English Bulldog vs French Bulldog: Which One Is for You?

English Bulldog vs French Bulldog—both are flat-faced dogs with stocky bodies and amusing personalities. At the same time, both breeds have unique distinctions that make them special in their own way.

We will break down the similarities and differences between the English Bulldog and the French Bulldog, so that dog lovers can have a definite idea of which breed suits them better.

English Bulldog vs French Bulldog: Are Both Breeds Related?

Yes, both of these Bulldog breeds are related to each other. The English Bulldog was one of the breeds that were used to create the French Bulldog.

The English Bulldog breed was originally a farm dog in England. However, he was unfortunately exploited to participate in a gruesome blood sport called bull-baiting during the 1200s to 1800s.

Around the 1800s, toy-sized Bulldogs were created by lacemakers living in Nottingham, England. These are smaller versions of the English Bulldogs. In the 1860s, craftsmen brought these dogs with them when they moved to France.

Pugs and Terriers were then believed to have been crossed with their toy-sized Bulldog. This was the beginning of the French Bulldog.

The new Bulldog breed’s popularity exploded in France, which earned the breed his name despite originating from England.

Today, the English Bulldog and the French Bulldog are two of the most popular breeds around the globe. They are famous for their grouchy appearance, which is a great contrast to their comical and lovable personality.

English Bulldog vs French Bulldog: What Are Their Distinctions in Appearance?

What sets apart the English Bulldog from other dogs in terms of looks is his trademark chops that droop down from both sides of his mouth.

The French Bulldog, on the other hand, is famous for his large batlike ears. Some have rose-shaped ears like the English Bulldogs. Although English breeders are fond of them, American breeders deemed them undesirable.

The English and French Bulldogs have several physical differences despite looking somewhat alike.

English Bulldogs have bigger heads and thicker necks. They have more facial and body wrinkles compared to French Bulldogs.

English Bulldogs have smaller eyes, which are set farther from each other, than those of round-eyed French Bulldogs.

The English Bulldog and the French Bulldog have similar physical characteristics too. They have short legs and short, smooth coats. Both Bulldogs sport curly tails like a pig’s.

Some English and French Bulldogs are naturally born with corkscrew tails. However, this characteristic is not acceptable as it signifies that these dogs are highly at risk of spinal problems.

English Bulldog vs French Bulldog: Which Breed Is Good for Apartment Living?

First, let’s look into the size difference between the English Bulldog and the French Bulldog:

A full-grown English Bulldog weighs around 18–22 kilos (40 to 50 pounds)  and is 35–38 centimeters (14–15 inches) tall. An adult French Bulldog weighs 12 kilos (28 pounds) at most and stands around 27–33 centimeters (11–13 inches) tall.

The English Bulldog is a medium-sized dog. Thus, he is much larger than the French Bulldog, who is a small dog breed.

Now let’s move on to their temperaments. Both Bulldog breeds live a sedentary lifestyle. Hence, they don’t require a large home. They are also satisfied with staying indoors most of the time.

This means English Bulldogs and French Bulldogs are suited as apartment pets. If your flat only offers a small space, it would be best to go for the French Bulldog since he is much smaller compared to the English Bulldog.

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English Bulldog vs French Bulldog: Which Breed Requires More Exercise?

The English and French Bulldog are low-energy dog breeds. However, French Bulldogs tend to be more energetic than their English counterparts. Despite their slight gap in energy levels, both breeds need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily.

Rigorous activities are not advisable as the English Bulldog and the French Bulldog are prone to breathing difficulties due to their smushed faces. Short walks and a short session of mentally stimulating games are enough to release their energy.

Both Bulldog breeds are extremely vulnerable to heatstroke. So you need to schedule your walks during early mornings and late evenings.

Around this time, the temperature is cooler, making it much safer to take brachycephalic dogs like English Bulldogs and French Bulldogs for outdoor exercise.

English Bulldog vs French Bulldog: Which Breed Is a Good Family Pet?

English Bulldogs and French Bulldogs are both great family companions. Bulldog breeds are often seen as aggressive dogs, but in reality, they are loving pooches.

The English Bulldog is a great fit for dog lovers who are in search of a mellow and laid-back dog. He is a wonderful playmate for children of any age because of his highly tolerant nature.

If you are looking for a fun-loving and jolly pet, put the French Bulldog on your list. However, he is not recommended for homes with small children. His body is very delicate and he may get easily injured if young children will roughly play with him.

French Bulldogs are lapdogs who want to constantly be with their owners. They have a habit of forming a strong bond with one family member. You may want to keep this in mind since these traits can make them very clingy dogs.

You may also like: 10 Cheapest Dog Breeds That Make the Best Family Pets (2023)

English Bulldog vs French Bulldog: Which of the Two Dog Breeds Are Harder to Train?

Are French Bulldogs smarter than English bulldogs? In a study, French Bulldogs ranked 109, whilst English Bulldogs ranked 136 out of 138 dog breeds on the smartest dog breeds list.

Based on this, the French Bulldog is more intelligent than the English Bulldog.

However, many fanciers of the English Bulldog denounced the belief that the breed has lower learning capabilities than other dogs. English Bulldog is smart, but their strong obstinacy hinders them from making great progress during training.

Many English Bulldog owners had to come up with creative ways to get their dogs to follow their commands.

Although French Bulldogs are quick learners than English Bulldogs, they have a stubborn streak too. Fortunately, it is to a lesser extent than their English counterparts.

Both Bulldog breeds need owners that have unending patience and understanding. Positive reinforcement, especially giving treats as rewards, is very effective in English and French Bulldogs.

Dog owners should be consistent in their training techniques. But when their dog’s behaviour needs to be corrected, implementing harsh punishments should never be considered.

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English Bulldog vs French Bulldog: Are Both Breeds Prone to Diseases?

Do French Bulldogs have as many health problems as English Bulldogs? No, French Bulldogs have lesser health issues compared to English Bulldogs. Nevertheless, both breeds are predisposed to several medical conditions.

Breathing problems are common in these two Bulldog breeds because of their flat faces. Their facial structure also makes them easily succumb to heatstroke and excessive panting.

The English and French Bulldog are quick to gain weight and suffer from obesity. Other common health problems in both dogs are hip dysplasia, cherry eye, allergies.

Choosing a reputable breed is extremely crucial to make sure that you get a healthy Bulldog puppy. They should be able to provide health screening documentation of your dog’s parents to rule out common diseases of the breed.

English Bulldog vs French Bulldog: Which Breed Is Your Perfect Match?

Are French Bulldogs better than English bulldogs? The answer will vary depending on what type of canine companion a dog lover is looking for.

If you want a lapdog that is full of energy and enjoys sticking close to you, the French Bulldog is better suited for you. However, if you wish to have a furry buddy that is more relaxed and requires less attention, go for the English Bulldog.

Be warned that both breeds are expensive to look after since they are prone to health problems.

Before choosing either a French Bulldog or an English Bulldog, carefully think about whether you are financially able to provide for their medical needs in the long run. This will save you and your dog from the heartache of losing each other.