocolate and Tan French Bulldog.

Pictured above is our chocolate brown Frenchie cutie named Indi. She lives in Brooklyn and is very happy to say hello if you meet her on a walk.

As you know, one of Animal Rahat’s goals is to end the use of nose ropes. When bulls are young, their septa are pierced and a rope is threaded through the hole and tied tightly behind their ears. From that moment on, they don’t have a moment of perfect comfort. The worst pain occurs when the rope is pulled to direct the oxen’s movements. But even when they are simply resting or grazing, they still feel the constant pressure and irritation of the nose rope.

Over the years, Animal Rahat has persuaded thousands of steer owners to replace nose ropes with convenient harnesses called “morkees” – like those worn by steers Mojya and Shikarya in the photo below (pictured with their owner, Mr. Landage).

Earlier this year, Mr. Landage asked an Animal Rahat veterinary assistant to examine Mojya, who was having problems with one of his eyes. The assistant discovered that he had eye cancer – a common problem in cattle in India – and made an appointment for him to be treated by Animal Rahat’s vets. He asked Mr. Landage to remove Mojya’s nose rope in the meantime to make the ox more comfortable. At first the man refused, insisting that Mojya was dangerous and could not be handled without a nose rope, but he eventually relented.

Our vet assistant then demonstrated how grooming Mojya with a brush was a better way of handling him. Grooming is a form of positive reinforcement that increases Oxen’s confidence, reduces their anxiety, strengthens their bond with their owners, and makes them calmer and more willing to obey commands. A few days later, a team of Animal Rahat vets surgically removed Mojya’s cancerous eye and he made a full recovery.

Typically low endurance dogs, English bulldogs have a sweet disposition, are predictable, dependable and excellent with children and only need moderate exercise.

The wrinkles on the English Bulldog’s face should be wiped regularly to prevent skin infections.

The English bulldog is a hefty little powerhouse whose signature crab-like waddle exudes great strength, stability and power.

The dog’s head is large and spherical, and the muzzle is extremely short, giving the face a flattened appearance. The English bulldog’s eyes are dark and set deep and wide on the forehead in the frontal plane. The nose is black and turned slightly upwards. The jaws (or “chops”) are massive, broad, and underbited. The lower jaw protrudes in front of the upper jaw to barely expose the lower incisors, producing a comical grin. The lips are fleshy and hanging. The cheeks are well rounded and protrude laterally. The ears are thin, small and tilted forward like flaps framing the forehead.

The English bulldog’s neck is short and thick; The shoulders are massive, muscular and broad. The chest is deep and full and the back is barrel shaped and slightly arched. His rounded hips protrude slightly above his back. The stub tail is thick and either straight or screwed. His short, stocky legs have great muscle definition. They are spread and slightly bent at the elbows and hocks to form a stable, base-width stance.

The English bulldog is about 16 inches tall. The female weighs about 50 pounds (23 kilograms) and the male weighs about 54 pounds (24 kilograms).

The English bulldog’s skin is loose and hanging with heavy wrinkles and thick creases on the face and a dewlap hanging from the throat. The fur is short and finely textured. The different color patterns are brindle, piebald and solid white, red, beige or fawn.

Personality:

The English bulldog has a sweet, gentle personality. Reliable and predictable, the Bulldog makes a wonderful family pet and is affectionate with most children. People-oriented as a breed, they actively solicit human attention.

However, they have retained the courage originally bred into them for bull baiting, making them good watchdogs. Although they generally get along well with other family pets, English bulldogs can be aggressive towards unfamiliar dogs.

To live with:

English bulldogs make good apartment pets and do not require a yard. Typically low endurance dogs, they only need a moderate amount of exercise. They thrive best in temperate climates; They overheat easily and have trouble breathing in hot weather and freeze easily in cold temperatures.

English Bulldogs are generally noisy breathers and are prone to snoring and panting. Many also drool. They are moderate shedders and their short coats require little grooming. However, the wrinkles on the face should be wiped regularly to prevent skin infections.

Story:

The English bulldog, named for its use in the sport of bull baiting, appears to have originated in the British Isles sometime before the 13th century. One of the few references to the sport dates back to 1209 and tells of a butcher’s hounds chasing a bull through the English town of Stamford. The Count of the city liked this pursuit so much that he introduced bull baiting as a sport in his domain.

Today, the English Bulldog makes a lovely family pet. The AKC recognizes the breed simply as a bulldog.

Also known as the “Frenchie,” the French Bulldog is an affectionate, playful, adaptable, and generally good-natured dog. It seems that they have the best qualities of a family dog. Still, curious owners might wonder how smart they are.

