Introduction
French bulldogs come in a variety of colors, including the rare and striking blue fawn and lilac fawn coats. Both blue fawn and lilac fawn Frenchies have a unique appearance that makes them stand out from the classic fawn French bulldog. But what exactly is the difference between blue fawn and lilac fawn Frenchies?
In a nutshell, blue fawn French bulldogs have a cool-toned, grayish fawn coat caused by a dilute version of the fawn gene. Lilac fawn Frenchies have a lighter, pinkish-purple toned coat that comes from carrying two copies of the dilute gene. While similar in some ways, blue fawn and lilac fawn French bulldogs have distinct coat colors and genetic makeups.
Read on to learn more about what causes the blue fawn and lilac fawn colorations, how to tell these coats apart, breed standards and registration requirements, health and temperament, finding responsible breeders, and the high price tags associated with these rare color morphs.
Genetics Behind Blue Fawn and Lilac Fawn Coats
To understand what makes blue fawn and lilac fawn French bulldogs different, you first need to understand the genetics behind their unique colored coats.
How the Fawn Gene Works
The standard fawn French bulldog has an e/e genotype on the E locus which controls the production of red/yellow pigment (pheomelanin). This allows for rich red-yellow pigment to be deposited across the coat, resulting in the classic fawn coloring.
The intensity of fawn coloring can range from a light cream to a deep red. But in all cases, it is caused by two copies of the recessive e allele inherited from both parents.
Dilute Gene Mutation
The dilute gene (D locus) controls the intensity of eumelanin pigment (black/brown). The dominant D allele allows for full, rich eumelanin pigment while the recessive d allele dilutes black to blue and brown to fawn.
A French bulldog that inherits one copy of the dilute d allele (Dd genotype) will have a blue coat. If two dilute genes are inherited (dd genotype), the black fur is lightened to a slate gray or “blue” shade.
How Blue Fawn Frenchies Get Their Color
For a French bulldog to have blue fur, it must inherit both the recessive e gene for fawn coloring and at least one copy of the dilute gene.
This means a blue fawn French bulldog will have an e/e, D/d genotype.
The e/e genotype allows for fawn pigment to be produced while the single dilute gene mutation (D/d) dilutes the rich red-yellow fawn coloring to a cooler, grayish tone known as blue fawn.
Lilac Fawn Genetics
The lilac fawn French bulldog takes the blue fawn look one step further.
For a lilac fawn coat, the Frenchie must inherit two copies of the recessive e gene for fawn coloring and two copies of the dilute d gene.
This gives lilac fawn Frenchies an e/e, d/d genotype. Having dual dilute genes results in a lighter, washed-out version of fawn – hence the pale pinkish-purple lilac fawn coloring.
Blue Fawn vs Lilac Fawn Genetics
| Coat Color | Genotype |
|---|---|
| Blue fawn | e/e, D/d |
| Lilac fawn | e/e, d/d |
As you can see, the genotypes of blue fawn vs lilac fawn French bulldogs differ only by one dilute gene. Yet, that single dilute gene makes a big difference in the coat color!
How to Tell Blue Fawn and Lilac Fawn Apart
While both display a cool-toned dilute version of fawn, there are some noticeable differences between lilac fawn and blue fawn French bulldog coats:
Blue Fawn
As the name suggests, blue fawn Frenchies have a distinct bluish-gray tone to their fur resulting from the single dilute gene. Their coats range from a rich, warm slate blue through various shades of grayish-blue.
Blue fawn Frenchies may also have a subtle secondary ticking effect with hints of cream/fawn throughout the coat. The fawn is visibly diluted but still warm and bright compared to lilac fawn.
Lilac Fawn
The double dilute genotype behind lilac fawn French bulldogs produces a much lighter, pastel effect. Rather than blue-gray, lilac fawn coats have a distinctive pinkish-purple hue – reminiscent of the flower these dogs are named after.
Lilac fawn Frenchies lack the warm, peachy undertones of blue fawns. Instead, they take on an almost icy appearance with a cooler, washed-out diluted fawn tone. There is also less visible ticking in the coat compared to the blue fawn.
How to Tell Them Apart
While similar at first glance, some key differences make it possible to distinguish between blue fawn and lilac fawn Frenchies:
– Blue fawn has a blue-gray base coat color. Lilac fawn has a lighter pinkish-purple base color.
