The Blue French Bulldog stands out as an adorable dog, perfect for those seeking a small, easy to care for, and outstanding companion pet. This breed is a fantastic choice, known for its highly adaptable nature, making it comfortable in both a tiny apartment and a large home. Unlike other French Bulldogs, the Blue Frenchie is distinguished by its gorgeous blue-grey slate color, a unique trait that adds to its appeal.
Physically, these dogs are impressive, with a height of 10 – 12 inches and a weight ranging from 15 – 30 pounds. Their lifespan of 9 – 15 years ensures a long-lasting bond with their owners. Addressing the rumor regarding health problems, it’s important to note that Blue French Bulldogs are not more prone to issues than their “regular” cousins. Past concerns were mostly linked to overbreeding, but today, breeders are much more careful in their practices. The blue hue of these darling dogs stems from a diluted color gene, sometimes even affecting the color of their eyes.
When deciding whether to choose a Blue Frenchie over another breed, considering all available data and facts is crucial. They are recognized by canine associations, highlighting their established breed quality. For prospective owners, understanding their size, lifespan, health issues, and overall characteristics is vital in making an informed decision. Opting for a Blue French Bulldog isn’t just about getting a pet; it’s about welcoming a joyful, affectionate member into your family.
Blue French Bulldog: A Brief History of the Frenchie
Contrary to popular belief, the Blue French Bulldog did not originate in France but in Nottingham, in the North of England, United Kingdom. Back in the 1800s, this region was famous for making lace, and the English lace makers had a fondness for little dogs, especially English Bulldogs. As the industrial revolution took hold, these artisans moved to France to progress their trade, bringing their cherished little Bulldogs with them. In a twist of canine fate, the English Bulldog was crossed with a pug dog, giving birth to the French Bulldog or Bouledog Francais that we recognize today and adore across the world.
In the late 19th century, this endearing breed made its way to the US. In 1897, the French Bulldog Club of America was founded, establishing itself as the oldest Bulldog club in the world. The charm and character of these dogs have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by the AKC ranking the French Bulldog as the 6th most popular dog breed in the US and the 4th most popular overall. This historical journey of the Blue French Bulldog, from the lace makers’ companion in England to a beloved pet globally, is a testament to its enduring appeal and adaptability.
The 6 Types of Blue Frenchies
encompass a range of unique coat patterns, each blending the distinctive blue color with other hues and markings, similar to the way colors like Brindle & White combine in other French Bulldogs. These types include:
Blue: A solid blue-grey coat, often with a unique sheen.
Blue Fawn: A fawn coloration with a blue mask, giving a subtle bluish tint to the coat.
Blue Merle: Characterized by a marbled coat with patches of blue and lighter colors.
Blue Pied: A combination of blue and white in a piebald pattern.
Blue Sable: A coat where each hair has distinct blue and fawn coloring, creating a textured appearance.
Blue & Tan: A blue base coat with tan markings, typically around the eyes, cheeks, and legs.
Blue French Bulldog: Blue French Bulldog Appearance
The Blue Merle French bulldogs are a fascinating sight, boasting small sizes but carrying themselves with high confidence. This particular breed stands out not only for its vibrant personality but also for its distinctive facial features. They possess a smushed-in face and bat-like ears, an endearing combination that keeps them alert and attentive to their surroundings. Their short tails and small legs add to their unique charm, making them unmistakably recognizable.
One cannot overlook their most striking attribute – the unique blue color coat. This rare colored blue french bulldog owes its enchanting hue to selective breeding. A breeder aiming to create this variant must select a blue French bulldog and a merle Frenchie. Since Merle is a dominant gene, there are high chances of a blue merle puppy litter. The resulting puppies, with their mesmerizing coats and engaging personalities, are nothing short of a visual delight.
Blue French Bulldog Personality
Blue Frenchies, a distinct among dog breeds, are notably laid back and prefer a relaxed lifestyle. They typically don’t like to do much which makes them perfect for those who lead a less active life. Their playful and alert nature coupled with their love for company often earns them the nickname “Velcro Dogs”. They thrive on interaction and are happiest when involved in simple exercise like playing fetch or enjoying simple walks.
Training these pups can be a breeze as they are easy to train in a positive manner. They are ideal for those living in a small house or apartment as they can adjust well to small and compact spaces. This adaptability makes them suitable for various living environments. For daily activities, they prefer engaging but not overly strenuous exercises.
A full-grown Blue French Bulldog exhibits a personality that is loyal, loving, and affectionate towards their family. They behave well around elders, kids, and even other pets, making them great companions in diverse households. Known to snuggle with their owners, they sometimes experience separation anxiety if left alone for many hours. Their need for companionship and affection is a hallmark of their endearing personality.
