Battle of the Bulldogs

The French and English Bulldogs are some of the most popular breeds in the world.

In 2022, the Bulldog ranked #6 on AKC’s Breed Popularity List.

But the Frenchie?

It ranked #1 out of 199 breeds!

Can you believe that?

There’s one thing for sure: both Bulldogs are extremely popular today

Similar — but couldn’t be more different

English Bulldog and French Bulldog have several similarities.

Strong jaws: both breeds have strong powerful jaws that will tear through nearly any toy they get their paws on
Flat-faced: also known as a brachycephalic breed; this predisposes them to breathing issues
Loyal: they love their owners; can be territorial
Intelligent: these Bulldogs are smarter than you’d think!

Frenchie vs. English Bulldog Comparison

	French Bulldog	English Bulldog
Height	11-12 inches	14-15 inches
Weight	20-28 pounds	40-60 pounds
Lifespan	10-14 years	8-10 years
Coat	short & smooth	short & coarse
Ear Shape	pointy bat ears	rose-shaped ears
Average Price	$3,500	$2,500
Activity Level	Moderate	Low to Moderate
Trainability	Intelligent	Stubborn
Exercise Needs	Daily walks and playtime	Low to moderate exercise
Health Concerns	Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome, Hip Dysplasia, Allergies, IVDD, Cherry Eye	Hip Dysplasia, Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome, Skin Infections, Cherry Eye, Elbow Dysplasia
Temperament	Affectionate, friendly, playful	Loyal, calm, courageous
Grooming Needs	Low maintenance	Moderate maintenance
Apartment Living	Suitable	Suitable, but may require a bit more space
Compatibility	Good with families, children, and other pets	Good with families, children, and other pets

1. Height

Height is one of the key physical differences between English Bulldogs and French Bulldogs.

The English Bulldog

The height of the English Bulldog is typically around 14 to 15 inches (35 to 38 cm) at the shoulder.

A Fawn and White English Bulldog from the side

The French Bulldog

In contrast, the French Bulldog is a bit shorter, with a height of approximately 11 to 12 inches (28 to 30 cm) at the shoulder.

It’s more of a difference than you’d think

While the height difference may not seem like much, it can be noticeable when comparing the two breeds side by side. English Bulldogs are generally larger and more robust, while French Bulldogs are more compact and agile.

Frenchies are easier to travel with

The Frenchie’s smaller compact size makes them a lot easier to travel with — especially on planes where they have to fit under the seat in front of you.

2. Weight

Weight is another key physical difference between English Bulldogs and French Bulldogs.

English Bulldog Weight

The weight of the English Bulldog typically ranges from 40 to 60 pounds (18 to 27 kg), with males being heavier than females.

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French Bulldog Weight

In contrast, the French Bulldog is a smaller breed, with a weight range of approximately 20 to 28 pounds (9 to 13 kg).

The English Bulldog can weigh twice as much as a Frenchie!

This means that the English Bulldog can weigh roughly twice as much as the French Bulldog, making them a more substantial and sturdy breed.

Watch out for obesity in both of them

However, it’s important to note that obesity is a common problem in both breeds, and maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise is crucial for their overall health.

A Frenchie might be better for smaller living spaces

When selecting a breed, it’s important to consider not only their weight but also their activity level and temperament. While English Bulldogs are larger and may require more space, French Bulldogs are smaller and may be better suited to apartment living or owners with less space.

3. Lifespan

Lifespan is an important factor to consider when selecting a breed, as it can impact the length of time you get to spend with your dog.

English Bulldog Lifespan

The average lifespan of an English Bulldog is typically around 8 to 10 years, with some living up to 12 years or more.

Unfortunately, English Bulldogs are prone to a variety of health issues, which can impact their longevity, including respiratory problems, hip dysplasia, and skin infections.

French Bulldog Lifespan

In contrast, the average lifespan of a French Bulldog is approximately 10 to 14 years, with some living up to 15 years or more.

While French Bulldogs can also be prone to health issues such as hip dysplasia and respiratory problems, they tend to be healthier overall than English Bulldogs.

Lifespan can vary on many factors — factors you can control!

It’s important to note that lifespan can vary within each breed, and factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, and healthcare can all impact a dog’s longevity.

Regular veterinary check-ups, a healthy diet, and proper exercise can all help ensure your dog lives a long and healthy life, regardless of breed.

