Blue French Bulldog, with their gorgeous blue-grey slate color, has captivated the hearts of dog lovers worldwide. Blue Frenchies instantly win hearts with their charming “bat ears” and wrinkled faces. Compact and muscular, they are great with children, making them an ideal family choice.
The Blue French Bulldog, also known as Frenchie or Frenchy, is a calm and gentle dog people worldwide love. This delightful breed showcases a distinct short coat in a beautiful blue color. The Blue French Bulldogs are perfect for an adorable, low-maintenance companion. This adaptable breed will thrive whether you live in a small apartment or a spacious home. They share the same traits as other Frenchies, except for their striking color. Keep reading for essential information on size, lifespan, health, and more!
Overview
| Breed Name | Blue French Bulldog |
| Breed Group | Companion dogs |
| Origin | Nottingham. England |
| Height | 11-13 inches (28-33cm) |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
| Coat | Smooth and lies flat |
| Color | Fawn, brindle, cream, blue merle, White, and bluish gray |
| Temperament | Friendly, Relaxed, Easily Agitated, Laid-back, Social, Silly |
| Suitable for | Seniors, apartment dwellers, families, and children, companionship |
| Trainability | Fairly easy to train, not athletic |
| Shedding | Moderate |
| Intelligence | Medium |
| Socialization | Needed with small animals |
| Destructive Behavior | Can be destructive when bored or not given toys |
| Good for Children | Yes |
| Grooming Need | Low |
History & Origin
The Blue French Bulldog has a fascinating history that traces back to the 19th century. English workers from Nottingham, United Kingdom, originally brought them to France, where they later crossed them with French Terriers, giving rise to the first French Bulldogs. In the late 19th century, the breed made its way to the US, and enthusiasts founded the French Bulldog Club of America in 1897, making it the oldest Bulldog club in the world.
Today, according to the AKC, the French Bulldog ranks as the 6th most popular dog breed in the US and the 4th most popular worldwide. While Blue French Bulldogs have captivating and unique coloring due to a genetic mutation, the AKC does not officially recognize them as a separate color. Despite this, they have won the hearts of many, including wealthy Americans in the late 1800s, who brought them to France and helped spread their charm across the world. The breed’s popularity soared, and it was recognized as an official breed by the American Kennel Club in 1898.
What Is A Blue French Bulldog?
A Blue French Bulldog is a captivating variation of the French Bulldogs breed known for its distinctive blue-gray coat color. These dogs are popular for their small size, muscular build, and endearing wrinkled faces. The blue color in their fur results from a genetic mutation that dilutes the black pigment, giving it a blue-gray appearance.
How They Get The Blue Color
The blue coat color in Blue French Bulldogs results from a genetic mutation that affects the melanin pigment in their hair follicles. This mutation dilutes the black dye, resulting in a unique blue-gray hue.
The Genetics Behind The Blue Coat
The blue coat color is caused by a recessive gene, meaning both parents must pass on a copy of the gene for a Blue French Bulldogs to have the blue coat. It is important to inherit two copies of the gene, one from each parent, to express the blue color.
Shades Of Blue
Although commonly referred to as “blue,” it is essential to note that Blue French Bulldogs are not blue in the traditional sense. The shade of blue can vary among individual dogs, ranging from a light gray to a darker, almost black, blue. Each Blue Frenchie showcases its own unique and beautiful coat color.
Blue French Bulldogs are cherished for their stunning appearance and delightful personalities, making them a sought-after and adored breed among dog enthusiasts worldwide.
How Blue French Bulldogs Gained Popularity
Blue French Bulldogs gained popularity through their charming characteristics and unique appearance. At the end of the 19th century, the French fell in love with French Bulldogs and their distinctive features, such as their small size and upright ears. Initially, the breed was a small hit in the U.S. Still, after the 1980s, it became increasingly popular in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Today, French Bulldogs are among the Top 10 dog breeds in each country.
The Blue Frenchie, in particular, garnered even more popularity due to its rarity and difficulty in finding. The allure of its blue-gray coat color made it highly sought after by dog enthusiasts and pet lovers, contributing to its popularity as a beloved and treasured breed.
The Different Types Of Blue Frenchies
Here are some of the types of Blue Frenchies that were commonly recognized at the time:
- Solid Blue French This type has a solid blue coat color without any other markings or patterns.
