Bull Terrier vs French Bulldog

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.

They don’t call ’em bulldogs for nothing! French Bulldogs have a headstrong temperament—think of them as strong-willed. These small dogs think they’re big dogs, which is why it’s important for French Bulldog puppies to receive training and socialization early on. That will help them feel comfortable and friendly toward visitors (human or animal) who come to their home. Otherwise, they may be standoffish with strangers.

But make no mistake—French Bulldogs are friendly dogs who bond deeply with their people and love to have a good time. Because of those deep bonds, they can feel neglected and anxious when their people are out of the house for too long. If you’ve ever experienced missing someone even before they’re gone, then you can relate to how Frenchies feel.

Speaking of their people, the French Bulldog breed is good with kids and babies, but as with any dog, they should always be supervised and taught how to interact with dogs. They also get along with other dogs and cats, as long as you introduce them properly.

The French Bulldog is primarily a companion dog. You’re unlikely to see them helping first responders, but their unconditional affection makes them amazing emotional support and therapy dogs in hospitals and care homes. They also make good watch dogs, often barking if someone new is at the door.