French bulldogs are the 109th smartest dog breed for obedience and working intelligence. However, the low ranking is probably due to their stubbornness. What really makes them smart is their ability to read, understand, and communicate human emotions. While they may not be great at learning commands, Frenchies have some of the highest adaptive intelligences of any dog.

The French are not the type to bid blindly. In reality, they are so much smarter than people make them out to be. Read on to learn why they are rated low for dog intelligence and what actually makes them intelligent.

RECOMMENDED: The 100 Smartest Dog Breeds

Measuring the intelligence of the French bulldog

Almost all owners who first discover the Frenchie’s low canine intelligence are shocked. I admit that the method of measuring a dog’s intelligence is flawed. However, we must first understand how they got to this ranking.

The trials used for the smartest breeds list were organized by canine psychologist Stanley Coren. With the help of 199 obedience trial judges spread across North America, Coren was able to collect obedience trial data from multiple breeds.

Coren’s Dog Intelligence Criteria

The trials were conducted based on Coren’s criteria, which he used to create his list of the smartest dog breeds. He used the following to measure obedience and work intelligence:

The number of repetitions it takes for a dog to learn a new command. Smarter dog breeds needed less repetition to learn something new. The success rate of a dog obeying a known command on the first try. Breeds with a higher success rate were considered more intelligent and obedient.

Not every breed of dog in the world has been tested. Only breeds recognized by the AKC or the Canadian Kennel Club took part in the trials. As a result, mixed races and the more exotic races were excluded from around the world.

Also, only dog ​​breeds with at least 100 responses qualified for the Smartest Dog Breeds list. Fewer responses meant less reliable data. Luckily, French bulldogs were both popular and recognized dogs—so they made it easy.

How French Bulldogs Did

Although Frenchies were included in the trials, they didn’t do as well as most owners would think. Rather, they were ranked the 109th smartest dog breed out of 138 qualifying breeds for obedience and working intelligence.

This places them among all dog participants in the intelligent “fair working” category. And although the French are not in the lowest intelligence class, they are below what is considered average. But what does that mean translated?

Breeds in the French Bulldog Intelligence class are capable of learning a new command with 40 to 80 repetitions. Also, they can only obey a known command (on the first try) with a success rate of 30% or more.

They are far from the smartest of dogs. Still, there’s nothing wrong with being “below average.” In fact, some of the most popular dog breeds belong to the same class, such as Pugs, Chihuahuas, Maltese, and the Great Pyrenees.

Frenchies versus the smartest dogs

The smartest dog breeds in the world are in a class of their own. With only 10 top dog breeds, they are able to learn a new command in less than 5 repetitions! That means they learn at least 8 times faster than Frenchies.

The top 10 are also some of the most obedient dog breeds in the world. As such, they obey a known command on the first try with a success rate of 95% or more. Their success rate is about three times that of the Frenchies.

Coincidentally, these smartest dogs are also the household names in the canine kingdom. For example, this ultra-exclusive list includes Golden Retrievers, Labradors, Rottweilers, Poodles, Doberman Pinschers, German Shepherds and more.

Why the French rank low for dog intelligence

French bulldogs are smart, and so many owners will agree. But why did they do so badly on Stanley Coren’s canine intelligence test? In short – the test is flawed and not suitable for French bulldogs, among other things.

If you think about it, Coren’s test is basically an obedience test. So it’s not surprising that some of the worst dogs are also some of the most stubborn and strong-willed dogs – including the French bulldog.

Yes, Frenchies are notoriously stubborn dogs. Though playful and bright, these dogs are sure to continue their stubborn streaks. According to the AKC, Frenchies are stubborn and require a lot of patience and positive reinforcement.

French bulldogs are very stubborn dogs. I’m also dealing with the shark phase and a biting problem. Otherwise she is a total sweetheart most of the time. – MunasG (Frenchie owners)

It’s not that the French are too “dumb” to learn quickly and follow an order, they just don’t want to. If they don’t feel like it, their stubbornness will set in. And just because they don’t follow an order doesn’t mean they don’t understand what you meant.

That’s not to say that French bulldogs aren’t loyal dogs. In fact, it’s just the opposite. Frenchies are so loyal to their human companions that they can come across as overprotective or slightly territorial towards the pack.

There’s just more to these dogs than blindly following their owners’ commands. That said, a Frenchie has an independent spirit and will often “think for himself”. That’s one of the main reasons they have such high adaptive intelligence.

