French Bulldog vs. English Bulldog- Which One To Pick?

They have similar names, but French bulldog vs. English bulldog is a deep topic. These two dog breeds have distinct characteristics and unique quirks which make them stand apart. If you are thinking of getting a bulldog, then it’s better to dive into their differences to find the one that suits you and your household. 

French Bulldog vs. English Bulldog

Bulldog Breed History

English Bulldog

English bulldogs did not have the best beginnings. They are believed to have been created in the 13th century in England for bullfighting. When the plan failed, they were transformed into a lover from a fighter.

Breeders worked in making the bulldogs less aggressive and sweeter, and by 1866 they were finally recognized by the American Kennel Club.

French Bulldog

French bulldogs were started in 1800 in England. Lace makers loved to have dog-sized dogs and moved them along to northern France during the Industrial Revolution. The breed started to gain popularity in the French countryside and made its way to Paris. 

French Bulldog became a common sight at the Parisian cafes and streets. This is how french bulldogs became city dogs which they are still famous for.

Appearance

The most visible difference between French Bulldog vs. English bulldog is the size. English bulldogs are short but stout. Even with their short height, they can weigh upto 50 pounds.

French Bulldog

French bulldogs, also addressed as Frenchies, are a little shorter, between 11-13 inches tall. They weigh half as much as french bulldogs and are usually under 28 pounds once fully grown.

Despite the difference, these two breeds look like a lot. They both have square heads, short noses, tiny legs, and wrinkly skin. However, English bulldogs have more wrinkly skin as compared to French bulldogs. 

Both these different types of Bulldog have short coats which are smooth and glossy, and the colors can range from cream, white, fawn to red. They may also have black patterns on their coat, but neither of them is solid black. 

English Bulldog

English bulldogs have trademark chips that hang on both sides of their mouth, making it obvious that you are indeed looking at a bulldog.

The French bulldogs also have either own trait- the ears; English bulldogs have rose-shaped ears, whereas the french bulldogs have large standing-up straight ears.

Bulldog Grooming

Both French and English bulldogs are low-maintenance dog breeds. If you are looking for a dog that is easy to groom between these two, then a french bulldog is the safer bet.

French Bulldog sheds the least and require_once a week brushing to keep the coat looking shiny and good. English bulldogs shed a little more comparatively. To keep shedding in control, brush the dog at least 2 to 3 times every week.

The adorable wrinkle on the sides of the mouth brings a little work. You have to keep the skin folds clean and dry, which becomes a difficult task with a bigger and wrinkly bulldog.

Temperament and Training

Bulldogs are titles bully dogs; however, this is a big misconception added to their title. Both the bulldog breeds love to play and are friendly. 

However, there are some issues that these dog owners must be aware of.

The English Bulldog is loyal and generally happy; however, they have a stubborn streak that makes them difficult to deal with if not properly trained. The best thing is that English bulldogs are easy to train. They pick on anything you want to train them in a short time with minimum training sessions.

The French Bulldog is more playful and happy-go-lucky than English Bulldog. However, they are not the best pets to have around kids. They like to play rough and can be a little aggressive and dangerous around little people. Frenchie can become a little stubborn, as they aim to please, with positive and consistent training, they tend to show good results.

English bulldogs befriend the family and become a pack; however, Frenchies are more particular. If they are not socialized from a young age, they attach themselves to only one person. If you are looking for a clingy pet, then a french Bulldog is perfect for you. 

Breed Health

French Bulldog vs. English Bulldog both face certain health issues.

Both bulldogs are prone to weight gain. English bulldogs tend to gain more weight around little legs, making it difficult for them to walk and harm the joints.

In french bulldogs, weight gain puts pressure on the lungs, making it difficult for them to breathe. This is why you need to put your dogs on a healthy diet and regular exercise every day.

Both these bulldog breeds are prone to overheating, meaning they will spend more time in front of the AC during the summer season. If it is too hot outside, it is best to make them exercise indoors.

The most common English bulldog health issues are joint and hip problems. You can figure out by looking at the difference in weight distribution on their upper vs. lower body.

Whereas the french Bulldog’s health issues are mostly related to their eyes. You need to keep an eye out for cataracts and cherry eyes. 

Nutrition

The French Bulldog consumes around one and a half cups of food every day, whereas the English Bulldog eats two cups of food in a day. They eat everything that comes in their way, so make sure to hide the food properly. Keep a check on how much treats you offer, especially the English Bulldog because they tend to become obese.   

Because English bulldogs and French bulldogs are prone to various health issues and skin allergies, ask the vet about which is the right food for them, as they require a particular kibble or special diet.

Grooming

French Bulldog vs. English Bulldog both share similar grooming needs. They require occasional baths and do not get dirty while exercising. Bathing them every 1 to 2 months is enough.

Because they have skin allergies, make sure to always use gentle products and stay away from washing them too often as it can risk damaging their sensitive skin and natural oils.

As both dogs have small coats, they require frequent brushing; only once a week is enough. This will help in keeping their fur looking healthy and shiny. These dogs start shedding during hot months.

Despite their low maintenance characteristics, when it comes to brushing and bathing, their skin folds require a little extra attention compared to other breeds. If not taken care of properly, they start emitting a musty canine smell. When you bathe them, wash them thoroughly and dry them properly.

Clean between their folds and wrinkles as well using a special cleaning solution and a cotton bud to prevent infection and sores from developing.

Puppy Price

French bulldogs have gained popularity since the last decade and more steadily than English bulldogs. This makes french bulldogs a little more expensive than English bulldogs. So how much do French bulldogs cost?

The average price starts from $1,800, whereas an English Bulldog costs around $1,500. The price varies depending on how desirable their characteristics are; you can expect to pay more than the average amount.

Final Thoughts

No matter which dog you pick between a French bulldog vs. an English bulldog, there is no denying that both of them are adorable in their own way. Even though they look different, you can see that they are related somehow.

The French Bulldog is smaller in size, however more mischievous and playful in temperament; however, the English Bulldog is a laid-back dog.

No matter which dog you pick to suit your lifestyle. These both make an affectionate and fun-loving dog that everyone loves.