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French Bulldogs are often associated with their adorable, fluffy coats, but are they truly purebred? The answer lies in their breeding history and physical characteristics.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes the French Bulldog as a distinct breed, but their unique appearance can be deceiving. French Bulldogs are actually a brachycephalic breed, meaning they have a short, flat face and a compact body.
Their fluffy coats are often a result of cross-breeding with other breeds, such as the Pug and the Bulldog. This is because French Bulldogs were originally bred for companionship and were not bred for their appearance.
To be considered purebred, a French Bulldog must meet specific breed standards, including its physical characteristics and temperament.
For more insights, see: How Often Should French Bulldogs Eat
What is a Frenchie?
A Frenchie is a type of dog that belongs to the toy breed group. They originated in England in the 19th century.
French Bulldogs are known for their unique appearance, which is characterized by a flat face, short snout, and prominent underbite. They typically weigh between 16 and 28 pounds.
One of the distinctive features of Frenchies is their short, easy-to-maintain coats that require minimal grooming. They come in a variety of colors, including brindle, fawn, and white.
French Bulldogs are often described as adaptable and affectionate companions, making them a popular choice for city dwellers and families alike.
Are French Bulldogs Purebred?
French Bulldogs are not considered mutts, as they are the direct offspring of two purebred French Bulldogs that carry the long-hair gene.
The breed's history is rooted in England, where they were initially bred for bull-baiting, a cruel sport that was outlawed in 1835.
True long-haired French Bulldogs are the result of selective breeding, not a mix of breeds. This unique look is hard to come by naturally, which may lead some breeders to mix Frenchies with other long-haired breeds.
The origins of the long hair gene in French Bulldogs remain unclear, but it's believed that it emerged either naturally or through intentional introduction by breeders.
In France, bat-eared French Bulldogs became a symbol of status and elegance, and breeders continued to refine the breed through selective breeding.
For more insights, see: Healthy Bulldog Breeds
Breed History and Standard
The French Bulldog breed standard exists to protect the health of the breed. In theory, it prevents Frenchies in certain disqualified colors from being bred, as they're predisposed to specific health conditions.
Breed standards are based on aesthetics, not just health. The gene that causes long hair in French Bulldogs doesn't seem to affect their health, but it's still banned due to its appearance.
Heritage of the French
The French Bulldog's history is a fascinating story of transformation and adaptation. They originated in England as Toy Bulldogs, bred for the cruel sport of bull-baiting.
In the early 19th century, breeders crossed them with Terriers to reduce their aggression and introduced the distinctive erect bat ears. However, this trait was deemed undesirable in England, leading to the export of bat-eared Bulldogs to France.
These rejected pups found favor among French social elites, who prized them for their unique appearance and status symbol. Bat-eared French Bulldogs became a symbol of elegance and refinement.
The origins of the long hair gene in French Bulldogs remain a mystery. It is unclear whether the longhaired coat emerged naturally or through intentional introduction.
Despite their uncertain origins, the longhaired coat has become a distinctive characteristic of Fluffy French Bulldogs. Breeders selectively breed them to possess a striking, longer coat.
French Bulldog Breed Standard
The French Bulldog breed standard is in place to protect the health of this beloved breed. Breed standards are designed to ensure the health and well-being of dogs, and in the case of French Bulldogs, some disqualified colors are linked to specific health conditions.
The breed standard bans French Bulldogs in certain colors, not because of any health concerns related to their coat, but rather because of aesthetics. This decision is based on the idea that these colors are not desirable.
In theory, breed standards are meant to prioritize the health and safety of the dogs. However, it's worth noting that there is no evidence to suggest that the gene responsible for long hair in French Bulldogs has any negative impact on their health.
French Bulldogs with long hair are disqualified based solely on their appearance, not due to any health concerns.
Intriguing read: French Bulldogs Colors and Prices
Frequently Asked Questions
Does AKC recognize fluffy French Bulldogs?
AKC recognizes long-haired French Bulldogs for registration, but not for showing. However, they do not meet the breed standard for traditional French Bulldogs
Are fluffy Frenchies worth more?
Yes, Fluffy Frenchies are worth more due to their high demand and unique appearance. Their price can vary greatly, with some costing over $19,000 or more.
What mutation is fluffy French Bulldog?
The fluffy French Bulldog's long hair is caused by a rare recessive gene called the LH gene, also referred to as the fibroblast growth factor among breeders. This genetic mutation leads to longer fur than the breed's typical short-haired variety.
Sources
- https://www.wildbluefrenchbulldogs.com/blue-tan-fluffy-french-bulldog/
- https://www.sparkpaws.jp/blogs/community/what-are-long-haired-french-bulldogs-and-how-rare-are-they
- https://rockykanaka.com/fluffy-frenchie/
- https://dogtime.com/reference/131039-fluffy-french-bulldog
- https://dogfriendlytravel.com/what-is-a-fluffy-frenchie/
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