2 reasons why Frenchies are actually smart

Stanley Coren’s canine intelligence rankings only measured obedience and working intelligence. But according to the researcher, there are two other dimensions of canine IQ that may be even more important when measuring canine IQ.

The others are adaptive and instinctive intelligence. It’s just that these components of canine IQ are much more subjective and therefore harder to measure. On the other hand, obedience and work intelligence are objectively measurable to a certain extent.

Companionship requires a canine intelligence

According to Coren, instinctive intelligence refers to the ability or special ability that the dog breed was born with. It’s their innate talent, or rather, what they were bred for. Back then, all dogs had a purpose in society, including Frenchies.

For example, the Australian Shepherd’s instinctive intelligence is unquestionably herding. The fact that they are able to herd cattle into formations with little or no training requires that particular type of intelligence.

This type of intelligence can be retrieval, herding, hunting, and even companionship. And in the case of the French Bulldog, it’s companionship. This is what they were originally bred for and what they still offer today.

They make wonderful pets and companions – just be ready for loads of funny noises, farts, burps and a waggling knob of a tail that will melt all your troubles away. – Tesignedingold (Chrono of the Horse)

While the larger Bulldog breeds were bred for bull baiting (the now illegal blood sport), French Bulldogs were bred specifically for size with a calmer temperament for companionship. You could even call them the “toy” versions of bulldogs.

Frenchies were popular in the 19th century when top workers immigrated to France in search of new employment opportunities in the booming industry. They were mainly used to keep owners company in a country where immigrants knew few faces.

Because of this, Frenchies are gentle, happy, and loving dogs. They know how to make their owners smile because they were bred for the job. And maybe that’s why they’re such popular dogs today!

The Frenchie’s adaptive intelligence

The final dimension of canine intelligence is adaptive intelligence. In contrast, this type of IQ relates to the dog’s ability to solve problems and learn for themselves. This is where the French Bulldog really shines among the rest.

Unlike instinctive intelligence, French bulldog adaptive intelligence can vary widely. It may depend on your individual bulldog. However, in most cases, the Frenchie has a high adaptive intelligence.

Take, for example, this Frenchman with an amazing understanding of human emotions. Her owner tells us why she is such an adaptable dog, saying:

Isabel, our French, has a great understanding of emotions. She’s usually hyperactive and has a handful, but on days when I’m not feeling well she calms down immediately. – Stephanie T. (French bulldog owner)

Through a lot of experience with her owner, Isabel was able to interpret what her owner is feeling. As such, she changes her behavior and attitude based on that of the owner – a clear sign of this French Bulldog’s adaptive intelligence.

Another French bulldog owner explains how his “super smart” Frenchie can learn multiple languages. Or rather, multiple ways of saying “treat.” He tells us:

My French knows the word for “delicious” in 3 languages ​​because every time I have to ask “Shall we give her an X” she picks up on contextual cues. Low intelligence is just a facade. – Surfcrush (Reddit user)

We can refer to this owner. Our Pembroke Corgi is bilingual, but only with words involving food or treats. Even after she spelled the name of the treat, she got it too. Now we have to do sign languages.

These are just a few stories about the high adaptive intelligence in French bulldogs. In reality, there are so many other stories like this one. If you were to ask any Frenchie owner, you would hear the same anecdotes and amazing incidents!

Is your Frenchie smart?

It is quite difficult to assess a Frenchman’s intelligence using only an experiment measuring obedience tricks and commands. I would rather say the best way is to ask real French bulldog owners yourself.

That being said, we’ve polled owners on the popular Frenchie Subreddit and various other dog forums for answers to this question. Here’s what these owners had to say:

Answers from real owners:

1. Soup4breakfast Says Yes: “I didn’t know Frenchies had a reputation for being stupid. I mean maybe compared to a working dog. Georgie is clever in a mischievous way. She uses all her powers for evil.”

2. Decorhearst1 Says Yes: “Don’t listen to people who say the French aren’t smart. Anyone who underestimates the intelligence of these dogs will be tricked and taken for a ride!”

3. Surfcrush says yes: “Mine is very defiant too. And that’s how I know she’s smart – she chose to be a diva and to be disobedient. It’s really endearing in a weird way.”

4. Givetakeabones Says No: “I’m sorry, but my Frenchie is as smart as a brick. He is still the most loving dog in the world and I wouldn’t trade him for any other dog.”

5. Carriethefrenchdog Says No: “I’ve always wondered what’s on my Frenchie’s mind because it feels like she’s always keeping her distance. At least it feels like she’s not a highly intelligent dog.”

6. Skeetledunk Says Yes: “Our pup is so incredibly smart and affectionate. He just wants to be with people 24/7 (which causes his own problems). Also, he’s been housebroken for about 11 weeks.”

