For many years now, dog breeders and dog lovers have been crossing different dog breeds with some adorable and loveable results like the golden doodle, the Maltipoo, and the Pomsky, but none have been as endearing as the cross between the French Bulldog and a Boston Terrier: the Frenchton.
What is a Frenchton?
Also known as the Froston and Frenchie Terrier, this crossover breed is one of the cutest and most recent breeds. First bred intentionally in the 1990s in the United States, the Frenchton has been making waves as one of the more outgoing and social pups out there.
10 Important Facts to Know about Frenchtons
As these pups are growing in popularity, here are the 10 most important facts everyone should know about the enchanting Frenchton.
Frenchtons are not always half and half.
When most of us think of crossbred dogs, we think that there is half of each breed. However, with Frenchtons, it can be a different story. While many Frenchton breeders do strive to have an even mix of both breeds, some others try to highlight French Bulldogs a little more.
When this happens, the breeders will breed a purebred French Bulldog with a half and half Frenchton. This means that the offspring will be 75% French Bulldog and 25% Boston Terrier, which seems to be more common. Naturally, these Frenchton puppies look a little more like French Bulldogs.
They are usually small.
While Boston Terriers tend to be taller, at 16 inches, and French Bulldogs are only around 12 inches, Frenchtons tend to be somewhere in the middle. In addition, they’ll typically only weigh between 13 to 26 pounds when fully grown.
Frenchtons can vary in color.
Boston Terriers are known for their black and white color combination, and French Bulldogs can have many color variations. This means that Frenchtons can be black, white, fawn or tan, or less commonly brindle. They may also take on tri-color variations as well.
They have a lot of energy.
While French Bulldogs tend to be more mild, the Boston Terrier has a lot of energy to burn. Both breeds are known for being very social. As they are high energy, they may not always be the best around small children, but they are also intelligent and quick learners. If they are properly socialized, they are calm and have a high tolerance for children.
Frenchtons are low maintenance.
As both French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers have short hair, their coats don’t need a lot of daily maintenance. While they should get a good brushing every week or so to remove dirt, they are usually very hygienic by themselves. Though they have smooth, short hair, and they don’t shed very much, Frenchtons are not hypoallergenic.
Frenchtons are healthier than French Bulldogs.
Because French Bulldogs have such a short face, they may have breathing issues. However, combining the larger head of the Boston Terrier with a French Bulldog, Frenchtons are less likely to have this issue.
Even though mixing breeds can reduce health issues, it’s possible that a Frenchton can have similar health issues to either breed. For example, they might inherit French Bulldogs’ tendency for chronic allergies and Boston Terriers’ cataracts or heart murmurs.
Frenchtons need just the right amount of exercise.
As mentioned before, Frenchtons have a lot of energy, and just like any other breed, they need to exercise. However, since French Bulldogs are prone to overheating, it’s important to make sure that you don’t over-exercise Frenchtons in case they have this problem as well.
Even if a dog has breathing issues, it’s important that they get the right amount of exercise, so they don’t become overweight or obese. A good hour-long walk or a 30-40 minute play session is usually enough for these active pups.
Frenchton pups can live quite a long time.
Despite the health issues that their parents may give them, Frenchtons can usually live anywhere from 12 to 15 years, which is a little longer than French Bulldogs. With proper feeding, exercise, and having their social needs met, they can live longer than 15 years as well.
Frenchton pups can be quite expensive.
While French Bulldogs are usually more expensive when they are purebred, a Frenchton can cost anywhere from $900 to $2500. The price variation is largely due to how the Frenchton puppies are bred. If the puppy comes from a Frenchton female, they may be more expensive.
Frenchton females can’t breed naturally.
Because of the shape of their body, Frenchton females can’t breed naturally. This means in order to get a litter from a Frenchton female, she has to be artificially inseminated and later has to give birth through cesarean. The increase in veterinarian bills is typically why puppies from a Frenchton female are more expensive.
Where to Find your very own Frenchton
Even though there are many designated breeders of Frenchtons, these pups can end up in animal shelters as well because of their energy or medical issues. It’s always a good idea to check local shelters or look at breed-specific rescues before contacting a breeder.
As Frenchtons can already have health issues, it’s important to find a reputable breeder. If you find a Frenchton breeder online, try to find one that’s local and that you can go visit to make sure that the dogs are treated well.
Final Thoughts
Frenchtons are interesting, intelligent dogs that can make great additions to the family. As a mix between French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers, they may have health issues, but with the right diet and exercise plan, they can live long and healthy lives.
