Blue French Bulldog : Why is blue French Bulldog non-standard?

 If the blue French Bulldog is currently enjoying undeniable popular success, this color is however not allowed by the standard of the breed. The cause is mainly genetic. Resulting from an unofficial selection, the blue color calls into question the genetic integrity of the French Bulldog. And this threatens not only the color of these dogs but also their character and health.

 

 

Blue French Bulldog: The blue dress is without pedigree

In France, the blue French Bulldog is immediately disqualified. Out of standard, it is not registered in the LOF (Book of French Origins), nor recognized by the Central Canine Society. The same applies to the member countries of the FCI (International Cytological Federation). 

No question of presenting it to a competition, the color of his coat not being listed in any official category. French breeders respecting the selection standards required by the breed, cannot present for sale a blue animal. This non-allowed color cannot be obtained by a line with a pedigree. 

As a result, a blue French Bulldog is officially not considered a French Bulldog. If his sale and his breeding are not illegal, he is, however, reproduced outside the official channels, which can pose particular problems.

 

Why is blue French Bulldog non-standard?

The selection and preservation of a breed such as the French Bulldog are, first and foremost, a matter of genetics. The genetic heritage defining a breed is a fragile balance, which breeders strive to preserve with all their passion. This is what determines the character of the species and his physical appearance. This explains why many faults, signaling a selection problem, are disqualifying for the breed. The blue dress is one of them, being directly linked to a genetic anomaly that also affects the nose and sometimes the eyes. All the shades of blue presented as rare or exotic are concerned, from Lilac to Merle.

The gene responsible for the bluish color (a mouse gray with blue highlights) is the dilution gene. This recessive gene, the D locus, is naturally rare and considered undesirable. It agglomerates pigment granules in packets, which reduces the absorption of light: the color is diluted. This is how black appears gray, with bluish reflections. Similarly, the fawn appears sandy, and brown becomes beige. To obtain a blue-coated dog, it is, therefore, necessary to reproduce specimens selected for this particular gene. Too bad for the others. 

It is true that some races are known for their blue hair and do not know any disqualification on this subject. But their case is very different. In the Braque d'Auvergne, for example, his blue appearance results from a mixture of black and white hairs. The blue is a visual effect from their variegated dress (also called roan or speckled). 

The same goes for the Bleu de Gascogne or the Cocker Spanie. In other species, such as the Poodle, the dog can turn blue as he ages; it only grays when the black is tinged with light gray hairs. All this has nothing to do with a genetic problem, which unfortunately can lead to other consequences than just the color of the coat. To be precise, there is a breed with a diluted blue coat, the Weimaraner. In his case, the diluted character is exclusive; no other color is possible.

Blue… to the detriment of the dog's health

The dilute gene is associated with health issues affecting the blue French Bulldog.

In particular, color dilution alopecia (or ADC) can appear in puppies aged four months to two years. Some skin problems are possible signs of the disease. Wrinkled, dry, scaly, or flaky skin with itching or allergic reactions can alert. 

Bald or brittle areas (head, ear, or spine) are also signs of the disease. Only the blue areas of the coast are affected by this genetic anomaly. If the dog is entirely blue, the disease extends over its entire body. Alopecia occurs when the dilution gene has been transmitted in a defective version. It can manifest itself in a more or less severe way. Since alopecia is still invisible in young puppies, the purchase of a blue French Bulldog always presents the risk of seeing it develop alopecia.

For the FBCWC ((French Bulldog Club of Western Canada), the blue coat is also associated with genetic weakness. The reproduction of dogs carrying this recessive gene supposes certain consanguinity, which can only harm the breed. This selection seems to lead to a deficiency in the immune system. In addition, the gene in question may present mutations responsible for certain congenital diseases (fortunately rare) and other unpredictable defects.

 

The blue dress at all costs!

To obtain a blue French Bulldog, you cannot contact all breeders. Breeders whose selection methods comply with the breed's requirements do not offer blue color. 

Breeding bluish bulldogs are the specialization of some breeders. They cannot legally sell a blue dog under the name French Bulldog at the risk of losing their breeding certificate. Little blue French Bulldogs officially introduce themselves as "non-breed puppies."

The sale of these dogs is also made in parallel circuits without any guarantee. The blue color not being recognized by the French standard, and no pedigree can reassure the buyer of the puppy's precise origin and selection methods. 

The problem is that by selecting dogs on a single criterion, color, the breeder can neglect other criteria, calling into question the very identity of the breed. Moreover, the prices of these “rare” colors are sometimes exorbitant! As we know the potential fragility of these dogs and their genetic heritage, nothing justifies these prices. If this is, of course, not to place the mercantile aspect well above the protection of the race.

Everyone can contribute to preserving the blue French Bulldog breed by contacting breeders who respect standards. The official colors are just as beautiful as the mouse-grey and have the advantage of being part of a sure genetic line when beauty rhymes with health. 