7. Lebran says Mixed: “My French bulldog Huxley (only 5 months old) can seem smart as a whip one moment and dumb as a post the next. You never know what you’re going to get.”

8. Anonymous Says Yes: “My Frenchie was so hard housebroken. They’re not labradors, that’s for sure. But I don’t think they are stupid. They’re just working hard to make it look like they are.”

9. Pitbullsonice Says Yes: “I don’t know why so many owners think their Frenchies are dumb. If they’re anything like mine, they’re super smart but stubborn.”

10. Gruntbuggly Says No: “No, he’s not very smart. We still worship him, but he’s dumb as a stake. He’s very lovable and we don’t really care.”

How Smart Is Your French Bulldog? Is he smarter than the rankings suggest? Let us know in the comments section below.

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Purple French Bulldog

Purple French Bulldog has a striking purple hue to the coat. It occurs due to the same dilution gene that causes a blue tint in the hair. If you were to ask us to describe this coat color we can say it is a pale grey-brown coat. This type of color occurs spontaneously when a dog is a carrier of a recessive gene.

Purple French Bulldogs

An Isabella or purple French Bulldog has the genotype bbdd (homozygous for liver, homozygous for dilution). When a purple French bulldog is born, their coat can resemble a blue Frenchie’s coat. As it matures, its fur becomes lighter in color and has a visible purple hue. A purple French bulldog’s eyes are usually blue, light gray, or amber in color. Their noses are usually pale pink or grey-brown with visible pale pink markings around the eyes and mouth. This type of dog requires a special type of breeding to avoid potential health problems. Because of this, rarely dyed Frenchies are expensive, and their prices range from $5,000 to $15,000.

Blue french bulldog

Blue french bulldog

Blue French Bulldogs can only thank their genes for having such an amazing coat color. There is a common misconception about blue-colored French people that they usually show dozens of health problems in the future. As a reputable French bulldog breeder, I have to say that is not true at all. If a dog was bred correctly, and its parents were completely healthy, then in no case will such a dog have health problems all its life.T

The reason for a type of gray-blue coat is that it carries a diluted gene. It is often said that thinned dogs are less healthy than those with normal pigmentation. This misconception is most likely due to the fact that some breeds suffer from a condition known as Color Dilution Alopecia (CDA). This type of condition is actually the result of a faulty version of the d allele known as dl. Because of this, it is very important to select only completely healthy Frenchies for mating. It is important to note that not all breeds carry this faulty allele. The majority of Blue French Bulldogs and Isabella French Bulldogs are perfectly healthy when properly bred.

If both parents carry this rare diluted gene then there is a high probability that their puppies will have a blue/mouse coat. The coat color of blue dogs can vary from almost black to dark gray and light gray to blue. However, if it is difficult to tell if a puppy is small, if it is blue, it should be obvious that the nose is blue. Blue French Bulldogs usually have light blue or blue eyes that look just plain exciting and dramatic.

Blue Merle French Bulldog: Everything You Wanted to Know

Do you admire the beauty of the Blue Merle French Bulldogs and are you considering bringing one home? You are not the only one. Blue Merle French Bulldogs have gained extreme popularity over the past year due to their unique looks and often sky blue or irregular looking eyes.

This blog will address any questions you may have about Merle Blue French Bulldogs and correct many of the misconceptions that are circulating on the internet.

The color is very controversial in breed circles, but is it true that a blue merle French bulldog is synonymous with health issues? Let’s dive in.

Here’s everything you need to know about Blue Merle French Bulldogs

What is a Blue Merle French Bulldog?

The Blue Merle French Bulldog color is one of the newest patterns introduced into the Bully breed.

Merle coat patterns come in a variety of colors (not just blue) and can affect any breed of dog.

Merle is a gene that causes random changes throughout the dog’s coat, paw pads, nose and eyes by removing pigment – the result is patches of missing pigment placed in the previously mentioned locations.

When the pigment removal takes place on the iris, it’s called heterochromia iridis—resulting in the bright blue eyes that the Blue Merle French bulldogs are so well known for.

If you are looking for a French bulldog whose eyes remain permanently blue, Merle Frenchie would be your only option. Both lilac, Isabella, and blue Frenchies possess the blue eye trait—but that only applies to puppies. As the dogs grow and mature, the blue eyes will change.

Check out our puppies

Do Blue Merle French Bulldogs Have Any Health Issues?

Are Merle French Bulldogs doomed and prone to all sorts of health issues?

