Lilac French Bulldog: Facts, Genetics, Health & Pictures

Lilac French Bulldogs are a rare color variation of the Frenchie breed. Their unique coat color ranges from pale lavender to deep purple, making them a popular choice among dog owners who fancy unique looks. 

Lilac Frenchies have playful, affectionate, and loyal personalities that make them excellent companions for most families. However, lilac French Bulldogs have specific health concerns that owners must be aware of. 

In this article, we will explore the appearance, genetics, and health of lilac French Bulldogs. We’ll also touch on some variants of the lilac Frenchie, AKC recognition, name ideas, and more. Let’s begin!

What Is a Lilac French Bulldog? What Does “Lilac” Mean in Dogs?

A lilac French Bulldog is a rare color variant in Frenchies. Lilac in dogs refers to the unique pale grayish-brown to silvery color caused by a dilution gene interacting with the blue gene. Lilac Frenchies are every bit as adorable as other Frenchies but have specific health concerns.

The color “lilac” refers to a pale shade of purple. So whenever pet fanciers hear about the lilac Frenchie, they quickly assume that it would look like a purplish dog. However, that’s not always true. 

For starters, the lilac color in French Bulldogs is closer to blue. As mentioned, it comes off as a grayish-brown color with slight hints of a silvery shade.

These rare-colored Frenchies can only be produced from a breeding stock that carries the chocolate and blue color genes. This makes breeding lilac Frenchies a bit tricky, increasing their price.

Is Lilac a Rare Color for French Bulldogs?

Yes, lilac is rare in French Bulldogs. This is caused by the complex color genetics of this variant. Unfortunately, producing a lilac Frenchie is not as simple as breeding two dogs with blue genes. 

In fact, there is a lot that goes into the process of breeding these adorable pups. To produce a lilac Frenchie, a breeder needs to have extensive knowledge of the generational lineage of the breeding stock. 

They need to perform genetic tests to identify which combination of dams and sires is likely to produce lilac Frenchies. Once determined, however, there is still no guarantee on how many lilac puppies they will get.

Because of this complexity, the population of lilac Frenchies is quite low. Consequently, this rarity also makes these pups highly expensive.

What Does a Lilac French Bulldog Look Like?

In general, the lilac French Bulldog bears many of the telltale features of the Frenchie breed. Aside from its unique coat color, its build, gait, and other physical features are identical to other French Bulldog color variants.

For one, lilac Frenchies have sturdy and compact bodies. These dogs fall within the AKC-set breed standards, weighing no more than 28 pounds and standing between 11 and 13 inches tall. 

Furthermore, they sport a large, square head and a flat skull. Their ears are erect and appear to be bat-like ears. Meanwhile, the body of a lilac Frenchie is muscular, well-rounded, and features a deep, broad chest and stout legs.

Additionally, their faces have adorable wrinkles near the neck and forehead area. Their eyes are innocent-looking and big and can come in blue, light gray, amber, or similar shades. 

The lilac Frenchie can also sport brindle, piebald, merle, ticked, or black mask markings. Overall, they are every bit a Frenchie, except covered in a unique coat color.

The following are some of the different variants of the lilac French Bulldog:

Pure Lilac French Bulldog

The photo above shows what a standard lilac French Bulldog looks like. As you can see, its coat is free of markings, except for the typical darker-toned areas around the muzzle and the lighter-colored coat on the underbelly.

From time to time, a lilac Frenchie may also sport minimal markings. As long as these marks do not form a definitive pattern, the dog may still be classified as a pure-colored lilac Frenchie.

Piebald Lilac French Bulldog

A piebald or pied animal has a coat that has an irregular pattern. It can sport two or more colors, where one of the colors is usually white. 

The photo above shows a piebald lilac Frenchie. As you can see, its lilac coat has hints of black all over, especially on the back and neck area. Meanwhile, it also sports subtle hints of tan and white.

Blue Lilac French Bulldog

Also known as “blue fawns,” the blue lilac Frenchie sports a color that can vary from light lilac to dark charcoal. On top of their striking coat color, they also have distinct eye colors that can be brown or green. 

Blue fawns are a recently developed color variation, and currently, they are quite rare among lilac Frenchies. Nonetheless, their popularity is on the rise.

Merle Lilac French Bulldog

For starters, merle is a genetic coat pattern that is characterized by splashes of darker shades marbled on top of a lighter undercoat.

Merle patterns are considered one of the most eye-catching markings in dogs. When combined with the uniqueness of the lilac color, the merle pattern results in the merle lilac Frenchie.

Brindle Lilac French Bulldog

The brindle pattern, also famously called tiger marks or tiger stripes, is one of the most common French Bulldog patterns. In fact, brindle was one of the first acknowledged patterns for Frenchie back in 1898. 

The brindle lilac Frenchie retains its lilac base coat, but it has black hair forming a subtle brindle pattern throughout the body.

Blue French Bulldog vs. Lilac French Bulldog: Is Your Frenchie Blue or Lilac?

