Lilac French Bulldog: See Why Everyone Wants!
The Lilac French Bulldog is a rare and captivating variety of the beloved French Bulldog breed, distinguished by its unique coat color.
This coat exhibits a striking lilac shade, a result of a specific dilution gene that affects the coat pigmentation, producing a pale greyish-brown coloration.
Their rarity and distinct appearance have made them highly sought after by enthusiasts and dog lovers alike.
This article delves into the world of Lilac French Bulldogs, uncovering the genetics behind their coat color, their care needs, and what potential owners should know about this enchanting breed variant.
What is a Lilac French Bulldog?
Lilac French Bulldogs stand out with a unique coat color not officially recognized by major kennel clubs.
What a Lilac French Bulldog Looks Like
Lilac French Bulldogs, also known as Isabella Frenchies, boast a distinctive blue-gray coat that may be accentuated with lighter or darker shades.
Physical Characteristics
Their coat color stems from a rare combination of genes resulting in the lilac hue, and they often have pale pink noses and eye surroundings.
The Lilac French Bulldog in Popularity
While not standard, the beauty and rarity of the lilac coat have made these French Bulldogs increasingly sought-after and expensive.
Are Lilac French Bulldogs Rare?
Lilac French Bulldogs are indeed a rarity within the breed, characterized by their distinctive coat color that is not widely recognized by prominent kennel clubs like the AKC and UKC.
Their unique hue demands a specific combination of recessive genes, making their occurrence less frequent and breeding a meticulous task.
Often, their scarcity is reflected in a higher cost relative to other French Bulldog coat colors.
Prospective owners should assess the overall health and personality of these dogs, as the emphasis on color alone may inadvertently lead to overlooking crucial aspects of their welfare.
Are Lilac French Bulldogs Recognized by the American Kennel Club?
The American Kennel Club (AKC) is the primary registry for purebred dogs in the United States and has specific standards for the French Bulldog breed. The breed standards set by the AKC include guidelines for their appearance, temperament, and other breed-specific traits.
Color Standards for French Bulldogs:
- Acceptable: All brindle, fawn, white, brindle and white
- Disqualifications: Solid black, mouse, liver, black and tan, black and white, white with black (black without a trace of brindle)
Recognition Status:
- As of February 2023: Lilac French Bulldogs are not recognized by the AKC as a color variation within the breed standards.
While lilac—or a pale grayish-brown color—is considered a desirable and distinct coat color by some, it does not fall within the standard recognized colors set forth by the AKC for French Bulldogs.
These bulldogs have a unique appearance due to their coat’s color, which is the result of a combination of the chocolate gene from the brown color spectrum and the blue gene from the dilute color spectrum.
The AKC does allow French Bulldogs to participate in various events under its umbrella, extending beyond the confines of the breed’s color standards.
Lilac French Bulldogs, despite their coloration, are eligible to partake in activities such as agility, working trials, and companion events.
However, when it comes to conformation shows—where the breed’s standard appearance is of utmost importance—Lilac French Bulldogs will not be considered in compliance with the current breed color specifications and are not eligible for breed conformation classes.
Differences Between a Lilac French Bulldog and an Isabella French Bulldog
The Lilac and Isabella French Bulldogs both boast unique coats; however, they feature distinct shades. The Lilac French Bulldog exhibits a coat with a soft bluish-grey tone due to diluted chocolate. They often have striking light-colored eyes and a soft pink nose. In contrast, the Isabella French Bulldog’s coat has a unique pale, silvery-grey appearance, also stemming from a diluted liver color, and it’s accentuated by light eyes that can range from green to yellow and a nose with a hue of brownish pink. Both are rare, with Isabella Frenchies known to be the first to appear within the breed.
How much are Lilac French Bulldog Puppies?
