Dogs are among the most beloved pets in the world, and bulldogs have earned a special place in the hearts of dog lovers. Two of the most popular bulldog breeds are the English Bulldog and the French Bulldog. Though they share some similarities, they are quite different in terms of appearance, temperament, exercise needs, and suitability as pets.
If you are considering adopting a bulldog but are unsure whether to choose an English Bulldog or a French Bulldog, this article will help you understand the key differences between them. Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to determine which breed suits your lifestyle best.
French Bulldog vs English Bulldog: Key Differences
| Key Differences Feature | French Bulldog | English Bulldog |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | France | England |
| Size | Small (16-28 lbs) | Medium (40-55 lbs) |
| Height | 11-12 inches | 14-15 inches |
| Appearance | Compact, bat-like ears, short nose | Stocky, wrinkled face, pushed-in nose |
| Temperament | Playful, affectionate, alert | Loyal, gentle, stubborn |
| Energy Level | Moderate | Low |
| Exercise Needs | Short walks, playtime | Short walks, prefers lounging |
| Lifespan | 10-14 years | 8-10 years |
| Health Issues | Brachycephalic issues, hip dysplasia, allergies | Brachycephalic issues, hip dysplasia, skin infections |
| Grooming Needs | Low maintenance, occasional brushing | Moderate, wrinkles require cleaning |
| Barking Level | Moderate | Low |
| Trainability | Smart but stubborn | Stubborn, needs patience |
| Best For | Apartment living, companionship | Families, relaxed households |
Key Differences between French Bulldog vs English Bulldog
French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs may share loyalty, intelligence, and affection, but their temperaments set them apart. French Bulldogs are playful, affectionate lap dogs with a streak of independence, while English Bulldogs are more dignified and calm. Both breeds make wonderful pets, but choosing the right one depends on your family’s lifestyle and needs. Let’s explore their key differences in detail.
French Bulldog vs English Bulldog: History
English Bulldog: The English Bulldog originated in England and was initially bred for bull-baiting, a cruel sport that was later banned in the 19th century. Over time, the breed was selectively bred to be a more docile and affectionate companion dog. Today, the English Bulldog is known for its gentle, loving, and loyal nature.
French Bulldog: The French Bulldog traces its origins to the small bulldogs brought to France by English lace workers. These smaller bulldogs were crossbred with local breeds to create the compact and charming French Bulldog. The breed quickly became a favorite among the French elite and is now a popular companion dog worldwide.
French Bulldog vs English Bulldog: Appearance
Height
French Bulldogs are smaller than English Bulldogs. A French Bulldog typically stands between 11-12 inches (28-31 cm) tall at the shoulder, while an English Bulldog is larger, standing about 14-15 inches (36-38 cm) tall.
Weight
French Bulldogs weigh 16-28 pounds (7-13 kg), making them a lighter and more compact breed. In contrast, English Bulldogs are heavier, weighing 40-50 pounds (18-23 kg) due to their bulkier build.
Body Structure
French Bulldogs have a compact and muscular body with a slightly arched back and a leaner build. English Bulldogs, on the other hand, have a stocky and wide body with a broad chest and a lower center of gravity, giving them a more grounded appearance.
Face
Both breeds have wrinkled faces and short muzzles, but English Bulldogs have more pronounced skin folds and a wider face. French Bulldogs have a shorter, more compact snout, while English Bulldogs have a larger, pushed-in nose that contributes to their signature expression.
Ears
One of the biggest differences is their ears. French Bulldogs have large, bat-like ears that stand erect, giving them an alert and playful look. English Bulldogs have small, rose-shaped ears that fold down, contributing to their laid-back and wrinkled appearance.
Tail
French Bulldogs usually have a short, straight, or screw tail that is naturally small. English Bulldogs also have a short tail, but it is more commonly corkscrew-shaped or tightly curled, fitting closely to their body.
The English Bulldog is larger, heavier, and has a more muscular build with a broader chest, while the French Bulldog is more compact and has distinctive bat-like ears.
