How much is a fluffy French bulldog? As you can probably imagine, the price is pretty steep. In fact, you may want to sit down for the answer.
The reality is a reputable breeder can charge up to $20,000 or more for one of these fluffy puppies! The average cost, however, falls somewhere around $12,000.
Now, you might think it’s a money grab, and for some unethical backyard breeders, that may be the truth.
Reputable breeders, however, must manage costly expenses that other breeders may not face.
In this post, we’ll explain what those things are. We’ll uncover the truth about why fluffy Frenchies cost so much, how to avoid scammers, and where to locate the best fluffy French bulldog breeders in your area.
Is a Fluffy French Bulldog Worth the Cost?
Well, it depends on who you ask. If you’re in the market, have the money, and are willing to research and purchase from a reputable breeder, this dog will be worth every penny.
That said, there are some things you should know before making a purchase. Keep reading and discover the top 7 reasons why the long-haired French bulldog is so expensive.
You may be interested in reading:
11 Potentially High Maintenance Needs of the French Bulldog
From 9 Weeks to Walking – A Guide for Your French Bulldog Puppy
9 Things to Know Before You Get a Mini French Bulldog
5 Reasons Why Your Frenchie Doesn’t Like Other Dogs
An Insider’s Look at the Insanely Affectionate French Bulldog
What is a Fluffy French Bulldog?
Fluffy French bulldogs, also known as long-haired French bulldogs, are a variation of the original, popular breed.
They are not a “new” breed of dog. Instead, they are the same Frenchies we know and love. They just carry the long-hair gene.
While most French bulldogs have short, smooth, and close-lying coats, fluffy French bulldogs have a distinct, fluffy appearance.
The long-hair gene in fluffy French bulldogs is associated with a mutation in the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) gene. This genetic variation affects the development of hair follicles, resulting in a long and fluffy coat.
The key differences between a fluffy Frenchie and a regular French bulldog include:
- Longer coat length that can be wavy or curly.
- Softer and silkier coat type.
- Fluffy French bulldogs may have more pronounced feathering or fringing around certain areas, such as the ears, chest, tail, and paws.
Although the appearance of a fluffy French bulldog may be different, there is no difference in the overall temperament and personality traits between the two.
Do Long-Haired Frenchies have Health Problems?
Long-haired Frenchies are no different from their original counterparts. Although a reputable breeder may be able to lessen the chances of serious congenital issues through genetic testing, there’s no guarantee that other problems won’t occur.
Unfortunately, French bulldogs are notorious for a variety of health conditions, including:
- Skin allergies
- Food allergies
- Interdigital cysts
- Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
- Ear infections (and plenty of them!)
- Eye problems
- Spinal issues
- Orthopedic issues
- Dental issues
- Digestive disorders
- Genetic disorders (heart defects, von Willebrand’s disease, and certain neurological conditions.
The price you pay for a French bulldog has no impact on whether your dog will suffer from any of the conditions noted above.
Again, reputable breeders may be able to help lessen the risk of your dog developing congenital conditions, but there’s still a chance something will go wrong.
Why Do Fluffy French Bulldogs Cost So Much?
Fluffy French bulldogs cost more than regular French bulldogs for a number of reasons. We’re talking about a breed with a very rare genetic variation that people are clamoring for!
Low supply and high demand equal a high cost for buyers.
The top reasons why fluffy French bulldogs cost so much include the following:
1. Rarity
The main reason for the high price of a fluffy French bulldog is the rarity of their coat type within the breed. They’re relatively uncommon within the French bulldog breed, and that influences the price.
in other words, the high demand for fluffy French bulldogs means that breeders can charge more. Let’s face it, people who want a fluffy French bulldog are often willing to pay a high price!
2. Artificial Insemination
Breeding regular French bulldogs can be a complex challenge at the best of times! Their short, compact bodies aren’t designed for proper mating. As a result, breeders often use artificial insemination to ensure a successful pregnancy.
Naturally, this adds another layer of expense to the breeder, which is then passed down to new owners.
