French Bulldog vs English Bulldog: A Comprehensive Comparison

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French Bulldog Embalmed with Toilet Paper on Couch
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Both French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs are beloved companions, but they have distinct differences in their origins. The French Bulldog originated in France, where it was bred as a toy version of the Bulldog.

One of the most notable differences between the two breeds is their size. English Bulldogs typically weigh between 40-55 pounds, while French Bulldogs weigh between 16-28 pounds.

Their physical characteristics also set them apart. English Bulldogs have a more muscular build and a flat, broad face, while French Bulldogs have a more compact, athletic body and a distinctive "bat ear."

In terms of grooming, both breeds require regular attention but English Bulldogs need more frequent bathing due to their skin folds.

Appearance

French bulldogs and English bulldogs may look similar at first glance, but they have some notable differences in their appearance.

One of the most striking differences is their size. French bulldogs typically weigh between 16-28 pounds and stand 11-13 inches tall, while English bulldogs can weigh up to 50 pounds and reach a height of 15 inches.

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Their ears are another distinctive feature, with French bulldogs having large, bat-like ears that stand up straight, and English bulldogs having smaller, folded ears.

Both breeds have a short, smooth coat that requires little grooming, but French bulldogs often have a wider range of coat colors and patterns, including white, cream, fawn, and brindle.

Here's a comparison of the two breeds' sizes:

Physical Characteristics

French bulldogs and English bulldogs are both adorable breeds with some notable physical characteristics.

Both breeds have stocky bodies with short legs and a smooth, short coat that sheds. They're not hypoallergenic dogs, so if you have allergies, this might not be the best choice for you.

One of the most distinctive features of these breeds is their face shape. They both have short muzzles and flat faces with wrinkles, but English bulldogs are stockier and wrinklier than French bulldogs.

Their ears are also quite different. French bulldogs have large bat ears that stick straight up, while English bulldogs have rose ears that flop down and to the side.

Intriguing read: Short Bulldog Breeds

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Both breeds have short tails that are either straight or screw-shaped, but not curly like a pig's tail. They come in similar coat colors and patterns, including white, cream, and fawn, and can be solid, brindle, or piebald.

Here's a comparison of the breeds' sizes:

This size difference is worth considering if you're looking for a lap dog or have weight limits in your community.

Size and Appearance

French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs are two breeds that are often confused with each other due to their similar appearance. They both have flat faces and wrinkles, but there are distinct traits between the two breeds, including their size.

French Bulldogs have a smaller, slimmer body and typically weigh less than 28 pounds, while English Bulldogs have a stockier body and can weigh up to 50 pounds.

One of the most noticeable differences between the two breeds is their height. French Bulldogs are typically shorter, at a maximum height of 13 inches, while English Bulldogs can reach a maximum height of 15 inches.

On a similar theme: Micro Bully Height

Close-Up Shot of Black French Bulldog
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The ears of French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs are also quite different. French Bulldogs have large, bat-like ears that stand up straight, while English Bulldogs have smaller, folded ears.

In terms of head shape, French Bulldogs have a square head, while English Bulldogs have a rounder head with a broad forehead.

Both breeds have a wide array of coat colors, including white, cream, fawn, and various patterns and markings.

Here's a comparison of the two breeds' sizes:

French Bulldogs are often more energetic and determined than English Bulldogs, but both breeds make great companions for the right owner.

Health

Both French and English Bulldogs live relatively short lives, with an average lifespan of 10-12 years for French Bulldogs and 8-10 years for English Bulldogs. Regular veterinary check-ups and a good diet can help ensure they live a long and happy life.

Brachycephalic airway syndrome is a common health issue in both breeds, caused by their short snout and flat face. This can result in noisy, labored breathing, especially in extreme heat or during exercise. It's essential to monitor your dog's breathing and keep them out of the heat to prevent complications.

French Bulldogs are also prone to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, spinal problems, heart disease, and hypothyroidism. English Bulldogs are at risk for skin fold pyoderma, allergies, hip dysplasia, entropion, and obesity.

Here's an interesting read: English Bulldog Heat Cycle

Health Issues

Close-Up View of a French Bulldog
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Both French and English Bulldogs are prone to serious health issues due to their brachycephalic breeds, which means they have a short snout and flat face. This can lead to brachycephalic airway syndrome, causing noisy and labored breathing.

It's essential to keep them out of extreme heat, which can worsen their breathing problems, and monitor them while exercising to ensure they're not having trouble breathing.

French Bulldogs are at risk for developing hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, spinal problems, heart disease, hypothyroidism, skin fold pyoderma, allergies, and obesity. English Bulldogs are prone to similar issues, including skin fold pyoderma, allergies, hip dysplasia, entropion, and obesity.

Both breeds have a relatively short lifespan, with French Bulldogs living 10-12 years and English Bulldogs living 8-10 years. This is due to various factors, including genetics, care, and quality of life.

