PetSecur Logo
HomeToolsBreed comparison

West Highland White Terrier vs English Bulldog

Discover the differences between West Highland White Terrier and English Bulldog to make the best choice for your situation.

Try different breeds

vs
West Highland White Terrier
Scotland

West Highland White Terrier

Terrier Group
Small

Bold, lively, and affectionate, this small terrier thrives on companionship and adventure. Always alert and charming, it brings energy and cheer to any household.

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:

Small

Male:

7–10 kg

Coat:

Double coat, harsh outer layer

Lifespan:

12–16 years

Female:

6–7 kg

Energy:

Moderately active

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.

West Highland White Terrier

Friendliness
4/5

Outgoing with people and other friendly dogs

Intelligence
4/5

Quick learner, responds well to training

Energy Level
5/5

High activity needs, enjoys regular exercise

Playfulness
5/5

Loves games and interactive play sessions

Adaptability
4/5

Adjusts well to various home environments

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

West Highland White Terrier

Grooming:
Average grooming needed (2–3 times weekly)
Exercise:
45–60 minutes daily
Shedding:
Light shedding
Trainability:
Learns with consistency
Climate tolerance:
Tolerates cold well
Health concerns:

Skin allergies, patellar luxation

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

West Highland White Terrier

First-time Owner
4/5

Good option

Generally easy to train but needs consistent boundaries and supervision

Apartment Living
5/5

Apartment friendly

Small size and moderate exercise needs suit compact living spaces well

Active Lifestyle
4/5

Moderately suitable

Enjoys play and walks but doesn’t require constant high activity

Kids
4/5

Usually good

Playful and sturdy but should be supervised with very young children

Multiple Pets
3/5

Can be selective

May be territorial or chase smaller pets unless socialized early

Being Left Alone
2/5

Not ideal

Dislikes being left alone and can develop separation anxiety or destructive habits

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

West Highland White Terrier

  • Alert watchdog instincts and quick response
  • Adaptable to various living environments
  • Friendly with children and most families
  • Low-shedding, easy-to-maintain double coat
  • Energetic and enjoys daily exercise

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

West Highland White Terrier

  • Prone to stubbornness during training sessions
  • Can be territorial with other dogs
  • Needs consistent mental and physical stimulation
  • Tendency to dig due to hunting instincts
  • May develop skin allergies or sensitivities

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.

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