Frenchton Breed Overview: Meet the Gentle and Playful French Bulldog and Boston Terrier Mix
Planning on getting a small dog for your family but can’t decide between the French Bulldog and the Boston Terrier? In that case, why not bring home the gentle and playful Frenchton? The Frenchton with its goofy, playful, and friendly nature is more than capable of filling your home with love and laughter and brightening up even your dullest of days. If you are wondering what is a Frenchton dog, then read on to learn everything about this small companion dog breed from its temperament, appearance, and size to training, grooming, and health issues.
Frenchton: Breed Overview
So first things first. What is a Frenchton dog? The Frenchton is a designer dog breed that was created by crossing the French Bulldog with the Boston Terrier. Since they are a designer breed, their origin is not clearly known. However, it is commonly believed that the first Frenchton dogs were bred sometime in the mid-1990s in the United States. They are known by a variety of nicknames such as Froston, Boston Bulldog, Frenchbo, Frenchie Terrier, and Faux Boston Terrier.
Appearance and Size
The Frenchton is a mixed breed so its appearance and size may vary. But in general, the Frenchton Full grown is a small dog breed that is only 11-15 inches tall and weighs not more than 15-25 pounds. Most Frenchton puppies inherit the bat ears which is a distinctive Frenchie feature. Their curious, yet intelligent gaze is a contribution from their Boston Terrier parent.
Since both parents have a squished face, the Frenchton puppies have also inherited this adorable feature. Their eye color is either brown or black and round in shape.
Full-grown Frenchton dogs sport a variety of coat colors such as white, black, red, blue, brown, or cream but some of them may inherit the the tightly worn tuxedo coat, which is a distinctive physical feature of the Boston Terrier. Their coat is generally short and smooth in texture.
Personality and Characteristic Traits
Before you start searching for Frenchton puppies for sale, you need to know the temperament and characteristic traits of this breed. This information will help you to understand if this breed is for you.
French Bulldog Boston Terrier mixes tend to inherit a fun-loving and energetic personality from both parent breeds. They are playful, affectionate, and eager to please their owners. These mixes are typically very friendly towards people and other dogs.
They have a happy-go-lucky temperament and enjoy socializing and meeting new friends. However, early socialization is still important so that a Frenchton puppy can learn good behavior. It will also help to curb any tendencies towards aggression or fearfulness of strangers.
Frenchie Terriers often have a fun, goofy side to their personality. They like entertaining their owners and making them laugh. Frenchtons can be mischievous at times, but mean no harm. These mixes just want to have a good time!
They also form a strong bond with their owners and families. They are loyal companions who want to be around the people they care about. Therefore separation anxiety can be an issue if left alone for long periods. Hence avoid opting for this breed if your daily routine forces you to be away from home for long periods of time.
Both French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers are known for being stubborn at times. A mix of the two can inherit this quality, so patience and consistent positive reinforcement training are important.
To sum up, the temperament of a full-grown Frenchton dog will depend on which parent they take after more. But usually, they are friendly, energetic, and playful dogs that form a strong bond with their families. Early and consistent training and socialization will help ensure they develop into well-rounded companions.
Exercise and Training Needs
The parent breeds – the French Bulldog has a laidback nature and the Boston Terrier is moderately active and at times, is quite rambunctious. However, both the parent breeds have a playful temperament. Hence the Frenchton breed is also quite playful and has a low to moderate energy level.
In terms of exercise, the Frenchton is a low-maintenance dog breed. The breed requires around one hour of exercise every day which can be divided between daily walks for 15-30 minutes, playtime in a securely fenced yard, and interactive games. Since they have a tendency to overheat, they should not be exercised at all when it is very hot outside.
While Frenchtons do not need a lot of exercise, they do require activities like obedience training, scent work, and interactive play sessions. You can also provide them with interactive dog toys that will help them stay engaged and prevent boredom.
Interactive Play:
Engage your Frenchton in games like fetch or tug-of-war. These games are fun and rewarding for both you and your dog. They also help strengthen your bond and improve your dog’s obedience skills. You can use toys, balls, or ropes to play with your Frenchton.
