Frenchtons are a combination of the Boston terrier and the French bulldog; two great dogs with vast histories, good temperaments, and good working size. However, both breeds were known for having health issues that could creep up as they grew older. This is where the Frenchton comes into play; a dog that was bred from these two great breeds to mitigate potential health issues.
While the Frenchton breed sought to mitigate health issues, that doesn’t mean they can’t get sick or aren’t prone to health problems. Read on to learn about common Frenchton health issues you need to be aware of.
What Is a Frenchton?
The Frenchton is a mixed breed that originates from the French bulldog and the Boston terrier; you can read more about the makeup and general needs of this breed here. You may also know them as Frenchbos, faux Frenchbos, and Frostons.
These pups inherit the best qualities from their parent breeds, and the goal of breeding them was to limit the common health issues that both breeds faced. While breeders were mostly successful in this crusade, there are still Frenchton health issues that you need to know about before adopting one or if you plan on caring for one later in life.
History
The exact origins of the Frenchton are somewhat nebulous, as is the case with many designer breeds, but it’s generally agreed that breeders began intentionally crossing French Bulldogs with Boston Terriers in the 1990s. The aim was to create a breed that retained the desirable characteristics of both parents, such as their compact size, muscular physique, and friendly disposition, while reducing the risk of congenital health problems.
Characteristics
Appearance
Frenchtons are recognizable by their sturdy, muscular body, distinctive “bat” ears, and expressive, round eyes that reflect a friendly and curious disposition. They inherit the short, smooth coat of their parents, which can come in a variety of colors, including brindle, black, white, and combinations thereof. Their size makes them suitable for both apartment living and homes with more space, as they typically weigh between 15 and 25 pounds.
Temperament
Known for their affectionate nature, Frenchtons make excellent companions. They are playful, friendly, and incredibly loyal to their families. These dogs thrive on human interaction and do not like being left alone for long periods. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them relatively easy to train, although they can sometimes inherit the stubborn streak of the French Bulldog.
Health
While the mixing of breeds aims to reduce health problems, Frenchtons can still be predisposed to certain conditions. Respiratory issues, skin allergies, and eye conditions are among the health considerations for potential owners. However, with proper care, regular veterinary check-ups, and a healthy lifestyle, many Frenchtons enjoy a full and active life.
Activity Level
Frenchtons possess a moderate energy level. They enjoy short walks and play sessions, making them adaptable to various living situations. It’s important to monitor their exercise, especially in hot weather, as they can be prone to overheating due to their brachycephalic (flat-faced) features.
In conclusion, the Frenchton is a loving, playful, and sturdy companion that embodies the best of both the French Bulldog and the Boston Terrier. Their adaptable nature and charismatic presence make them a beloved pet in a wide range of households.
The Most Common Frenchton Health Issues
Frenchtons were bred to not have many health issues. However, there are still some health problems that you need to consider before adopting. Plus, you need to be aware of health conditions that typically impact medium-sized dogs, including arthritis, allergies, and hip dysplasia.
Some notable Frenchton health issues to be aware of include:
- Skin allergies
- Autoimmune disorders
- Heart disease
- Dental problems
- Intervertebral disc disease
- Deafness
- Eye problems
- Breathing problems
- Joint issues
We cover the more serious groups of these health issues and breed-specific health issues below.
Brachycephalic Health Conditions
Unfortunately, Frenchtons suffer from a group of brachycephalic health conditions due to their flat faces. Since the shape of their skull is flat, Frenchtons may deal with breathing problems, skin rashes, and trouble with their digestive system.
Most of these health issues will start to impact them later in life, but they can develop earlier, so keep an eye out for labored breathing and check their skin folds for rashes.
Brachycephalic problems can also cause issues with their teeth because they might not grow properly or they may rot. Dental treats and trips to the vet can help you prevent these problems.
Eye Problems
Frenchtons may also be struck with eye problems as they grow older or even as puppies. One such condition you might have to worry about is juvenile cataracts. As the name implies, this condition develops in young Frenchtons and their vision will start to fade over time. This condition can also happen later in life, so keep an eye on them as they grow older.
