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Lilac French Bulldog: Characteristics, Care, and Buying Guide

Photo of Tamsin De La Harpe

Written by Tamsin De La Harpe

The lilac French Bulldog is a unique and highly sought-after breed color that has captured the hearts of dog lovers around the world. With their distinct coloring and adorable features, these dogs are a popular choice for those looking for a loyal and affectionate companion. Whether you are a seasoned dog owner or a first-time pet parent, the Lilac Frenchie is a breed that is sure to steal your heart.

When it comes to keeping your Lilac Frenchie safe while driving, a dog seatbelt is a must-have accessory. These seatbelts are designed to keep your dog secure and prevent them from getting injured in the event of an accident. By investing in a quality dog seatbelt, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your furry friend is safe and secure while on the road.

If you’re in the market for a Lilac French Bulldog puppy, it’s important to do your research and find a reputable breeder. While there are many breeders out there, not all of them have the best interests of the puppies in mind. So, to give you a complete informative guide on what you need to know about lilac Frenchies, we’ve turned to expert sources such as the Medical, Genetic & Behavioral Risk Factors of French Bulldogs by Dr. Ross D. Clark, DVM. Let’s dive in.

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Lilac French Bulldogs are not a separate breed by the American Kennel Club (AKC) but are considered a color variation of the standard French Bulldog. 

Frenchies are recognized by other kennel clubs, including the United Kennel Club (UKC) and the International Canine Kennel Club (ICKC). But the Frenchie breed standard does not allow lilacs in the breed. Even though many Frenchie lovers would love a lilac or other new shade Frenchie, the color is called “mouse” in the breed standard, and it’s grounds for disqualification.

Lilac French Bulldogs have a friendly and affectionate personality, making them great family pets. They are also intelligent and easy to train, although they can be stubborn at times. They are relatively low maintenance dogs and do not require a lot of exercise.

It is important to note that Lilac French Bulldogs are a rare color, and as such, they can be quite expensive. Potential owners should be prepared to pay a premium for these dogs. It is also important to purchase from a reputable breeder to ensure the health and well-being of the dog.

Understanding Lilac French Bulldogs

Defining the Lilac Color

Lilac French Bulldogs have a unique coat color that ranges from a light silver-gray to a pale lavender hue with an almost imperceptible red, apricot, or chocolate hue. The color is achieved through selective breeding and careful genetic planning.

Genetics Behind the Lilac Color

The genetics behind the lilac color are complex, but it is generally believed that the color is the result of several recessive genes. To produce a lilac French Bulldog, both parents must carry the recessive gene for the color. Breeders must carefully plan their breeding programs to ensure that they produce healthy puppies with the desired lilac color.

There are several variations of the lilac French Bulldog, including:

  • Lilac merle French Bulldog;
  • Lilac and tan;
  • Lilac fawn French Bulldog; 
  • Brindle lilac; 
  • Blue lilac; 
  • Lilac brindle; and
  • Lilac double merle French Bulldog (meaning they carry two copies of the merle color, which is often associated with health problems like deafness).

You can also get an extremely rare lilac long-haired French Bulldog, depicted in the video below:

Below is a picture of an equally rare lilac merle Frenchie:

Each variation has its unique characteristics and is highly sought after by French Bulldog enthusiasts.

Lilac French Bulldogs are known for their friendly and affectionate personalities, making them great family pets. They are also highly intelligent and easy to train, making them a popular choice for first-time dog owners. However, like all French Bulldogs, they can be prone to certain health issues, so it is essential to choose a reputable breeder and provide proper care to keep them healthy.

What is the Difference Between a Lilac and an Isabella French Bulldog?

French Bulldogs come in a variety of colors, and two of the most popular ones are lilac and Isabella. While these colors may look similar, they are actually quite different. However, many people use the terms lilac and Isabella to mean the same thing.

