What is a fluffy Frenchie?
A fluffy Frenchie is a French Bulldog that grows a longer coat than the usual short, sleek one. The face, body and bat ears are all pure Frenchie — the only difference is the length and softness of the fur, which is most obvious around the ears, neck and legs.
Why do some Frenchies have long hair?
It comes down to a single recessive gene (the LH or "long hair" gene, on the FGF5 gene). A puppy only grows a fluffy coat if it inherits the long-hair gene from both parents. Two short-haired Frenchies can still produce a fluffy puppy if they both quietly carry the gene — which is why fluffies sometimes appear in an otherwise standard litter.
Are fluffy Frenchies purebred?
Yes — a fluffy Frenchie is a purebred French Bulldog. The long coat is a natural variation, not a sign of crossbreeding. That said, the major kennel clubs consider the long coat a fault for the show ring, so you won't see fluffies in conformation shows even though they're 100% Frenchie.
Do fluffy Frenchies cost more?
Usually, yes. Because the coat needs two copies of a fairly rare gene, fluffies are less common, and rarity drives price up. Prices swing a lot by region and breeder — always prioritise a breeder who health-tests over one just chasing the "fluffy" label.
Grooming a fluffy Frenchie
The longer coat needs a little more upkeep than a standard Frenchie's:
- Brush 2–3 times a week to stop tangles, especially behind the ears and on the legs.
- Keep the face folds clean and dry — longer hair can trap moisture.
- They still feel the cold, so a warm sweater or coat helps in winter despite the extra fluff.
Are fluffy Frenchies healthy?
A fluffy Frenchie has the same health profile as any French Bulldog — the long coat itself doesn't cause problems. The things to watch are the usual Frenchie ones: the flat face and breathing, the joints, and skin folds. Buy from a breeder who tests for these, and you've got the best start.
Keep your fluffy Frenchie comfy: browse Frenchie clothes and grooming essentials.
Frequently asked questions
Are fluffy Frenchies real French Bulldogs?
Yes — they're purebred French Bulldogs. The long coat comes from a natural recessive gene, not from crossbreeding.
Why is my Frenchie fluffy if the parents weren't?
Both parents can carry the long-hair gene without showing it. A puppy that inherits a copy from each parent grows the fluffy coat.
Do fluffy Frenchies shed a lot?
They shed a bit more than short-haired Frenchies and need brushing a few times a week, but they're still a moderate-shedding breed.