Does the miniature French Bulldog really exist?

Mini / micro / teacup French Bulldog of rare colors tri lilac with tan points. Frenchie sitting in a tea cup mug

The Mini, Micro, Teacup French Bulldog - The complete guide

The French Bulldog breed took the world by a storm. This breed became one of the most popular breeds in the world.

No wonder people love the Frenchie breed so much; they are affectionate with charming personalities and their small bodies make them ideal for small space living, apartment living, which is the prominent reason they are currently the most popular breed in New York City.

According to the American Kennel Club, the breed ranks sixth in popularity among all dog breeds in the United States. There is a growing popularity in people interested in a smaller version of the French Bulldog – the “mini Frenchie”.

What is a mini Frenchie?

A mini Frenchie is a standard French Bulldog that got bred down to a smaller size.

There are other names associated with this phenomenon such as the micro French Bulldog or teacup Frenchies.

All these terms essentially carry the same meaning. A smaller version of the standard Frenchie dog we all know and love.

mini french bulldog micro Frenchie or teacup Frenchies
French Bulldog frenchie hoodies

What is the French Bulldog Breed Structure?

The French Bulldog is a heavy bone muscular dog with short smooth coat. Proportionate and symmetrical except for the large, erect bat like ears that are the breed’s well known feature.

The Frenchie dog built is compact, and of a medium or small structure with a large square head and plenty of wrinkles. The structure of the French Bulldog puts them immediately at a disadvantage with higher risk of BOAS and other health concerns.

Tiniest Frenchie Puppy Is Pure Inspiration | The Dodo Little But Fierce

Tiniest Frenchie Puppy Is Pure Inspiration | This itty bitty Frenchie was born extra tiny with all the odds stacked against him. Auggie wasn't strong enough to play with other dogs, but he quickly became an expert snuggler!

Today on Little But Fierce, watch Auggie snuggle his way into his foster mom's heart, make his first (big!) dog friend and face every day with the most inspiring attitude ever.

Brindle French Bulldog standard color

French Bulldog Breed Standard Colors:

  • Brindle French Bulldog.
  • Brindle and White markings French Bulldog (pictured on the left).
  • Cream Frenchie.
  • Fawn Frenchie.
  • Fawn and White markings French Bulldog puppy.
  • Fawn Brindle Frenchie coat.
  • White French Bulldog puppy.
  • White and Brindle Frenchie.
  • White & Fawn French Bulldog.

Example of a rare markings non-standard color Frenchie - Chocolate / lilac fawn with tan points French Bulldog.

rare colors in frenchies
Is the Mini Frenchie Ethically Bred?

Is the Mini Frenchie Ethically Bred?

The short answer is no. No reputable breeder or known French Bulldog association or organization recognizes the micro, mini or teacup French Bulldog.

Unfortunately miniaturization of the standard French Bulldog that already carries health issues comes with great risks.

This fact makes it unethical for breeders to breed the mini Frenchie. The French Bulldog is not a member of the toy dog group (e.g. Chihuahua, Maltese, Pomeranian etc).

It is unnatural to miniaturize them further. A standard-sized French Bulldog is about 11-13 inches tall and weighs just under 28 pounds. Off course there are exceptions to this rule, this is just a general guideline of the standard size Frenchie.

It is important to mention we are only talking about the mini Frenchie being advertised and sold as a full breed we are not talking about the crossbreeds of a French Bulldogs with other breeds.

While miniature dogs are appealing and well desired, a miniature French Bulldog can suffer not only from health problems associated with the breed but also problems associated with miniaturization.

Anyone considering a teacup Frenchie should do their research and should be well aware of the health issues and potential cost of lifelong care.

There are breeders who claim they breed mini French Bulldog puppies ethically

Please read below how breeders achieve the mini version of a Frenchie puppy and make the determination yourself. All we can say is beware of these breeders.

It is the most well known trick in the book to use words such as "rare" "exotic" "teacup" and so forth to justify the large price tag for a dog that doesn't meet the AKC breed standards.

How do breeders achieve the mini French Bulldog Puppies?

Dwarf Frenchie dogs

  • Taking the role of god to their hands - Cultivating the dwarfism mutation gene in a line of French Bulldogs. Dwarfism is a skeletal disorder that leads to chronic pain in dogs and health problems related to shortened spinal vertebrae, bowed legs, abnormal skull and facial bone structure.

Breeding the French Bulldog runts

  • Playing with fire - Breeding runts is probably one of the most unhealthy breeding practices. Runts are the smallest and weakest in a litter. Repeated breeding of the smallest and weakest is only asking for trouble.

Crossbreeding French Bulldogs with Chihuahuas

  • False advertising -Crossbreed of a French Bulldog with a different, smaller dog breed then re-breeding until the looks of a full French Bulldog that is smaller is met, usually by second or third generation. Advertised and sold as a full breed even though DNA will show the dog is not a full breed.