3. Cesarean Section
French bulldogs, like many other brachycephalic dog breeds, often require cesarean sections to give birth.
Some reasons for this include:
- Brachycephalic airway syndrome can cause breathing difficulties, making the birthing process more challenging for the mother and the puppies.
- French bulldogs have narrow hips, which makes it difficult for them to deliver puppies naturally.
- The large head size of French bulldog puppies can make it difficult to give birth naturally.
- Sometimes, puppies may not be positioned correctly in the uterus, making it impossible for them to be delivered naturally.
The cost of a C-section for a French bulldog can range anywhere from $1000 to $3000 or more.
The expenses for the breeder are higher if there are any complications during the procedure of if an emergency C-section is performed outside of regular hours.
Other expenses absorbed by the breeder include the cost of anesthesia, preoperative diagnostics, post operative care, medications, and follow-up appointments.
4. Autosomal Recessive Gene
To produce fluffy Frenchies, breeders must invest time and effort in researching pedigrees. It takes time to analyze the ancestry of potential breeding dogs, and time is money.
In order to produce French bulldogs with a longer coat, the breeder has to carefully select and pair dogs that carry this gene.
When two French Bulldogs carrying the lh gene (long-hair gene) are bred together, there is only a 25% chance that some of their offspring will inherit the long-hair trait.
The odds aren’t great.
If a long-haired French bulldog is bred with a short-haired French bulldog that doesn’t carry the lh gene, none of the puppies will have long-hair. That’s because the short hair gene is dominant.
Added costs related to genetic testing (submitting DNA samples to specialized laboratories,for example), can also add to the price tag.
5. Breeding Rights and Acquisition Costs
Sometimes there are additional costs associated with acquiring breeding rights for certain dogs.
If breeders are seeking high-quality, long-haired French bulldogs with strong pedigrees, the acquisition cost may be quite high.
6. Health Screening
To ensure that puppies go to their new homes completely healthy, a reputable breeder will ensure various health screenings are conducted first.
Examples include:
- Genetic testing for hereditary conditions or genetic disorders (hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy, degenerative myelopathy, and various other genetic disorders).
- Orthopedic evaluation (x-rays, hip scoring) to determine the overall health and structure of the dog’s joints, especially the hips and elbows. This can help identify potential issues like hip dysplasia or elbow dysplasia.
- Eye examinations to check for hereditary eye conditions or abnormalities.
- Evaluation of respiratory health.
Working with a reputable breeder is crucial to reduce the risk of purchasing a puppy with potential health issues.
7. Transportation Fees
If breeders are in different geographical areas, there may be added costs associated with transporting dogs for breeding purposes.
These could include:
- Air travel
- Ground transport
- Travel accommodations for the buyer
- Health and safety requirements for travel may be required. These could include health certificates, vaccinations, microchipping, or quarantine fees.
Make sure to discuss transportation arrangements and associated costs with the breeder before making a purchase.
Other Costly Rare Frenchies
The cost of a rare French bulldog will vary depending on the location, breeder reputation, bloodline, quality of the dog. and the demand for the specific color.
The rarer and more sought-after the breed, the higher the cost.
The most expensive French bulldog color can vary depending on trends, demand, and individual preferences. That said, certain color variations tend to be associated with higher prices.
Merle Frenchies
Merle Frenchies still have the characteristic bat-like ears and personality of a Frenchie but have a unique coat pattern. For example, they have patches or streaks in their fur that create a mottled or marbled appearance.
The merle pattern can come in various colors, including blue merle, chocolate merle, lilac merle, or other combinations.
Like other French bulldogs, Merles are considered small to medium dogs weighing around 16-28 pounds and standing about 11-12 inches tall at the shoulder (withers).
Blue Fawn Frenchies
Blue fawn French bulldogs have a coat that combines a “blue” base color with a fawn overlay. The blue coloration gives the coat a bluish-gray or steel gray appearance.
The fawn overlay adds a tan or beige hue. Normally, you’d see the fawn color on the face, ears, and other areas of the body.