Lilac French Bulldogs have a unique coloring that sets them apart from other Frenchies. They have a lavender or grayish coat with a soft chocolate or red tinge. This is because they have the dilute gene and two copies of the cocoa gene for chocolate.

On the other hand, Isabella French Bulldogs have a milky chocolate or apricot coat with a soft lavender tinge. This is because they have two copies of the b/b locus allele with a dilute gene.

It’s important to note that sometimes the terms lilac and Isabella are used interchangeably for the same color. However, it’s essential to understand the difference between the two colors if you’re looking to buy or breed French Bulldogs.

In summary, while lilac and Isabella French Bulldogs may look similar, they are entirely different colors due to their unique genetic makeup.

What Is The Difference Between A Blue Frenchie And A Lilac?

A Blue French Bulldog and a Lilac French Bulldog are both popular color variations of the breed. Although they may look similar at first glance, there are some key differences between the two.

The main difference between a Blue Frenchie and a Lilac is the presence of the cocoa gene. A Blue Frenchie has the dilute gene for an E locus or black dog, which makes them a steel gray color or charcoal. On the other hand, a Lilac has the same dilute gene and also has the cocoa gene (co/co locus), which gives them an almost imperceptible chocolate, red, or apricot tinge or hue.

While both colors are beautiful and unique, the Lilac French Bulldog is a rarer color variation compared to the Blue French Bulldog. This is because the Lilac color is the result of a recessive gene, which means it requires both parents to carry the gene to produce a Lilac offspring.

Physical Characteristics of Lilac French Bulldogs

How Big Does the Lilac French Bulldog Get?

Lilac French Bulldogs are a small breed, typically weighing between 16 and 28 pounds (7 to 13 kg) and standing 11 to 12 inches (28 to 30 cm) tall at the shoulder. They have a compact, muscular build with a short, smooth coat.

What Does the Lilac French Bulldog Look Like?

The lilac French Bulldog is a rare color variation of the French Bulldog breed. They have a unique coat color that is a pale, silver-gray with a slight purple or reddish tint. This color is the result of a dilution gene that affects the black pigment in their coat.

In addition to their unique color, lilac French Bulldogs have a distinctive appearance that is characteristic of the breed. They have a large, square head with a short, broad muzzle and bat-like ears that stand erect. Their body is compact and muscular, with a deep chest and a short, straight tail.

Temperament, Intelligence, And Trainability

Lilac French Bulldogs are known for their sassy, dramatic, and confident personalities. They are courageous and protective of their owners, making them great watchdogs. However, they need plenty of socialization from a young age as they can be aggressive towards other dogs.

Despite their stubbornness, Lilac French Bulldogs are highly intelligent and trainable. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques such as treats, praise, and playtime. Consistency and patience are key when training these dogs.

In addition to their intelligence, Lilac French Bulldogs are deeply empathetic and attached to their owners. They thrive on human companionship and are known for their affectionate nature. This loyalty makes them great family pets.

Overall, Lilac French Bulldogs have a unique temperament that requires proper training and socialization. Their intelligence and empathetic nature make them great companions for those willing to put in the effort to train and care for them.

Health and Lifespan of Lilac French Bulldogs

Lilac French Bulldogs are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 10-12 years. However, like any other breed, they are prone to certain health issues. Below are some common health issues that Lilac French Bulldogs may face.

Common Health Issues

Eye Problems

Lilac French Bulldogs are prone to eye problems such as cherry eye, cataracts, and corneal ulcers. These issues can be treated with medication or surgery.

Breathing Problems

French Bulldogs are known for their brachycephalic (short-nosed) faces, which can lead to breathing difficulties or having tongues hanging out of their mouths. Lilac French Bulldogs may suffer from issues like snoring, wheezing, and difficulty breathing in hot weather. You also need to keep an eye on any coughing.

Musculoskeletal Issues

Lilac French Bulldogs are prone to musculoskeletal issues like hip dysplasia and patellar luxation. These issues can cause pain and discomfort, and may require surgery.

