Physical Appearance Comparison
The French Bulldog vs. Frenchton debate has a lot to do with size. Both are similar in stature, with some differences in muscle structure and straight lines around the head. The size and weight of a French Bulldog tend to be 11-13 inches and 20-30 pounds. A Frenchton is slightly leaner at 11-15 inches in height and 15-25 pounds in weight – making it preferred in smaller living dwellings.
The physical appearance of the two pups is also present in the coat and colors. You can expect a fawn, brindle, white, cream, blue, and pied texture to a French Bulldog. They also have shorter, smoother coats that are pretty easy to maintain. The coats of Frenchtons are similar in color, but include stereotypical Boston Terrier-styled markings like a white tuxedo chest or symmetrical facial features.
Speaking of facial features, if you prefer large bat-like ears and a lovable flat wrinkled face with a short muzzle, go with the French Bulldog. They may be slightly more prone to breathing issues because of this structure, but it does make them particularly cute. The Frenchton has a more elongated snout with fewer wrinkles and ear shapes between its parentage, making it a little easier to breathe because of the longer muzzle.
Temperament and Personality
While the size and shape of a Frenchton vs Frenchie are similar, the temperament can have some striking differences. You can expect a calm, affectionate, and slightly stubborn nature with a French Bulldog. That stubbornness can make training difficult, but also leads to many of the lovable online videos you’ve likely seen shared about the breed.
The Frenchton temperament is much more energetic and playful. These are highly intelligent and adaptable dogs, meaning you can train them to do pretty much anything. The stubborn streak is tempered, and you get a more outgoing and social pet to take to events.
That outgoing nature of the Frenchton is why families with kids often prefer them. Both are excellent pets, but the Frenchton just has a slight advantage if your busy lifestyle needs an equally high-energy companion. The French Bulldog’s calm, low-energy demeanor may be the way to go for older couples or individuals.
Health and Lifespan
One of the most significant reasons for developing the Frenchton breed was to eliminate many of the common health issues with French Bulldogs. This is because Frenchies have more chances of hip dysplasia and skin allergies. The critical health concern is Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome (BAS). The breathing difficulty comes from the shape of the face and snout.
Frenchtons are a hybrid breed, so they benefit from “hybrid vigor.” That means they have far fewer health concerns, but may still experience some mild breathing problems, joint issues, or eye conditions.
Either way, you get a similar lifespan expectation of 10-12 years for the French Bulldog and 11-15 years for the Frenchton. Just one more reason to go with the Frenchton if you have a young family wishing for a pet that grows alongside younger kids.
