A-Locus Genetics
Tan Point French Bulldog
The complete guide to the A-locus tan point gene (at). Phantom markings, tricolor patterns, and how tan points combine with rare colors like blue and lilac.
Predict Tan Point LittersWhat Is the A-Locus?
The A-locus (agouti) controls the distribution of pigment across the coat. In French Bulldogs, it determines whether the dog shows fawn, sable, or tan point markings.
ay (Fawn)
The fawn allele produces a uniform tan or beige coat. It is dominant over at and aw. Most common Frenchie base color. No dark markings except possible mask.
aw (Sable)
The sable allele produces a coat with darker tips on each hair shaft, creating a shaded or wolf-gray appearance. Less common in Frenchies than fawn.
at (Tan Points)
The tan point allele produces dark body with tan markings on cheeks, chest, legs, and eyebrows. Recessive to ay and aw. Requires no Kb to express.
When Do Tan Points Show?
The A-locus only expresses when the K-locus allows it. Understanding the K-locus + A-locus interaction is critical for predicting tan point outcomes.
Tan Point Color Combinations
Tan points overlay on any base color. When combined with rare color genes, they create some of the most expensive and sought-after French Bulldogs.
Black & Tan
at/at + ky/ky
The classic tan point look. Tan markings on a solid black base. Most affordable tan point combination.
$4,000 – $6,000
Blue Tan
at/at + d/d + ky/ky
Tan points on a blue-gray base. The dilute gene lightens the black base to blue while preserving the tan markings.
$6,000 – $10,000
Chocolate Tan
at/at + b/b + ky/ky
Tan points on a chocolate brown base. The B-locus changes black pigment to rich brown.
$7,000 – $11,000
Lilac Tan
at/at + d/d + b/b + ky/ky
Tan points on a silvery-lilac base. Combines dilute + chocolate + tan points for a stunning rare look.
$10,000 – $18,000
Isabella Tan
at/at + d/d + b/b + co/co + ky/ky
Tan points on an ultra-pale champagne base. The rarest tan point combination requiring four rare loci.
$15,000 – $30,000
Fluffy Tan Point
at/at + L/L + ky/ky + any color
Long soft fluffy coat with tan point markings. Can be combined with any base color for ultra-premium pricing.
$10,000 – $25,000
Predict Tan Point Outcomes
Our DNA Calculator models both K-locus and A-locus together. See exactly which puppies will show tan points, fawn, brindle, or solid black.
Open the DNA CalculatorFrequently Asked Questions
What is a tan point French Bulldog?
A tan point French Bulldog has tan or cream markings on specific parts of the body — typically above the eyes (eyebrow spots), on the cheeks, chest, legs, and under the tail. These markings are produced by the A-locus tan point allele (at). The tan points appear on a darker base color, creating the classic 'phantom' or 'ghost tan' pattern that resembles markings seen on Rottweilers and Dobermans.
How are tan points produced genetically?
Tan points are produced by the A-locus agouti gene. The at allele is recessive to both fawn (ay) and sable (aw). A dog must have at/at or at/aw to show tan points, AND the dog must not have dominant black (Kb at the K-locus) because Kb masks all A-locus expression. The tan points only appear when the K-locus allows A-locus expression (ky/ky or Kbr/ky without Kb).
What is the difference between tan points and tricolor?
In French Bulldogs, 'tan points' and 'tricolor' are often used interchangeably, but there is a subtle distinction. Tan points refers specifically to the A-locus at/at pattern: tan markings on a dark base. Tricolor typically implies tan points combined with white patches from the S-locus (piebald), creating a three-color dog: dark base, tan points, and white. A dog with at/at + Sp/Sp is a true tricolor Frenchie.
Can tan points be combined with rare colors?
Yes. Tan points overlay on any base color allowed by the K-locus. Popular rare tan point combinations include: Blue Tan (d/d + at/at), Chocolate Tan (b/b + at/at), Lilac Tan (d/d + b/b + at/at), and Isabella Tan (d/d + b/b + co/co + at/at). These combinations are highly sought after and command premium prices because they stack multiple rare genes.
Are tan point Frenchies more expensive?
Tan point Frenchies typically cost between $4,000 and $10,000 depending on the base color and whether additional rare genes are present. A standard black-and-tan Frenchie costs around $4,000–$6,000. Blue tan, chocolate tan, and lilac tan combinations range from $7,000 to $15,000. Isabella tan and fluffy tan point combinations can exceed $20,000 due to the stacked rare genetics.
Do tan points fade as the dog ages?
Tan point markings can change in intensity as a Frenchie matures. Puppy tan points are often very bright and well-defined. As the dog ages, the tan may darken slightly or blend more with the base coat. However, the pattern itself (where the tan appears) remains consistent throughout life. The extent of fading varies by individual and is influenced by modifier genes.