Bull Terrier vs Boxer

The fiery-but-loveable Bull Terrier breed has an unmistakably larger-than-life personality. However, they can quickly turn destructive without consistent training and lots of attention, so make sure you keep an eye on them—and your furniture. For this four-legged companion, boredom is especially lethal. Although they are independent, strong-willed free thinkers, don’t leave them to their own devices for long.

Always up for a good time, this clown in a dog suit takes a back seat to no one and can be aggressive with other dogs in the family. Early socialization to family pets is recommended, and wait for kids to get a little older before bringing a Bull Terrier dog home. (Unless you have a cat. Bull Terriers refuse to share the stage with a cat.) They need a confident pup parent who has experience with dogs to help them remember they’re not directing this show. If you’re not confident in your abilities or haven’t had much experience with dogs before, a Bull Terrier puppy may not be the best match for you.

But for the right family, Bull Terrier dogs make the most loyal of companions and the most tireless of playmates. You’ll never be lonely again as they drag you out of the house for so many walks. They need lots of daily exercise and have loads of love to give their families. They are not wallflowers, so they like to meet new people and add them to the “troupe,” whether they’re chasing a friend in the park or greeting visitors at home. Just make sure you make the proper introductions; Bull Terriers are not as friendly as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.

You’ll also appreciate their intelligence and agility. That fumbling, bumbling act they put on is just for appearances’ sake to get a laugh out of you.

With their muscular physique and dark eyes, Boxers might seem tough and serious. But don’t be fooled! The ability to make many two- and four-legged friends is one of the Boxer’s greatest strengths. Silly pups at heart, they’re like a kid in a dog’s body, which may explain why Boxers and kids get along so well. They’ll never cease to put a smile on your face with their clown-like antics. You can often catch them sitting with their rear legs out in front of them (like people) and rolling back into a lazy dog position. They’re also prone to zoomies and stopping on a dime to dole out sloppy, wet kisses. If your dream dog is athletic and affectionate, the Boxer’s for you.

Often described as being more human than dog, Boxers are known to be quite sensitive. They’ll work 24/7 to please their loved ones, but this desire to please means they can get their feelings hurt. (Sad puppy dog eyes warning!) Originally bred to serve as guard dogs, Boxers perform brilliantly as service, assistance and therapy dogs, and in roles such as drug detection and search-and-rescue. However, some Boxers may not get along well with dogs they don’t know and of the same sex.