We typically know French Bulldogs for having short and rough hair. However, did you know that these pups can also have fluffy coats? There’s a specific gene that they can inherit to make their coats longer, curlier and also fluffier. This gene is known as the LH gene and it’s naturally presented in some fluffy frenchies. However, while it can present naturally, it is pretty rare. That’s why a fluffy French Bulldog is so hard to find. In addition to being called “fluffy”, you might also find the term — Long Haired French Bulldog.
While they are pretty similar to regular French Bulldogs, there are still some differences present. To learn which ones, keep on reading this article.
History
It’s most likely that the long hair gene has always been in the breed and has only occurred on rare occasions. Many of them have been euthanized to prevent their genes from spreading across the community. Thankfully, this is no longer the case.
In England, the French Bulldog breed was developed for bull-baiting. However, in 1835, these sports were declared illegal, leaving many Bulldogs without a purpose. Later they were resurrected as companion animals. Since the 1800s, they have been bred solely as companion animals, and most of their former hostility has been eradicated.
They were interbred with terriers to decrease their size. This breed first debuted in dog exhibitions in the 1860s, after it became popular in the 1850s.
The industrial revolution was displacing a large number of employees at the time. Workers were no longer required due to the invention of machines. Some of them moved to Normandy, France, to start a new life. Many of their popular canines, such as the Toy Bulldog, were carried along with them.
Breeders from England began sending Bulldogs to France, particularly if the dog was too little or had other defects. Dogs with prominent ears were also transferred to France at this time, as they were considered “faulty.” The majority of the small Bulldogs were in France by the 1860s, not England.
The Toy Bulldog was given a new name, the “French” Bulldog, because it was bred in France. The breed was distinct from the Bulldog that was currently popular in England, despite the fact that it was mostly produced in Britain. In France, these dogs were considered “high fashion” and coveted by the upper class, particularly women.
The development of the breed was not documented. We don’t know how the breed evolved into the one we know and love today.
Is the Fluffy French Bulldog purebred?
Because of their odd appearance, many people believe Fluffy Frenchies are a mixed breed. They are, nevertheless, purebred, having been born to two purebred French Bulldogs.
Long-haired French Bulldogs, on the other hand, are not allowed to be registered by the American Kennel Club or other canine organizations since they do not meet the dog breed requirements.
When you think about it, every purebred dog on the market now was once a hybrid. For centuries, people have been breeding dogs to obtain desired characteristics.
To lessen their size, the English Bulldog was crossed with local terriers or ratter dogs in the 1800s, resulting in the iconic French Bulldog. When these small, amusing-looking puppies made their way to France, they quickly became popular among the upper crust.
Because of their continued popularity, Frenchies were the second most popular dog in the United States in 2020.
These ratter dogs are one idea that explains the existence of the long-haired gene in French Bulldogs. Because the terriers’ coats were medium to long, their genes were handed on to their descendants.
Fluffy Frenchies have been increasingly popular in recent years. To create the long hair appearance, some breeders bred French Bulldogs with Chihuahuas or Pekingese to earn a quick buck.
If you buy your puppy from a reputable breeder who allows you to meet the parents, this shouldn’t happen. You can have your puppy take a breed identification test if you still want to make sure it’s 100 percent French Bulldog.
Are Fluffy Frenchies Recognized by Kennel Clubs?
Despite the fact that fluffy Frenchies have no known flaws, kennel clubs like as the American Kennel Club (AKC), Canadian Kennel Club (CKC), and United Kennel Club (UKC) do not recognize them.
Other Frenchie coats, aside than short and silky, are disqualified by these recognizing bodies. Long-haired French Bulldogs are not allowed to compete in conformation shows since they do not meet the breed’s criteria.
It’s likely that kennel associations will ultimately recognize this breed of French Bulldog in the coming years. Frenchie fans are already working hard to gain full recognition for their breed.
Fluffy French Bulldog genetics
Many people assume that a Fluffy Frenchie is a mixed breed when they first see one, but this is not the case.
Fluffy Frenchies are the offspring of two purebred French Bulldogs. It has everything to do with these dogs’ genetic composition.
The presence of the LH gene, commonly known as the autosomal recessive gene or the Fibroblast Growth Factor 5 (FGF 5) gene, causes fluffy French Bulldogs.
This gene is found naturally in French Bulldogs, but it is a recessive gene that is extremely rare. A French Bulldog must also have two LH genes in order to grow a long, fluffy coat.
