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Boston Terrier vs French Bulldog

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Photo of the Boston Terrier dog breed
Boston TerrierPhoto: Andreas Schlaugat — CC BY 3.0 (source)
Photo of the French Bulldog dog breed
French BulldogPhoto: Ildar Sagdejev (Specious) — CC BY-SA 4.0 (source)

Side by side

Comparison of Boston Terrier and French Bulldog
TraitBoston TerrierFrench Bulldog
GroupCompanion and toy dogsCompanion and toy dogs
SizeSmallSmall
Weight4.5–11.5 kg8–14 kg
Height at withers38–43 cm27–35 cm
Life expectancy11–13 years10–12 years
Energy
With children
With other dogs
Trainability
Grooming needs
Shedding
Heat tolerance
ApartmentYesYes

Key differences

  • Heavier: French Bulldog (about 11 kg vs 8 kg on average)
  • Taller: Boston Terrier (about 40.5 cm vs 31 cm on average)

Gaps counted as key differences: more than 20% in average weight, more than 10% in average height, at least 2 years in average life expectancy, or at least 2 points on a rating.

Which one is right for you?

A quick guide based on the ratings above. Every dog is an individual: spend time with the breed and talk to breeders, rescue organisations or a veterinarian before deciding.

Apartment living
Both are similarBased on apartment suitability and energy.
Family with children
Boston Terrier is the better fitBased on behaviour with children.
First-time owner
Both are similarBased on trainability, energy and grooming needs.
Hot climate
Both are similarBased on heat tolerance.
Active owner
Boston Terrier is the better fitBased on energy level.

Meet the two breeds

Boston Terrier

Nicknamed the 'American gentleman' for its tuxedo coat, the Boston Terrier is cheerful, affectionate and easy to live with in the city.

Read the full Boston Terrier profile

Other comparisons