I often see misconceptions floating around the internet about Blue Merle French Bulldogs, mostly citing how problematic and genetically inferior they are. Is it true?

No, there are no health issues directly linked to the merle gene. Merle French Bulldogs can be very healthy when bred responsibly. A very important factor in responsible breeding is ensuring that mating is performed correctly. A Merle French Bulldog should only be bred to a solid color dog.

The disadvantages of the merle gene come into play when the breeder’s irresponsibility breeds two merles together, potentially leading to a genetic disaster known as the “double merle”.

When two French Merle Bulldogs are bred together, there is a 25% chance of the puppies being double merles, also known as homozygous merles.

Double merled dogs have two copies of the merle (mm) gene, resulting in a significant removal of pigment that can affect vision and hearing. Double merle dogs are almost entirely white with bright blue eyes and can occasionally be born with eye deformities.

The merle pattern plays the same role as the piebald/piebald pattern in removing pigment, so merle dogs that are also piebald should preferably not be bred with other piebald French Bulldogs.

Do you see? It’s not all black and white. Knowing your breeder plays a big part in the health of your blue merle French bulldog puppy.

Why Is Breeding Merle French Bulldogs So Controversial?

As we have already mentioned, breeding two merle dogs can result in genetic abnormalities, but there is another reason why the merle gene can be problematic in the French bulldog breed.

The merle gene may not be expressed in cream or fawn colored French bulldogs. The condition is referred to as “Ghost Merle” or “Cryptic Merle”.

Ghost Merle is a regular looking French Bulldog with a yellow/cream coat, secretly a Merle Frenchie. Breeding a cream/fawn Frenchie with a Merle French Bulldog without knowing that the standard cream/fawn color is a Ghost Merle can also result in accidentally producing double merles.

This doesn’t have to be a problem if you’re buying your puppy from a responsible breeder who is knowledgeable about color genetics and will genetically/color test their French Bulldogs prior to mating.

Are Blue Merle French Bulldogs purebred?

Blue Merle French Bulldogs or other Merle French Bulldogs are 100% Bulldogs on DNA. So why do so many people question the bloodlines of French Merle Bulldogs? We will explain.

It is not entirely clear where the Merle pattern came from or when/if it was introduced.

Let’s just assume that an initiation has taken place to create blue merle French bulldogs. What is the introduction of coat color?

The introduction of coat color occurs when another breed that already carries that color or pattern (likely a Chihuahua in this case) is mixed into the genetic pool.

Once the new gene is introduced, it is bred back into a bulldog. After being bred back for generations, she eventually becomes a 100% French bulldog. This introduction probably took place a few years ago, well before the French Bulldog breed gained prominence.

So yes, another breed of dog was probably crossed at some point – but guess what? This applies not only to all coat colors of the breed, but also to different dog breeds.

The first French Bulldog was created about 150 years ago by mixing an English Bulldog with a Rat Terrier. For the first few years of its existence, the black tabby French bulldog was the sole coat color of this newly created breed.

Every coat color we see in the Bulldog breed has been the result of “mixing and matching” to create new color variations and patterns, Merle is just the latest, the “new” and the current controversy.

Are Blue Merle French Bulldogs accepted by the AKC?

The answer is no. The Bulldog breed standard was written over a century ago and only sees black brindle, cream, fawn, piebald, and white as acceptable colors.

All exotic colors are considered non-standard and an immediate disqualification. Standard color breeders and AKC show competitors look down on exotic colored French Bulldogs such as Merles, Lilacs, Blues, Chocolates, etc. as impure and unacceptable.

But guess what? We think they’re great. They’re french bulldogs, they’re healthy, they’re cute and cuddly, they’re just not welcome in the club ;).

Check out our puppies

How Do I Groom a Blue Merle French Bulldog?

Blue Merle French Bulldogs, like all colored Bulldogs, require special care and attention. Think quality diet, exercise and proper care.

Blue Merle French Bulldog Diet

We recommend a completely raw diet, the so-called BARF diet. Your Merle French Bulldog will thrive on it and you will avoid skin allergies that the breed is prone to.

Grooming the French Bulldog Blue Merle

Grooming a French bulldog? Nothing too crazy, just the occasional cleaning of the ears, brushing, frequent wiping of the nose and wiping the wrinkles. Find the best products linked in the blog below.

Blue Merle French Bulldog Health Concerns

As previously mentioned – the dog will not suffer any additional health issues just because they are a Merle, however the French Bulldog breed is prone to a number of health issues and one of the most important ones to educate yourself about is IVDD.

What other Merle French Bulldog color combinations are there?