Endocrine Issues

Lilac French Bulldogs may suffer from endocrine issues like hypothyroidism and diabetes. These issues can be managed with medication and a healthy diet.

Skin Problems

Lilac French Bulldogs may suffer from skin problems like color dilution alopecia and allergies. These issues can cause itching, hair loss, and skin infections.

Neurological Issues

Lilac French Bulldogs may suffer from neurological issues like epilepsy and intervertebral disc disease. These issues can cause seizures, weakness, and paralysis.

Dental Problems

Lilac French Bulldogs are prone to dental problems like periodontal disease and hanging tongue syndrome. Regular dental check-ups and cleaning can help prevent these issues.

It is important to vaccinate your Lilac French Bulldog for issues like kennel cough, and to provide them with a healthy diet and regular exercise to prevent obesity and other health issues.

How Long Does Lilac French Bulldog Live?

Lilac French Bulldogs have a lifespan of 10-12 years on average. However, with proper care and regular veterinary check-ups, they can live longer and healthier lives.

Caring for a Lilac French Bulldog

Dietary Needs

Like all French Bulldogs, Lilac Frenchies have a tendency to gain weight easily. Therefore, it is important to provide them with a healthy, balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs without overfeeding them. 

A high-quality dog food that contains a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats is recommended. It is also important to avoid giving them table scraps or too many treats like peanut butter, as this can lead to weight gain and other health problems.

Exercise Requirements

Lilac French Bulldogs do not require a lot of exercise, but they do need regular physical activity to keep them healthy and happy. Daily walks and playtime in a fenced yard are usually sufficient for most Lilac Frenchies. However, it is important to avoid overexerting them, especially in hot weather, as they are prone to overheating due to their short snouts.

How to Groom a Lilac Frenchie

Lilac French Bulldogs have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming. Regular brushing with a soft-bristled pet grooming glove will help to remove loose hair and keep their coat shiny and healthy. It is also important to clean their ears regularly with doggy ear cleaning wipes to prevent infections, and to trim their nails as needed with pet nail trimmers to prevent them from becoming too long.

Breeding Lilac French Bulldogs

Breeding Process

Breeding lilac French Bulldogs requires a thorough understanding of genetics. Lilac French Bulldogs are a rare color variation of the French Bulldog breed, and they are produced by breeding two dogs that carry the dilute gene.

To breed lilac French Bulldogs, breeders must first identify dogs that carry the dilute gene. This gene is recessive, which means that a dog must inherit two copies of the gene, one from each parent, to display the lilac coloring. Breeders can test for the dilute gene using DNA tests, which can help them identify dogs that are carriers.

Once breeders have identified two dogs that carry the dilute gene, they can breed them together to produce lilac French Bulldog puppies. However, it is important to note that breeding two dogs that both carry the dilute gene can also result in puppies that have health issues, such as skin problems and immune system deficiencies. Therefore, breeders must carefully consider the health of the parent dogs before breeding them.

Ethical Considerations

Breeding lilac French Bulldogs raises ethical considerations. While these dogs are popular due to their unique coloring, breeders must prioritize the health and well-being of the dogs over their appearance.

Breeders should only breed dogs that are healthy and free from genetic health issues. They should also ensure that the parent dogs are well-cared for and have a good quality of life. Additionally, breeders should be transparent about the breeding process and the health of the parent dogs to potential buyers.

It is also important for breeders to consider the demand for lilac French Bulldogs. While these dogs may be popular, breeding them solely for profit can lead to overbreeding and the mistreatment of dogs. Breeders should prioritize the health and well-being of the dogs over making a profit.

How to Adopt a Lilac French Bulldog

Step 1: Research

Before adopting a lilac French bulldog, it’s important to do your research. Learn about the breed’s temperament, health issues, and exercise requirements. Make sure that a lilac French bulldog is the right fit for your lifestyle and home environment.