To provide a long and happy life for your bulldog, it's crucial to give them high-quality food, regular training and exercise to avoid obesity, and a good and reliable vet.

Additional reading: English Bulldog Skin Infection

Breathing

Grayscale Close-up Photo of Horse's Snout
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Breathing can be a challenge for bulldogs, especially in hot or humid weather. Both English and French bulldogs are brachycephalic breeds, which means they can have trouble breathing.

They often need to stay indoors in the air conditioning to avoid overheating. This is crucial for their health and well-being.

Their top-heavy shape also makes it difficult for them to swim, so it's essential to keep them away from pools and other deep bodies of water.

Skin

English bulldogs and French bulldogs are prone to skin issues due to their wrinkly skin, which can trap allergens and irritants. This can lead to skin allergies and autoimmune-related skin problems.

Bulldog skin folds can harbor allergens, making skin allergies more likely. Adding a fish oil supplement to their diet can help support their skin health.

Both breeds can benefit from regular skin care and maintenance to prevent skin issues from arising.

Personality and Temperament

Both French and English Bulldogs have friendly, good-natured temperaments. They make loving companions and are known to be loyal to their owners.

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English Bulldogs are often described as laid-back, calm, and courageous. They're loving cuddle companions and their behavior ranges from dignified to clownish. They tend to be calmer and more relaxed than Frenchies, requiring slightly less exercise.

French Bulldogs, on the other hand, are playful, intelligent, and adaptable. They're often more energetic and require games that are mentally challenging to burn off their excess energy. They're known to be fun-loving and outgoing with a strong personality.

Both breeds are prone to developing separation anxiety, so early socialization and exposure to different people, sights, sounds, and experiences is vital. They're also very trainable, but can be a bit stubborn at times.

Here's a comparison of the breeds:

Ultimately, the choice between a French Bulldog and an English Bulldog comes down to your personal preference. If you're looking for a more relaxed companion, an English Bulldog might be the better choice. However, if you're looking for a spunky and playful companion, a French Bulldog could be the perfect fit.

Exercise and Training

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Both French and English bulldogs have a stubborn streak, but they're still trainable with patience and consistency.

They benefit from early socialization, so expose them to various people, dogs, and situations from puppyhood.

French bulldogs are prone to separation anxiety and may become destructive or vocal when left alone too often, so it's essential to train them to accept alone time while they're still young.

Start by leaving them alone for only five minutes at a time, giving them a fun toy or treat whenever you leave home, and slowly build up to longer periods of time.

Exercise Needs

French Bulldogs need about 30 minutes to one hour of exercise each day, which can include short walks, fetch, tug-of-war, and hide-and-seek games.

English Bulldogs, on the other hand, require only about 15 to 40 minutes of daily exercise to help keep off unwanted extra weight.

Both breeds benefit from daily exercise, but in slightly different amounts.

Make sure to restrict exercise for both breeds when it's hot and humid outside, as they are highly susceptible to overheating due to their flat faces.

6. Trainability

French Bulldog with Pet Cone
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French and English bulldogs are relatively small, making them easy to exercise with indoor playtime.

Both breeds can be stubborn at times, but they're still responsive to training.

French bulldogs are slightly easier to train than English bulldogs, thanks to their slightly higher IQ.

Early socialization is key for these breeds - expose them to various people, dogs, and situations from puppyhood.

French bulldogs are prone to separation anxiety, so it's essential to train them to accept alone time from a young age. Start by leaving them alone for short periods, like five minutes, and give them a fun toy or treat.

A unique perspective: How to Train French Bulldogs

Cost and Considerations

French bulldogs and English bulldogs can be quite pricey, with French bulldogs costing between $1,500 to $9,000 and English bulldogs ranging from $1,000 to $8,000.

Both breeds require regular veterinary care, with French bulldogs needing more frequent check-ups due to their brachycephalic skull structure.

Their weight and health issues can lead to higher costs, with French bulldogs averaging 16-28 pounds and English bulldogs weighing 40-55 pounds.

Cost

A French Bulldog Sitting on a Beach
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The cost of bringing home a French or English Bulldog can be steep, ranging from $1,500 to $5,000 in the U.S. depending on the breeder and location.

Their popularity as highly sought-after companions contributes to their high cost, with prices reflecting their ease of living in apartments and their affectionate nature.

English Bulldogs can cost between $1,500 and $4,500, while their French counterparts are priced between $1,500 and $3,000.

Puppies with rare coat colors or from champion bloodlines can increase the price range even further.

The cost of a French Bulldog can start at $4,000, with an average price of $5,300, while English Bulldogs typically cost between $2,000 and $4,000.

Rarer colors and patterns can drive up the price even more, ranging from $6,000 to $30,000 in Frenchies.

Breeding both French and English Bulldogs requires a lot of time, effort, and money, which is reflected in the price of the puppies.

