Last Updated on January 22, 2022 by Griselda M.
The French Bulldog mixed with Boston Terrier is also called the Frenchton, and it’s one of the more popular crossbreeds. Despite being a crossbreed, these dogs are becoming more and more popular because of their playfulness and their sociability. In today’s article, we’ll be taking a very close look at this crossbreed, its defining characteristics, and life with them.
Frenchton History
Believe it or not, there are several associations and kennel clubs that actually recognize the Frenchton as a breed. Even though the American Kennel Club isn’t on that list, the American Canine Hybrid Club, the Designer Breed Registry, the Designer Dogs Kennel Club and the International Designer Canine Registry all are on that list.
Nobody exactly knows how old this crossbreed is. What is known is that designer breeders started mixing the two breeds to create an “improved” version of the French Bulldog. What we do know is that it’s one of the more popular crossbreeds, and that’s not without reason.
Frenchton Physical Characteristics
When it comes to their physical characteristics, these dogs usually take after their French Bulldog parent more. That doesn’t mean that the Boston Terrier parent isn’t there – just that it’s less apparent. What’s obvious is that the Boston Terrier is much more athletic than the French Bulldog, and the Frenchton inherits this athleticism. Because of that, some characterize this Boston Terrier French Bulldog mix as just an athletic French Bulldog.
Frenchton size
These dogs usually don’t grow to be taller than 14 inches! Regarding their weight, they usually weigh up to 25 pounds. However, it’s important to know that there’s no breed standard for these pups. It’s not uncommon for a dog to be a little bit taller or shorter than the average height.
Frenchton appearance
This dog usually takes more after their French Bulldog parent, so they resemble them more. They typically have a large, bulky, square head with eyes that are large (for their face) and round. Another characteristic it takes right off their parents is the ears – these dogs have the same ears as their French Bulldog parents.
Their Boston Terrier parent becomes more apparent when it comes to the dog’s body. The Frenchton is more athletic than the regular French Bulldog because of its slightly longer legs. These legs are something the Frenchton takes after their Boston Terrier parent!
When it comes to the color of their coat, you can find the Frenchton in black, white, brown, and cream, or a combination of these colors. Their coats are usually very short, which makes grooming a breeze (which is one of the primary reasons why people love these dogs as indoor pets). When it comes to grooming your Frenchton, all it takes is some brushing once a week.
Frenchton health
Most Frenchtons live happy lives, but just like with any crossbreed, they can inherit health issues from either one of their parents. Thus, the most apparent possible issue is respiratory problems. This is something they inherit from both their French Bulldog parent, as all Bulldogs are brachycephalic, and their Boston Terrier parent.
Unfortunately, this is a pre-existing condition, meaning that it’s entirely determined by genetics, so you can’t do much to stop it. These respiratory issues can cause a whole plethora of problems. However, different dogs develop differently, so your dog might not develop these respiratory problems to a high level. It’d be best for you to contact a veterinarian and have them take a look at your dog.
Luckily, there are many things modern veterinary medicine can do for most existing conditions.
Another important thing to keep in mind when it comes to Frenchtons is their oral health. Consult your vet to find out how to brush your dog’s teeth properly.
Regarding their diet, these dogs are small and show moderate amounts of energy, so adapt their diet to those needs. Know that they don’t have the same needs as puppies! While we’re on the topic of diet, let’s talk about exercise!
These dogs don’t need too much exercise. Taking them for a walk once a day should be more than enough for them. You might witness small outbursts of energy, but they’re mostly laid back. It’s crucial to exercise them every day, though, as they might start acting up if you don’t entertain them enough.
Frenchton Behavior
Frenchton Bulldogs are very laid back, as we already said. This doesn’t mean that they won’t be up for an activity – it’s just that they’re unlikely to start one. They’re also very sociable, so there’s usually no fear about approaching new people, and they’re also very loving.
Something to keep in mind is that they’re stubborn – this is a characteristic many Bulldogs share. This stubbornness can make it difficult to train them and they can prove to be exhausting even for more experienced dog owners. These dogs are also very prideful – you’ll get them to do your bidding by positive reinforcement, not by shouting at them.
It would also be true to describe these dogs as needy – they don’t like it when you leave them alone and they’ll start acting up. A huge positive is that they’re good with children! There are many breeds and crossbreeds that avoid children – the Frenchton isn’t one of them. This also applies to new people – they don’t avoid or hide from new people unless they find someone particularly intimidating.
Because of this, most people find them very friendly and not shy!
To Sum Up
The Frenchton is a crossbreed between the French Bulldog and the Boston Terrier. This crossbreed is a very fun-loving, sociable, friendly dog. They’re rarely afraid of other people and they fit in very easily. Because of their size and their low-maintenance needs, they’re great dogs as indoor pets. However, they can be hard to train because of their stubbornness.
Even though they’re largely reminiscent of the French Bulldog, these dogs are more athletic because of their Boston Terrier roots. Unfortunately, they’re most likely going to experience respiratory problems because both of their parents are brachycephalic. Despite that, these dogs can make the perfect fit for any apartment!
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