Boston Terrier vs French Bulldog
Two small, flat-faced companion dogs that suit city life. The Boston Terrier is lighter, longer-legged and more energetic, and usually has fewer breathing problems; the French Bulldog is heavier, calmer and more prone to breathing, spine and heat issues because of its very short face and compact build.
At a glance
| Boston Terrier | French Bulldog | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Small | Medium |
| Weight | 11–24 lb (5–11 kg) | 18–29 lb (8–13 kg) |
| Height | 15–16.9 in (38–43 cm) | — |
| Lifespan | 11–13 years | 10–12 years |
| Coat | Short · Short, smooth, fine | Short · Short, smooth, fine |
| Origin | United States | France / England |
| Breed group | Non-Sporting / Companion | — |
| Typical monthly cost | $70–$80 / month | $75–$85 / month |
| Temperament | Friendly, Lively, Affectionate, Clever | — |
Temperament & care, rated 1–5
| Boston Terrier | French Bulldog | |
|---|---|---|
| Energy levelNeeds a lot of activity every day | 4 | 2 |
| Exercise needsLong daily walks or workouts required | 3 | 2 |
| IntelligenceLearns quickly and solves problems | 4 | 3 |
| TrainabilityTakes to training readily | 4 | 3 |
| AffectionWants close contact with people | 5 | 5 |
| IndependenceCopes well with time alone | 2 | 4 |
| Good with childrenPatient and tolerant with kids | 5 | 5 |
| Good with other petsUsually settles with other animals | 4 | 5 |
| Apartment friendlyComfortable in a smaller home | 5 | 5 |
| Beginner friendlyForgiving for a first-time owner | 5 | 5 |
| SheddingSheds heavily | 2 | 3 |
| Grooming needsFrequent brushing or professional grooming | 1 | 1 |
| Noise levelVocal — barks, meows or calls often | 2 | 3 |
Highlighted = the easier choice for most owners on that trait (higher, except shedding, grooming and noise, where lower is easier).
The key differences
- Build: Bostons are leggier and lighter; Frenchies are stockier and heavier for their height.
- Ears: Frenchies have large "bat" ears; Bostons have pointed erect ears.
- Health: both are brachycephalic, but Frenchies are generally more affected by breathing problems and overheating.
- Energy: Bostons are usually the more active of the two.
Choose the Boston Terrier if…
- You want a lively, playful small dog that enjoys walks and games.
- You'd like a lighter, more athletic flat-faced breed.
Choose the French Bulldog if…
- You want a calm, low-exercise apartment companion.
- You're prepared for the cost of possible breathing, spine and skin problems and can keep the dog cool in hot weather.