4. Coat

Both the English Bulldog and French Bulldog have short hair…

But there are some differences in the texture and appearance of their coats.

English Bulldog has a coarser coat

The coat of the English Bulldog is typically more coarse and harsh than that of the French Bulldog.

It is also thicker and denser, which can make grooming and shedding management a bit more challenging.

The Frenchie’s coat is softer

In contrast, the coat of the French Bulldog is smoother and softer than that of the English Bulldog.

This makes them easier to groom and maintain, with less shedding and a sleeker appearance.

Both come in many colors

Both breeds come in a variety of colors and patterns, including brindle, fawn, white, and black.

It’s important to note that coat color and texture can vary within each breed and may be influenced by genetics.

Both have low-maintenance coats

Overall, the coat of both the English Bulldog and French Bulldog is relatively low-maintenance and easy to care for. Regular brushing and occasional bathing can help keep their coats looking healthy and shiny.

5. Eye Color

Eye color can vary within both the English Bulldog and French Bulldog breeds. While both breeds have a wide range of eye colors, there are some differences between them.

English Bulldog Eyes

The English Bulldog’s eye color can range from dark blue to light blue, and they can also have brown or green eyes. Some English Bulldogs can even have two different colored eyes, which is known as heterochromia.

French Bulldog Eyes

In contrast, the French Bulldog’s eye color ranges from brown to hazel. While blue eyes are possible in French Bulldogs, it is less common than in English Bulldogs.

Eye color is genetic

It’s important to note that eye color can be influenced by genetics, and it’s not always predictable.

In some cases, a puppy may have one eye color when they are born, but it can change as they grow older. So they might be born with blue eyes that turn brown as they get older.

Overall, eye color is just one small aspect of a dog’s appearance and personality, and it does not affect their health or behavior.

6. Ear Shape

Ear shape is one of the most distinctive physical differences between English Bulldogs and French Bulldogs.

English Bulldog Ear Shape

English Bulldogs have rose-shaped ears, which are small and folded over, sitting close to the head.

This gives them a cute and cuddly appearance and is one of the most recognizable features of the breed.

French Bulldog Ear Shape

In contrast, French Bulldogs have bat ears, which are larger and more triangular in shape.

These ears stand erect and are set high on the head, giving them a distinctive and alert appearance.

While ear shape does not impact a dog’s health or behavior, it is an important aspect of their physical appearance and can help distinguish one breed from another.

7. Price

The average price of a French Bulldog is $3,500, while an English Bulldog is around $2,500.

The price of both breeds varies significantly and is mainly determined by its coat color.

Price will vary based on…

Gender — typically female dogs will cost more than males due to their ability to breed
Breeder — a breeder that has a good reputation will usually charge more for their puppies compared to a smaller, less-known breeder; highly reputable breeders will usually have a longer waitlist for their puppies as well
Location — depending on where you live, the average price of a dog might be more or less compared to the average… in metropolitan areas (e.g. Los Angeles, New York City, Chicago, Miami, etc.) the price will be a bit higher compared to the prices you’d find in smaller cities or rural towns.
Color & pattern — some colors & patterns have genetics that are quite rare and breeders will typically charge more for these

8. General Appearance

Both French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs have a distinctive appearance that is instantly recognizable.

They are both stocky, muscular dogs with short hair that comes in a variety of colors, including fawn, brindle, white, and black.

Both have large heads & powerful jaws

One of the most prominent features of both breeds is their large head, which is proportionate to their body size.

They have a square-shaped face with a pointed chin and a slightly upturned nose. Their eyes are almond-shaped and set wide apart, and they have a characteristic wrinkled forehead.

What’s different

While both breeds share many physical characteristics, there are also some differences in their appearance.

French Bulldogs are generally smaller and have pointy bat ears, while English Bulldogs are larger and have rose-shaped ears.

9. Temperament

English Bulldog Temperament

English Bulldogs are known for their friendly, calm, courageous, and affectionate personalities. They are loyal companions that make great family pets and are often used for therapy work with children who have had traumatic experiences.