The Bullhuahua -French Bulldog Chihuahua Mix

The French Bulldog Chihuahua mix also known as a French Bullhuahua has become more popular in the breeding world in recent years.

Breeders crossbreed the French Bulldog with a different, smaller dog breed in order to achieve the miniature Frenchie look.

The Frenchie Chihuahua hybrid dog appearance

We are not able to fully predict the appearance of the French Bullhuahua and every breeding will be different. Each breeding of this hybrid can result on more characteristics of either parent breed.

Some will look more like French Bulldogs, and some more like Chihuahuas. The French Bullhuahua is naturally a small dog, and can weigh anywhere from 7 lbs to 23 lbs.

They usually possess a stocky, muscular body and the signature bat-ears that made Frenchies well-known.

Expected lifespan of the miniature French Bulldog:

The American Kennel Club suggests the standard French Bulldog holds a lifespan of 11 to 13 years. It is hard to predict the lifespan of a mini Frenchie and it will depend on what health issues they are having in terms of their genes and breeding history.

It is possible in rare occasions for a mini Frenchie to live as long as the standard French Bulldog however, it is very unlikely.

How much does a teacup French Bulldog puppy cost?

"rare" "exotic" "teacup" "mini" "micro" all have a common denominator. The price tag. Every time a breeder refers to a dog in those terms you can expect the price tag of the dog to double or triple than normal asking.

We believe that initial fee is only the beginning. If you are willing to pay that initial high steep price tag you should be preparing yourself to pay enormous lifelong medical / vet bills as well.

Mini French Bulldog dog alternative:

There are many alternatives to the mini Frenchie. Before you spend thousands of dollars for a breed that was miniaturized against AKC standards and will most likely have lifelong health issues which will set you up for heartache after heartache please consider all options.

1. Consider a French Bulldog crossbreed with fewer inherited health problems. A French Bulldog crossbreed can be a great alternative to a mini Frenchie if you do your research and choose a reputable breeder who tests all their breeding stock for any inherited health conditions.

Examples of such crossbreeds can include but not limited to:

  • The French Boodle - Crossbreed between French Bulldog and Poodle.
  • The Frengle - Crossbreed between French Bulldog and Beagle.
  • Crossbreedbetween French Bulldog and Yorkshire Terrier.
  • Frenchel - Crossbreed between French bulldog and Cavalier King Charles spaniel.
  • Frenchton - crossbreed between French Bulldog and Boston Terrier

Frenchton Dogs 101 Boston Terrier French Bulldog Mix Designer

2. Opt for a different small breed in the toy dog group such as: Cairn Terrier, Bichon Frise or a Havanese and so forth.

3. Forget about the idea of a mini French Bulldog altogether. Do your research of the standard French Bulldog and decided if that breed fits in your family and current life situation.

Is a French bulldog the right breed for me?

French Bulldogs have a unique personality than other breeds and it is recommended you learn more about this breed before getting one. Society stigmatize them as a lazy low maintenance small breed you can just carry everywhere.

This is far from the truth. French Bulldogs often require as much attention as a newborn baby. If you cannot devote the time and energy not you nor the dog will be happy in that situation. They are very good in apartment settings and do not require a big place or yard.

If you work most of the day, and planning on leaving your Frenchie at home alone until you come back, please re-think getting this breed. It is too often that this breed is being surrendered due to the inability of spending time with the dog.

French Bulldogs will get angry and destroy things to get your attention if you are ignoring them or not there for them.If you are a stay at home mom/dad, work from home, or have the option to take your Frenchie to your work, it might be a good fit.

If you are retired, and want a great loving companion this might be the breed for you.Please research this breed before getting a French Bulldog, it might be the best or worse decision you'll ever make and it all depends on your circumstances.

French Bulldogs | Dogs 101

I decided the standard French bulldog is the right dog for me. Where should I start?

Research, research research - from reading the AKC website to searching for breeders you should spend the next six months looking at information. Getting a Frenchie is a life changing decision, you don't want to take this decision making lightly.

Ask for breeders recommendations - and check several breeders not just one. Most reputable great breeders take a deposits for their pups months in advance before the litter is even confirmed and that is due to the community knowing the reputation of the breeder and the dogs.

Check online reviews - so you were told a breeder was highly recommended by someone, we don't believe that's enough information. You should check to see that their online presence matches and people have positive things to say about them.

In today's day and age modern technology makes it extremely easy to know a lot of information. If the breeder have any negative feedback we bet you will find it online. Even a place like Facebook page has a recommendation section.

In addition, there are several Facebook groups that warn others of backyard/scam breeders. Call AKC at 919-233-9767 to make sure the breeder is in good standing.

Be as familiar as possible with the breeder - The key is to make sure you’re comfortable with the breeder as he/she can be used as a breed mentor for you throughout the life of your Frenchie. You should ask the breeder for advice about your French Bulldog anytime your dog has any issue physically or mentally.