Blue French Bulldog: Height & Weight
Here are the tables for the height progression and weight chart of Blue French Bulldogs:
Height Progression:
| Age | Height |
| 3 months | 4 – 6 inches |
| 6 months | 7 – 9 inches |
| 9 months | 10 – 11 inches |
| 1 year | 11 – 13 inches |
Weight Chart:
| Age | Male Weight (lbs.) | Female Weight (lbs.) |
| Birth – 2 Weeks | 1 – 3 | 1 – 2 |
| 1 Month | 4 – 7 | 3 – 6 |
| 2 Months | 8 – 12 | 6 – 10 |
| 3 Months | 10 – 14 | 8 – 12 |
| 4 Months | 12 – 16 | 10 – 15 |
| 5 Months | 15 – 20 | 11 – 17 |
| 6 Months | 15 – 22 | 12 – 20 |
| 7 Months | 17 – 25 | 14 – 21 |
| 8 Months | 19 – 25 | 15 – 22 |
| 9 Months | 20 – 28 | 16 – 22 |
| 10 Months | 20 – 28 | 17 – 24 |
| 11 Months | 20 – 28 | 17 – 24 |
| 1 Year | 20 – 28 | 17 – 26 |
| 18- 24 Months | 20 – 28 | 17 – 26 |
How Blue French Bulldogs Gained Popularity
The rise of the Blue Frenchie is a tale woven through time. Initially adored by the French towards the end of the 19th century, their smaller size and characteristic bully breed features, especially the ears that stood up straight, marked their distinctiveness. It wasn’t until the 1980s that the United States warmed up to them, later followed by the United Kingdom and Australia. Now, they stand proudly among the Top 10 dog breeds in each country, their rarity making them even more popular. The Blue French Bulldog, rare and hard to come by, continues to capture hearts worldwide.
Formal Recognition of Blue French Bulldogs
The French Bulldog was officially recognized by the AKC in 1898, yet the Blue French Bulldog remains an exception in terms of standard color recognition. Despite its popularity, the AKC recognizes colors like Brindle, Cream, and Fawn in French Bulldogs, but not the blue variant. This exclusion is due to the recessive gene, known as the D locus, which is deemed undesirable in formal breeding standards. Consequently, finding a breeder willing to breed a Blue French Bulldog aligning with these standards is extremely hard, as most follow stringent rules and refuse to deviate from them, focusing on protecting the breed’s bloodlines.
Top 6 Unique Facts About Blue French Bulldog
Blue Frenchies Love to Be Lazy:
Unlike typical smaller dogs that buzz with a ton of energy, Blue French Bulldogs enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle. They are known to lie around the house, comfortably snooze on your lap, and prefer indoor leisure over outdoor play, even during their younger years.
Blue French Bulldogs Are Expensive:
When it comes to cost, Blue Frenchies stand out. While standard French Bulldogs may range between $2,000 and $3,000, the Blue Frenchie can cost significantly more, often triple or quadruple the price, making them quite difficult to obtain and generally priced between $8,000 and $10,000.
Blue French Bulldogs Are Not from France:
Despite the name, Blue French Bulldogs were originally bred in the United Kingdom. They only became popular in France, where their breed was honed to perfection.
Blue Frenchies Can’t Swim:
Contrary to many dogs that adore water and love getting wet, Blue French Bulldogs are poor swimmers. Their short legs and brachycephalic faces make it difficult for them to swim, and they generally avoid water, except for what’s in their water bowl.
Most Blue French Bulldogs Are Born by C-Section:
Due to their large heads, Blue Frenchies are often delivered by cesarean section. Female Blue French Bulldogs can have a difficult time naturally pushing their pups through the birth canal.
Blue Frenchies Often Suffer from Allergies:
Allergies are a common issue among Blue French Bulldogs. It’s essential for owners to feed them the right diet and ensure they are regularly cleaned and groomed to prevent both environmental and food allergies.
French Bulldog Care Guide
When you decide to buy a French Bulldog puppy, especially a blue french bulldog, it’s essential to understand their specific care requirements. This includes aspects of food, grooming, and general well-being to ensure a happy and healthy life for your new furry friend.
Food & Diet Requirements
The breed thrives on a low-fat, moderate-calorie diet. They don’t require as much food due to their low exercise needs, so about 1-2 cups of high-quality food daily, preferably small kibble, is adequate. Regular protein sources are essential, but avoid overfeeding to prevent health issues.
TEMPERAMENT
The temperament of the blue French bulldog is admirably consistent with the overall breed. These canines are known for being friendly, affectionate, and playful, making them excellent companions for both families and individuals. They are particularly good with children and other pets, enhancing their appeal as family pets. Notably, they are low-maintenance regarding exercise needs, perfect for apartment living or for those with limited time for dog walking.