English Bulldog Personality Traits

Loyal: English Bulldogs are very loyal to their owners and love to be with them as much as possible.
Calm: Despite their muscular and tough appearance, English Bulldogs have a calm and easygoing personality.
Stubborn: English Bulldogs can be stubborn at times, which can make training a bit challenging.
Affectionate: They love to cuddle and be close to their owners, and will often seek out affection and attention.
Playful: While they may not have a lot of energy, English Bulldogs still enjoy playtime and can be quite playful.
Protective: They have a protective nature and will do what it takes to keep their owners safe.
Independent: English Bulldogs can be independent and enjoy alone time, but they also crave attention and companionship.

Thrive on human interaction

They are very gentle and sensitive dogs that thrive on human interaction, and they do not like to be left alone for extended periods.

Don’t like being alone for too long

English Bulldogs live well in a home with other animals, but they can become distressed if they are the only dog in the house. It’s important for owners to socialize them properly and make sure they are not left alone for long periods of time.

Loyal companions

The breed standard describes English Bulldogs as “loyal companions,” which is an accurate description of their temperament. They are known for being very affectionate and loving towards their families, and they are also known for their bravery and protective instincts.

Despite their sometimes stubborn and independent nature, English Bulldogs are generally easygoing and adaptable dogs that make great pets for a wide range of owners.

French Bulldog Temperament

French Bulldogs are known for their smart, adaptable, playful, friendly, and affectionate personalities. They are fun-loving dogs that make great companions for families and individuals alike. They get along well with children and are excellent watchdogs, alerting their owners to any potential threats.

French Bulldog Personality Traits

Friendly and affectionate: French Bulldogs form strong bonds with their owners and enjoy spending time with them.
Good with children and other pets: They are known to be good with children and can generally tolerate other pets in the home.
Good watchdogs: They are alert and protective of their owners, making them good watchdogs.
Need regular exercise and mental stimulation: French Bulldogs can become destructive if they are bored and need regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.
Sensitive to their owner’s mood and emotions: They are known to be sensitive to their owner’s mood and may become upset if they sense any negative emotions.
Love attention and human interaction: French Bulldogs crave human attention and love to be around their owners.

Loyal to their owners

French Bulldogs like to be part of the family and are very protective of their owners. They are loyal dogs that form strong bonds with their families and enjoy spending time with them.

A French Bulldog laying outside on brick next to its owner — Frenchies love hanging with nobody more than their owners

Need mental stimulation

However, it’s important to keep French Bulldogs active and stimulated, as they can become destructive if they are bored. They need regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.

Get along well with most people & animals

French Bulldogs generally get along well with other animals and can tolerate other pets in the home. However, they can be territorial and will guard their domain with aggression if they feel threatened.

Overall, French Bulldogs are loving, playful, and protective dogs that make great pets for a wide range of owners. As with any dog, their temperament is influenced by both heredity and environment, so it’s important to socialize and train them properly to ensure a well-behaved and happy dog.

10. Health Problems

Both French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs are prone to hip dysplasia and breathing issues, which are common health issues among flat-faced breeds.

French Bulldogs are more likely to suffer from IVDD and allergies, while English Bulldogs may be prone to skin infections and elbow dysplasia.

Owners of both breeds should be aware of these potential health problems and take steps to prevent or manage them, including regular vet checkups, a healthy diet, and regular exercise.

Common French Bulldog Health Issues

Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome (BAS): due to their flat faces, French Bulldogs may experience difficulty breathing, which can lead to other health issues such as snoring, coughing, and even collapsing.
Hip Dysplasia: a genetic condition where the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to arthritis and pain in the hips.
Allergies: Frenchies may be prone to skin allergies, which can cause itching, redness, and discomfort.
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): a spinal condition that can cause pain, paralysis, and even loss of bladder control.
Cherry Eye: a condition where the gland of the third eyelid prolapses, causing a visible red mass on the eye.

Common English Bulldog Health Issues

Hip Dysplasia: a genetic condition that can cause arthritis and pain in the hips.
Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome (BAS): English Bulldogs have short snouts, which can cause breathing difficulties and other health issues such as snoring, coughing, and collapsing.
Skin Infections: due to their wrinkled skin, English Bulldogs may be prone to skin infections, especially in the folds of their skin.
Cherry Eye: a condition where the gland of the third eyelid prolapses, causing a visible red mass on the eye.
Elbow Dysplasia: a genetic condition where the elbow joint does not develop properly, causing arthritis and pain in the elbows.