Indoor Activities:
If the weather is too hot or cold for outdoor exercise, you can still keep your Frenchton active indoors. You can set up an obstacle course, hide treats around the house, or teach your dog new tricks. These activities will challenge your dog’s mind and body and prevent boredom.
These are some exercises that are suitable for Frenchtons. Remember to always monitor your dog’s breathing and temperature, as they are prone to overheating and respiratory problems due to their short snouts and flat faces.
Also, avoid exercises that put too much stress on their joints and back, such as running up or down stairs, jumping on and off furniture, or agility training. With proper care and exercise, your Frenchton will be a happy and healthy companion.
Training And Socialization
Training and socialization are vital aspects of raising a well-behaved and happy French Bulldog Boston Terrier mix. Early socialization is particularly important for the Frenchton breed, as it helps them become comfortable and confident in various environments and social situations. Introduce your puppy to different people, animals, and experiences from a young age to ensure they grow up to be friendly and well-adjusted dogs.
When it comes to training, the French Bulldog Boston Terrier mix is intelligent and eager to please, making them an easy breed to train. However, they can also be stubborn and independent-minded at times, so consistency and positive reinforcement techniques are key.
Avoid harsh or punitive training methods, as they can be counterproductive and damage the trust and bond between you and your canine companion.
Lifespan And Health Issues
Frenchtons have a lifespan of around 12-15 years which is slightly longer than the lifespan of its French Bulldog parent. But in spite of having a longer lifespan, the Frenchton may inherit some of the potential health conditions common to French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers. It’s important to be aware of these conditions so you know what signs to watch for. It will also help you take preventive measures against Frenchton health issues.
The Frenchton, just like its parent breeds, is also brachycephalic. This is a type of deformity that causes some dog breeds to have flat skulls and extremely short snouts. As a result, they have difficulty breathing and may be prone to a medical condition called brachycephalic airway syndrome.Â
It causes breathing difficulties, snoring, panting, and overheating. It can also lead to more serious problems, such as collapse, fainting, or respiratory failure.
Because of their compromised respiratory system, brachycephalic breeds like Frenchtons struggle to cool themselves off through panting. They can overheat easily in hot weather. So if you have a Frenchton, limit outdoor exercise on warm days, make sure shade and fresh water are available, and watch for signs of overheating like heavy panting, bright red gums, vomiting, or collapse. They are also at risk for other respiratory issues like bronchitis or pneumonia.
Because of their short snout and flattened skull, the Frenchton may also be prone to other health risks such as:
Spinal Disorders And Joint Problems:
Both breeds can suffer from joint disorders, such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and patellar luxation. These conditions affect the development and function of the hips, elbows, and knees, respectively. They can cause pain, lameness, arthritis, and reduced mobility.
The short, stocky build of the Frenchton puts extra stress on their spines. Disk disease and other back problems can occur. Limit jumping on and off furniture, encourage exercise to keep weight down, and see a vet if your Frenchton shows pain, weakness, or lameness in the hind legs.
Skin Problems:
Both breeds have skin folds around their face and body that can trap moisture, dirt, and bacteria. This can lead to skin infections, allergies, and irritations. They also have sensitive skin that can react to environmental factors, such as pollen, grass, or chemicals.
Eye Issues:
Both the parent breeds have prominent and bulging eyes and short snouts, which means Frenchtons are prone to eye problems like cherry eye, corneal ulcers, cataracts, and glaucoma. They are also vulnerable to eye-related injuries, infections, and diseases. Take your Frenchton for regular vet checks and watch for signs like excessive tearing, squinting or rubbing of the eyes.
Dental Issues:
Frenchtons may be susceptible to dental problems, including periodontal disease, tooth decay, and overcrowding. Regular dental care, such as teeth brushing and dental check-ups, is important for maintaining their oral health.
Other Problems:
Both breeds can also be affected by other health issues, such as deafness, heart problems, mast cell tumors, spinal problems, and obesity. These problems can vary in severity and frequency, depending on the individual dog and its genetic background.
To ensure the well-being of your French Bulldog Boston terrier mix, regular veterinary check-ups are crucial. It is important to monitor their weight, provide a balanced diet, and engage in regular exercise to keep them fit and healthy.
