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English Setter vs English Bulldog

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

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English Setter
England

English Setter

Sporting Group
Large

Graceful, affectionate, and energetic, this breed thrives on companionship and outdoor adventure. Its elegant feathered coat and gentle nature make it a beloved family dog.

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:

Large

Male:

29–36 kg

Coat:

Flat, silky

Lifespan:

11–15 years

Female:

25–32 kg

Energy:

High energy

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.

English Setter

Friendliness
5/5

Very sociable with people and other dogs

Intelligence
4/5

Learns commands quickly with consistent training

Energy Level
5/5

Needs regular exercise and active play

Playfulness
5/5

Enjoys games and interactive activities

Adaptability
4/5

Adjusts well to new environments and routines

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

English Setter

Grooming:
High grooming needs (2–3 times weekly)
Exercise:
60–90 minutes daily
Shedding:
Seasonal shedding
Trainability:
Quick learner
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates
Health concerns:

Hip dysplasia, deafness

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

English Setter

First-time Owner
4/5

Good option

Patient and gentle, but requires consistent training and exercise for beginners

Apartment Living
2/5

Not ideal

Needs ample space and activity, making small apartments a challenge

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Perfect fit

Thrives in active households with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation

Kids
5/5

Very friendly

Known for gentle nature and patience with young children

Multiple Pets
4/5

Highly suitable

Generally sociable and does well with other pets when properly introduced

Being Left Alone
2/5

Prone to anxiety

Dislikes 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

English Setter

  • Friendly with children and other dogs
  • Highly trainable for field work
  • Gentle, affectionate companion at home
  • Excellent stamina for active lifestyles
  • Adaptable to various living situations

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

English Setter

  • Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
  • Requires daily vigorous exercise and stimulation
  • Needs regular grooming to prevent matting
  • Can be distracted by scents during walks
  • May develop stubbornness without consistent training

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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