Blue Merle French Bulldog is definitely the most popular and eye-catching merle color right now, but there might be some other adorable color combinations that you’ve never come across.

Bold This There are just too many to name, but we’ll include a few of our favorites.

Blue Fawn Merle French Bulldog

Have you ever seen a blue french bulldog? Imagine that, plus pigment removal caused by the merle gene. And there you have it, a blue fawn merle French bulldog.

Isabella “True Lilac” Merle French Bulldog

Isabella is one of the newest colors in the French Bulldog breed. It is a new shade of lilac, also called “true lilac”. Just like a purple French Bulldog, an Isabella Bulldog is the result of blue and chocolate DNA. However, this shade looks much more champagne-like compared to the regular lilac.

Of course there is now also Isabella Merle – on the right. This is currently the rarest and most expensive color in the French Bulldog breed. The price can range from $15,000 to $50,000.

Chocolate Merle French Bulldog

A chocolate French Bulldog is a dark brown French Bulldog with light brown/green eyes that has bb DNA. Pictured below is a Chocolate Merle Frenchie puppy named Clara.

Pied Merle French Bulldog

Pied, also called piebald, is a gene responsible for pigment removal, just like the merle gene. The pup pictured below is a Blue Pied Merle with blue eyes that will be permanently blue.

French Bulldog Black Merle

Black Merle French Bulldogs are black-coated dogs that lack pigment patches, which are usually light gray or light tan. Depending on genetics, they may or may not have blue eyes.

Final Thoughts

So what’s the bottom line? Should You Buy a Blue Merle French Bulldog? The answer is, to each their own.

If you think that exotic French bulldog colors aren’t “true French bulldogs” because the breed standard rules deem them unacceptable, then steer clear of rare colors and get a fawn, cream, brindle, or piebald Frenchie—they are all amazing, adorable and offering unconditional love.

If you have an eye for exotic colors, check with your breeder and make sure they always prioritize the French Bulldog’s health, temperament, and characteristics over coat color.

As long as there is enough genetic diversity, coat color has no effect on health.

French Bulldogs typically have short, straight, rough hair, but did you know you can get a fluffy Frenchie too? These dogs are similar to the French Bulldog you know and love, except they have a longer coat.

Join us as we take a closer look at the appearance, temperament of these dogs, and their grooming and maintenance needs. You’ll soon know if the Fluffy Frenchie is your perfect pooch.

Does a fluffy french bulldog exist?

Fluffy French Bulldogs differ from regular French Bulldogs only in that they have a slightly longer, fluffier coat.

Although there are incredibly rare and ridiculously expensive Fluffy Frenchies out there. And they aren’t actually mixed breed dogs like some people believe, but pure, 100% French bulldogs.

However, the French Bulldog’s fluffy, long coat is not recognized in the American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standard, and as such, these dogs are not eligible to enter or be registered in the conformation show ring. However, they are becoming increasingly popular as pets.

If you’re wondering if the French Bulldog is the right pet for you, be sure to read our French Bulldog article here for everything you need to know about the breed.

What Does a Fluffy French Bulldog Look Like?

Fluffy French bulldogs look just like regular Frenchies except for their coats. These long haired Frenchies have a coat that is slightly longer than the typical French bulldog coat.

The coat of these dogs is not curly like the Poodle or lush and long like the Lhasa Apso, but rather medium length.

If you’re dreaming of a French bulldog with beautiful curls or floor-length waves, you’re going to be disappointed.

Just like their short-haired counterparts, the Fluffy Frenchie has a sturdy, compact little body. These dogs are between 28 and 33 cm tall and weigh between 7 and 11 kg (16 and 24 lb) as females or 20 and 28 lb (9 and 13 kg) as males.

They have large, square heads with dark eyes. They also have the Frenchie breed’s signature bat ears, which stand erect on their head. The short tail is set low to the ground and can be either straight or pulled up like a pig’s.

Fluffy Frenchies are also often born with dewclaws, which are usually removed when the dog is still a puppy. This is usually done to avoid injury. This claw serves no purpose, but can easily snag on things and tear off painfully.

Also Read: Why is the Blue French Bulldog So Special?

The genetic profile of the fluffy French bulldog explained

When seeing a Fluffy Frenchie for the first time, many people assume these dogs are mixed breed dogs, but this is not the case.

Fluffy Frenchies are the purebred puppies of two French bulldogs. It has everything to do with the genetic makeup of these unique dogs.

Fluffy French bulldogs arise due to the presence of the LH gene, also known as the autosomal recessive gene or Fibroblast Growth Factor 5 (FGF 5) gene.

