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Boston Terrier vs English Bulldog

Discover the differences between Boston Terrier and English Bulldog to make the best choice for your situation.

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Boston Terrier
United States

Boston Terrier

Non-Sporting Group
Small

Compact, lively, and always cheerful, this breed thrives on human companionship and adapts well to city life. Distinctive tuxedo markings pair with a loving, gentle personality.

English Bulldog
England

English Bulldog

Non-Sporting Group
Medium

Stocky, courageous, and affectionate, this breed charms with its wrinkled face and calm nature. Loyal and gentle, it thrives as a loving family companion.

Quick comparison

Size:

Small

Male:

7–11 kg

Coat:

Short, smooth

Lifespan:

11–13 years

Female:

6–9 kg

Energy:

Moderately active

Size:

Medium

Male:

23–25 kg

Coat:

Short, smooth

Lifespan:

8–10 years

Female:

18–23 kg

Energy:

Low activity needs

Personality & behavior

Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.

Boston Terrier

Friendliness
5/5

Very sociable with people and other pets

Intelligence
4/5

Learns commands quickly and understands routines

Energy Level
4/5

Enjoys regular activity and short exercise bursts

Playfulness
5/5

Loves interactive games and engaging toys

Adaptability
5/5

Adjusts well to new environments and changes

English Bulldog

Friendliness
5/5

Affectionate and gentle with family and children

Intelligence
3/5

Learns basic commands with some patience

Energy Level
2/5

Prefers lounging over vigorous physical activity

Playfulness
3/5

Enjoys play but tires fairly quickly

Adaptability
4/5

Adjusts well to most living environments

Care needs

Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements

Boston Terrier

Grooming:
Minimal grooming needed (weekly)
Exercise:
30–45 minutes daily
Shedding:
Light shedding
Trainability:
Quick learner
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates, struggles with heat
Health concerns:

Brachycephalic syndrome, patellar luxation

English Bulldog

Grooming:
Minimal grooming needed (weekly)
Exercise:
20–40 minutes daily
Shedding:
Light shedding
Trainability:
Learns with consistency
Climate tolerance:
Struggles with heat
Health concerns:

Brachycephalic syndrome, skin fold infections

Suitability

How well each breed fits different living situations and families

Boston Terrier

First-time Owner
5/5

Great choice

Boston Terriers are easy to train and generally adapt well to new owners.

Apartment Living
5/5

Perfect fit

Their small size and moderate exercise needs make them ideal for apartments.

Active Lifestyle
3/5

Moderately suitable

They enjoy play but do not require intensive daily activity.

Kids
5/5

Very friendly

Their affectionate, gentle nature suits homes with young children.

Multiple Pets
4/5

Good companions

They usually get along with other pets if socialized early.

Being Left Alone
2/5

Prone to anxiety

They dislike being left alone for long periods and may develop separation issues.

English Bulldog

First-time Owner
4/5

Good option

Easygoing, low-maintenance nature suits owners with limited dog experience

Apartment Living
5/5

Excellent fit

Moderate exercise needs and calm demeanor work well in small living spaces

Active Lifestyle
2/5

Not ideal

Low stamina and breathing issues make them unsuited for high-activity lifestyles

Kids
5/5

Very suitable

Gentle, patient, and tolerant with young children when properly socialized

Multiple Pets
4/5

Usually compatible

Generally sociable but may need guidance with other pets, especially dogs

Being Left Alone
1/5

Not recommended

They struggle with long periods alone and are prone to separation anxiety

Breed strengths

What each breed excels at and their best qualities

Boston Terrier

  • Friendly with children and other pets
  • Requires minimal grooming maintenance
  • Adaptable to apartment or city living
  • Generally eager to please and trainable
  • Alert and responsive as a watchdog

English Bulldog

  • Affectionate with family members
  • Generally good with children
  • Low exercise requirements
  • Minimal grooming needs
  • Adaptable to apartment living

Challenges & considerations

Potential challenges and considerations for each breed

Boston Terrier

  • Prone to brachycephalic breathing issues
  • Sensitive to extreme heat and cold
  • Can be stubborn during training sessions
  • May develop separation anxiety when left alone
  • Susceptible to certain eye health problems

English Bulldog

  • Prone to respiratory problems
  • High risk of overheating
  • Susceptible to skin infections
  • Can be stubborn during training
  • Tends to drool frequently

Ready to choose your perfect breed?

Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.

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