The French Bulldog has catapulted up the popularity charts in recent years. They’re currently ranked at the top of the American Kennel Club (AKC) list of most popular breeds in the country.¹ Black and white French Bulldogs may not be show eligible, but their striking appearance makes them highly sought after by dog fanciers.

Breed Overview

In this article, we look at the history and relevant facts about the black and white French Bulldog, including what it’s like to own one of these adorable beasts.

French Bulldog Characteristics

The Earliest Records of the Black and White French Bulldog in History

Black and white French Bulldogs are not a separate breed, and their history is the same as all other Frenchies. The early ancestors of modern French Bulldogs came not from France but from across the Channel in England. Toy Bulldogs were popular, especially in the city of Nottingham. When lace makers relocated to northern France due to competition from the Industrial Revolution in the mid-1800s, they brought their dogs with them. The French embraced the pups and bred them with Pugs and other terrier-type dogs until the modern French Bulldog breed was standardized.

How the Black and White French Bulldog Gained Popularity

Once Paris discovered the newly developed French Bulldog, the breed’s popularity proliferated. The adorable bat-eared dogs first served as pets of the working class before being noticed by the nobility. Late in the 19^th century, French Bulldogs made their way into the rest of Europe and over to the United States. Interestingly, their native England was much less enthusiastic about the new French Bulldog, probably because the love of the traditional English Bulldog ran so deep.

Formal Recognition of the Black and White French Bulldog

American tourists were the first to bring the French Bulldog over from Europe. American breeders then made the famous bat ears as part of the breed standard and formed the world’s first French Bulldog Club. Frenchies were first shown in the United States in 1896 and recognized by the AKC 2 years later in 1898.

However, black and white is not an officially recognized color pattern for French Bulldogs. While black and white Frenchies are not allowed in the show ring, they still possess all the faults and charms of every other member of this breed.

Top 3 Unique Facts About Black and White French Bulldogs

1. A French Bulldog Went Down With the Titanic

At least nine dogs are known to have been lost in the sinking of the Titanic, one of which was a French Bulldog of unknown color. The dog, named Gamin de Pycombe, was a champion Frenchie purchased in England by an American banker who survived the voyage. If you’re curious, two Pomeranians and a Pekinese are known to have survived the sinking, smuggled onto lifeboats by their owners.

2. Black and White French Bulldogs Were Once Part of the World’s Oldest Profession

Early in their debut into Paris society, French Bulldogs were most commonly found in brothels, serving as companions to the ladies of the night: the belles de nuit. Artists of the era often pictured the little dogs alongside their mistresses in postcards and prints.

3. Black and White French Bulldogs Come in Many Patterns

Even within the general color pattern of black and white, there’s a great deal of variation. These French Bulldogs can be mostly black or mostly white, with only a few patches of the opposite color. Sometimes they display a piebald pattern, which is more evenly split between the two. Ticked or spotted patterns are also possible.

Does a Black and White French Bulldog Make a Good Pet?

Black and white French Bulldogs make amusing, playful, and entertaining pets, as you might expect, given their popularity. The dogs are small enough to live in almost any environment, including crowded cities. They generally get along well with other pets, but they can be a bit territorial. These dogs are alert and watchful but don’t tend to bark much. Frenchies are smart but can be stubborn, so patience is required when training them.

The biggest concern with owning a black and white French Bulldog is their health. A recent study found this breed is more likely to develop health problems than other breeds. Breathing problems due to their flat faces are the most serious, but Frenchies can also suffer skin, eye, ear, and spinal issues.

Conclusion

Black and white French Bulldogs have a unique and fascinating history. Unfortunately, they are also plagued with many issues in the present due to reckless breeding and their unusual body type. Be careful to research breeders thoroughly if you are looking to purchase one of these dogs. Also, be financially prepared to cover the cost of the pup and potentially, treatment for many severe and even life-threatening medical concerns.

See also:

• Fawn French Bulldog
• Brindle French Bulldog

Featured Image Credit: Patryk Kosmider, Shutterstock