The LH gene causes carriers to have the short hair that is common in the French Bulldog breed. One dominant Sh gene and one recessive L1 or L4 gene would be present in these dogs.
Because the Sh, or shorthaired gene, is dominant in French Bulldogs, even if two carriers of the FGF 5 or long-haired gene are bred, there is only a 25% chance that their puppies will be Fluffy Frenchies.
A Fluffy Frenchie must be bred with another Fluffy Frenchie to ensure long-haired Frenchie offspring.
While no one knows when this gene first originated in the breed, it is widely assumed that it has always been present in these dogs. When English Bulldogs were crossed with terriers in the 1800s to develop a smaller Bulldog, French Bulldogs were born.
The gene is said to have originated in the terriers or ratter dogs used to develop the French Bulldog breed.
Puppies that didn’t meet the breed standard for coat type may have been euthanized in the past to prevent the spread of their genes.
Some people, however, are now attempting to breed these dogs particularly for this feature.
Appearance of the Fluffy French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are known for being absolutely adorable! But how much are fluffy French Bulldogs different from regular ones?
Actually, there isn’t too much difference when it comes to their appearance. Well, except the obvious one — They are fluffy! Which basically means that their coat is slightly longer and a bit fluffier than the one of a regular French Bulldog. And slightly longer really means just that — don’t expect their coat to touch the floor. It’s still at a medium length.
Frenchies are usually know for their bat ears that stand up straight on the top of their head. Their ears are erect and prominent. Their tail is either screwed or straight, and short.
How big do they get?
The French Bulldog has a muscular and stocky build. They are short and compact. So you can say they belong to the smaller-sized breeds. Growing about 11 to 12 inches tall making them a great pet for city dwellers and apartment dwellers because they don´t take up much space. When it comes to their weight, males weigh 20 to 28 pounds, and females 16 to 24 pounds.
One of their recognizable features is their large, erect large bat ears that have a triangular shape and are positioned above the angular head. We also love them for their characteristic short nose and short tail. If you look at French Bulldog breed pictures those are the first two things you will notice!
Except for the wrinkled skin around their face and shoulders, they have a small, compact frame that is well proportioned and rather strong and despite their size, they make surprisingly good watchdogs.
They can be a variety of colors such as black or white, fawn-colored, cream, or dark brindle. They can also have brindle markings, white markings, or black masks. These pups have distinctive dark brown eyes and a cute “squished up” face. Their silky, lustrous coats just need to be brushed on occasion to maintain cleanliness, and they shed a moderately.
Personality of a Long Haired French Bulldog
Now that we know how cute they are, let’s talk about their personality. Are fluffy frenchies as sweet as they look? The answer is a clear yes!
These dogs are very people-oriented. They love to be around their humans, and don’t enjoy being alone at home. French Bulldogs have been breed for over two hundred years to make us company. That’s why it’s no wonder that they make amazing family dogs. However, there is a flip-side to that — they are very prone to separation anxiety. Especially younger pups, but adult dogs can experience it too.
Another amazing aspect about their personality is that these dogs aren’t loud at all. They will rarely start barking and they enjoy their quiet moments just as much as you do.
Mischievous dogs
Frenchies tend to be a bit mischievous, so they need an owner who will be consistent, firm, and be patient with them. While we´re talking about patience, training them will also require a little patience because the dogs tend to be stubborn. But compared to other dogs they are on the easier side to train.
Besides this, they are also very smart and will learn very quickly making them a great option for almost everyone! That is as long as you make it seem like a game and keep it fun! Even though they don’t need a lot of exercises, to keep their weight under control daily walks are advisable.
Training the Fluffy French Bulldog
The fluffy Frenchie is a people-pleasing dog, which means that they will be easy to train. Their intelligence in on an average level for dogs and they should do pretty well with different types of training. Commands and tricks shouldn’t be too difficult to master.
If the training process doesn’t start from an early age, they can be pretty stubborn. However, early socialization and positive reinforcement can do wonders.
When it comes to exercise, they are pretty easy-going as well. They don’t need a lot of physical activity at all and usually only daily, short walks are required. Heavy exercises could trigger their breathing problems, so don’t forget to take things easy.
Grooming the Long Haired French Bulldog
The grooming of a fluffy French Bulldog will be mode than easy! Despite their hair being a bit longer than the one of regular French Bulldogs, it still isn’t prone to tangles. That’s why you won’t have to worry about brushing too much. Once a week will be more than fine. You can, however, increase the brushing when your dog is suffering from seasonal shedding.