To understand the differences between blue and lilac French Bulldogs, it’s important to note that both colors are the result of the same dilution gene. This gene ultimately determines if a dog is blue or lilac.

One striking difference between blue and lilac French Bulldogs lies in their undertones. While blue Frenchies have a nearly dark grey coat with deep blue undertones, lilac Frenchies are a few shades lighter. 

Furthermore, lilac French Bulldogs have a silvery color that can lean towards light brown, fawn, or pale grey hues. The patches highlighting the muzzle and undercoat are also more prominent in lilac Frenchies.

Both lilac and blue French Bulldogs can sport different color variations, including merle, fawn, brindle, and pied.

If you’re having a hard time telling these coats apart, watch this short video showing the side-by-side of blue and lilac Frenchies:

Lilac French Bulldog Color Genetics: What Makes a Frenchie Lilac?

The coat color in lilac French Bulldogs is primarily determined by two genes — the B locus and the D locus. 

The B locus determines whether a dog has black or brown pigment in its coat, while the D locus determines whether a dog has a dilute color or not.

The lilac coloration results in the combination of two copies of the recessive dilution gene, also known as the “dd” genotype, and two copies of the recessive gene, called the “bb” genotype.

When it comes to breeding a lilac Frenchie, both the sire and the dam must carry the recessive genes for dilution as well as the genes for the chocolate color. 

For this combination, there is an estimated 25% chance that the offspring will inherit both recessive genes and will be lilac in color. 

Does AKC Recognize the Lilac French Bulldog?

The French Bulldog breed is officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC); however, the “lilac” coat variant is not considered one of the standard colors of this breed. 

According to the AKC standards for the Frenchie, only brindle, fawn, white, cream, and some combinations of these are deemed acceptable.

That said, it is important to note that any coat color other than these, such as lilac, is considered a disqualification. This means lilac Frenchies are ineligible to compete in AKC conformation shows.

In addition, Frenchies that are pure black, black & white, chocolate, blue, and merle also do not meet the standards set by the AKC. 

One reason behind this restriction is the belief that breeding these rare colors come with strains of genetic health problems. 

While these colors seem very eye-catching, the AKC believes that producing them poses a great risk for the French Bulldog breed.

Lilac French Bulldog Temperament and Personality

French Bulldogs are known for their affectionate, playful, and friendly personalities. Unsurprisingly, these traits are also present among lilac Frenchies.

They are social animals that enjoy spending time with their families. Frenchies are also clingy dogs who love cuddling up with their owners.

On top of that, despite their relatively small stature, lilac Frenchies are quite protective of their loved ones. But at the same time, they are not aggressive toward strangers.

Lilac French Bulldogs are generally sturdy and active, making them well-suited for a mix of apartment living and occasional outdoor activities.

They require some exercise to maintain good health, but they are not very demanding in that regard. Lilac French Bulldogs are also known for being easy to train and responsive to positive reinforcement training methods.

Overall, lilac French Bulldogs are charming and amiable companions with personalities that make them well-suited to many families. As a bonus, these dogs also get along with other pets and kids.

Lilac French Bulldog Lifespan and Health Issues

The average lifespan of a lilac French Bulldog is between 10 and 13 years. While the life expectancy of these dogs is comparable with the rest of the Frenchie breed, they also have their fair share of health issues.

According to the Royal Veterinary College in London, 72% of Frenchies end up having at least one disorder in their lifetime. As a lilac Frenchie owner, it is to learn about the common health issues that your dog may develop.

Here are some health problems common in lilac Frenchies:

• Cleft Palate: A cleft palate is common among purebred and brachycephalic (or short-snouted) dogs. Given the lilac Frenchie’s flat face and alleged history of genetic defects, this birth defect is quite common in this variant. A cleft palate affects the pup’s nasal passages and mouth and obstructs the normal growth of teeth.
• Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS): Short-snouted dog breeds, also known as brachycephalic dogs, are prone to BOAS. This is a condition caused by anatomical abnormalities in the structure of a dog’s head. Dogs with BOAS experience obstructed airways and repressed windpipes.
• Von Willebrand disease (vWD): Von Willebrand disease is a blood clotting disorder common in Frenchies, including the lilac French Bulldog. It is an inherited condition that, according to many, is more common in blue, chocolate, and lilac Frenchies.

These are just some of the health issues common in lilac Frenchies. It is possible that your dog will not develop any of these health concerns, but that is not a guarantee it will live its longest life. 

As always, frequent trips to the vet will go a long way in maintaining the health and well-being of your lilac French Bulldog.

How Much Does a Lilac Frenchie Cost? Puppy Price & Expenses

Lilac French Bulldogs range in price from $5,500 to $10,000. This high price range is partly due to the complexity of breeding this particular coat variant. 

As you already know, the lilac French Bulldog is not an easy pooch to breed. Breeders go through a tedious and time-consuming process of selecting dams and sires. Even then, the guarantee of having a lilac dog is not 100%.

