Deciding between a French Bulldog vs English Bulldog?

French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs are two well-loved dog breeds around the world. While these two dog breeds share similarities, you shouldn’t dismiss them as the same. The duo has distinct differences which must be carefully considered, particularly if you want to adopt one. This article will break down the similarities and differences between the breeds.

French Bulldog History

It’s easy to mistake the origin of the French Bulldog as France because they have “French” in their name. However, the breed started as a Bulldog, and we can trace its ancestry back to ancient Greece.

These dogs eventually made their way to England, where they were crossed with small breeds like the Pug and Terrier, leading to the development of the miniature Bulldog we know today. Lace workers in Nottingham, England, adopted Frenchies as companion dogs because of their small size and sweet temperament.

When the lace industry moved to France during the Industrial Revolution, many lace workers moved with their French Bulldogs, leading to their popularity in France. The popularity of French Bulldogs grew even more over the years, especially among the affluent in Europe and the US. The breed became particularly popular among city inhabitants who found their adorable looks, tiny stature, and friendly personalities suitable for lap dogs.

English Bulldog History

The English Bulldog has a rich history that dates back to the 16th century in England. Initially, people used the breed for bull-baiting, a cruel sport where Bulldogs and Pitbulls must attack and torment bulls for entertainment.

The breed got its name from the sport, and their muscular build made them the perfect choice for this violent activity. However, the sport eventually became outlawed by the Cruelty to Animals Act of 1835, leading to a change in the breed’s purpose began to evolve. English Bulldog enthusiasts shifted the breed’s focus from being a fierce fighter to a loyal and gentle companion.

They achieved this transformation through careful breeding by favoring English Bulldogs with a more docile temperament, subsiding its early aggressive nature over. Eventually, English Bulldogs became increasingly popular as household pets.

Physical Differences Between A French Bulldog vs English Bulldog

French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs share similar ancestry, but there are several physical differences between them. Here are some of the key differences:

1.   Size and Weight

French Bulldogs are diminutive in size compared to English Bulldogs. They stand between 11 to 13 inches (28 to 33 cm) tall at the shoulder and weigh 16 to 28 pounds (7 to 12kg) on average. English Bulldogs, in comparison, are substantially bigger dogs that weigh between 40 and 50 pounds (18 to 22kg) and reach between 14 and 15 inches (35 to 38cm) tall at the shoulder.

2.   Body Structure

In contrast to the English Bulldog’s larger and more robust frame, French Bulldogs have a more compact and muscular build. The French Bulldog looks more athletic and agile, whereas the English Bulldog appears blocky.

3.   Head and Facial Features

One notable difference between the French Bulldog and the English Bulldog is the shape of their ears. French Bulldogs have what is commonly known as “bat ears.” These are erect, triangular-shaped ears positioned in a v-shape on their heads. English Bulldogs, however, have “rose ears,” which are folded over at the top and hang down on the sides of their head.

Another difference between the two breeds is the shape and size of their heads. French Bulldogs have small, round-shaped skulls supported by longer and thinner necks, unlike English Bulldogs’ square-shaped skulls supported by muscular necks. The English Bulldog’s face appears meatier in comparison to the Frenchie’s.

4.   Coat Type and Colors

The coat of a French Bulldog is smooth, short, and lustrous. They have a fine single fur, which is close to the body and requires little care. French Bulldogs are available in various hues, including brindle, cream, white, and black. However, you may come across certain Frenchies with multicolored coats.

English Bulldogs have a thicker and more wrinkled coat that is also short and smooth. They have a double coat, which includes a soft undercoat and a coarser outer coat. As a result, their coat requires more maintenance than French Bulldogs and may need to be brushed regularly to keep it clean and healthy. English Bulldogs come in several colors, including white, fawn, brindle, and a combination of these colors.

Personality and Temperament Between A French Bulldog vs English Bulldog

While there are some similarities in the French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs temperaments, there are also notable differences between these two breeds.

French Bulldog Personality Traits

Many French Bulldog lovers adore the breed because they are warm, kind, and dedicated. Frenchies enjoy being in the company of their owners and playing with children. They are vigilant and intelligent, making them good watchdogs and quick learners.

French Bulldogs adapt well to varied living locations and situations, and if introduced appropriately, they can get along with other pets. Despite their petite stature, Frenchies have enormous personalities and are well-known for their amusing and engaging antics, which make them a joy to be around.

English Bulldog Personality Traits

Due to their gentle nature and calm disposition, English Bulldogs are good family pets and lovely companions for single people. Although they have a strong frame, they are not energetic dogs and would rather spend time with their family than partake in outdoor activities. However, they are ferociously protective of the people they love and will fight to protect them if necessary. With their family, English Bulldogs are very playful and affectionate and would do anything to get their attention.

Energy Levels and Activity Requirements

French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs have different energy levels, with the former being more energetic and active than the latter. Here’s a breakdown of their activity needs.

French Bulldogs:

●  They are generally more active and require moderate exercise to stay healthy.

●  They enjoy playing, running, and taking short walks.

●  They have a shorter snout, making it difficult for them to breathe during strenuous exercise or in hot weather.

English Bulldogs:

●  They are generally less active and require minimal exercise to stay healthy.

●  They enjoy brief walks and leisurely activities.

●  They have flat faces, making it difficult for them to breathe during strenuous exercise or in hot weather.

Health Issues and Lifespan Between A French Bulldog vs English Bulldog

French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs are prone to various health issues that can affect their lifespan.

