Frenchton vs. French Bulldog: All You Need to Know

Frenchton vs. French Bulldog.

Are you torn between a Frenchton and a French Bulldog?

While these dogs may look alike, they are quite distinct from each other.

This article will give you 10 key differences and similarities between the two dogs to help you choose.

Let’s get started.

Frenchtons 

Also referred to as  Frenchbo, Faux Frenchbo, or Froston,  Frenchtons are a hybrid dog breed cross between the Boston Terrier and the French Bulldog. These highly people-centered, loyal, and loveable dogs make great family pets. They are adaptable, making them perfect for apartment living.

French Bulldogs 

Originating in Nottingham, England, in the 1800s, French Bulldogs are loving, playful, loyal, affectionate, and gentle dogs that make perfect companion dogs.  French Bulldogs are small dogs with compact, muscular bodies and short legs. 

This dog breed is marked by a large and square head, with heavy wrinkles rolled over a short nose.  These are loving dogs who thrive on attention. They bond strongly with their families and love to spend quality time with them.

Frenchton vs. French Bulldog: A Comparison

The table below briefly overviews the differences between French Bulldogs and Frenchtons.

FrenchtonFrench Bulldog
Average Height11-15 inches11-12 inches
Average Weight15-25 pounds16-28 pounds
Lifespan10-15 years10-12 years
Coat typeShort and fineShort, fine, and smooth
Temperament Loving, people-oriented, playful, and energetic.Alert, easy-going, athletic, and friendly.
Coat colorBlack, brown, golden, and creamBrindle, cream, white, fawn, and white
GroomingLow Low 
TrainabilityEasy to trainEasy to train
Energy levelHigh Moderate 
Shedding levelLow Moderate 
Puppy price$900-$3500$1500-$3000

Key Differences Between Frenchton vs. French Bulldog

While they have many similarities, Frenchtons and French Bulldogs also differ. These are some of the differences between these two dogs:

  • Appearance: French Bulldogs and Frenchtons are relatively similar in appearance. Both are small dogs, but Frenchies are smaller and less stocky than Frenchtons. Additionally, French Bulldogs have round bat-like ears, which are more triangular, while Frenchtons have narrower, semi-pointed, or floppy ears similar to those of Boston Terriers. Frenchtons also have longer, less-wrinkled snouts and more bulging eyes than French Bulldogs. 
  • Genetics: Unlike French Bulldogs, which are considered purebred dogs bred as companion dogs, Frenchtons are a mixed, hybrid, or designer breed, mixing a Boston Terrier and a French Bulldog. A Frenchton is also called a Frenchbo, Boston Frenchie, or Faux French Bulldog.
  • Size and Weight: Although both are small dogs, they have slight differences in weight and size. Frenchies are shorter, standing between 11-13 inches tall, than Frenchtons, 11-15 inches tall. French Bulldogs also weigh a little heavier, weighing 16-28 pounds, compared with Frenchtons, which weigh up to 25 pounds.
  • Life span: Compared to a French Bulldog, with an average life span of 10-12 years, a Frenchton can live longer and up to 15 years. This longer lifespan may be due to genetics, exercise, and diet. Being a mix of a Boston Terrier could have also influenced Frenchtons’ lifespan.
  • Activity levels: French Bulldogs and Frenchtons are energetic dogs that love to play. However, Frenchtons are more energetic and can handle longer periods of playing and training. Frenchtons have somewhat longer faces, making receiving adequate oxygen while exercising easier. They are thus able to spend more time exercising outside than French Bulldogs. While French Bulldogs need only about 15-20 minutes of daily exercise, Frenchtons, on the other hand, need between 30-40 minutes.
  • Coat Type: While both dogs have short and fine coats that are easy to groom, French Bulldogs have smoother coats that are closer in texture. Frenchtons, on the other hand, tend to shed less than Frenchies.
  • Sensitivity level: While both dogs are emotional,  Frenchtons are slightly more sensitive than French Bulldogs. Even soft punishment affects them big time emotionally. Frenchtons can’t stand irregular daily routines, noisy environments, and frequent visitors.
  • Coat color: The French Bulldog is available in multiple colors, including blue, black, white, lilac, fawn, brindle, chocolate, and cream, among many others. Frenchies are also usually lighter in color than Frenchtons, which come in brindle, brown, cream, golden, white, and black.
  • Temperament: French Bulldogs and Frenchtons have different temperaments.  Frenchtons are outgoing, vivacious, playful, and independent. On the other hand, French Bulldogs are alert and athletic with a more laid-back and easygoing demeanor.
  • Shedding Level: While French Bulldogs have moderate shedding levels, Frenchtons have low shedding levels and tend to shed a little lesser than Frenchies.

Read more on Fascinating Things You NEED To Know BEFORE Owning A French Bulldog.