General Information Of French Bulldog

The French Bulldog has long been an outstanding companion dog. It is not easy to resist his charm and his funny side. Once you know a French Bulldog, you can't live without it.

Nevertheless, before opting for this breed, we advise you to pay particular attention to the section concerning the hereditary diseases of the French Bulldog. 

Origin of the French Bulldog

As we know him today, the French Bulldog is, as his name suggests, originally from France. Some believe, however, that this breed has his roots in England, where small Bulldogs were very popular with lacemakers. They were prized for their company but also for their ability to ward off rats. The lacemakers decided to take Bulldogs to France where the breed developed towards the end of the 19th century from crosses between different breeds. The French Bulldog quickly became popular among the Parisian elite, who fell in love with the particular appearance and distinctive character of dogs of this breed.

The first breed club was created in Paris in 1880 and the first breed standard set in 1898. The French Kennel Club recognized the French Bulldog as a breed that same year.

The French Bulldog, also nicknamed "Frenchie", is a real companion dog that has rapidly gained in popularity over the past ten years. 

Products For Blue French Bulldog

 

What is the character of the French Bulldog?

The French Bulldog is a typical family dog ​​that likes to be the center of attention. He is funny and charming and enjoys entertaining his family in various ways. Some even call him a "real little clown" because he is sure to make everyone laugh. The French Bulldog is an intelligent dog that learns easily but can also have a stubborn side. He knows what he wants and knows how to make it understood. It is also a dog that easily adapts to the routines of his master; it is, therefore, suitable for many different contexts.

He gets attached easily to humans, especially his family members, and sometimes he gets a little too attached to them. On the other hand, he may therefore have a little trouble finding himself alone.

The French Bulldog often develops an exceptional personality - he's a big dog in a small body.

 

What physical activity for a French Bulldog?

The French Bulldog doesn't need as much exercise as most other highly active breeds, but they still obviously need daily walks to keep them at a healthy weight and happy. As he likes to accompany his master everywhere, the French Bulldog is a good companion for all kinds of activities, whether shopping or walks in the woods. It is essential to know that dogs of this breed are sensitive to heat. When it's hot, it's best to plan your exercise sessions in the morning or evening to avoid overwhelming heat. 

What maintenance for a French Bulldog?

The French Bulldog has a short, fine, and soft coat, easy to maintain. In reality, the grooming ritual is minimal. Brush his coat once a week using a special rubber glove or a soft bristle brush if necessary. Give him a bath every month or when necessary to keep his coat clean.

It is particularly important to take care of the folds of his face and to wash his ears regularly. 

How to train a French Bulldog?

The "Frenchie" is a dog that learns easily if it is offered fun and stimulating exercises. Playful and intelligent, this dog is also a free thinker who can sometimes be a bit stubborn. He particularly thrives in contact with humans and generally allows himself to be trained if it allows him to be in the company of his master. If you use positive reinforcement techniques and offer a variety of games, you will succeed.

As he needs a lot of companionship, this dog cannot stand being left alone for long periods. Make sure you can satisfy this need, if not, opt for another breed.

The French Bulldog generally gets along well with most people, including children. However, he can be possessive of his family members, especially in the presence of other dogs. Teach your dog how to behave in the presence of humans and their fellow dogs. You can start socializing your puppy from day one.

His protective side can, in some cases, make him a perfect guard dog, but he is generally not a dog that barks particularly. 

The size of the French Bulldog

Size: dogs of this breed are usually about thirty centimeters tall

Weight: between 8 and 14 kg 

The French Bulldog dress

There are three approved colors/patterns for the French Bulldog's coat: the most common color being brindle. Its dress can also be fawn or two-tone.

The particularities of the French Bulldog

On hot summer days, we advise you to exercise your French Bulldog in moderation; take him for a walk when it is cooler, in the morning or in the evening.

You may have heard a French Bulldog sniff, snore, and growl a lot. These noises should not be ignored, as they usually indicate breathing problems. These problems are, of course, embarrassing for the dog and potentially dangerous. We therefore advise you to go to a breeder who focuses on breeding dogs with better airways and fewer airway problems.

The hereditary diseases of the French Bulldog

The French Bulldog is particularly susceptible to developing allergies or skin problems.

He can also suffer from back problems of various kinds.

As the French Bulldog is a brachycephalic breed (short skull and flattened muzzle), he can also be prone to respiratory disorders and temperature regulation problems.

He may also develop eye problems.

Canine multifocal retinopathy 1 (CMR1) and

Degenerative myelopathy 

How to feed a French Bulldog?

The amount of food that should be given to a French Bulldog depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. That said, there are no general rules regarding how much to feed your dog. Be sure to choose very good quality food, monitor your dog's weight, and consult your veterinarian if you have any doubts.

No dog should be overweight, but it is especially important to watch the weight of dogs of this breed. Otherwise, they risk having even more severe respiratory problems.