- Blue Brindle French: Blue brindle Frenchies have a blue coat with brindle striping. Brindle patterns consist of dark streaks on a lighter background color.
- Blue Pied French: Blue Pied Frenchies have a white coat with blue patches. The patches are distributed irregularly on their bodies.
- Blue Fawn French: Blue fawn Frenchies have a blue coat with a fawn undertone, resulting in a unique and captivating coloration.
- Blue Sable French: Blue sable Frenchies have a blue coat with dark markings. Sable is a pattern where the black-tipped hairs mix with the blue fur.
- Blue and Tan French: This type has a blue coat with tan points, often seen on their eyebrows, cheeks, and legs.
- Blue Merle French: Blue Merle Frenchies have a marbled coat pattern with various shades of blue and other colors.
- Blue and White French: This type has a blue and white coat color, with patches of blue and white distributed throughout their bodies.
READ ALSO: Pocket Bully: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care In 2023
Top 5 Facts About Blue French Bulldogs
1. Blue French Bulldog Personality And Temperament
The Blue French Bulldog is a laid-back and affectionate canine, often described as “Velcro-Dogs” due to their clingy nature. They enjoy playful games like fetch and are alert, yet they don’t require excessive exercise. With their social and adaptable heart, they love being around people, children, and other dogs. However, caution is advised with young children due to their small size. Providing mental and physical stimulation, such as toys and exercise, is vital to prevent potential destructiveness. While generally quiet, they may develop separation anxiety due to their strong attachment to their owners.
2. Blue French Bulldog Grooming And Shedding
Grooming a Blue French Bulldog is relatively low maintenance. Their bluish-gray coat requires a quick brush, a rubber glove every other day, and a monthly bath. Special attention should be given to their wrinkles, which need regular cleaning with dog-safe wipes to prevent any buildup of food or bacteria. Keeping their bat ears clean is essential to avoid infections, and maintaining proper dental hygiene is crucial. As they are not highly active, paying attention to their nails and trimming them if they do not wear down naturally is important. With proper care, these adorable pups will remain clean and healthy.
3. Exercise And Training
Blue French Bulldogs have moderate exercise needs and do not require a lot of physical activity. A daily walk around the block and some off-leash playtime in the park are sufficient, totaling around 30 minutes of exercise per day. However, owners should be cautious about overexertion and heatstroke, as their flat faces make it challenging for them to breathe.
When it comes to training, Blue French Bulldogs can be taught to obey basic and advanced commands. It is recommended to start training them as puppies to develop good obedience habits. These dogs have personalities that may require consistent and patient training to become well-mannered companions. They are eager to please their owners and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods, such as using food, treats, or other motivations.
Moreover, many Blue French Bulldogs have succeeded in agility and obedience contests, demonstrating their intelligence and trainability. Additionally, they excel as therapy dogs in various settings, such as nursing homes, hospitals, and schools, where their affectionate and gentle nature shines through.
4. Feeding And Diet
Blue French Bulldogs are inactive, so monitoring their diet is crucial to prevent weight gain. They should not exceed 28 pounds to avoid stressing their joints. Consult your vet to determine the right amount and type of food. Avoid kibble with excess fillers. An experimental study showed obese dogs preserved lean body mass on a high-protein diet. Daily calories: 900; Cups of kibble per day: ~1.5.
5. Size And Lifespan
Blue French Bulldogs are a small breed, weighing between 16 and 28 pounds, with males being larger. They stand 11 to 13 inches tall. Their size may vary due to genetics, diet, and health. Their typical lifespan is 10 to 12 years, influenced by genetics and health. To ensure a long and healthy life, provide proper veterinary care, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and a healthy weight to avoid potential health issues. Regular check-ups and vaccinations are essential for their well-being.
Do Blue French Bulldogs Make A Good Pet?
French Bulldog babies exhibit a laid-back and well-mannered nature, making them excellent kid pets. They adore belly rubs, massages, and eagerly engage in family activities, showing their affectionate and attentive side. Playful and active, they enjoy fetching toys and going for short walks. Frenchies are known for their gentleness, kindness, and patience with children and other dogs. With minimal shedding and high adaptability, they make ideal apartment companions and travel buddies. Their exceptional affection and adaptability contribute to their immense popularity as beloved pets.