Frenchtons may also encounter a condition called cherry eye, which is a condition that happens when the dog’s third eyelid gland becomes inflamed. Unfortunately, this condition is common in short-nosed dog breeds and you can tell it’s cherry eye based on the red swelling that appears just outside the eyelid.
Lastly, entropion is another common condition that happens in short-nosed dogs due to their facial structure. This condition is the result of eyelids rolling inward.
Joint Problems
Like all medium-sized dogs, you need to be ready for any potential joint problems to develop as they grow older. For example, patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap is moved out of place, and this is common in Frenchtons. Other joint problems to consider include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and arthritis. Frenchtons are also at risk of autoimmune disorders that can target the joints, like arthritis.
Can You Prevent Frenchton Health Issues?
Yes and no. While you can change their diet and help them with exercise to prevent heart and joint issues, it’s hard to prevent brachycephalic health conditions. It’s also challenging to avoid eye problems as they age.
That said, the best thing you can do is bring your Frenchton to the vet every year to check for any problems. Also, feed them a diet high in protein to ensure that their muscles and tendons get adequate support for their bodies.
Manage Frenchton Health Issues Today
Frenchtons are great canine companions, and they benefit from specific breeding practices that reduce the risk of them having health problems common to Boston terriers or French bulldogs.
That said, it’s still common for them to develop health problems as they age, and it’s always a good idea to bring them to the vet regularly to catch things early. As long as you do that, you shouldn’t have any issues managing Frenchton health issues.
When Do Frenchie Stop Growing?
French Bulldogs, affectionately known as Frenchies, are a small but sturdy breed known for their playful personalities and iconic bat-like ears. Understanding their growth patterns can help owners ensure they’re providing the right care and nutrition at every stage of their dog’s life.
Growth Phases of French Bulldogs
French Bulldogs go through several growth phases, starting from puppyhood all the way to adulthood. Here’s a closer look at these stages:
Puppyhood (0-6 Months)
During this stage, Frenchies experience rapid growth. Puppies require a diet rich in proteins and fats to support their development. It’s crucial to feed them puppy-specific food that caters to the needs of small-breed dogs.
Adolescence (6-12 Months)
By six months, the pace of growth starts to slow down, but French Bulldogs continue to grow in height and start to fill out. This is also the time when their personality becomes more pronounced. While they may reach close to their adult height by 9 to 12 months, they’ll continue to gain muscle and body mass.
Adulthood (12-24 Months)
French bulldogs are considered fully grown by the time they reach one year of age in terms of height. However, they will continue to develop muscle and fill out in body shape until they are about two years old. During this phase, it’s important to adjust their diet to prevent obesity, a common issue in the breed, by switching to adult dog food that’s formulated to maintain healthy weight and muscle mass.
Factors Influencing Growth
Several factors can influence the growth rate and eventual size of a French Bulldog:
- Genetics: The size of a Frenchie’s parents can give you a good indication of its final size.
- Diet: Proper nutrition is crucial. Overfeeding or underfeeding can affect growth and overall health.
- Health: Conditions such as parasites or illnesses can impede growth. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to catch and treat any issues early.
- Exercise: Adequate exercise is important for muscle development and overall health, but it’s important to monitor your Frenchie to prevent overexertion, especially in hot weather or if they show signs of breathing difficulties.
Are Frenchtons Hypoallergenic?
Frenchtons are not considered hypoallergenic. This term is often used to describe breeds that are less likely to cause an allergic reaction in people. However, it’s important to note that no dog breed is completely hypoallergenic. Frenchtons inherit traits from both French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers, neither of which are hypoallergenic breeds. They shed hair and skin dander, which are common allergens for people sensitive to dogs.
For individuals with dog allergies, it’s crucial to spend time around a Frenchton before deciding to bring one into their home. Additionally, maintaining a clean environment by vacuuming regularly, using air purifiers, and grooming the dog can help minimize allergens.
