French Bulldogs usually have short, rough fur, but some carry a gene that gives them fluffy and slightly longer fur. The autosomal recessive gene responsible for this is the Fibroblast growth factor 5 (FGF5), and it’s rare. For you to get a chance of a fluffy French Bulldog, your dog has to inherit two longhaired (Lh) genes.
Breed Overview
Height:
Small to medium (11 – 12 inches)
Weight:
20 – 28 pounds for males, 16-24 pounds for females
Lifespan:
10 – 12 years
Colors:
Fawn, fawn and white, fawn brindle, brindle, brindle and white, cream, white and brindle, white and fawn
Suitable for:
Families looking for playful, easy-to-groom lapdogs that do not require a lot of space.
Temperament:
Easygoing, sociable, gentle, friendly, playful, affectionate
Carriers of the gene have the standard short fur you’re probably more familiar with. Where did these dogs come from, and what sets them apart from their shorthaired counterparts? We’ve collected this information and more, so keep reading to find out everything we know about furry Frenchies.
Fluffy French Bulldog Characteristics
The Earliest Records of Fluffy French Bulldogs in History
Despite their name, the French Bulldog didn’t originate in France. British Bulldogs were originally bred for bull baiting, which was outlawed in 1835. Soon after, people began breeding smaller dogs and sent them to France when they were too small or had “faults” like ears that stood up. The dogs were bred with local ratter dogs, and the result is what we know as French Bulldogs.
It’s rumored French Bulldogs were mixed with a Pekingese or a longhaired Chihuahua, but there’s no way of proving it. The shorthaired (Sh) gene is more dominant, meaning if you were to breed two Frenchies with the Sh/Lh combination, then only 1 in 4 puppies would have long hair. It’s logical to assume that either fluffy Frenchies have always existed or a breeder somewhere in history has lied about breeding a purebred Frenchie.
How Fluffy Frenchies Gained Popularity
The French Bulldog’s popularity dipped in the late 1800s because of their connection to blood sports. However, it didn’t take long for them to rebound, especially in France.
It makes sense that as French Bulldogs have gained popularity, so have their rare variations. You’ll pay a higher price if you choose a Frenchie that isn’t a typical color like white, black, or fawn. The most expensive Frenchie in the world is the Micro Machine, which costs $100,000!
Formal Recognition of Fluffy French Bulldogs
The American Kennel Club recognized the French Bulldog as an official breed in 1898. Although long-haired dogs can be purebred, they’re not recognized as purebred French Bulldogs by the official breed standard. The AKC describes the French Bulldog standard coat as “moderately fine, brilliant, short and smooth.” Long hair is, unfortunately, not defined as a characteristic.
Top 3 Unique Facts About Fluffy French Bulldogs
1. They’ve Been Described as “Little Lions”
We didn’t think the French Bulldog could get any cuter, but we were wrong. The fluffy variety has fur that collects at their necks and gives them the appearance of a small, cute lion.
2. They’re Big Goofballs
Fluffy Frenchies are the perfect companion dogs. They love cuddling with their favorite humans and goofing around with the kids.
3. They’re Expensive
If you’ve looked into purchasing a French Bulldog, you know how expensive they are. Prices differ depending on the color, and when it comes to fluffiness, you’re looking at prices between $4,500 to $16,000+ in some cases, depending on whether they’re male or female.
Does a Fluffy Frenchie Make a Good Pet?
These long-haired French Bulldogs make amazing family pets; they are playful, vocal, stubborn, and love children. They are also prone to separation anxiety, and if you’re out of the house a lot, it isn’t the breed for you.
They’re intelligent dogs and respond well to training, but they are sensitive souls and don’t take criticism lightly. If you scold them, they’re likely to sulk around the house afterward. They respond much better to positive reinforcement and encouragement, but then, don’t we all?
Conclusion
Fluffy French Bulldogs aren’t much different from their shorthaired cousins. Apart from the length of their fur and the price tag attached to them, they’re practically the same as the wrinkled, goofy dogs you’re familiar with. Even if you’ve never seen the fluffy variety, you’ll already have a pretty good idea of what one is like.
Related Reads:
- Brindle French Bulldog: Facts, Origin, Pictures & History
- Fawn French Bulldog: Facts, History & Origin (With Pictures)
Featured Image Credit: Yhelfman, Shutterstock