Blue French Bulldog Costs
Blue French Bulldogs are a rare and expensive breed, with newborn puppies costing between $1,600 to over $5,000, averaging around $2,500 in the US. Grooming and healthcare expenses range from $2,000 to $5,000 annually, amounting to $16,000 to $70,000 throughout their 10-14 year lifespan. Insurance is often recommended due to their predisposition to certain health issues. Owning a Blue French Bulldog requires significant financial commitment but offers a lifetime of companionship and love.
Blue French Bulldogs Health Problems
Brachycephalic Facial Structure
The Blue French Bulldog’s brachycephalic face, characterized by a flat face, shortened muzzle, and narrow nostrils, can lead to breathing difficulties and hinder their ability to get enough oxygen.
Breathing Difficulties
Being a brachycephalic breed, Blue Frenchies can suffer from obstructed airways, causing them to get out of breath easily. They are also prone to overheating and snoring.
Alopecia
Alopecia, a painful skin disorder, is common in the blue part of the coat, leading to hair loss. It may result in sore wrinkled skin, dry, flaky skin, brittle hair, and itching, leading to bald patches.
Color Dilution Alopecia (CDA)
CDA is caused by a faulty gene carried by both parents. If both parents do not have it, the puppy will not inherit it. CDA may not be immediately obvious in Blue Frenchie puppies and might manifest later in life.
Skinfold Dermatitis
Trapped food or heat sores in the folds of the skin can lead to skinfold dermatitis, causing infections.
Other Health Issues
Blue French Bulldogs may experience additional health issues, including diarrhea, spinal problems, eye diseases like conjunctivitis (pink eye), eye socket sores, and occasional dental problems. Regular veterinary care and proactive monitoring can help address and manage these potential health challenges.
Blue French Bulldog Buyer’s Guide
Here’s a table summarizing the advantages and disadvantages of owning a Blue French Bulldogs:
| Pros | Cons |
| Loyal, friendly, and great apartment dog. | Face shape can carry some health problems. |
| Low exercise and training requirements. | Can’t live in hotter climates. |
| Small in size and easy to handle and take care of. | Sometimes these dogs are hard to train due to their stubborn nature. |
| Behave well with every family member and pet. Hence, these canines are great family pets. | May not get along with small animals or cats. |
| Low grooming needs. | |
| Great apartment dog. | |
| Overall low maintenance breed. |
Conclusion
Blue French Bulldogs are a captivating and unique breed known for their blue-gray coat color and charming features. Despite their excellent qualities as family pets and companions, potential owners must remain vigilant about the health issues linked to the brachycephalic face shape of Blue French Bulldogs. Finding a reputable breeder and providing proper care and attention is crucial for their well-being. With careful consideration and responsible ownership, a Blue French Bulldog can bring joy and love into your life for many years.
FAQs
1. Are Blue French Bulldogs rare?
Yes, Blue French Bulldogs are considered rare due to their unique coat color. The blue-gray coloration results from a genetic mutation that dilutes the black pigment in their fur, making them stand out among other French Bulldogs.
2. How much does Blue French Bulldogs cost?
Blue French Bulldogs are often more expensive than other coat colors of the breed. The cost of a Blue French Bulldogs puppy can range from $1,600 to over $5,000, depending on factors such as lineage, location, and breeder reputation.
3. Are Blue French Bulldogs good with children?
Yes, Blue French Bulldogs are known for being good with children and making great family pets. They are affectionate, gentle, and patient, making them excellent companions for kids.
4. How much exercise do Blue French Bulldogs need?
Blue French Bulldogs have low exercise requirements. A short walk around the block and some playtime in the park are usually sufficient to keep them happy and healthy. However, they should be protected from hot weather due to their brachycephalic face shape.
5. Do Blue French Bulldogs get along with other pets?
Yes, Blue French Bulldogs are generally friendly and get along well with other pets, including dogs and cats. Proper socialization from a young age can help ensure harmonious interactions.
6. How long do Blue French Bulldogs live?
The average lifespan of a Blue French Bulldog is around 10 to 12 years. Providing them with proper care, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and regular veterinary check-ups can contribute to a longer and healthier life.