Although blue eyes are not the standard eye color for French bulldogs, it can occur with coat color variations that carry the “dilute” gene, such as blue, lilac, or merle.
Lilac Frenchies
Lilac French bulldogs, also known as Isabella, are a unique and rare color variation of the breed. They have a distinct coat color that is a diluted form of chocolate.
The coat appears pale silver or lavender, giving the breed a unique and eye-catching appearance.
Mini Frenchies
Mini French bulldogs, also known as miniature French bulldogs or teacup French bulldogs, are bred to be much smaller than the standard French bulldog breed.
Sadly, attempts to create a French bulldog with such a small size can lead to health issues and unethical breeding practices.
The term “mini” or “teacup” is not officially recognized or endorsed by the major kennel clubs as a separate breed.
How to Recognize a Scam Breeder
Unfortunately, there are people in the world who want to make fast money and will do so at any cost. These people will advertise that they have a long-haired fluffy Frenchie for sale, but have no dog at all.
The best ways to avoid scam breeders include the following:
- Visit the breeder before money exchanges hands.
- Don’t sign any contracts until you see the dog and are happy with the breeder.
- Use the BBB to check for puppy scam sites.
Understanding the psychology behind these scammers is half the battle. They want money and will prey on your strong desire for a puppy. They will steal photos, lie, and make up stories to make you open your wallet.
Listen and trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, or seems to good to be true, it likely is.
It’s important for potential owners to thoroughly research and ensure they are dealing with responsible breeders who prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are fluffy French bulldogs recognized by the American Kennel Club?
No, fluffy French bulldogs do not meet the AKC breeding standards.
What two breeds make a fluffy French bulldog?
Fluffy French bulldogs are the same as regular French bulldogs. The only difference is that the fluffy variety are born from parents that both carry the long-hair gene.
What is a white fluffy Frenchie?
A white fluffy French bulldog is a regular French bulldog with a white coat. The dog also has fluffy or long hair whereas the original Frenchie typically have smooth, short coats.
Summary
French bulldogs have recently replaced Labrador retrievers as North America’s most owned breed.
There’s a certain amount of status felt by dog owners who seek out the rare French bulldog breeds. The desire for French bulldogs with long, fluffy hair, and rare colors have all increased in the past few years.
It’s that rarity that makes them so expensive.
Just remember that all French bulldogs, regardless of their rarity or expense, can run into serious medical problems. A good breeder should be able to lessen the chances of your dog developing congenital conditions through genetic testing.
This brachycephalic breed has its own inherent problems, no matter how much you pay for them. The high price tag doesn’t mean your dog won’t suffer from health problems at some point in their lives.
Their pushed in faces, short snouts, and bat ears that have us falling over ourselves to get one of these great companions! Sadly, it’s those same facial features that lead to serious health concerns in French bulldogs.
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Sources:
Works Cited
“Coat Length | Veterinary Genetics Laboratory.” Coat Length | Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, vgl.ucdavis.edu/test/coat-length-dog. Accessed 7 July 2023.
“Fluffy French Bulldog.” TomKings Kennel, tomkingskennel.com/upcoming-color/fluffy-french-bulldog. Accessed 7 July 2023.
Gamas, Cess. “Fluffy Frenchie Dog Breed: Is a Fluffy French Bulldog Rare? – K9 Web.” K9 Web, www.k9web.com/breeds/fluffy-frenchie. Accessed 7 July 2023.
“Paw Print Genetics – L Locus (Long Hair/Fluffy) – Lh1 (Common Variant Found in Many Breeds) in the French Bulldog.” Paw Print Genetics – L Locus (Long Hair/Fluffy) – Lh1 (Common Variant Found in Many Breeds) in the French Bulldog, www.pawprintgenetics.com/products/tests/details/172/?breed=109. Accessed 7 July 2023.
“Why These Fluffy French Bulldogs May Be a $20K ‘Nightmare.’” New York Post, 8 Mar. 2022, nypost.com/2022/03/08/fluffy-frenchies-cost-20k-if-you-can-get-your-paws-on-one.