English Bulldog vs French Bulldog
Related breeds with the same easy-going, affectionate nature, but different sizes. The English Bulldog is a heavier, wider, medium-sized dog; the French Bulldog is small and portable with bat ears. Both have short faces and need careful management of heat, breathing and weight.
At a glance
| English Bulldog | French Bulldog | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Weight | 40–55 lb (18–25 kg) | 18–29 lb (8–13 kg) |
| Lifespan | 8–10 years | 10–12 years |
| Coat | Short · Short, fine, smooth | Short · Short, smooth, fine |
| Origin | England | France / England |
| Typical monthly cost | $90–$135 / month | $75–$85 / month |
Temperament & care, rated 1–5
| English Bulldog | French Bulldog | |
|---|---|---|
| Energy levelNeeds a lot of activity every day | 1 | 2 |
| Exercise needsLong daily walks or workouts required | 1 | 2 |
| IntelligenceLearns quickly and solves problems | 2 | 3 |
| TrainabilityTakes to training readily | 2 | 3 |
| AffectionWants close contact with people | 4 | 5 |
| IndependenceCopes well with time alone | 5 | 4 |
| Good with childrenPatient and tolerant with kids | 4 | 5 |
| Good with other petsUsually settles with other animals | 4 | 5 |
| Apartment friendlyComfortable in a smaller home | 4 | 5 |
| Beginner friendlyForgiving for a first-time owner | 4 | 5 |
| SheddingSheds heavily | 3 | 3 |
| Grooming needsFrequent brushing or professional grooming | 3 | 1 |
| Noise levelVocal — barks, meows or calls often | 3 | 3 |
Highlighted = the easier choice for most owners on that trait (higher, except shedding, grooming and noise, where lower is easier).
The key differences
- Size: English Bulldogs are much heavier; Frenchies are small.
- Ears: Frenchies have upright bat ears; English Bulldogs have small folded "rose" ears.
- Both are brachycephalic: heat, strenuous exercise and excess weight are real dangers.
- Both commonly need caesarean births and have higher-than-average vet costs.
Choose the English Bulldog if…
- You want a sturdy, laid-back dog with a big presence and don't need a walking partner.
- You can manage skin-fold care and the costs of a breed with many health issues.
Choose the French Bulldog if…
- You want a small, adaptable apartment dog that is easy to carry and travel with.
- You want a slightly more playful companion.