French Bulldog vs English Bulldog: Colors
Both French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs come in a variety of colors, but their accepted and common shades differ. Here’s a comparison of their coat colors:
| Feature | French Bulldog Colors | English Bulldog Colors |
|---|---|---|
| Common Colors | Fawn, Brindle, Cream, White, Pied (white with patches), Black | Fawn, Brindle, Red, White, Pied, Black |
| Rare Colors | Blue, Lilac, Chocolate, Merle, Isabella | Blue, Lilac, Chocolate, Merle |
| Standard Colors (AKC Recognized) | Fawn, Brindle, White, Cream, Pied | Fawn, Brindle, Red, White, Pied |
| Non-Standard (Not Recognized by AKC) | Blue, Lilac, Chocolate, Merle, Black and Tan | Blue, Lilac, Chocolate, Merle, Black and Tan |
Key Differences:
- French Bulldogs have a wider variety of rare colors like Blue and Isabella.
- English Bulldogs have more solid colors and deeper reds in their coats.
- Both breeds can have brindle and pied patterns.
- Some colors (like merle) are controversial in both breeds due to health concerns.
French Bulldog vs English Bulldog: Coat Type
| Feature | French Bulldog | English Bulldog |
|---|---|---|
| Coat Type | Short, smooth, fine | Short, smooth, fine |
| Shedding | Moderate | Moderate to high |
| Texture | Soft and silky | Slightly rougher and denser |
| Grooming Needs | Low maintenance, occasional brushing | Requires more brushing due to heavier shedding |
| Common Colors | Brindle, fawn, cream, white, pied, blue, lilac | Brindle, white, fawn, red, pied |
French Bulldog vs English Bulldog: Temperament and Personality
Which Bulldog Matches Your Lifestyle?
Both the French Bulldog and the English Bulldog are great companions, but they have different temperaments. If you want a playful and adaptable pet, the French Bulldog is a great choice. If you prefer a laid-back and affectionate dog, the English Bulldog might be a better fit.
Do You Want a Playful or Relaxed Companion?
French Bulldogs are energetic, playful, and love to be the center of attention. They enjoy interactive play and socializing with people and other pets. English Bulldogs, on the other hand, are more relaxed and prefer lounging around. They are affectionate but do not require constant stimulation.
How Social Do You Want Your Dog to Be?
French Bulldogs are social butterflies. They love meeting new people and are generally friendly with other pets. English Bulldogs are also affectionate but can be a bit more reserved. They enjoy companionship but may take longer to warm up to strangers.
Are You Okay with a Stubborn Streak?
Both breeds can be stubborn, but English Bulldogs are more known for their independent nature. Training them requires patience and consistency. French Bulldogs are slightly more eager to please but can still have a mischievous side.
Which Breed Fits Your Energy Level?
If you enjoy short bursts of activity and play, the French Bulldog will keep you entertained. They have more energy than English Bulldogs and love a good game. If you prefer a couch companion, the English Bulldog’s low-energy nature is perfect for you.
French Bulldog vs English Bulldog: Exercise and Training Needs
English Bulldog:
- Requires minimal exercise; about 20-30 minutes of daily walks are sufficient.
- Prone to laziness, so regular walks are essential to prevent obesity.
- Can be stubborn, making training more challenging.
French Bulldog:
- More active and playful, needing about 30-45 minutes of daily exercise.
- Responds well to positive reinforcement training.
- Enjoys interactive play and activities.
If you are looking for a more energetic dog that enjoys playing and short bursts of activity, the French Bulldog is the better choice. However, if you prefer a relaxed dog that enjoys lounging around, the English Bulldog is ideal.
French Bulldog vs English Bulldog: Grooming and Maintenance
| Grooming Needs | English Bulldog | French Bulldog |
|---|---|---|
| Coat Type | Short, smooth | Short, smooth |
| Shedding | Moderate | Low to moderate |
| Wrinkle Care | High (regular cleaning needed) | Moderate |
| Drooling | High | Low |
| Bathing Needs | Once every 2-3 weeks | Once a month |
Both breeds have short coats that require minimal grooming, but English Bulldogs need more skin care due to their deep wrinkles, which require regular cleaning to prevent infections.
Which Breed is Easier to Groom?
If you want a low-maintenance pet, the French Bulldog is a better choice. They have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal brushing. English Bulldogs, on the other hand, have more skin folds, which need extra care to prevent infections.
How Often Should You Brush Them?
French Bulldogs need brushing once or twice a week to remove loose hair. English Bulldogs also require weekly brushing, but their shedding can be slightly heavier, so using a de-shedding tool may help.
Do They Need Frequent Baths?
Both breeds don’t need frequent baths—once a month or when they get dirty is enough. However, English Bulldogs’ skin folds trap dirt and moisture, so cleaning them regularly with wipes is essential.