Step 2: Find a Reputable Breeder Or Breed Rescue Center

When looking for a lilac French bulldog breeder, it’s important to find one that is reputable and ethical. Look for a breeder who is registered with a reputable organization, such as the American Kennel Club. Ask for references and visit the breeder’s facility to ensure that the dogs are well-cared for.
A great way to ethically adopt a Frenchie is to contact the French Bulldog Rescue Network to give a home toa Frenchie in need.

Step 3: Ask Questions

When speaking with a breeder, ask plenty of questions about the lilac French bulldog’s health, temperament, and lineage. A reputable breeder should be able to provide you with information about the dog’s parents and any health issues that may be present in the breed.

Step 4: Prepare Your Home

Before bringing your lilac French bulldog home, make sure that your home is ready for a new pet. Purchase all necessary supplies, such as food, water bowls, a crate, and toys. Make sure that your home is safe for your new pet by removing any hazardous items or plants.

Step 5: Complete the Adoption Process

Once you’ve found a reputable breeder and prepared your home, it’s time to complete the adoption process. Be prepared to fill out an application and provide references. You may also need to pay an adoption fee and sign a contract.

By following these steps, you can ensure that the adoption process goes smoothly and that you end up with a healthy and happy lilac French bulldog.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much do Lilac French Bulldog puppies cost?

Lilac French Bulldogs are considered rare and their puppies are usually more expensive than other colors. The price of a Lilac French Bulldog puppy can range from $8,000 to $15,000 or more depending on the breeder and location. Lilac Frenchie puppies have been known to go for as much as $60 000.

What distinguishes a Lilac French Bulldog from other colors?

Lilac French Bulldogs have a unique coat color that is a combination of blue and chocolate. Their coat has a light, silvery-gray hue with a pinkish tint. They also have blue eyes or light-colored eyes that can range from blue to green to amber.

Why are Lilac French Bulldogs considered rare?

Lilac French Bulldogs are considered rare because they have a recessive gene that produces their unique coat color. This gene is not as common as other coat color genes, which makes Lilac French Bulldogs harder to breed.

Can you breed a Lilac French Bulldog with other colors?

Yes, Lilac French Bulldogs can be bred with other colors. However, it’s important to note that breeding Lilac French Bulldogs with other colors can affect the purity of their coat color and may result in puppies with different coat colors.

What health concerns are common in Lilac French Bulldogs?

Lilac French Bulldogs may be prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, allergies, and respiratory problems. It’s important to find a reputable breeder who conducts health screenings on their breeding dogs to minimize the risk of these health concerns.

How do I find a reputable breeder for a Lilac French Bulldog?

To find a reputable breeder for a Lilac French Bulldog, it’s important to do your research and ask for recommendations from other French Bulldog owners. Look for breeders who conduct health screenings on their breeding dogs and provide proper care and socialization for their puppies.

Are lilac French Bulldogs hypoallergenic?

No, Lilac French Bulldogs are not hypoallergenic. They shed moderately and produce dander, which can trigger allergies in some people.

Do Lilac French Bulldogs shed?

Yes, Lilac French Bulldogs shed moderately. Regular grooming and brushing can help minimize shedding and keep their coat healthy and shiny.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Lilac French Bulldog is a unique and stunning breed that has gained popularity in recent years. With its distinctive coat color and charming personality, it’s no wonder why so many people are drawn to this breed.

When considering adding a Lilac French Bulldog to your family, it’s important to keep in mind that they do require regular grooming and can have some health issues. However, with proper care and attention, they can make wonderful companions for individuals or families.

One thing to note is that Lilac French Bulldogs can be quite expensive due to their rarity, so it’s important to do your research and find a reputable breeder. Additionally, it’s important to ensure that you have the time and resources to properly care for a dog before bringing one into your home.

Overall, the Lilac French Bulldog is a beautiful and unique breed that can make a great addition to the right home. With their charming personality and stunning coat color, they are sure to turn heads wherever they go.

Meet Your Experts

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Tamsin De La Harpe

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Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.