This gene occurs naturally in French bulldogs, however it is a recessive gene and is quite rare. In order for a French bulldog to have a long, fluffy coat, they must have two LH genes.

Carriers of the LH gene have the short hair that is common in the French Bulldog breed. These dogs would have a dominant Sh gene and a recessive L1 or L4 gene.

Even if two carriers of the FGF 5 or Longhair gene are bred, there is only a 25% chance their puppies will be Fluffy Frenchies since the Sh or Shorthair gene is dominant in French bulldogs.

To guarantee long-haired Frenchie puppies, a Fluffy Frenchie must be bred to another Fluffy Frenchie.

The table below will give you a better idea of ​​how this process works:

Visually Short Haired Frenchie Visually Short Haired Frenchie with Long Hair Fluffy French Bulldog Genes Present Sh/Sh Sh/Lh Lh/Lh Offspring with Sh Gene 100% 50% 0% Offspring with Lh Gene 0% 50% 100%

Although no one can pinpoint exactly when this gene first appeared in the breed, it is believed that it has likely always existed in these dogs. French bulldogs were created in the 1800s when English bulldogs were bred with terriers to create a smaller bulldog.

Some say the gene came from the terriers, or rattling dogs, that were used to create the French Bulldog breed.

In the past, puppies that didn’t meet the breed standard for coat type might have been euthanized to prevent their genes from spreading further.

However, now some people are trying to breed these dogs specifically for this trait.

The Fluffy Frenchie’s coat comes in a variety of colors just like the French Bulldog breed. For Standard French Bulldogs, AKC-approved colors include white, cream, and fawn, or a combination thereof.

Dogs then also have markings in white, brindle or black. They can also be pied, which includes black spots on a white base, or ticked.

There are also some rarer French Bulldog colors including blue, lilac, blue merle, chocolate and tan, or a combination thereof.

Is a fluffy French bulldog’s temperament the same as a short haired French bulldog’s?

French bulldogs have long been bred as companion animals and as such are very people-oriented dogs.

The Fluffy Frenchie is no different. These dogs thrive on attention and get along well with most people.

French bulldogs also want to be with their humans every minute of the day and do not do well when left alone for long periods of time.

They are prone to separation anxiety but rarely bark unless to alert their owner to a stranger. As such, they make great little watchdogs. They can be friendly towards other dogs and cats if they are well trained and socialized from an early age.

Thankfully, these dogs are fairly easy to train, although they can be a bit stubborn at times.

Here’s how to take care of your fluffy Frenchie

While Frenchies make great apartment dogs, these pups are fairly high maintenance and have very specific grooming needs.

If you’re thinking about getting a French Bulldog puppy, you should know exactly how much care goes into grooming one of these dogs.

These dogs are also prone to heat exhaustion, causing them to pant excessively with exercise and in hot weather.

They need proper care in warm climates to avoid overexertion as they are unable to properly regulate their temperature. This is especially true for long-haired Frenchies, whose extra fluff will keep them even warmer.

Training and exercise needs of a fluffy Frenchie

The long-haired French bulldog has the same exercise needs as the short-haired version of this breed. This brachycephalic breed doesn’t need a lot of exercise and a short daily walk should be enough for your dog.

In fact, because of their short muzzles, these dogs should not be over-exercised, especially in hot weather.

However, you cannot allow your dog to become overweight due to inactivity as it can lead to several health problems. Frenchies love to play and can even excel at agility challenges.

Are Fluffy Frenchies Hypoallergenic?

Just like regular Frenchies, Fluffy Frenchies will shed and are therefore not considered hypoallergenic. They shed slightly year-round and more heavily twice a year with the change of seasons.

Fluffy French Bulldogs are easy to care for. The hair isn’t so long that it gets tangled, so it doesn’t need to be brushed as often as a regular French bulldog’s coat.

A weekly brush should be enough to keep your dog’s coat looking and feeling good. You may want to increase this frequency during periods of heavy shedding to get rid of all that extra fur.

However, you must wipe your dog’s skin every day to prevent moisture from building up in the skin folds, which can lead to infection.

They only need to be bathed when they’re excessively dirty, as regular bathing destroys the natural oils in their skin that keep their coat looking shiny and healthy.

Eating fluffy Frenchie foods

Just like regular French bulldogs, fluffy Frenchies are prone to obesity and should not be free-fed.

These dogs require between one and one-half cup of food daily. Their meals should be divided into two parts to get enough calories to feed them. These stubborn dogs will also benefit from a healthy routine.

Read our article on the best dog food for French bulldogs.