When considering the acquisition of a Lilac French Bulldog puppy, potential buyers should be prepared for a significant financial investment. Prices for these rare-colored canines start at approximately $6,500, reflecting their uniqueness and the substantial costs associated with their breeding. This unusual shade of French Bulldog is highly sought after, which explains the higher pricing compared to more common colorations.
French Bulldogs stand out among other breeds due to their breeding requirements. They typically necessitate artificial insemination followed by the delivery of puppies via a cesarean section (C-section). These specialized veterinary procedures are factored into the cost of these puppies, increasing the overall expenses involved in breeding a French Bulldog. It’s estimated that the average cost to breed a single litter of French Bulldogs can reach upwards of $7,000.
When seeking a breeder, it’s crucial to opt for one that is reputable and prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs. While affordability is a consideration, it should not be at the expense of the puppy’s health or breeding ethics. Purchasing a well-bred French Bulldog often means investing several thousand dollars, and potential owners should be wary of prices that seem too good to be true, which may indicate unethical breeding practices.
Lilac French Bulldog Variations
Lilac French Bulldogs showcase a spectrum of shades and patterns. Below is a brief overview of the variations within the breed:
- Lilac Fawn: Noted for its light purplish hue complemented by beige undertones.
- Lilac Long Haired: This variant possesses a wavy, elongated coat, thanks to a specific gene.
- Lilac Platinum: Prized for its uniform Lilac coat, devoid of any additional markings.
- Blue Lilac: Exhibits a striking coat where blue tones are more prominently displayed.
- Lilac Merle: Distinguished by mottled patterns overlaying their lilac background color.
Lilac French Bulldog Health Problems
Skin Issues: Color Dilution Alopecia (CDA) Lilac French Bulldogs may develop CDA, an inherited skin disease that typically manifests from 6 months to 3 years of age. Large veterinary facilities will first eliminate other conditions to diagnose this problem, which is characterized by:
- Sparse coat: Displaying areas of thinning hair.
- Skin appearance: A coat that is dry and lacks luster along with hyperpigmentation.
- Progressive Hair Loss: Starting in patches and worsening over time.
While there is no definitive cure, treatment focuses on managing symptoms through skin care regimens and nutritional support. As of now, it’s not possible to test for CDA due to unidentified genetic markers.
Regular Frenchie Health Issues
French Bulldogs, known for their distinct appearance and friendly nature, are unfortunately also known for their susceptibility to various health problems. These can range from allergies to more severe joint and breathing problems.
Allergies: These dogs may react to environmental allergens such as pollen or dust, as well as certain foods. Indications of allergies include consistent scratching, skin irritation, and gastrointestinal upset.
Respiratory Complications: The breed’s characteristic flat face can lead to breathing difficulties. They often suffer from narrow nostrils, elongated soft palates, and tracheal collapse, which can cause labored breathing and other respiratory issues.
- Stenotic Nares: Narrow nostrils that restrict airflow
- Elongated Soft Palate: An extended soft palate that blocks air passages
- Tracheal Collapse: A weakening of the tracheal rings leading to a flattened windpipe
Joint Issues: Movement can be painful for Frenchies due to prevalent joint problems:
- Hip Dysplasia: Malformation of the hip joint
- Elbow Dysplasia: Joint malformation leading to elbow arthritis
- Patellar Luxation: Dislocation of the kneecap
- Arthritis: Joint inflammation causing pain and stiffness
Spinal Conditions: These dogs may experience spinal issues which can severely impact their quality of life.
- Hemivertebrae: Abnormal shapes within the spine
- Intervertebral Disc Disease: Disc degeneration in the spine
- Degenerative Myelopathy: Progressive spinal cord condition leading to paralysis
Eye Conditions: French Bulldogs are prone to several eye problems which can impair vision and cause discomfort.
- Cherry Eye: Protrusion of the tear gland
- Cataracts: Clouding in the lens, affecting vision
- Entropion: Inward curling of the eyelid
- Distichiasis: Growth of eyelashes from an abnormal location
Caring for a French Bulldog requires vigilance and a good relationship with a veterinarian to manage these potential health issues effectively.