The main problem when it comes to taking care of your dog’s appearance and hygiene are their deep wrinkles around their face. Moisture can sit in between them and cause infections. Wipe them clean daily to prevent this problem.
When it comes to bathing — occasional baths when your dog is dirty will be just fine. That way you will preserve the natural and protective oils on his skin.
And make sure that you don’t forget to clean your dog’s ears and brush their teeth as well!
Are Fluffy Frenchies hypoallergenic?
Fluffy Frenchies, like ordinary Frenchies, shed and are therefore not considered hypoallergenic. They shed moderately throughout the year and more heavily twice a year when the seasons change.
Grooming is simple for fluffy French Bulldogs. Because the hair isn’t long enough to tangle, it doesn’t need to be brushed as often as a standard French Bulldog’s coat.
Brushing your dog’s coat once a week should suffice to keep it looking and feeling excellent. During seasons of severe shedding, you may want to increase this frequency to assist get rid of all that additional fur.
However, you should wipe your dog’s skin clean every day to avoid moisture build-up in the creases, which can lead to illness.
Regular bathing will disrupt the natural oils in their skin that keep their coat appearing shiny and healthy, thus they should only be bathed when they are extremely unclean.
Health and lifespan of a Fluffy French Bulldog
Just like regular frenchies, fluffy French Bulldogs are also prone to certain health conditions. While all French Bulldogs are susceptible to these conditions, it doesn’t mean that your dog will definitely get them. However, it would still benefit to keep them in mind. Just in case you notice any weird symptoms.
The first big category of diseases these dogs can get are allergies. There are three types of allergies you should be aware of:
- Food allergies. These are very common and easily treated by eliminating the certain food from their diet.
- Contact allergies. They are caused by a reaction to a topical substance such as bedding, flea powders, dog shampoos, and other chemicals.
- Inhalant allergies. Caused by airborne allergens such as pollen, dust, and mildew. These may require certain medications.
Another huge issue is a condition called “Patellar Luxation”. It happens when the patella isn’t properly lined up and slips out of place. This causes lameness and abnormal gait in dogs.
Fluffy Frenchies are also prone to the following diseases:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Brachycephalic Syndrome
- Hemivertebrae
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
- Von Willebrand’s Disease
- Cleft Palate
- Elongated Soft Palate
Exercise also goes a long way to keep a fluffy French Bulldog healthy. Excess weight can seriously mess with their health and cause many problems. Obesity can quickly wear them down, so make sure your dog eats healthy and gets some exercise.
Thankfully, in most cases French Bulldogs live a long and healthy life. Their average lifespan is somewhere between 8 to 14 years.
Most common health issues
These dogs may be prone to health issues as a result of their selective breathing. To ensure that their puppies are healthy and to prevent the continuation of bad genes within the bloodlines, all dogs must undergo comprehensive health testing before being bred.
Before you adopt a puppy, make sure to ask the breeder for the health records of the parents.
Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome
The squished appearance of this dog’s face is attributable to a cranial distortion that has been developed through selective breeding. Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome developed as a result of this over time. These canines are unable to breathe properly due to the shape of their snout. This causes them to exhaust quickly, which is one of the reasons they appear to pant with even the little amount of exercise.
This illness affects all French Bulldogs and has a wide range of symptoms. It’s just the way they’re bred. If dogs are not properly cared for, it might potentially result in their death. Misinformed owners may keep their dogs outside for too long or force them to exercise excessively, leading to heat exhaustion and death.
Complications are more likely to occur when the weather is exceptionally hot or the dog has underlying breathing problems.
This is a treatable condition. However, it necessitates a costly and intrusive procedure that entails removing a part of the dog’s soft palate. The amount of air that may enter the lungs is increased as a result of this. Unless the dog has already had major consequences, this condition is usually left untreated.
Temperature Control
These dogs’ respiratory systems are often damaged, making it difficult for them to maintain a consistent body temperature. In cold weather, their coat is generally insufficient to keep them warm. In the winter, they are easily chilled, while in the summer, they are susceptible to heat stroke and exhaustion. For these creatures, humid weather is very problematic.
These canines must be adequately cared for in hot weather due to their difficulties breathing. They should avoid overworking themselves. Your dog may be in trouble if he or she is breathing heavily, as this is typically a sign that not enough oxygen is reaching their lungs. If the dog is outside for an extended amount of time, it should always have access to a cool spot and be hosed down with cool water.
