Golden Retriever vs English Bulldog
Discover the differences between Golden Retriever and English Bulldog to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Golden Retriever
A loving, intelligent breed with an easygoing nature and playful spirit. Known for loyalty and adaptability, making them exceptional companions for families of all kinds.
English Bulldog
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
Large
29–34 kg
Double coat, water-repellent
10–12 years
25–29 kg
High energy
Medium
23–25 kg
Short, smooth
8–10 years
18–23 kg
Low activity needs
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Golden Retriever
Very sociable, enjoys people and other dogs
Quick to learn commands and routines
Needs regular activity and mental stimulation
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to various living environments
English Bulldog
Affectionate and gentle with family and children
Learns basic commands with some patience
Prefers lounging over vigorous physical activity
Enjoys play but tires fairly quickly
Adjusts well to most living environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Golden Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
English Bulldog
Brachycephalic syndrome, skin fold infections
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Golden Retriever
Great choice
Friendly, trainable nature makes them easy for new owners to manage
Needs space
Large size and high energy can be challenging in small apartments
Highly suitable
Enjoys regular exercise and outdoor activities with active people
Perfect fit
Gentle temperament and patience make them excellent with young children
Very friendly
Generally sociable and gets along well with other pets
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation issues
English Bulldog
Good option
Easygoing, low-maintenance nature suits owners with limited dog experience
Excellent fit
Moderate exercise needs and calm demeanor work well in small living spaces
Not ideal
Low stamina and breathing issues make them unsuited for high-activity lifestyles
Very suitable
Gentle, patient, and tolerant with young children when properly socialized
Usually compatible
Generally sociable but may need guidance with other pets, especially dogs
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
Golden Retriever
- Friendly with children and other pets
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Consistent, gentle temperament in most settings
- Reliable as therapy and assistance dogs
- Strong retrieving and swimming abilities
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
Golden Retriever
- Prone to obesity without portion control
- High shedding year-round requires regular grooming
- Needs ample daily exercise to prevent boredom
- Can develop separation anxiety when left alone
- Susceptible to certain genetic health conditions
English Bulldog
- Prone to respiratory problems
- High risk of overheating
- Susceptible to skin infections
- Can be stubborn during training
- Tends to drool frequently
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