Lilac French Bulldog Varieties
The Lilac French Bulldog’s allure lies in the variety of shades and patterns that come with selective breeding.
Color Variants Within the Lilac Spectrum
The Lilac French Bulldog exhibits colors ranging from a light silvery hue to a warmer, beige-like tone. Among the most sought-after are:
- Lilac Merle: A patterned coat with irregular streaks or blotches.
- Lilac Fawn: A lighter, washed-out lavender body.
- Lilac and Tan: Contrasting light lilac with distinct tan markings.
- Lilac Brindle: Faint or pronounced brindle striping over a lilac base coat.
Selective breeding often aims for the elusive Isabella French Bulldog, another term for the true lilac color.
These Bulldogs are not standard colors according to the United Kennel Club due to the typically rare nature of these colors.
Other Exotic French Bulldogs
In the realm of French Bulldogs, exotic colors further captivate enthusiasts. Blue French Bulldogs display a stunning grey-blue coat, while Merle French Bulldogs boast a unique marbled pattern across their fur.
The luscious dark brown of the Chocolate French Bulldogs is an acknowledged color by canine registries.
On the other hand, the Fluffy French Bulldog, with its longer hair, and Micro French Bulldogs, often marketed for their smaller stature, are variations not recognized by major kennel clubs.
Admiration for these colors is widespread, yet one should always consider the dog’s health as paramount.
Lilac French Bulldog Care
Caring for a Lilac French Bulldog involves routine grooming to manage their distinctive smooth coat. A soft-bristle brush effectively removes loose fur and sustains skin health when used weekly. Bathing should occur sparingly to retain essential oils. Though they exhibit lower energy levels, a Lilac French Bulldog benefits from daily walks and play, ensuring they stay active within comfortable temperature ranges. Regular veterinary checks keep potential health concerns like respiratory and joint issues at bay. Additionally, these smart companions thrive with early socialization and consistent training. Maintaining dental hygiene through brushing and special chews is critical for oral health.
Lilac French Bulldog Grooming
Grooming a Lilac French Bulldog involves simple but consistent care. Weekly brushing with a gentle brush maintains a healthy sheen and removes loose fur.
An occasional bath with a mild dog shampoo will keep their coat clean without drying out the skin.
Regular ear cleaning ensures their auditory health, preventing infections.
Trimming nails and dental care are also vital; use dog-specific tools for safety and effectiveness.
Pay attention to their distinctive wrinkles; a moist cloth for cleaning followed by thorough drying helps prevent skin issues.
These practices contribute to the overall wellbeing and comfort of a Lilac French Bulldog.
How to Tell if Your Puppy is a Lilac or a Blue French Bulldog?
Determining whether your French Bulldog puppy is lilac or blue can be based on their coat color, eye color, and nose color.
A Lilac French Bulldog typically has a unique coat color that appears as a mixture of chocolate brown and blue, with the chocolate diluted to a warm purple or lilac shade.
Their eyes are often light-colored, ranging from light blue to light grey, and they have a pinkish tint to their muzzles and noses.
In contrast, a Blue French Bulldog will have a coat with a blue hue, which is due to a dilution of the black hair gene.
Their eyes can be darker than those of a lilac Frenchie, and their noses typically have a blue tint or hue, especially noticeable when they are puppies.
Both colors are a result of a dilution gene, but the specific combination of genes differs, leading to the distinct coat colors.
If you’re unsure, a DNA test can provide a definitive answer as to your French Bulldog’s color.
Conclusion
Lilac French Bulldogs captivate with their distinct hue and endearing traits, making them a coveted choice for dog enthusiasts. Thoughtful research and a trusted breeder are paramount to ensure a healthy, content companion. This breed requires dedicated care due to potential health issues but rewards owners with loyalty and affection.