The Fawn French Bulldog is known for its charming tan coat, which may feature dark or light patches, and sometimes even hints of red. These colors and patterns make each dog unique. The American Kennel Club (AKC) has set standards for the breed, but there’s still room for individuality. Whether a dark or light shade, the Fawn French Bulldog is a beloved breed for its playful nature and eye-catching appearance.
Breed Overview
Height:
Small to medium (11 – 12 inches)
Weight:
20 – 28 pounds for males, 16-24 pounds for females
Lifespan:
10 – 12 years
Colors:
Fawn, fawn and white, fawn brindle, brindle, brindle and white, cream, white and brindle, white and fawn
Suitable for:
Families are looking for playful, easy-to-groom lapdogs that do not require a lot of space.
Temperament:
Easygoing, sociable, gentle, friendly, playful, affectionate
Fawn Frenchies are true French Bulldogs in every way. Let’s take a closer look at this dog and their history.
The Origins of the Fawn French Bulldog
The Fawn French Bulldog has a fascinating history that traces back to England in the late 18th century. They were originally bred as a smaller version of the English Bulldogs, which were known for their strength and aggression, and often used in bull-baiting during the early days. However, as the practice of bull-baiting declined, people started focusing on breeding smaller dogs for companionship rather than aggression. The French Bulldogs, including those with a fawn coat, became more popular as lace workers in England began bringing them to France during the Industrial Revolution.
See also: Pocket Bully Breed
As factories and shops in England closed due to the Industrial Revolution, these little dogs found a new home in France. Over time, French Bulldogs were selectively bred, leading to the development of the breed’s unique appearance and playful personality. The fawn coloring, along with other patterns, became a distinct feature of the breed, contributing to the look we recognize today. This blend of English and French influence has shaped the Fawn French Bulldog into the beloved companion it is today.
The Rise of the Fawn French Bulldog’s Popularity
In the late 19th century, wealthy Americans traveling to France became quick fans of the French Bulldogs, drawn to their unique look compared to the more traditional English Bulldogs. These dogs had more exaggerated features such as their bat-like ears and compact size, which appealed to the tastes of many. By 1897, French Bulldogs were gaining recognition and were even featured on the cover of the Westminster catalog. They were officially approved by the AKC, which helped further spread their appeal. Despite this early rise in popularity, their numbers began to decline during World War I, and it wasn’t until the next 50 years that the breed’s interest began to pick up again, especially among those seeking purebred dogs.
As people’s homes became equipped with air conditioning, the breed’s natural difficulty with hot weather and short nasal passages (a typical trait of brachycephalic dogs) became less of an issue. By the 1940s, however, Fawn French Bulldogs remained relatively uncommon, with only around 100 dogs registered in 1940. The breed was revived thanks to breeders like Amanda West in Michigan, who began showcasing cream and fawn French Bulldogs in the show ring during the 1950s. This resurgence helped the breed regain its place as a desirable companion dog, solidifying the Fawn French Bulldog as a popular and much-loved pet.
Official Recognition of the Fawn French Bulldog
The Fawn French Bulldog gained formal recognition in the dog world through events like the Westminster show in 1898, although there was some dispute regarding the different types of French Bulldogs. One of the main issues was the ears—while some owners preferred the bat-ear look, others liked the rose-ear style. This led to a disagreement about the breed standard. The French Bull Dog Club of America stepped in to create a clearer standard that would include the distinctive bat ears while excluding the rose-ear variation. Over time, the bat ears became more commonly associated with the breed, where the ears would stand erect and normally.
In the 1980s, there was a revival of interest in the Fawn French Bulldog, thanks to younger breeders who focused on transforming the breed and enhancing its appeal. As the breed’s popularity soared, more dogs were registered with the AKC, and by 2006, around 5,500 French Bulldogs had been recorded. This marked the breed’s strong return as a favorite in the dog world, with the Fawn French Bulldog gaining formal and widespread recognition.
Top 4 Unique Facts About Fawn Frenchies
1. They Are Great Watchdogs
Despite their small size, Fawn French Bulldogs are known to be great watchdogs. They are quick to let you know if someone is near or if a stranger approaches. These dogs are naturally wary and will alert their owners to anything unusual, making them surprisingly effective at guarding your home despite their playful and affectionate nature.
2. They Can’t Swim
French Bulldogs, including Fawn French Bulldogs, can’t swim well due to their large heads and short legs. Their short necks make it hard for them to keep their bodies above water, and they may tilt their heads back, struggling to keep their noses, mouths, and eyes above the surface. This makes it dangerous for them to attempt swimming in deep or open water. While they may love to run around in shallow water or play at the edge of a pool, it’s important to watch them closely, as their chest sits high above the water, making floating difficult.
3. They Are Not Great Lovers
French Bulldogs, including the Fawn French Bulldog, can have trouble with mating due to their unique body structures. Their narrow hips and small size can inhibit the natural process, making it difficult for the breed to mate successfully. Many females need to be artificially inseminated, and giving birth is also difficult, as C-sections are usually required to ensure the safety of both the mother and the puppies. This makes breeding and reproduction for this breed more challenging than for other dogs.
4. They Are Expensive
Fawn French Bulldogs are known to be quite expensive, with the cost varying depending on factors like color, location, and the type or bloodline of the dog. Prices for a French Bulldog can range from $1,500 to $6,000 or even higher, depending on the breeder and the dog’s quality. This makes them one of the pricier breeds, and you may find their prices vary anywhere you look.
Is a Fawn French Bulldog a Good Pet?
Fawn French Bulldogs, or Frenchies, are adorable and playful little dogs that make excellent pets for families. Their social nature means they enjoy being around people and are very protective of their families. Despite their small bodies, they have a lot of energy and love spending time with children. They do well in homes where they can get along with other pets, especially if they are socialized early. However, their stubbornness can sometimes make training a bit tricky, but with patience, they are a joy to have around.
While they love to curl up on the couch for a cozy movie night, it’s important to remember that Frenchies do not handle hot weather well. Their small size means they can struggle with exercise in the heat, so keeping them in cool environments is essential. They shed like most dogs, but regular brushing can help keep the shedding to a minimum, making them a beautiful addition to any home without too much maintenance.
Conclusion
Fawn French Bulldogs, despite their name, actually originated in England before becoming popular in France and later arriving in America. Over time, their popularity has wavered, but they saw a significant revival, and today they are one of the most popular dog breeds. They are frequently registered with the AKC. From their days as bull-baiting dogs to now being friendly and playful companions, these little dogs have come a long way and make excellent pets for families.
FAQs
What is the history of the Fawn French Bulldog?
The Fawn French Bulldog has roots in England, where they were bred as smaller versions of the English Bulldog. They later became popular in France and eventually arrived in America, where their popularity has steadily grown.
How much do Fawn French Bulldogs cost?
The cost of a Fawn French Bulldog can range from $1,500 to $6,000, depending on factors like color, location, and bloodline. Prices can vary based on the breeder and the dog’s quality.
Are Fawn French Bulldogs good with other pets?
Yes, Fawn French Bulldogs generally get along well with other pets, especially if they are socialized early. They are friendly and playful, making them excellent companions for families with other pets.
Why do Fawn French Bulldogs have trouble mating?
The breed’s small size and narrow hips can inhibit the natural mating process. Many females require artificial insemination, and C-sections are often needed for giving birth due to the breed’s unique body structures.
Do Fawn French Bulldogs need a lot of space?
No, Fawn French Bulldogs are small dogs and do not require a lot of space. They are suitable for apartment living or homes with limited space as long as they get enough exercise and attention.