Similarities Frenchton vs. French Bulldog

Besides their looks, Frenchtons and French Bulldogs have some similarities, which include:

  • Both are small dogs: With a maximum weight of not more than 30 pounds and a height of up to 15 inches, Frenchies and Frenchtons are classified as small breed dogs.
  • They are brachycephalic dogs: Both dogs are marked by flat heads with shortened snouts and pushed-in noses resulting in narrower-than-average nostrils and smaller airways. Due to this unique facial structure, brachycephalic dogs such as Frenchies and Frenchtons have problems regulating their temperatures, making them prone to breathing issues.
  • Both are prone to several genetic disorders: Due to their facial structure and shortened respiratory systems, Frenchtons and Frenchies are both predisposed to various genetic health problems, including breathing issues, obesity, hip dysplasia, and skin and ear infections. 
  • Adaptability: French Bulldogs are highly adaptable dogs that adapt well to lifestyle changes and living environments. Due to their size and low barking tendencies, Frenchtons are well suited for apartment living and small spaces.
  • Training: While dogs have an independent streak and can be quite stubborn, they are easy to train using positive reinforcement. You only need to make training into a game and use treats to encourage them.
  • Grooming: Frenchtons and Frenchies come in short, fine coats with low to moderate shedding, making them easy to groom. Weekly brushing and occasional baths keep their coats in top condition.
  • Exercise needs: Brachycephalic dogs, Frenchtons, and French Bulldogs require little physical activity to remain healthy and in good shape. Daily walks and fun games are enough to keep these dogs fit.

Which Dog IS Better?

Frenchtons and Frenchies make excellent family companions due to their loving, friendly, and loyal nature and various other excellent characteristics. However, the dog you consider the best will depend on your preference. 

Generally, a Frenchton will be better if you are active as it needs much more exercise than a French Bulldog. If you are also looking at lifespan, consider going for a Frenchton.On the other hand, a French Bulldog would be more suitable if you don’t have a lot of time for exercise. It’s also a good choice if you prefer a pure breed rather than a hybrid dog.

How do I know if my dog is a Frenchton? 

A Frenchton has a longer face, less-wrinkled snout, and narrower, semi-pointed or floppy ears similar to a Boston Terrier. It’s also stockier but a bit taller compared to French Bulldogs.

Are Frenchtons healthier than Frenchies? 

Being brachycephalic dogs with flat faces, Frenchtons are prone to several health issues. However, being hybrid dogs, Frenchtons are considered healthier than Frenchies. They have long faces and snouts compared to French Bulldogs. 

Is a Frenchton a French Bulldog? 

While they have many similarities in terms of personality and appearance, French Bulldogs and Frenchtons are quite distinct. Frenchies are purebred dogs, while Frenchtons are a designer breed mix of a French Bulldog and a Boston Terrier.

Are Frenchtons born naturally? 

No, Frenchtons are not born naturally. Due to their narrow hips, female Frenchtons can only breed through artificial insemination and cesarean procedures. 

Do Frenchtons bark a lot? 

No, Frenchtons have low barking tendencies. Like French Bulldogs, Frenchtons bark only when it’s necessary to alert their owners or when distressed. This makes them perfect apartment dogs.

At what age do Frenchtons stop growing? 

Frenchtons stop growing and attain their full-grown size between 9-12 months. However, they continue bulking up and adding muscle until they are 2 years of age.

How old do Frenchtons live? 

Frenchtons have longer life spans than French Bulldogs, who can live between 11-15 years. Being a mixed breed is a contributing factor to this longer lifespan.

Which is better, Frenchton vs. French Bulldog? 

This depends on an individual’s preference and what you are looking for. Frenchies are better if you are looking for a dog with low activity and moderate energy levels. Frenchtons are better if you don’t mind a highly energetic dog that can withstand longer outdoor exercise. 

What colors do Frenchtons come in? 

Frenchtons coats are a mix of their Boston Terrier and French Bulldog’s parents’ coats and colors. As such, they come in various colors, including white, black, cream, and brown. 

Read more on Standard and Exotic French Bulldogs Colors Explained + PRICE BREAKDOWN.

Do Frenchtons sleep a lot? 

Yes, Frenchtons can sleep anywhere between 12-14 hours a day. While this is a lot of time, they are also highly active when awake. 

Are Frenchtons smaller than Frenchies? 

Frenchtons are a bit taller but weigh a little less than French Bulldogs. While Frenchies stand between 11-13 inches, Frenchtons are between 11-15 inches tall. Frenchies can weigh up to 28 pounds compared to Frenchtons, who never exceed 25 pounds.

Do Frenchtons have back problems? 

Yes, Frenchtons are prone to back problems due to their short back legs and curled tails, which can lead to defective spines. These birth defects cause pressure and injury on a Frenchton’s spine.

Can you breed a Frenchton with a French Bulldog? 

No, it’s not advisable to breed a Frenchton and a French Bulldog. This is because both breeds are prone to various genetic health problems, and breeding these dogs can result in an unhealthy dog.

Do Frenchtons overheat?

Like all flat-faced dog breeds, Frenchtons are prone to overheating. Because of their shorter snouts and narrower nostrils, Frenchtons have trouble regulating their temperatures hence prone to overheating.

Do Frenchtons like to swim? 

Frenchtons love water, but they can’t swim. Due to their compact size, short legs, and short snouts, these dogs are likely to sink in water.

Are Frenchtons purebred? 

No, Frenchtons are not purebred dogs. They are rather it’s a cross between a French Bulldog and a Boston Terrier dog.

Final Thoughts 

Frenchtons and Bulldogs have many similarities in physical appearance and personality traits. They are both small dogs that are extremely loyal, loving, and devoted to their families. However, they also have several differences. Compared to Frenchies, Frenchtons have longer and less wrinkled faces and snouts.

A French Bulldog is ideal if your schedule is tight and does not allow for a longer exercise duration. Consider getting a Frenchton if you are looking for a more energetic dog. No matter the choice, both Frenchtons and French Bulldogs make excellent family dogs.

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