Are Fluffy Frenchies Healthy Dogs?

French bulldogs, including the fluffy variety, are not particularly healthy dogs. Selective breeding, particularly with Fluffy French Bulldogs, has led to many health problems in these dogs.

Most of these stem from Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome. This is caused by the deformed shape of the skull that gives these dogs their flat faces and can cause many breathing problems.

Some other common health issues in the Bulldog breed include luxating patella, a dislocation of the kneecap that can cause breathing difficulties, and hip dysplasia, a genetic condition that also affects mobility.

Some other health issues that can affect this breed’s mobility include hemivertebrae spinal disorders and intervertebral disc disease (IVDD).

Because the tail is a direct extension of the spine, dogs with screw tails are more likely to suffer from spinal problems later in life.

Because of their bug-like eyes, French bulldogs also often suffer from eye problems. These may include cherry eye, cataracts, entropion, and conjunctivitis of pink eye.

Also, Frenchies are particularly prone to skin problems like allergies, eczema, and skin fold dermatitis, which occurs when bacteria grow in skin folds if they’re not kept clean.

How much does a fluffy Frenchie puppy cost?

Fluffy Frenchies don’t come cheap. These dogs fetch between $13,000 and $16,000 each. From their original home in England, these tiny powerhouses found their way to France, where they became popular companions with the elite of high society.

From there, their popularity grew and soon French Bulldogs became desirable pets around the world. In 2020, they were the second most popular dog in the US, so it makes sense that the price of a French Bulldog puppy is pretty steep. And of course more for the rare and elusive Fluffy Frenchie!

Some breeders try to breed dogs with the LH gene, which produces the Fluffy Frenchie.

However, there is no guarantee that a litter of French Bulldogs will have long hair, and sometimes Fluffy French Bulldog breeders will only get a few dogs with this trait in a litter.

French bulldogs are also unable to give birth naturally and therefore often require a cesarean section as well as artificial insemination. This is due to the unnaturally small hips of these small dogs.

Because of these expensive medical procedures, buying a Fluffy Frenchie puppy is expensive.

Fluffy Frenchie breeders

Certain reputable breeders specialize in breeding Fluffy Frenchies, although you may have to put your name on a waiting list if your heart is set on one of these puppies.

If you’re buying a Fluffy Frenchie from a breeder, be sure to ask for all the necessary health certificates to make sure your pup is healthy and doesn’t come from a bad bloodline.

You should also check out the parent dogs to make sure your French Bulldog is a purebred dog. This is because some backyard breeders looking to make a quick buck are crossing Frenchies with Chihuahuas or Pekingese to create a hybrid that looks similar to the Fluffy Frenchie.

Adopt a fluffy Frenchie

Because these dogs are very rare and purposefully bred, they are hard to find in rescue centers.

The chance of finding an older purebred French bulldog looking for a home is more likely than a puppy and sometimes people have to give up their pets due to changes in their personal circumstances.

A great place to look for a fluffy Frenchie in need of a new home would be at a French bulldog rescue site. Here are a few to get you started:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can fluffy french bulldogs swim?

All French bulldogs should also be supervised around water. These dogs have difficulty swimming due to their short legs and heavy body.

They also have difficulty keeping their heads above water due to their flat faces and are therefore prone to drowning. However, they do love water, so they need to be supervised if you have a pool in your backyard.

Are Fluffy Frenchies Air Travel Good?

While you might think that a French Bulldog’s small size makes it the perfect travel companion, most airlines do not allow this breed of dog on planes.

This is because these dogs are prone to breathing problems and can suffer from difficulties when the plane reaches a high altitude.

Who Should Get a Fluffy Frenchie?

Fluffy Frenchies are absolutely adorable. They are also highly sought after for their soft fur.

However, these dogs are quite unhealthy and therefore require a fair amount of grooming. They also require a fair amount of training and socialization. They are not the best choice for inexperienced pet owners.

They are prone to separation anxiety, can suffer from heat exhaustion, need daily wiping to keep their creases clean and dry, and can be destructive.

Anyone considering acquiring a French bulldog must carefully consider whether they have the time and energy to care for this difficult breed.

Also, Fluffy Frenchies can be hard to find and extremely expensive. You can expect to pay thousands for your long haired French bulldog puppy.

However, if you decide they are worth the investment of time and money, you will have a super sweet and lovable pup who will love you with all your heart.

Do you have a fluffy French puppy at home? We’d love to hear from the Frenchie owners out there. Tell us all about your fluffy dog ​​and where you got him from in the comments below.

Further reading: Similar breeds to the Fluffy Frenchie