GROOMING
Grooming a blue French bulldog is crucial in maintaining their health and appearance. Regular brushing of the dog helps to remove loose hair and reduce shedding. A slicker brush or a rubber brush can be used to manage tangles and mats. Bathing should be done as needed, using dog-specific shampoo, and care should be taken to avoid getting soap in their eyes or ears. Regular nail trimming and cleaning the puppy’s ears with a cotton ball or soft cloth are also important. Brushing their teeth regularly and wiping the corners of their eyes daily are essential practices. Checking their skin for rashes, bites, or infections and keeping their wrinkles clean and dry are vital to prevent skin infections.
BLUE FRENCHIES GET ON WELL WITH CHILDREN
Blue Frenchies are known to get along well with children, thanks to their gentle and patient temperament. It’s essential to supervise interactions between the dogs and young children, teaching the latter how to properly approach and treat the dogs. Every individual dog has unique personality traits, and their compatibility with children can be influenced by their training, socialization, and the child’s behavior.
LIFESPAN
The typical lifespan of a blue French bulldog ranges from 10 to 12 years, which can vary depending on factors like genetics, diet, and overall health. Regular veterinary care, including check-ups and vaccinations, a balanced diet, and regular exercise are essential. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial, as obesity can increase the risk of various health problems, including joint problems, heart disease, and diabetes.
Training Your Blue French Bulldog
Training a Blue French Bulldog can be a delightful experience, given their friendly and supportive nature. However, they can sometimes exhibit stubborn behavior, which requires a patient and consistent training approach. The key to successfully teaching them new things lies in positive reinforcement. Utilizing rewards, treats, and plenty of praise works wonders in motivating them and reinforcing desired behaviors.
Instead of overwhelming them with long sessions, it’s more effective to focus on teaching one thing at a time. Shorter sessions conducted every day will not only help them understand the task at hand but also ensure that the learning stays in their minds forever. This methodical and rewarding approach aids in shaping a well-behaved and cooperative Blue French Bulldog.
Health Problems and Issues in Blue French Bulldogs
The Blue French Bulldog, like any purebred dog breed, can inherit a range of genetic health issues. One of the most notable concerns in this breed is their brachycephalic shaped face. Characterized by a typical flat face, shortened muzzle, and narrow nostrils, these physical traits can lead them to struggle with breathing, affecting their ability to get enough oxygen into their body.
Breathing Difficulties
Due to their facial structure, Blue Frenchies often have obstructed airways, which can cause them to get out of breath easily. This condition also puts them at a higher risk of overheating and can cause them to snore.
Alopecia
Alopecia, a painful skin disorder that is common in the blue coat variety, can result in hair loss, sore wrinkled skin, and sometimes, an allergic reaction. This can lead to dry, flaky skin, brittle hair, and can be itchy, causing the dog to scratch and develop bald patches.
Color Dilution Alopecia (CDA)
Color Dilution Alopecia (CDA), caused by a faulty gene inherited from both parents, is a condition that may not be immediately obvious in a puppy but can develop later in life. Additionally, Skinfold dermatitis is another issue where the folds of the skin can become infected due to trapped food or heat-sores.
Other Health Concerns
Other health concerns in Blue French Bulldogs include Diarrhea, spinal problems, various eye diseases such as conjunctivitis or ‘pink eye’, eye socket sores, and dental problems.
Final Thoughts
The French Bulldog has gained popularity for its calm temperament and adaptability, traits that extend to the Blue French Bulldog as well. However, a significant drawback of the Blue variety is their cost; they are incredibly expensive. Breeders who adhere to proper breeding practices often shy away from breeding them due to the genetic issues associated with their lovely color. If you’re lucky enough to find a breeder offering a Blue French Bulldog for sale and are financially in a position to afford one, you’ll find that there are virtually no differences in personality and charm between these fantastic canines and their AKC-accepted cousins.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Do Blue French Bulldogs Cost?
The price of Blue French Bulldog Puppies typically ranges from $4,000 to $9,000. This cost can fluctuate based on your geographical location.
Is the Coat of Blue Frenchies Actually Blue? Contrary to the name, the coat of a Blue French Bulldog is not a sky-blue but more of a silver/grey hue.
What Varieties Do Blue French Bulldogs Come In?
Blue French Bulldogs are available in several varieties, including Blue, Blue Fawn, Blue Merle, Blue Pied, Blue Sable, and Blue & Tan.
What Are Common Health Problems in Blue French Bulldogs?
A prevalent health issue in Blue French Bulldogs is Color Dilution Alopecia, which can lead to hair thinning, hair loss, and dry/itchy skin.
Final Thoughts
The French Bulldog has gained popularity for its calm temperament and adaptability, traits that extend to the Blue French Bulldog as well. However, a significant drawback of the Blue variety is their cost; they are incredibly expensive. Breeders who adhere to proper breeding practices often shy away from breeding them due to the genetic issues associated with their lovely color. If you’re lucky enough to find a breeder offering a Blue French Bulldog for sale and are financially in a position to afford one, you’ll find that there are virtually no differences in personality and charm between these fantastic canines and their AKC-accepted cousins.