Pet Parent Considerations

As a pet parent, it's essential to consider the unique needs of your furry friend. One thing to keep in mind is that both French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs require short and sweet exercise sessions. This is especially important when it's hot outside, as they're not comfortable in extreme temperatures.

Pair of French Bulldogs
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Their exercise sessions should be broken up into small intervals throughout the day. It's best to stick to early morning or evening outings when the temperature is cooler. This will help prevent heat exhaustion and ensure your pup stays happy and healthy.

English Bulldogs are generally more easygoing than French Bulldogs, but don't let that fool you - they still need mental and physical stimulation. French Bulldogs, on the other hand, are typically more outgoing and love to play.

Both breeds are prone to health issues, including breathing problems, joint conditions, and skin issues. It's crucial to work with a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs.

Here are some specific health issues to watch out for:

  • Breathing problems
  • Joint conditions
  • Skin issues

Breeding

Breeding can be a complex and costly aspect of owning an English or French bulldog. Some countries, like Norway, have even banned breeding them altogether due to health concerns.

Artificial insemination is often necessary to conceive these breeds, with over 80% of litters requiring this method.

These dogs often need to be delivered via c-section due to their physical characteristics.

As a result of these challenges, breeding English and French bulldogs can be a significant undertaking that requires careful consideration.

Comparison and History

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The French Bulldog and English Bulldog have a shared history, but their breeding paths diverged significantly. Both breeds originated in England, with the English Bulldog being a purebred dog registered with the American Kennel Club.

The French Bulldog, also known as the Frenchie, is an altered version of the classic Bulldog. Some people find the French Bulldog to be the prettier version due to its more delicate features.

Here's a comparison of the two breeds' sizes:

Their grooming needs are similar, requiring regular bathing, especially around their wrinkles, and moderate shedding.

In-Depth Comparison

When choosing between a French Bulldog and an English Bulldog, it's essential to consider their physical characteristics.

On average, French Bulldogs stand between 11-13 inches tall at the shoulder, while English Bulldogs reach a height of 14-15 inches at the shoulder.

Both breeds have a short, fine coat that sheds moderately, requiring regular bathing, especially to clean their wrinkles.

Close-Up Shot of a Black French Bulldog
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Their weight varies, with French Bulldogs weighing between 16-28 pounds, regardless of gender, and English Bulldogs weighing between 18-23 kg for females and 23-25 kg for males.

Here's a comparison of the breeds' physical characteristics:

The breeds' energy levels also differ, with French Bulldogs having a low to moderate energy level and English Bulldogs having a moderate energy level.

History

Bulldogs have their origin in the British Isles, where they were bred for bull baiting sport around the 1500s.

This cruel sport required dogs to be trained to "play low", keeping their head close to the ground to avoid being caught by the bull's horns.

The breed was selected for their distinct features, including a wide lower jaw and short muzzle, which gave them the power to survive the sport.

Bulldogs had to be courageous, ferocious, and almost insensitive to pain to participate in bull baiting.

Thankfully, bull baiting was made illegal by the Cruelty to Animals Act of 1835.

Adult Black French Bulldog on Brown Floor
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After the legislation, some considered bulldogs useless, but dog lovers preserved the breed and eliminated their aggressive streak.

The breed was later cross-bred with terriers, pugs, and other small dogs to reduce their size, leading to the birth of French and English bulldogs.

Their historical journey separated when breeders in England sent some bulldogs to France.

Today's bulldogs are different in temperament and appearance than the early version of the breed, with modern French and English bulldogs being affectionate, stable, and gentle.

Lifespan

French bulldogs live longer than English bulldogs, with a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, while English bulldogs typically live 8 to 10 years.

The average lifespan of a canine is 10 to 13 years, so both breeds are considered relatively short-lived.

Despite their shorter lifespan, French bulldogs can face more health problems than English bulldogs, making regular physical exams crucial to prevent issues like hemivertebrae, hip dysplasia, and allergies.

A unique perspective: English Bulldog Then and Now

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French bulldogs have a longer lifespan than English bulldogs, but their smaller size makes them better travel companions, as they can fly on many airlines.

The English bulldog's larger size and laid-back nature make them more suited for lounging on the couch, while Frenchies are more energetic and playful.

Ultimately, the lifespan of both breeds is influenced by factors like genetics, diet, exercise, and veterinary care, making it essential to choose a responsible breeder and provide high-quality care to your bulldog.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is healthier, a French or an English Bulldog?

French Bulldogs are generally considered a healthier breed, but both English and French Bulldogs can be prone to various health issues.

What is the nicest Bulldog?

The French Bulldog is often considered one of the friendliest and most affectionate Bulldog breeds, making them a great companion for families. Known as "Frenchies," they're known for their adaptable and playful nature.

Roberto West

Senior Writer

Roberto West is a talented writer with a passion for storytelling. He has honed his craft through years of writing short stories, novels, and poetry, exploring a wide range of genres and themes. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of human nature, Roberto brings complex characters to life on the page.

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