Additionally, aside from the price of a lilac Frenchie, you also need to shell out some money for some initial expenses, such as the following:

All in all, the cost of owning a lilac Frenchie is not that different from owning other French Bulldog variants. Of course, that is if you can overlook the steep purchase price. 

If you want to cut down a bit on cost, you can always opt to adopt a lilac Frenchie instead. Alternatively, you may look for breeders who offer freebies along with their dogs. This way, you can save a bit on initial expenses.

Places to Find Lilac French Bulldog Puppies for Sale and Adoption

Finding a lilac Frenchie can be tough, especially given its rarity. Fortunately, there are a handful of trustworthy sources you can check out to chance upon this unique pooch. 

Check out the list below where you may find a lilac French Bulldog for sale:

• AKC Marketplace – The AKC Marketplace is a platform that hosts breeders selling purebred Border Collies. Some breeders in this marketplace also occasionally produce mixes. You can reach out to some of them and try your luck in finding Border Collie mixes. 
• Francoeur French Bulldogs – Located in Southern California, Francoeur French Bulldogs raises and sells puppies from champion line pedigrees. Their dogs are AKC-registered, pre-tested against hip, elbow, and heart ailments, and are fully vetted. Check out their listings from time to time for a lilac French Bulldog.
• Lindor French Bulldogs – Lindor French Bulldogs is a state-licensed facility that is run by a family. They have been showing champion-quality purebreds for over 13 years in the show ring. Needless to say, their dogs are some of the highest quality out there. They also produce lilac Frenchies occasionally.

Aside from buying a lilac Frenchie, you also have the option to adopt one. Not only will this save you thousands of dollars, but you will also be supporting a good cause at the same time. 

Here are some reputable sources where you may find a lilac French Bulldog for adoption:

• French Bulldog Rescue Network (FBRN) – The rescue group is backed by a network of volunteers across the United States and Canada. Their aim is to help Frenchies find foster homes until they are adopted. They occasionally have adoptable lilac Frenchies on their listings.
• Short Noses Only Rescue Team (SNORT) – SNORT takes in abandoned brachycephalic dogs such as Frenchies. Their main service areas are Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Vermont. If you live in any of these places, reach out to SNORT.
• Short Nose and Friends United Rescue (SNAFU) – SNAFU is another rescue organization that specializes in brachycephalic dog breeds. However, this organization is mostly focused on rehabilitating French and English Bulldogs.

When buying or adopting a dog, it’s best to steer away from backyard breeders or puppy mills. Stick with reputable businesses and organizations that have good track records. 

This is especially true when looking for a rare dog, such as the lilac French Bulldog. 

Best Dog Names for Your Lilac French Bulldog

Choosing a name for your dog is one of your first tasks as a lilac French Bulldog owner. Given their interesting appearance and loving personality, there are endless inspirations you can draw from when naming your dog.

To get you started, below are some name ideas for your lilac French Bulldog:

• Lavender
• Bluebell
• Violet
• Indigo
• Lilac
• Amethyst
• Plum
• Mauve
• Periwinkle
• Blossom
• Orchid
• Wisteria
• Hyacinth
• Peony
• Dahlia

Keep in mind that when choosing a name, you should go with a name that’s simple, easy to remember, and easily recognizable. Feel free to tweak any of the name ideas listed above to give your pooch a more endearing moniker.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Eye Color Do Lilac French Bulldogs Have?

Usually, the eyes of most French Bulldogs are brown. However, for lilac Frenchies, lighter eye colors are also possible. Some possible eye colors in these dogs are shades of amber, light brown, light grey, and shades of blue.

The lightness of their eye color comes from the same dilution gene that is responsible for the lilac hue of their coat. 

Do Lilac French Bulldogs Shed?

Lilac French Bulldogs, like the rest of the breed, are considered low-shedders. They sport a short coat that only sheds seasonally, making them quite easy to maintain on a day-to-day basis.

That said, however, they still release allergy-inducing dander, which may trigger allergies in some people.

What Is the Rarest French Bulldog Color?

While lilac is a rare French Bulldog variant, other colors are considered rarer. For instance, many fanciers claim that the blue merle French Bulldog is even rarer, while others say pure black and pure chocolate. 

Unfortunately, there is no definitive proof that can point to the right answer. But in terms of genetic complexity and difficulty to produce, the blue merle and lilac are on top of the list.

Final Thoughts

Lilac French Bulldogs are considered prized possessions among dog lovers. This is not only because of their rarity and high price tag but also due to their unique appearance and lovable traits.

However, despite all the good things about lilac Frenchies, they are not suitable for all. For one, these dogs require special care, as they can be prone to a handful of health conditions.

Likewise, lilac French Bulldogs are also not recommended for dog owners who want a dog that is AKC-recognized. 

Nevertheless, if you can look past these downsides and would like to own an eye-catching pooch, the lilac Frenchie might be your match. 

Are you going to add this pooch to your family soon? If so, leave a comment below on what sold you in getting a lilac French Bulldog!