Many people are on the lookout for a dog they can easily take care of even if they live in a smaller space. If this describes you, then a French Bulldog terrier mix might be the perfect choice.
This mix, called a Frenchton, is quickly becoming a very popular breed not only for its size, but it’s personality. This eager to please companion can make a great addition to almost any household.
Read below to learn more about this perky little pup.
History of the French Bulldog Terrier Mix
A French Bulldog Terrier mix isn’t recognized by the American Kennel Club, but many other organizations recognize it. Like most other designer breeds, the Frenchton can be a half/half mix of the two breeds, but it is most commonly recognized as 25% Boston Terrier and 75% French Bulldog.
This mix is first thought to be done in the 1990s. The two breeds had some health problems on their own and creating a French Bulldog Terrier mix was thought to help reduce these health risks. It was also done to help increase the overall size of the new pup.
The Frenchton might not have a long a history, but what it lasts in time it makes up for with personality.
Frenchton Traits
Overall, the Frenchton more closely resembles the French Bulldog than the Boston Terrier, probably due to the breed being more Bulldog than Terrier.
The Frenchton seems to have lost the bugged eyes of the Boston Terrier and are solidly framed. Some would even call then blocky.
They weigh in between 15 and 25 pounds and grow to be about 15 inches tall.
Color-wise, the Frenchton ranges from black to white and almost anywhere in between. They can be black but even the darkest usually exhibit lighter coloration on the chest or underbelly. The Frenchton can also be white but will usually have black or dark brown spots.
Because a Frenchton is a French Bulldog and terrier mix, they are usually pretty friendly to both people and other animals. They are, however, an energetic breed. This means they might not be the best for a non-active family or for a house that already has an older dog as their antics may get tiresome.
Frenchton Health Traits
The idea behind mixing two different breeds is to get the best of both worlds.
French Bulldogs are prone to health problems such as hip dysplasia, cherry eye, an elongated soft palate, among others.
Boston Terriers have some of the same health problems. They have many problems that can affect the eyes and the skeletal system.
The good news is that in breeding the Frenchton, breeders have created a much healthier pet. They are much less likely to suffer from the health problems of their parents. That said, however, Frenchton’s can inherit problems but are much less likely to do so. A properly bread Frenchton should provide you with a healthy companion for anywhere from 11-14 years.
Grooming a Frenchton
One of the best parts of a Frenchton is how low maintenance they are.
As a short haired breed, they require very little maintenance of their coat. It is recommended to give them a good brushing once or twice a month. This is really to help take loose hair out of their coat. Some breeds might need daily brushings. If that’s not your cup of tea, the Frenchton is a great choice.
They also need very little maintenance for their nails. Again, once or twice a month is all that’s needed. So, when you’re bushing them, give their nails a quick check to see if they need a trim.
Baths are only recommended “as needed.” If your Frenchton falls in love with rolling around in trash, you might need baths more often. But if it is relatively clean, you won’t have to bathe them much at all.
If you do decide they need a bath, make sure you do so seldomly as it can dry out their skin and coat.
Who is the Frenchton Great For?
First off, the Frenchton is a great dog for an active family. One thing to remember though is that they do not much care for the water. If you plan on taking them for a swim, be sure to include a doggy life vest because this breed cannot swim for very long at all.
This French Bulldog terrier mix also is able to adapt to many different living situations. Because they are a smaller dog, they are great for apartment dwellers. The Frenchton also doesn’t bark very much, so it is less likely to drive your neighbors crazy when you’re not at home. Just be sure to take your pup out for at least 30 minutes of exercise a day. They will need to get their excess energy out, otherwise they can become destructive.
Frenchton’s are also ideal for a household that is never empty. This breed craves human interaction, so get ready for doling out those cuddles.
Final Thoughts
The Frenchton is a breed that is gaining popularity, and for good reason. This companion pup is happy in many different settings, has low grooming needs, and is very loving.
If you’re looking for a cute cuddle-bug that is very manageable, the Frenchton might be the perfect choice for you.