Pet Wiki

Frenchton

Canis lupus familiaris

Also called Faux Frenchbo Bulldog, Boston Frenchie, Faux French Bulldog

A friendly, confident clown that loves making its family laugh.

SizeSmall
Weight5 to 13 kg (11 to 29 lb)12
Height28 to 43 cm (11 to 17 in)12
Lifespan12 to 15 years2
CoatShort, smooth and fine
OriginUnited States designer cross, developed in the 1990s; the French Bulldog parent was shaped in England and France, and the Boston Terrier in Boston, Massachusetts.234
Last checked2026-10-01
CrossbreedShort profile
playful and entertaining
loyal and loving
easy to motivate with rewards
12

Personality what they are like

A friendly, confident clown that loves making its family laugh. It tends to blend the Frenchie's fun, independent streak with the Boston's willingness to please and quick mind, though the balance differs from dog to dog.125

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Frenchton. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

  • Brushingevery week
  • Bathevery 8 weeks
  • Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
  • Ear checkevery 2 weeks
  • Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
  • ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
  • Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
  • Vet check-upevery year

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, smooth and fine

A compact, sturdy little dog with a short, sleek coat. Ears, face and markings can take after either parent, so some look more like a Frenchie and others more like a Boston.125

Coloursblackbrindleblack and whitebrowngoldencreamfawnwhite21

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Moderate. A short to medium walk each day, or some light jogging and indoor play, is usually plenty. Keep outings gentle in very hot or very cold weather.12

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Easy care: brush once or twice a week to lift loose hair, keep any face folds clean, clean ears regularly, trim nails every couple of weeks and brush teeth.12

Home where they are happiest

Adapts well to apartments and smaller homes thanks to its size and modest exercise needs; prefers a comfortable indoor climate.21

Company who they like around

A devoted family dog that usually does well with children, especially older ones, and with other pets when socialised early. Some may be reserved with strangers at first.21

The story where it all began

Breeders began crossing French Bulldogs with Boston Terriers in the 1990s, aiming for a slightly larger, sturdier companion. The Frenchie came from toy bulldogs taken from Nottingham to Normandy by lace workers, and the Boston traces back to a dog named Judge bought in 1870.234

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    The Boston Terrier parent is nicknamed the 'American Gentleman' because its markings look like a tuxedo.4

  2. 2

    The Boston Terrier has been the official state dog of Massachusetts since 1979.4

  3. 3

    The French Bulldog's name blends the French words 'boule' (ball) and 'dogue' (mastiff).3

  4. 4

    The French Bulldog parent became the most popular breed in the United States in 2023.3

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The name 'Frenchton' is a portmanteau of 'French' (from French Bulldog) and 'ton' (from Boston Terrier), reflecting its hybrid parentage.6

Name ideas for your new friend

GigiBeauFifiMiloLolaRemyZoeChampNalaPierreBiscuitCoco

A day in the life told by a Frenchton

My day starts with a big stretch and a wiggle. I greet Mom with a happy dance, then we head out for a stroll. I stop to sniff every bush and say hello to my squirrel friends. Back home, I show off my toy collection and do a little zoomie around the living room. After a nap in my favorite sunny spot, I help Dad with his work by sitting on his lap. In the evening, we play a gentle game of tug, and I end the day with a snuggle on the couch. Life is full of laughs and love.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

The Royal Kennel Club
Crossbreeds are not recognised as pedigree breeds, but they can be registered on the Activity Register and take part in agility, obedience and similar events.5
Hybrid and designer dog registries
Listed by ACHC, DRA, DBR, DDKC and IDCR, according to 101DogBreeds.2

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Frenchton, and at what times?

Feed your Frenchton at least two meals a day for adults, and three to four smaller meals for puppies. A consistent schedule helps digestion, but exact times can fit your routine. For amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.7

What should a Frenchton eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A high-quality dog food suited to your Frenchton's size and age is best. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and others listed by the ASPCA. Always ask your vet for a personalized diet plan.8

How often should I bathe a Frenchton?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, and general guidance recommends at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or has skin issues, but avoid over-bathing to keep their coat healthy.9 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Frenchton need brushing?

Brush your Frenchton once or twice a week to lift loose hair and keep the short, smooth coat shiny. Pet Wiki's plan suggests weekly brushing, which fits well with general care advice for this breed.129 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Frenchton's nails, and how often?

Trim your Frenchton's nails every 2 to 4 weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain. Pet Wiki's plan suggests every 4 weeks as a starting point.129 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Frenchton need?

Your Frenchton needs a short to medium walk each day, plus some light jogging or indoor play. Keep outings gentle in very hot or very cold weather. Pet Wiki's plan recommends daily walks and playtime.12 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Frenchton's teeth and ears?

Brush your Frenchton's teeth several times a week using dog toothpaste, and check ears weekly for dirt or redness. Never push anything into the ear canal. Pet Wiki's plan suggests ear checks every two weeks and daily brushing if possible.129 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Frenchton live?

Frenchtons typically live between 12 and 15 years, bringing many happy years of companionship. With good care, they can enjoy a long, healthy life.2

Is a Frenchton good with children and other pets?

Yes, Frenchtons are usually good with older children and other pets when socialised early. They are a devoted family dog, though some may be a bit reserved with strangers at first.12

Can a Frenchton be left alone?

This varies by individual dog. Some Frenchtons may tolerate short periods alone, but they are a devoted family breed and may struggle with long hours. Ask your vet or a good breeder for advice tailored to your dog.

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

Parents and lookalikes

French BulldogBoston TerrierPuggle

Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.

  1. Frenchton - The Happy Puppy Site thehappypuppysite.comused for size, height, coat, temperament, exercise, grooming, social
  2. Frenchton - 101DogBreeds 101dogbreeds.comused for names, origin, size, lifespan, colours, grooming, registries
  3. French Bulldog - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for parent history, fun facts
  4. Boston Terrier - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for parent history, fun facts
  5. What is a crossbreed dog? - The Royal Kennel Club royalkennelclub.comused for recognition, trait variability
  6. dailypaws.com dailypaws.com
  7. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  8. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  9. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-10-01. Text is written in our own words from these sources.