Common Health Concerns in French Bulldogs

1. Brachycephalic airway syndrome: French Bulldogs have a short snout, which can cause breathing difficulties. This condition is known as Brachycephalic airway syndrome. Its symptoms include snorting, wheezing, and difficulty breathing, especially during exercise or in hot weather.

2. Allergies: Allergies are common in French Bulldogs and can present in various ways. Skin allergies in some dogs can result in itching, redness, and inflammation. Others may experience sneezing, coughing, and wheezing due to respiratory allergies.

Common Health Concerns in English Bulldogs

1. Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a hereditary condition where the hip joint does not form correctly, causing pain and difficulty in movement. English Bulldogs are prone to this condition due to their genetic makeup. Hip dysplasia can lead to arthritis, hip dislocation, and other joint-related issues.

2. Breathing difficulties: Breathing difficulties are another common health concern in English Bulldogs. Due to their short snouts and flat faces, they are prone to respiratory problems. Symptoms include snoring, excessive panting, and difficulty breathing, especially during exercise or hot weather.

Lifespan Expectancy

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the average lifespan of French Bulldogs is between 10 and 12 years, while English Bulldogs typically live between 8 and 10 years. One of the significant factors influencing the lifespan of both breeds is genetics. Both dogs are prone to health issues, such as breathing difficulties due to their brachycephalic features.

Trainability and Intelligence Between A French Bulldog vs English Bulldog

Training is an essential aspect of owning a French Bulldog or English Bulldog. These breeds are intelligent and social, but can also be stubborn and independent-minded.

French Bulldog Training Abilities

French Bulldogs respond best to positive reinforcement techniques, which include treats, praise, and affection as rewards for good behavior. Punitive methods, such as physical punishment or scolding, should be avoided, as these can harm the dog’s trust in its owner and hinder the training process.

French Bulldogs are eager to please their owners and will exert themselves to gain approval. They are also motivated by food, so using treats during training can be particularly effective. However, Frenchies are easily distracted and may lose focus, so it is best to keep training sessions brief and engaging to retain their interest.

English Bulldog Training Abilities

Establishing clear rules early on and sticking to them consistently throughout the training process can help you raise a well-behaved English Bulldog, as these dogs respond well to routine. Firmness is also necessary as they can be willful at times. Thankfully, their calm nature allows them to handle a bit of firmness without becoming overly anxious or agitated.

Another tool for training an English Bulldog is positive reinforcement. These dogs respond well to praise and rewards, so it is important to be generous with both when they exhibit good behavior. This can include treats, verbal praise, and even playtime with their favorite toys.

Grooming and Maintenance Between A French Bulldog vs English Bulldog

French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs require regular grooming and maintenance to keep them healthy and looking their best.

French Bulldog Grooming Requirements

The short coat of a French Bulldog only needs occasional grooming to eliminate loose hair and evenly distribute natural oils. This can take place once or twice a week. To maintain a healthy and glossy coat, Frenchies should bathe every two to three months, depending on how often they get dirty.

The wrinkles on the French Bulldogs’ faces are adorable but can be a breeding ground for bacteria, yeast, and other skin problems. Therefore, it is crucial to clean their wrinkles regularly to remove any dirt, debris, or moisture that can cause skin infections or discomfort.

English Bulldog Grooming Requirements

English Bulldogs have a short coat that is relatively easy to care for. They shed throughout the year, so regular brushing, at least once a week, is necessary to remove loose hair and prevent matting. The breed will also benefit from regular baths to keep their coat clean and healthy.

The wrinkled skin of English Bulldogs is one of their distinguishing characteristics. While these wrinkles are cute, they need special care to prevent infections and irritation, as the folds of their skin can trap dirt, moisture, and bacteria, leading to skin problems such as infections and hot spots. Cleaning their wrinkles frequently can help avoid these problems.

Making the Right Choice for Your Family Between a French Bulldog vs English Bulldog

Deciding between adopting a French Bulldog or an English Bulldog can be difficult. Here are some things to consider:

Space and Lifestyle Considerations

Compared to English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs are more compact and smaller. As a result, they require less space to live comfortably. Frenchies also adapt better to various living arrangements, such as apartments or smaller homes. On the other hand, English Bulldogs are bigger and therefore require more area to move around. In addition, they are also more vulnerable to health problems, which could necessitate extra care and attention.

Regarding lifestyle considerations, French Bulldogs are livelier and more energetic than English Bulldogs. Frenchies are a fantastic choice for active households since they like regular play and exercise. English Bulldogs are more laid-back and would prefer a more relaxed environment. They are an excellent option for families seeking a devoted, cuddly companion.

Time and energy commitment

French Bulldogs are generally more independent and may require less attention than English Bulldogs. Since they are also easier to train, this can save time and energy in the long run. English Bulldogs, on the other hand, require more attention and care due to their health issues. They may need regular vet visits, medication, and specialized care. They are also more difficult to train, which can be time-consuming and require more energy from their owners.

Conclusion Between a French Bulldog vs English Bulldog

Ultimately, the right choice for your family will depend on your lifestyle and preferences. French Bulldogs are a good choice for families who have limited space, an active lifestyle, and want a dog that is easy to train. English Bulldogs are a good choice for families who have more space, a laid-back lifestyle, and want a loyal and affectionate companion. No matter which breeds you choose, remember that adopting a dog is a big commitment and requires time, energy, and love.