You’ve seen them everywhere—French Bulldogs riding in strollers, lounging in cafés, stealing the spotlight on Instagram. There’s no denying their charm. They’re compact, silly, and full of personality.
But maybe you’re the kind of person who likes to explore all your options before settling on just one breed. Or maybe Frenchies are cute, but you’re wondering—are there others like them? Something with the same energy, the same lovable face, but maybe a little healthier or less demanding?
The good news is: yes, there are.
You’d be surprised how many dog breeds give off that same Frenchie feel, but with their own special twist. Some are easier to train. Some cost less. Some breathe easier and live longer. And some… well, they just might be the perfect fit.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the best dog breeds that are similar to French Bulldogs, so you can discover your ideal match.
Dog Breeds Similar To French Bulldogs
1. Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers share a compact, muscular body with Frenchies, making them a familiar favorite for city dwellers. Their square head, broad chest, and short legs create a balanced and charming look. Though slightly taller, they still fit perfectly in small homes or apartments.
Expressive Eyes and Playful Nature
What really wins people over are those wide, round eyes and upbeat energy. They thrive in interactive households and are known to mirror the mood of their family. A quick game or brisk walk is usually enough to keep them happy and engaged.
Easygoing Temperament
Boston Terriers are social dogs that get along well with kids, guests, and even other pets when introduced early, as highlighted by Embrace Pet Insurance. Their adaptable personality makes them a solid match for first-time owners. They’re not overly demanding but love being included in daily routines.
Low Maintenance but Watchful
Their coat is short, sleek, and easy to groom with occasional brushing. Despite their calm vibe, they make decent watchdogs — alert but not yappy. If you like dogs that are affectionate yet independent, the Boston Terrier checks all the right boxes.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
With large, soulful eyes and feathered ears, the Cavalier gives off an instantly comforting presence. They weigh between 13–18 pounds, fitting easily into laps or small living spaces. Their build is graceful but sturdy, making them both elegant and practical.
A Shadow That Follows You
What makes this breed truly similar to French Bulldogs is their strong attachment to their humans. Cavaliers are known to follow you from room to room without being intrusive. They’re happiest when involved in everyday life, whether it’s lounging or tagging along.
Temperament Built for Companionship
Cavaliers are neither timid nor overly assertive — they strike a rare emotional balance. They’re patient with children, polite with strangers, and adapt quickly to calm or active households. That steady temperament makes them dependable and deeply bonding companions.
Easy to Handle, Needs to Be Heard
Grooming is straightforward with regular brushing to keep their coat from matting, as per the AKC. They’re not loud, but they do have a soft vocal range to express needs, often a gentle bark or whine. They thrive best in homes where their quiet cues are acknowledged.
3. Pug
Pugs have a stocky, muscular frame paired with a round head and curled tail that mirrors the Frenchie’s physical appeal. Their short muzzle and expressive facial wrinkles give them a recognizable, endearing look. Though slightly lighter, they carry similar physical heft and balance.
Laid-Back and Affectionate Nature
Often referred to as shadows, Pugs form strong bonds and prefer staying close to their humans. They’re emotionally intuitive, often adjusting their behavior to match the household vibe. Calm, affectionate, and patient, they fit well in slower-paced environments.
Expressive Eyes, Gentle Personality
The large, prominent eyes of a Pug are not just for looks — they reflect a deep sensitivity. They dislike being alone for long periods and do best when they’re part of the family rhythm. Their gentle, even-tempered personality helps them get along easily with kids and seniors alike.
Easy Grooming, Moderate Activity Needs
Despite their plush appearance, Pugs have a short coat that requires minimal upkeep, as Pawlicy Advisor claims. Daily face cleaning helps avoid skin issues in deep wrinkles. They enjoy light walks and play, but excessive activity can strain their respiratory system due to their brachycephalic structure.
4. Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon stands out with its almost human-like expression and signature beard. Weighing just 8–12 pounds, it’s small enough for apartment living yet full of attitude. Its flat face and round eyes resemble the French Bulldog, especially in its smooth-coated variety.
Sensitive and Emotionally In-Tune
This breed forms intense bonds and can read moods with surprising accuracy. It prefers close contact with its favorite person and doesn’t enjoy being left out of family activities. That sensitivity also means it can become anxious if not given enough attention.