They should be kept mostly indoors and have access to air conditioning.
Patella Issues
Patellar luxation, or the dislocation of the kneecap, is common in these dogs. The kneecap usually sits in front of the hind leg’s joint and is maintained in place by ligaments. It moves around in a groove when the dog walks, protecting the joint but allowing the dog to move freely.
This little bone can dislocate and slip out of the groove in certain dogs, causing it to “float” freely about the knee. If left untreated, this can lead to major complications. It’s possible that the bone will be forced up against another bone, causing damage. Ligaments are frequently injured when the kneecap moves around incorrectly.
Reproduction
These canines are unable to give birth in a healthy manner. To give birth, they frequently require artificial insemination and Caesarean procedures. In fact, this is how more than 80% of litters are born.
This is primarily owing to the dog’s tiny hips. This makes it impossible for the male to properly mount the female, and the puppies are frequently too huge to fit through the birth canal.
Eyes
It’s not uncommon for these dogs to have eye difficulties due to their face form. Cherry eye is a common but usually harmless ailment in which a dog’s third eyelid slides up into his or her eye. If the dog’s eye is wounded, this is usually primarily an aesthetic issue, but it does make it more prone to irritation and infection.
Other frequent eye issues, like as glaucoma, corneal ulcers, and cataracts, are more prevalent in this breed. The Canine Eye Registration Foundation screens dogs frequently to prevent the risk of passing down certain hereditary diseases. Before making a purchase, inquire if the parents of your dog have been checked.
Skin problems
Overall, these dogs appear to be more prone to skin disorders. Bacteria can form in the creases of their skin if they are not kept clean, which can lead to bacterial diseases, as we have mentioned. According to one study, approximately 17.9% of French Bulldogs suffer from skin problems such as eczema and skin allergies.
Spinal Disorders
A multitude of spinal problems can affect French Bulldogs. This is largely owing to the fact that they were bred to be smaller replicas of larger Bulldogs in the 1800s. This has resulted in back problems in the breed, which are still present today.
“Butterfly vertebrae” and spinal cord compression are common in them. X-rays or more advanced testing, such as CT scans, can be used to diagnose these.
Because their tail is a direct extension of their spine, dogs with “screw” tails are more prone to problems. Generations of inbreeding problems resulted in the tight tail. If a dog possesses this gene, they are more likely to carry other genes that impact their spinal cord. For this reason, many breeders are turning away from this sort of tail.
How much do Fluffy French Bulldogs cost?
The price of a fluffy Frenchie is not cheap. Each of these dogs sells for between $13,000 and $16,000. These small powerhouses made their way to France from their original home in England, where they became the much-loved companions of the high society elite.
From there, their popularity skyrocketed, and French Bulldogs became highly sought-after pets all over the world. Because they were the second most popular dog in the United States in 2020, it’s understandable that the cost of a French Bulldog puppy is quite high. Of course, this is especially true with the rare Fluffy Frenchie!
Some breeders aim to breed dogs that carry the LH gene, which produces the Fluffy Frenchie.
However, a litter of French Bulldogs with long hair is not guaranteed, and some Fluffy French Bulldog breeders may only obtain a few dogs with this feature in a litter.
French Bulldogs are likewise unable to give birth naturally, necessitating caesarean sections and artificial insemination. This is due to these small dogs’ unusually narrow hips.
The cost of a Fluffy Frenchie puppy is high as a result of these costly medical treatments.
Fluffy Frenchies breeders
Certain reputable breeders specialize in breeding Fluffy Frenchies, but if you have your heart set on one of these puppies, you may have to put your name on a waiting list.
When purchasing a Fluffy Frenchie from a breeder, make sure to request the relevant health certificates to guarantee that your puppy is healthy and not from a substandard pedigree.
You should also look at the parents to make sure your French Bulldog is a purebred. Because some amateur breeders wanting to make a fast buck combine Frenchies with Chihuahuas or Pekingese to create a hybrid that appears like the Fluffy Frenchie, this is the case.
Adopting a Fluffy Frenchie
These canines are tough to find at rescue centers since they are extremely rare and carefully bred.
It’s more common to locate an older purebred French Bulldog looking for a home than a puppy, because people occasionally have to give up their pets due to changes in their lives.
A French Bulldog-specific rescue site would be a terrific place to start looking for a Fluffy Frenchie in need of a new home.