– Blue fawn retains warmer, richer fawn undertones. Lilac fawn has very cool undertones.
– Blue fawn often shows noticeable fawn ticking/spotting. Lilac fawn has a more uniform diluted coat.
– Blue fawn is caused by one dilute gene. Lilac fawn always has two dilute genes.
Breed Standards and Registration
Since blue fawn and lilac fawn are not standard colors, they come with some caveats when it comes to breed standards and pedigree registration:
AKC Breed Standard
According to the American Kennel Club French Bulldog breed standard, accepted coat colors are:
– Brindle
– Fawn
– Cream
– White
This means neither lilac fawn or blue fawn meet the requirements for AKC conformation showing and competition. However, they may still be registered as AKC French Bulldogs if parentage can be verified.
UKC Registration
The United Kennel Club recognizes a wider array of coat colors for registration including lilac fawn and blue fawn. So UKC registration is available for these color morphs.
Color Description
When registering lilac fawn or blue fawn French Bulldogs with either AKC or UKC, the dilute color may be written as:
– Lilac fawn
– Lavender fawn
– Isabella fawn
For blue fawn:
– Blue fawn
– Mouse fawn
– Maltese fawn
Using the acceptable terminology helps ensure proper registration.
Blue Fawn and Lilac Fawn Health
No coat color directly determines the health of a French Bulldog. However, certain coloring genetics can be linked to health concerns.
Associated Health Issues
Two health issues are more prevalent in dilute French Bulldogs like blue fawn and lilac fawn:
– **Color dilution alopecia -** A skin condition causing hair loss and thinning coats. It results from the same dilute gene responsible for the coat color.
– **Blue dog syndrome (cyanosis) -** A low blood oxygen condition that causes bluish skin and gums. Thought to be inherited along with coat dilute genes.
Reputable breeders will screen breeding dogs for these issues to reduce chances of them being passed to puppies. But they remain a concern with some dilute colored Frenchies.
Other Health Risks
Aside from those directly associated with coat color genetics, lilac fawn and blue fawn French bulldogs are still at risk for inherited health issues common to all Frenchies, including:
– Brachycephalic syndrome
– Hip dysplasia
– Eye disease
– Spinal disorders
– Allergies
As with any Frenchie, thorough health testing of the parents helps minimize these risks. Choosing responsibly bred dogs from health-focused breeders gives dilute color Frenchies the best odds of being fit and healthy despite their rare coat colors.
Blue Fawn and Lilac Fawn Temperament
The personality and temperament of a French Bulldog is not determined by coat color. Blues and lilacs have the same charming, playful, amiable temperament that makes Frenchies such a popular companion breed.
Some key traits of well-bred blue fawn and lilac fawn French Bulldogs include:
– Affectionate and loving
– Playful and active
– Gentle and patient with children
– Minimal barking or aggression
– Eager to please and highly trainable
You should expect a blue or lilac Frenchie to be just as delightful in personality as their fawn, brindle, pied and cream relatives. Work only with responsible breeders who prioritize temperament and trainability over just coat color alone.
Finding Reputable Blue Fawn and Lilac Fawn Breeders
It’s essential to purchase dilute-colored French Bulldogs only from breeders who are reputable and prioritize health. Watch out for the following red flags:
Breeders Who Focus Only on Color
Many disreputable breeders of rare-colored Frenchies are more interested in cashing in on coat trends than overall health and welfare of their puppies. Avoid breeders who care more about color than health or pedigree.
No Genetic Testing
Reputable lilac fawn and blue fawn Frenchie breeders will test all parent dogs for color dilution alopecia and breed only clear dogs. Puppies should also come with written health guarantees.
No AKC Registration Papers
Even if they can’t be shown, lilac and blue Frenchies from responsible sources will come with some form of legitimate registry papers to verify ancestry.
Chapter Summary
– Work only with breeders who do all recommended OFA health testing for issues like hip dysplasia.
– Make sure parents are screened clear for dilute-associated conditions.
– Ask about AKC or UKC registration status.
– See the breeder’s facility in-person and meet one or both parents if possible.
– Verify the breeder offers a health guarantee with returned puppy option if issues arise.