Intelligent but Strong-Willed
Brussels Griffons are clever and curious, often figuring out how to get what they want, as mentioned in Pet Health Clinic. They respond best to gentle, consistent training and a bit of humor from their owners. Pushy handling backfires with this breed, so patience matters.
Low-Shedding with High Maintenance
Their wiry coat sheds minimally but requires weekly brushing and regular trimming. Some have a smooth coat that’s easier to care for, but both types need skincare attention due to facial folds. They’re small, but grooming and emotional care shouldn’t be underestimated.
5. English Bulldog
The English Bulldog carries a heavier, more solid build than the Frenchie, but their overall silhouette still feels familiar. Broad shoulders, stocky limbs, and that trademark loose skin give them a distinct presence. Their signature underbite and wrinkled face are unmistakable.
Calm Demeanor Indoors
They’re known for being low-energy and couch-friendly, perfect for owners with a slower-paced lifestyle. Most Bulldogs are content with a few short walks and lots of lounging. Their relaxed nature makes them ideal for apartment living and smaller spaces.
Emotionally In-Tune Companions
While they look serious, Bulldogs are deeply affectionate with those they trust. They’re not clingy, but they do form strong attachments and often prefer being in the same room as their humans. Their sensitivity makes early socialization especially important.
Unique Care Needs
That short, dense coat is easy to groom, but the wrinkles need regular cleaning to avoid moisture buildup. Heat sensitivity is another concern — Bulldogs must be kept cool during warm months. Regular vet visits are essential for monitoring joint and breathing health.
6. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus may have a longer, flowing coat than French Bulldogs, but their small stature and sturdy frame make them a close match. They typically weigh 9–16 pounds and carry themselves with calm confidence. The rounded face and short muzzle give them an unmistakably soft expression.
Deeply Attached and Affectionate
These dogs form strong bonds and prefer to stay close to their humans throughout the day. They were bred as royal companions in ancient China, and that legacy still shows in how much they crave attention. They’re not clingy, but they do love being involved in every family moment.
Calm Indoors and Suited for Apartment Life
Shih Tzus are naturally relaxed indoors and don’t need excessive physical activity. A daily stroll and some light playtime usually meet their needs. Their calm energy fits well with people who live in apartments or have limited space.
Grooming Requires Commitment
The coat may look glamorous, but it demands regular brushing and professional grooming to prevent tangles. Some owners opt for a shorter “puppy cut” to simplify upkeep. Their facial folds also need frequent cleaning to avoid irritation or buildup.
7. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
With their distinct fox-like face and sturdy, low-set bodies, Pembroke Welsh Corgis carry confidence in every step. Their short legs and elongated torso give them a unique profile that’s easily recognizable. Though small in stature, they’re full of alertness and energy.
Loyal Companions with a Herding Heart
Originally bred to herd cattle, Corgis have a sharp mind and a drive to stay active. They tend to form deep bonds with their humans and often follow them from room to room. Their loyalty shows in how attuned they are to daily routines and moods.
Social but Strong-Willed
Corgis are sociable and love being around family, but they’re not pushovers. They can be assertive, sometimes trying to herd children or other pets if not properly trained. Early socialization is key to softening their more dominant instincts.
Easy Grooming, Moderate Exercise
Their double coat requires regular brushing, especially during shedding season. They need moderate daily exercise to stay content — brisk walks or short games in the yard work well. Their intelligence also makes them responsive to consistent, reward-based training.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing a dog, French Bulldogs have become incredibly popular—and for good reason. But they’re not the only ones with charm, loyalty, and big personalities packed into small bodies.
The breeds we’ve covered here are each known for something special—whether it’s emotional intelligence, quirky looks, or just the way they come running when you need a pick-me-up.
If you’ve admired the Frenchie but want a companion that’s less prone to health issues or fits your lifestyle a little better, this list offers excellent alternatives. These breeds generally adapt well to apartment living, family routines, or solo companionship.
It’s okay to explore beyond what’s trending and look for the dog that matches you best. After all, a great bond lasts for years, and the right dog doesn’t just fit your life; they enhance it.