Ask plenty of questions- Such as are they a full time or hobby breeders? Ask about the history of the mom and dad of the litter and so forth. Breeders should be honest in regards to their litters what to expect in terms of strengths and weaknesses and any genetic diseases that can affect their breed or line.

Ask the breeder for a proof of health screenings such as OFA and CERF certificates. Breeders should be willing to answer any questions you may have and they should also ask you many questions.

If they don't ask you anything or the conversation seems too light that's a red flag as breeders want to make sure their puppies are going to a good homes.

Visit the breeder’s home- ask to see the puppy’s parents and watch their appearance and temperament. Are the dogs clean, well fed, and friendly ? Is the house/kennel clean? Does the breeder act lovingly towards the puppies and their adult dogs?

Both the puppies and adult dogs should be outgoing with the breeder and you. Look for red flags such as protruding rib cages, lethargy, runny nose, skin issues etc.

Congratulations, you have found the right Frenchie breeder...here are three points you need to keep in mind:

Your Frenchie puppy should be 8-12 weeks old -when you bring him/her home. Anything other than this guideline is a red flag. Puppies require much needed time to mature and socialize with their litter mates & mother off course.

Don't be surprised if-the breeder asks you to sign an acknowledgement or memorandum indicating you will return your French Bulldog back to the breeder in the case you can no longer care for your dog. This is a normal request and will be asked by most responsible ethical breeders.

Be wary of a breeder - if they refuse to give you AKC papers or offers papers from a registry other than the American Kennel Club. Another red flag is the breeder hesitating to give records for any vet exam, immunizations or any other medical documentation.

If any of the above happens in the last minute we would recommend you re-think bringing that Frenchie puppy home.

Misleading information of the miniature Frenchie

There is very little information on the micro Frenchie and very little awareness on how they are bred. There is also a lot of incorrect information of a mini Frenchie and claims that are just unreasonable and not based on any scientific evidence.

All we can say is please look at the source of what you are reading. Is the writer a breeder trying to promote their own line of breeding? Or is it a trusted source?

Don't cherry pick information and try to be as objective as possible. We hope we have shed some light on this subject. If you have more questions don't hesitate to write a comment or email us hello@Frenchiestore.com


    6 Responses

    Thedog
    Thedog

    December 12, 2023

    Thank you for shedding mild on the exciting world of miniature French Bulldogs! Your informative article furnished a charming perception into the debate surrounding these cute companions. It’s clean to see a thorough exploration of this topic, imparting potential proprietors treasured understanding as they navigate the world of Frenchies. Keep up the super work in instructing and pleasing Frenchie enthusiasts!

    Wendy Cunningham
    Wendy Cunningham

    November 02, 2021

    I learned a lot ready this article. I am trying to find a well known breeder, if you are one and have some Frenchies or micRo’s healthy, send me an email. Thank you PS I’m located in Indiana.

    Luisa
    Luisa

    January 11, 2021

    Hola mi soy criadora de French bulldog camada disponible próximamente correo Luisanaranjos@icloud.com

    Cris
    Cris

    August 02, 2020

    Desde que descubri a los bulldog frances mini solamente quiero tener uno, son adorables

    Barbara Lingo
    Barbara Lingo

    May 18, 2020

    This is for Jeanna Baired, the Frenchton breeder, would like to hear more about the Frenchton breed and see pictures if available, you can e-mail me or message me on Facebook,

    Thank you
    Barbara Lingo
    618 816-2848

    PS Where are you located

    Jeanna Baird (frenchie_mama_ )
    Jeanna Baird (frenchie_mama_ )

    April 27, 2019

    I really enjoyed this article. I breed Frenchton and they are simply amazing healthy dogs. Less expensive than the Frenchie but just as cute! Xoxo

    Leave a comment

    Comments will be approved before showing up.


    Also in Frenchie Blog

    french bulldog barking
    My Frenchie Won't Stop Barking: Tips for Managing Excessive Barking

    Dealing with a French Bulldog (Frenchie) that won't stop barking can be frustrating and challenging. While occasional barking is natural for dogs, excessive or prolonged barking can disrupt your household and even lead to complaints from neighbors. Fortunately, there are several strategies you can employ to address this behavior and restore peace and quiet to your home.
    Read More
    frenchie eats shit
    What to Do if Your Frenchie Eats Poop

    Discovering that your beloved French Bulldog has indulged in a rather unappetizing snack of feces can be a disconcerting experience for any pet owner. Coprophagia, the consumption of feces, is a relatively common behavior in dogs, but it can raise concerns about their health and hygiene.
    Read More
    french bulldog blindness
    Blindness in French Bulldogs: Causes, Symptoms, and Care

    Blindness in French Bulldogs can present unique challenges for both the affected dog and their owner. Whether congenital or acquired, vision loss can significantly impact a Frenchie's quality of life.
    Read More