Are Their Ears and Eyes Hard to Maintain?
Both breeds have ears that need weekly cleaning to prevent infections. Their eyes should also be checked frequently, especially for English Bulldogs, as they are more prone to eye issues.
What About Nail and Dental Care?
Regular nail trimming is important for both breeds—about once every three weeks. Dental care is crucial too, as both breeds are prone to dental disease. Brushing their teeth a few times a week helps maintain good oral health.
Which Breed Requires More Skincare?
English Bulldogs need extra skincare because of their deep wrinkles, which can trap bacteria. French Bulldogs also have wrinkles but require less maintenance. Regular cleaning and drying of skin folds help prevent infections.
Is One Breed More Prone to Grooming-Related Health Issues?
English Bulldogs tend to have more skin problems due to their folds, making them higher maintenance. French Bulldogs also have sensitive skin but require fewer special treatments.
French Bulldog vs English Bulldog: Health Factors
Both French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs are prone to certain health issues due to their flat faces and stocky builds. However, there are some key differences in their common health concerns.
French Bulldog Health Issues
French Bulldogs often suffer from brachycephalic airway syndrome, which makes breathing difficult, especially in hot weather. They are also prone to spinal disorders, hip dysplasia, and skin allergies. Due to their compact size and short snouts, they may experience heat sensitivity and respiratory issues more frequently than English Bulldogs.
English Bulldog Health Issues
English Bulldogs face more severe breathing problems due to their extra-short nose. They are also prone to obesity, hip and elbow dysplasia, and heart diseases. Their wrinkled skin can lead to infections if not cleaned properly. Additionally, they have a shorter lifespan (around 8-10 years) compared to French Bulldogs (10-12 years).
Overall Comparison
While both breeds require special care, French Bulldogs tend to have fewer severe health issues compared to English Bulldogs. However, both need regular vet check-ups, a healthy diet, and proper exercise to maintain good health.
French Bulldog vs English Bulldog: Cost and Availability
| Cost Factor | English Bulldog | French Bulldog |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Price | $2,500-$4,000 | $2,000-$5,000 |
| Food Expenses | Higher due to size | Lower |
| Medical Bills | High (prone to health issues) | Moderate (fewer severe health issues) |
| Grooming Costs | Moderate | Low |
Both breeds are expensive due to their popularity and breeding difficulties, but English Bulldogs are generally more costly to maintain due to their frequent health issues.
Which One is Right for You?
| Lifestyle Factor | Best Choice |
|---|---|
| Small living space | French Bulldog |
| More relaxed pet | English Bulldog |
| Active family | French Bulldog |
| Lower maintenance | French Bulldog |
| More affectionate and lazy | English Bulldog |
| Tolerant to heat | Neither (both are heat-sensitive) |
If you live in an apartment and want a dog that is playful but manageable, the French Bulldog is a great choice. If you prefer a calm and affectionate pet that doesn’t require much activity, the English Bulldog is perfect.
FAQ
Which is better french bulldog or english bulldog?
It depends on preference—French Bulldogs are smaller, playful, and easier to maintain, while English Bulldogs are larger, loyal, and more laid-back.
Which is more expensive English Bulldog or French Bulldog?
English Bulldogs are generally more expensive than French Bulldogs due to their breeding costs and health care needs.
What is the most expensive bulldog breed?
The most expensive bulldog breed is the English Bulldog, with prices ranging from $4,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on pedigree and breeder reputation.
What is the friendliest breed of bulldog?
The French Bulldog is often considered the friendliest bulldog breed due to its affectionate, sociable, and playful nature.
How to choose between English and French Bulldog?
Choose an English Bulldog for a calm, low-energy companion or a French Bulldog for a playful, adaptable pet with fewer health issues.
French Bulldog vs English Bulldog: Conclusion
Choosing between an English Bulldog and a French Bulldog depends on your lifestyle, activity level, and the amount of care you can provide. Both breeds are affectionate, charming, and excellent companions, but they cater to different needs:
- The English Bulldog is perfect for those who want a low-energy, loving, and somewhat lazy pet.
- The French Bulldog is ideal for those who want a playful, energetic, and compact companion.
Regardless of which breed you choose, both dogs will bring joy, loyalty, and companionship to your home. Ensure that you are prepared for their specific health needs and maintenance to give them a happy and comfortable life!