Dietary And Living Requirements:
As a small breed dog with a moderate energy level, the Frenchton breed should be fed a diet that is appropriate for its age, size, activity level, and life stage. It is recommended that you feed your dog 1 to 1 1/2 cups of high-quality kibble divided into two meals daily. If you have any confusion regarding the portion size then you should consult a veterinarian. You should also provide fresh water for your dog and ensure they have access to it throughout the day. Hydration is crucial, especially during hot weather or after exercise.
Before buying dog food, make sure to read the list of ingredients carefully. Opt for a dog food brand that contains high-quality animal-based protein such as turkey, beef, chicken, salmon, sardines, eggs, and lamb. Also check if the brand contains vegetables and fruits like carrots, pumpkin, blueberries, apples, broccoli, spinach, and so on.
Grooming Requirements
In terms of grooming, the Frenchton is a relatively low-maintenance breed. They have short and smooth coats that shed moderately throughout the year and require minimal grooming. But you should still groom your Frenchton dog on a regular basis so that they can keep looking and feeling their best all year round.
Here are some tips on grooming a Frenchton –
Brush Once A Week:
Brush your Frenchton once a week to remove loose hair and distribute oils. Use a slicker brush and gently brush in the direction of hair growth. Pay extra attention to brushing their wrinkles and skin folds, as dirt and moisture can build up in these areas.
Bathe When Needed Using Dog Shampoo And Conditioner:
Only bathe your Frenchton when needed using a high-quality dog shampoo and conditioner. Bathing too frequently can dry out their skin. After bathing, gently wipe and dry their wrinkles and skin folds to prevent irritation or infection. Their eyes and ears also need regular cleaning to avoid infection – use a damp cloth to wipe away any discharge.
Trim Your Frenchton’s Nails On A Monthly Basis:
Trim your Frenchton’s nails if they get too long, usually every 4 to 6 weeks. Be very careful not to cut the quick, which contains nerves and blood vessels. It is best to have a vet or groomer trim the nails if you are not experienced.
Pay Close To Your Frenchton’s Dental Health:
Clean your Frenchton’s teeth regularly to prevent tartar buildup and promote oral health. Brush their teeth ideally once a day with a dog toothpaste and toothbrush. At a minimum, aim for brushing 3 times a week. Daily dental wipes and chew toys can also help reduce plaque in between brushings.
Developing a regular grooming routine and being watchful for any skin problems will keep your Frenchie looking their best. If you have any concerns about your Frenchton’s grooming needs, be sure to consult your vet.
Frenchton: Cost and Where to Buy
The average Frenchton price, which is a hybrid of the French Bulldog and Boston Terrier is between $900 to $1500. Reputable breeders will charge on the higher end of this range, while backyard breeders may charge less. But avoid dealing with backyard breeders or puppy mills if possible as it is not ethical. To find reputable Frenchton breeders, you need to research thoroughly. Alternatively, you can ask for breeder references from your friends and family who already have this breed.
When searching for Frenchton for sale, look for a breeder that –
- Specialize in French Bulldog Boston Terrier mixes (also called Frenchtons).
- Have a website detailing their breeding program, health guarantees, and puppy-raising process.
- Provide health certificates proving both parents have been tested for genetic diseases common to French Bulldogs and Pitbulls.
- Allow you to visit their facility, meet the parents, and see the puppies in person.
- Interview you to ensure you will provide a good home for one of their puppies.
You can also consider checking out your local rescue home or adoption shelter to see if they have Frenchton puppies for adoption. In that case, you only need to pay a small adoption fee.
Wrapping Up
So if you’re looking for a devoted and quirky little pal to cuddle with you and brighten your days, the Frenchton could be the dog for you. With their endearing face and winning combination of traits inherited from two of the most popular breeds – the French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers, these designer dogs are bound to steal your heart.
Their compact size and minimal grooming needs make them an ideal breed for everyone, especially first-time pet owners. So pay a visit to your local dog rescue shelter or a breeder near you if they have a Frenchton for sale and you might find your new best friend!
Let us know what you think of the gentle and playful Frenchton dog in the comments below!
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