PetSecur Logo
HomeToolsBreed comparison

Norfolk Terrier vs French Bulldog

Discover the differences between Norfolk Terrier and French Bulldog to make the best choice for your situation.

Try different breeds

vs
Norfolk Terrier
England

Norfolk Terrier

Terrier Group
Small

Bold, affectionate, and spirited, this small terrier thrives on companionship and adventure. Its lively energy and fearless nature make it a delightful 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:

Small

Male:

5–5.5 kg

Coat:

Wiry, weather-resistant

Lifespan:

12–16 years

Female:

4.5–5 kg

Energy:

Moderately active

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.

Norfolk Terrier

Friendliness
4/5

Outgoing and sociable with people and pets

Intelligence
4/5

Quick learner with good problem-solving skills

Energy Level
4/5

Active and enjoys regular daily exercise

Playfulness
5/5

Loves games and interactive activities

Adaptability
4/5

Adjusts well to new environments and situations

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

Norfolk Terrier

Grooming:
Average grooming needed (1–2 times weekly)
Exercise:
45–60 minutes daily
Shedding:
Light shedding
Trainability:
Learns with consistency
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates
Health concerns:

Patellar luxation, eye problems

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

Norfolk Terrier

First-time Owner
4/5

Good option

Adaptable and intelligent, but may need early training for best results

Apartment Living
5/5

Very suitable

Small size and moderate exercise needs fit apartment living well

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Great match

Energetic and playful, thrives with active owners and regular activities

Kids
4/5

Family friendly

Patient, sturdy, and playful with gentle children

Multiple Pets
4/5

Usually compatible

Can get along with other pets if socialized early

Being Left Alone
2/5

Not ideal

Prone to separation anxiety and may become destructive when left alone

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

Norfolk Terrier

  • Friendly with children and other dogs
  • Compact size suited for small spaces
  • Alert and effective watchdog instincts
  • Adaptable to urban and rural settings
  • Low-shedding, easy-to-groom coat

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

Norfolk Terrier

  • Prone to chasing small animals outdoors
  • May dig excessively if bored
  • Needs consistent daily exercise and play
  • Can be stubborn during training sessions
  • Tends to bark when left alone

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.

Discover more helpful tools

Make use of our other free tools to get the most out of your pet experience

Name Generator

Find the perfect name for your new furry friend with our smart generator

Breed Generator

Discover new and interesting breeds that could be perfect for you

Dog Quiz

Test your knowledge about dogs with our interactive quiz

Get your free pet insurance quote in 2 minutes!

Join pet owners who save money while keeping their furry friends protected

✓ Highest payouts in Netherlands ✓ No waiting period ✓ Quick claims processing

* Required fields

No obligations • Free consultation • Response within 24 hours