Is the long haired French Bulldog the dog for me?
Frenchies are adorably fluffy. Because of their velvety coat, they are also in high demand.
These canines, however, are in poor health and require a high level of attention. They also need to be socialized and trained. For inexperienced pet owners, they are not the greatest dog to choose.
They are prone to separation anxiety, heat exhaustion, and require daily wipe downs to keep their wrinkles clean and dry. They can also be destructive.
Anyone considering getting a French Bulldog should think about whether they have the time and energy to properly care for this challenging breed.
Fluffy Frenchies are very hard to come by and can be quite costly. For a long-haired French Bulldog puppy, expect to pay hundreds of dollars.
If you decide they are worth your time and money, you will be rewarded with a highly cute and loving dog who will love you unconditionally.
But if you don’t have the time, energy and money to invest in your dog and his health — then this breed might not be the one for you.
Fluffy French Bulldog FAQs
What Is a Fluffy French Bulldog?
Fluffy Frenchies are long-haired Bulldogs that look nothing like the short-coated variety. They are thought to be hybrids. “Fluffy French Bulldog” and “Long-haired French Bulldog” are two more names given to them because of their coat.
What Does the Fluffy French Bulldog Look Like?
Fluffy French Bulldogs have a longer coat than standard French Bulldogs, but it is still just medium length. You’re in for a letdown if you envision a dog whose hair sweeps the floor.
Some people cannot believe that they are nothing but Frenchies since their wavy hair appears fluffier on their chest, ears, and mane.
How Big Do Fluffy Frenchies Get When Fully Grown?
The full-grown size of the fluffy Frenchie is similar to that of its short-haired cousins.
They stand 11 to 13 inches tall on average, with males being slightly heavier and taller than females. Male fluffy Frenchies weigh between 20 and 28 pounds, while females weigh between 16 and 24 pounds.
Can Fluffy French Bulldogs Swim?
All French Bulldogs should be kept away from water. Because of their small legs and heavy bodies, these dogs have difficulty swimming.
Their flat faces also make it difficult for them to keep their heads above water, making them vulnerable to drowning. They do, however, enjoy being around water and should be well supervised if you have a pool in your yard.
Do Fluffy Frenchies Bark a Lot?
Fluffy Frenchies aren’t known for their barking. They are more laid-back dogs who only communicate with each other through yaps and other adorable noises. If you have a neighbor that doesn’t want to be disturbed, you won’t have any issues.
Is it possible to fly with a fluffy Frenchie?
While the modest stature of a French Bulldog may make it seem like the ideal travel companion, most airlines do not accept this dog breed on board.
This is due to the fact that these dogs are prone to breathing issues and may experience difficulty as the plane reaches a high altitude.
Is it true that fluffy French Bulldogs are rare?
You’ll undoubtedly have a hard time picturing long-haired French Bulldogs if I didn’t provide photographs of them in this article. This is due to the fact that they are not as popular as the short-haired French Bulldogs, which are even owned by celebrities.
To put it another way, they are a rare Frenchie breed with a high price tag.
Final thoughts
Long-haired Frenchies do exist, and they could be even cuter than their relatives. They’ve already won many dog lovers’ hearts all across the world.
The occurrence of long-hair genes in French Bulldogs is explained by many theories. Some believe they were recently crossed with Pekingese or long-haired Chihuahuas to achieve the long-haired look.
Others believe the ratter dogs carried the long-hair gene and passed it down to their descendants.
Owners can obtain a breed identification test to determine whether or not their puppy is purebred.
Fluffies resemble their short-haired counterparts except for their coat length. The length of their hair has no bearing on their personalities, so they’re the same friendly, playful pups as other dogs of their breed.
Regrettably, the same cannot be said for their health. They, like other French Bulldogs, are prone to a variety of health issues during the course of their lives.
If you’re thinking about getting a Fluffy puppy, keep in mind the cost of future vet costs as well as the dog’s price.
These pups may not be allowed in dog shows, but if you let them into your home, they will undoubtedly bring you joy.
Some other dog breeds you might find interesting as well:
- Eskipoo dog: Everything you should know
- Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mix
- American Bully Puppy: The amazing US breed
- Bernedoodle puppies: Five facts to know!
- Frenchton puppies: Everything to know
- Cockapoo puppies: The happy and fun-loving dog
- Schnoodle puppies: The cutest hybrid breed ever