Platinum is an incredibly rare coloring requiring a combination of three sets of recessive genes. Whilst similar in color to cream they have unique features which make them highly desirable.
What is a Platinum French Bulldog?
A Platinum French Bulldog refers to a unique combination of colors. The most important part of the genetics relates to the cream coloring gene. This is located in the E Locus and is a recessive coloring. Effectively what this gene does is override any other colorings on the coat making it appear Cream. Cream can display itself as anything between a White through to Apricot color.
The second gene that is needed for Platinum is the dilution gene, this is often referred to as the Blue gene. This is located in the D Locus and is also recessive. If a dog carries these genes and not the others required for Platinum it will have a Blue coat. If a Frenchie has both the Blue and Cream coloring this will be referred to as a Champagne French Bulldog.
The Third gene required for a platinum can come from two different sources. This relates to the chocolate coloring, there are two separate gene pools that can produce this.
The first chocolate gene is referred to as the Cocoa gene this is seen in genetics as coco. This is far more common than the second option and if you see a platinum or chocolate Frenchie it is most likely due to this gene. When you have a Cocoa Chocolate + Blue + Cream this will give you a Platinum dog. If it was just to contain the Cocoa Chocolate + Blue genes then this would result in a Lilac Frenchie.
The second chocolate gene is also referred to as Brown. This is produced in the B locus and is also a recessive gene bb, this is less common than Cocoa. This is often referred to as testable chocolate but it is now possible to also test for coco so this name is outdated. When you have the Brown Chocolate + Blue + Cream this will also give you a Platinum French Bulldog. However this can also be referred to as an Isabella Platinum French Bulldog. The reason for this is that this version of Chocolate + Blue results in an Isabella French Bulldog
The final genetic combination for a Platinum Frenchie is when all four of the above are combined. This would mean a Brown Chocolate + Cocoa Chocolate + Blue + Cream. Due to the rarity of this type of Frenchie there isn’t a consensus around the name but based on other naming conventions it is best called a Newshade Platinum French Bulldog.
What is the Rarest Color of French Bulldog?
The rarest color would be the Newshade Platinum which combines the two different Chocolate genes with Blue and Cream. Due to the need to combine four different recessive genes this is an incredibly rare combination.
The demand for this color dog will mainly be from breeders. The look and characteristics of a Newshade Platinum will be almost identical to that of other Platinum dogs but will be able to produce a fantastic range of Puppies due to it’s genetics.
What is a Platinum Merle Frenchie?
Merle is a patterning effect that can cause patches of fur displaying in different colors. In a Platinum Merle French Bulldog the appearance wont be any different as the Cream color will make both the base coat and patches the same.
Despite there being no visible difference it is important that a Platinum Merle is identified if it is to be used for breeding. When breeding Merles it is important that Merle is never bred with a Merle as this can result in offspring getting two Merle Genes. This is referred to as a Double Merle and has a very high risk of additional health issues. It is highly likely that this dog would be deaf with eye deformities ranging from blindness to missing eyes. There are also additional health concerns.
In some studies it has shown that Single Merles also carry a higher risk of health issues when compared to non-merle dogs. The additional risk does differ between breed and there hasn’t been a comprehensive study specifically into French Bulldogs to confirm if this is the case. The majority of Single Merle French Bulldogs don’t display any additional health issues.
How Can I tell if my Dogs are Platinum?
A Platinum French Bulldog and a Cream French Bulldog will look very similar at a glance. The visible difference between the two will be around the areas which are unaffected by the cream gene. These are the nose, eyes, lips and paw pads, a cream Frenchie will have dark eyes, black nose and paw pads. You will notice however on a Platinum that these are affected by the dilution gene and will appear lighter in color.
A Champagne and Platinum Frenchie however will not have any clear displayable differences. It is noted that the chocolate gene often comes with a red eye glow that is visible in camera recordings. This would differentiate the two but isn’t always simple to spot.
The most reliable way to find out if a dog is Platinum is through a DNA test. This will give you certainty around the genetics and can also be used to test for a number of health conditions and Merle if you are considering breeding.
How much does a Platinum French Bulldog Cost?
There are a number of other factors which can increase/decrease the price of a Platinum Frenchie. Due to Platinum Frenchies being rare themselves if you add other rare traits such as Fluffy/Merle the price can spiral to unrealistic amounts quickly. The below table is to give an indication of the range you could expect. As Platinum’s are mainly bought for breeding you should expect to pay a high price.
| Type of French Bulldog | Price |
| Platinum French Bulldog | $5,000 + |
| Isabella Platinum French Bulldog | $12,000 + |
| Newshade Platinum French Bulldog | $15,000 + |
| Platinum Merle French Bulldog | $10,000 + |
| Fluffy Platinum French Bulldog | $15,000 + |
| Fluffy Merle Platinum French Bulldog | $50,000 + |
With the rarer combinations it is likely a breeder can pick their price due to the rarity and potential to produce rare offspring with ease.
Platinum French Bulldog Health Issues
It is widely accepted that French Bulldogs have a large number of health concerns. Whilst good breeding can alleviate some of the issues below is a list of common health problems, how to spot them and manage them if possible.
Allergies
Whilst not unique to Frenchies they are known to suffer more than other breeds. This will usually display in red/raw patches often around their paws. Also it can show through watery eyes, ear infections or sneezing. If you suspect allergy issues it is best to discuss with a vet around possible treatments.
Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome (BAS)
Due to their short snouts it can lead to issues around their breathing. This usually results in snoring and noisy breathing. It can however lead to retching, regurgitaion and vomiting and it certainly lowers their tolerance to heat. Due to this it’s best to ensure they are not over exposed to heat as this can quickly turn into heat stroke due to their inability to cool themselves quickly.
Skin Fold Dermatitis
Whilst we love their wrinkles and skinfolds it can lead to issues within these folds. It is important these areas are checked for redness and sores, you will usually see your Frenchie attempting to lick/scratch any irritated areas.
Ear Infections
Due to the shape of the French Bulldog they can have issues in keeping their ears clean. Often these areas become breeding grounds for bacteria. In order to clean them the first rule is not to put anything inside the ear, this often just compacts any dirt within the ear. It is best to use an ear cleaner to break down the dirt.
Corneal Ulcers
As a result of the eyes standing more predominately on their face they are at risk of eye issues. They can also be born with small amounts of tissue sticking out of their eye. If you notice this or any redness/lumps around the eye your best bet is a trip to the vet.
Back and Spine issues
Unfortunately it is more common in Frenchies for them to have issues around their back and necks. This often results in back pain and sometimes slipped discs. Often these issues will display themselves later in life and it is best to consult a vet.