Taking these steps helps find healthy, happy lilac fawn or blue fawn French Bulldog puppies and avoid supporting unethical breeding practices.
Blue Fawn and Lilac Fawn French Bulldog Price
Due to their rare and unusual colors, blue fawn and especially lilac fawn Frenchies tend to cost significantly more than fawn, brindle, cream or pied French Bulldogs from reputable breeders.
Typical Price Range
On average, pet quality blue fawn and lilac fawn French Bulldog puppies range from $5000 to as much as $9000+. Show quality dogs with breeding potential can cost $10,000 to $13,000+.
In some cases, breeders may charge over $20,000 for very high demand lilac fawn dogs!
What Impacts Price
Several factors influence the price of rare dilute color French Bulldog puppies:
– **Coat color rarity** – Lilac fawn costs more than blue fawn.
– **Coat quality** – Deep, uniform diluted colors cost more than washed out coats.
– **Pedigree** – Pups from champion bloodlines are priced higher.
– **Breeder reputation** – Well-known breeders can charge more.
– **Gender** – Due to size, males tend to cost more than females.
– **AKC registration** – Registered pups cost more than “pet only” dogs.
– **Conformation potential** – Possible show dogs bring highest pricing.
Budgeting for a Blue or Lilac Frenchie
It’s important to budget properly for a rare dilute-colored French Bulldog puppy. Upfront costs involve:
– Purchase price – Often $5000 to $13000+
– Shipping fees if needed – $300 to $1000
– Initial vet exams & care – $700+
– Supplies like crate, toys, etc – $500+
Then average lifetime costs per year for healthcare, food, insurance, etc run about $2000-5000.
Be prepared for a higher investment both short and long term when choosing a blue fawn or lilac fawn Frenchie. Vet bills may also be greater due to higher odds of health issues associated with their coloring.
Should You Get a Blue Fawn or Lilac Fawn Frenchie?
Here are some pros and cons to weigh if considering one of these uncommon color French Bulldogs:
Pros of Blue/Lilac Frenchies
– Unique, eye-catching color
– Often have sweet, laidback personalities
– Same cute Frenchie traits as other colors
– Conversation starter and attention getter
– Good for owners who want a rare or special dog
Potential Cons
– Much more expensive than standard colors
– Not accepted for AKC conformation showing and competitions
– Higher risk for skin and hair conditions
– Often produced by irresponsible breeders
– Health testing expenses can be very high
For the right owner, a blue fawn or lilac fawn Frenchie can be a great choice. But be practical about the realities of owning one of these coats. When purchased carefully from health-focused breeders, they can make wonderful pets!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are blue fawn French bulldogs rare?
Yes, both lilac fawn and blue fawn French bulldogs are quite rare compared to other colors like fawn, brindle and cream. Their unique diluted coat colors occurs less frequently.
Do AKC recognize blue fawn French bulldogs?
The AKC will register a blue or lilac Frenchie but does not recognize these colors for conformation showing per the breed standard rules. Only the UKC fully recognizes them.
Do blue French bulldogs have health problems?
Blue fawn and lilac fawn Frenchies are predisposed to a higher risk of conditions like alopecia and blue dog syndrome associated with their dilute genes. But overall they can still be healthy dogs.
How much does a blue French bulldog cost?
Blue and lilac French bulldogs typically cost $5000 to $13,000+. Lilac fawn color and top breeder pups reach prices over $20,000. Much higher than the average $2000 to $3500 for common colors.
How do you know if a French bulldog is lilac?
A lilac fawn French bulldog will have a very light pinkish-purple coat color compared to the richer slate blue shade of a blue fawn Frenchie. Genetic testing can also confirm a lilac’s dilute d/d genotype.
Conclusion
While their cool-toned diluted coats may appear similar at first, blue fawn and lilac fawn French bulldogs have distinct genetic backgrounds and coloring. Lilac fawn Frenchies carry a double dilute genotype that lightens their fur to an icy pinkish-purple hue compared to the grayish-blue tones of a single dilute blue fawn. Though rare and expensive, these uniquely colored Frenchies can make wonderful companion dogs when obtained carefully from health-focused breeders. With their charming Frenchie personality and stand-out looks, blue fawn and lilac fawn French bulldogs offer a beautiful alternative for owners seeking a rare colored canine friend.
