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English Setter vs French Bulldog

Discover the differences between English Setter and French 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.

French Bulldog
France

French Bulldog

Non-Sporting Group
Small

Compact, playful, and affectionate, this breed charms with its expressive face and easygoing personality. Ideal for city living, French Bulldogs make steadfast companions and loving family pets.

Quick comparison

Size:

Large

Male:

29–36 kg

Coat:

Flat, silky

Lifespan:

11–15 years

Female:

25–32 kg

Energy:

High energy

Size:

Small

Male:

9–13 kg

Coat:

Short, smooth

Lifespan:

10–12 years

Female:

8–12 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

French Bulldog

Friendliness
5/5

Affectionate with people and enjoys companionship

Intelligence
4/5

Learns routines quickly but can be stubborn

Energy Level
2/5

Prefers short play sessions and moderate walks

Playfulness
4/5

Enjoys interactive games and gentle roughhousing

Adaptability
5/5

Comfortable in apartments and various 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

French Bulldog

Grooming:
Minimal grooming needed (weekly)
Exercise:
30–45 minutes daily
Shedding:
Light shedding
Trainability:
Learns with consistency
Climate tolerance:
Struggles with heat
Health concerns:

Brachycephalic syndrome, skin allergies

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

French Bulldog

First-time Owner
5/5

Great choice

Easygoing temperament and manageable size suit first-time owners well

Apartment Living
5/5

Perfect fit

Quiet and compact, they adapt well to small apartments

Active Lifestyle
2/5

Not ideal

They tire quickly and don’t match very active lifestyles

Kids
5/5

Highly suitable

Gentle and playful, they are patient with young children

Multiple Pets
4/5

Very friendly

Generally sociable and get along with other pets if introduced properly

Being Left Alone
2/5

Prone to anxiety

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

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

French Bulldog

  • Affectionate with families and children
  • Adaptable to apartment living
  • Minimal grooming requirements
  • Generally quiet and not prone to barking
  • Strong loyalty to owners

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

French Bulldog

  • Prone to breathing difficulties due to flat face
  • Sensitive to extreme heat and cold
  • May develop separation anxiety
  • Stubborn during training sessions
  • High risk of obesity without portion control

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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