11. A brief history of the French Bulldog and English Bulldog

French Bulldog

French Bulldogs have a long history, with their roots tracing back to the 1800s. They were originally bred in England as miniature Bulldogs, but as the Industrial Revolution led to urbanization, many workers moved to France and took their Bulldogs with them.

The French fell in love with the Frenchie

The French soon fell in love with the breed, and the French Bulldog we know today was developed in France. They were bred primarily as companion dogs and quickly became popular among French society.

French Bulldogs were also used as ratters in the fashion industry, where they hunted down rats in the clothing factories of Paris.

Today, they’re the most popular breed in the world

Today, French Bulldogs are the most popular breed in the world — ranked #1 in 2022 — known for their friendly, affectionate nature and unique appearance.

English Bulldog

The English Bulldog, on the other hand, has a less colorful history. They were developed in England in the early 19th century as a fighting dog, bred for their strength and tenacity.

Originally used in bull-baiting & working

English Bulldogs were used to pull carts and other heavy loads, as well as in bull-baiting, a cruel sport that involved releasing a bull into a ring and setting a pack of Bulldogs on it. This practice was outlawed in England in 1835, and the English Bulldog’s popularity as a fighting dog declined.

They soon became companion dogs

They were later developed as a companion dog, and by the end of the 19th century, English Bulldogs were recognized as a breed by the Kennel Club in England. Today, English Bulldogs are known for their loyalty and devotion to their families, as well as their distinctive appearance and playful personality.

Both breeds are incredibly popular today

In recent years, the popularity of both French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs has skyrocketed. However, this surge in popularity has also led to some health issues, as breeders try to meet the high demand for these dogs.

It’s important for potential owners to research breeders carefully and choose a reputable one to ensure they get a healthy, happy puppy.

Which is right for me?

If you’re trying to decide between a Frenchie or English Bulldog — you can’t go wrong with either!

Both are active, playful, and intelligent dogs that make great family pets.

A Frenchie is probably right for you if…

You want a smaller dog: You’re looking for a small to medium-sized dog that doesn’t require a lot of space. Frenchies’ small size makes them easy to travel with — they’re small enough to ride with you on a plane!
You want a low-maintenance coat: You prefer a dog with a short coat that is easy to maintain.
You want a loving companion: You want a companion that is affectionate, playful, and adaptable to different environments.
You can deal with the stubbornness: You don’t mind a dog that can be stubborn at times but can also be trained with patience and positive reinforcement.
You want a family pet: You’re looking for a dog that gets along well with children and other pets, including other dogs.
You’re ready for any health issues: You’re prepared to deal with potential health issues such as breathing problems, allergies, and joint problems that are common in the breed.
You don’t want a highly active dog: You’re looking for a dog that enjoys moderate exercise, such as short walks and playtime in the backyard.

An English Bulldog is probably for you if…

You want a bigger dog: You’re looking for a medium to large-sized dog with a distinctive appearance. They’re a bit bigger than Frenchies which can make it harder to travel with them, especially on planes.
You want a low-maintenance coat: You prefer a dog with a short coat that is easy to groom.
You want a loyal & loving companion: You want a companion that is affectionate, loyal, and devoted to their family.
You’re ready to train them: You don’t mind a dog that can be stubborn and requires a firm but gentle hand in training.
You want an adaptable dog: You’re looking for a dog that is calm and adaptable to different living situations, including apartments and houses.
You’re ready for any health issues: You’re prepared to deal with potential health issues such as breathing problems, hip dysplasia, and skin allergies that are common in the breed.
You want a lazy dog: You’re looking for a laid-back dog that doesn’t require a lot of exercise but still enjoys going for short walks and playtime.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both breeds of dogs are very friendly, affectionate, and loyal to their owners, but the temperament of any dog is influenced by both heredity and environment.

Therefore, the choice of the breeder and the way the dog is raised and socialized will make a big difference in the way the dog will turn out to be.

Both breeds of dogs can live very long lives, provided they are taken care of properly.

A well-bred, well-socialized English Bulldog or a well-bred, well-socialized French Bulldog will live a much longer happy life than a poorly-bred or poorly-socialized dog.

Therefore, if you are looking for a new puppy, you should choose the best suits your lifestyle and temperament.

This guide provided you with the information you need to make an intelligent decision about which breed of dog would be the best fit for your lifestyle and your home.