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Old English Bulldog vs French Bulldog

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

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Old English Bulldog
England

Old English Bulldog

Non-Sporting Group
Medium

Strong, loyal, and affectionate, this breed thrives as a devoted companion with a calm yet protective nature. Distinctive looks and a gentle spirit make it a beloved family favorite.

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:

Medium

Male:

23–36 kg

Coat:

Short, smooth

Lifespan:

8–10 years

Female:

20–30 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.

Old English Bulldog

Friendliness
4/5

Affectionate with family, generally sociable with others

Intelligence
3/5

Learns basic commands, may need repetition

Energy Level
3/5

Moderate exercise needs, enjoys daily walks

Playfulness
3/5

Enjoys games but not overly exuberant

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

Old English Bulldog

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

Hip dysplasia, respiratory issues

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

Old English Bulldog

First-time Owner
4/5

Fairly suitable

Generally easygoing but may need firm training for stubbornness

Apartment Living
4/5

Good option

Moderate exercise needs and calm demeanor suit smaller spaces

Active Lifestyle
3/5

Somewhat suitable

Enjoys play but lacks high stamina for rigorous activities

Kids
5/5

Very friendly

Patient and gentle with children when properly socialized

Multiple Pets
3/5

Possible conflicts

Can be territorial with other pets, early socialization is important

Being Left Alone
2/5

Not ideal

Dislikes being alone and may develop separation anxiety or destructive habits

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

Old English Bulldog

  • Loyal and devoted to family
  • Confident and stable temperament
  • Good with children when socialized
  • Moderate exercise needs suit urban living
  • Strong natural guarding instincts

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

Old English Bulldog

  • Prone to joint and hip issues
  • Can be stubborn during training
  • Sensitive to extreme heat or cold
  • Needs consistent early socialization
  • May show dog aggression without guidance

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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