Did you know that French Bulldogs are now the most popular dog breed in the U.S.? But their equally adorable cousin, the Boston Terrier, is just as beloved for its playful and affectionate nature.
If you’re searching for a small, charming, and loving companion, both of these breeds might seem like the perfect match. But while they share similar features, their personalities, health concerns, and maintenance needs differ in ways that can make one a better fit for you than the other.
In this guide, we’ll compare these two adorable breeds side by side, covering everything from history and temperament to grooming needs and health—helping you decide which pup truly belongs in your home.
French Bulldog vs. Boston Terrier
French Bulldog vs. Boston Terrier: History
When you see a French Bulldog and a Boston Terrier, you might think they’re long-lost siblings. After all, they share those adorable squishy faces, compact bodies, and playful personalities. But did you know these two breeds have completely different origins?
The French Bulldog actually traces its roots back to England in the 1800s. Lace workers in Nottingham adored small bulldogs, often bringing them along as companions. When the Industrial Revolution forced many of these workers to relocate to France, their beloved pups came along. Over time, breeding French Bulldogs with local small breeds led to the charming, bat-eared Frenchie we know today.
Meanwhile, the Boston Terrier was born in the United States. In the late 1800s, a man named Robert C. Hooper from Boston had a dog named Judge—a mix between an English Bulldog and a now-extinct white English Terrier. His unique look caught on, and through careful breeding, Judge’s descendants became what we now recognize as the Boston Terrier.
Different Paths, Same Lovability
Even though both the Boston Terrier and the French Bulldog were bred from bulldog ancestors, their temperaments developed in different ways. From England to France and Boston to the rest of the U.S., these two breeds have won hearts worldwide—and it’s easy to see why!
French Bulldog vs. Boston Terrier: Size and Weight
At first glance, French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers seem pretty similar in size. But when you look closer, you’ll notice many differences that can impact their energy levels, exercise needs, and even their ideal living situation.
French Bulldogs have a compact, muscular build and typically weigh between 16-28 pounds, standing about 11-12 inches tall. They have a stockier frame, which makes them feel surprisingly solid when you pick them up! French Bulldogs tend to be a bit lazier and prefer lounging over long walks.
On the other hand, Boston Terriers are slightly taller and leaner. They usually weigh between 12-25 pounds and stand 15-17 inches tall. Their small size still makes them great for apartment living, but unlike Frenchies, they have more energy and enjoy playtime with other dogs.
Which One Fits Your Lifestyle?
Regardless of their size, both of these dogs love human attention and adapt well to city or suburban life. Just keep in mind that as they age, their exercise needs may change, and they’ll require extra care to stay happy and healthy!
French Bulldog vs. Boston Terrier: Coat
Short, Smooth, and Oh-So-Stylish!
When it comes to their coats, French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers share many similarities—both have short, sleek fur that requires minimal upkeep. However, there are a few key characteristics that set them apart.
French Bulldogs have a soft, fine coat that lies flat against their skin. They come in a variety of coat colors, including fawn, cream, brindle, white, and pied as mentioned in the Kennel Club. Their fur is slightly denser than a Boston Terrier’s, giving them a plush feel.
Boston Terriers, on the other hand, have a thin, smooth coat that feels even sleeker to the touch. While they don’t have as many color variations as Frenchies, their signature tuxedo-like markings make them instantly recognizable. The most common coat colors for Boston Terriers are black and white, brindle and white, and seal and white.
No matter which breed you choose, their unique characteristics and charming coats add to their irresistible appeal!
French Bulldog vs. Boston Terrier: Temperament
When it comes to temperament, each breed brings something different to the table. Whether you want a laid-back cuddle buddy or an energetic goofball, understanding their temperament can help you choose the perfect match.
French Bulldog: The Laid-Back Lap Dog
Frenchies are all about relaxation and companionship. They love nothing more than curling up on the couch and soaking in all the attention they can get. According to AKC, while they do have playful bursts of energy, they’re generally calm, affectionate, and stubbornly independent—which means they may not always listen to commands the first time (or the fifth!).
Ideal for:
Apartment dwellers who want a low-energy companion
Owners who love snuggles and don’t mind a little stubbornness
Families or singles looking for a dog that doesn’t need intense exercise
Boston Terrier: The Energetic Entertainer
Boston Terriers, often called the “American Gentleman” because of their tuxedo-like markings, are lively, playful, and full of personality as mentioned in Zealandia Pets. They thrive on interaction and love playing with people and other pets. Their high energy makes them more active than Frenchies, but they’re still small enough to adapt to apartment living.
Ideal for:
Active individuals or families who enjoy playtime and short walks
Owners who want a friendly, social dog that gets along well with others
Someone looking for a dog with a little extra spunk and charm
Whichever breed you choose, both will fill your home with love, laughter, and plenty of unforgettable moments!
French Bulldog vs. Boston Terrier: Grooming and Maintenance
Low-Maintenance, But Not No-Maintenance!
When it comes to grooming, both the French Bulldog and Boston Terrier are fairly easy to care for. But don’t let their short coats confuse you—these breeds still need regular upkeep to stay clean and healthy!
Coat & Skin Care
Both breeds have short, smooth coats that don’t require much brushing—once or twice a week is enough to keep shedding under control. But their wrinkled faces, especially in Frenchies, need extra attention. Cleaning between the folds with a damp cloth helps prevent irritation and infection.
Bath Time & Ear Care
Neither breed needs frequent baths—once a month or when they get dirty is plenty. Just be sure to use a gentle dog shampoo to avoid drying out their sensitive skin. Their bat-like ears (especially in Frenchies) should be checked weekly to prevent wax buildup or infections.
Nail Trimming & Dental Care
Overgrown nails can make walking uncomfortable, so regular trimming is a must. And, of course, don’t forget their teeth! Both breeds can develop dental issues, so brushing their teeth a few times a week will help keep their breath fresh and gums healthy.
With the right care, your furry pet will stay looking sharp and feeling great. And don’t forget—what they eat matters, too! A healthy diet with quality food plays a huge role in their coat and overall well-being. A well-fed, well-trained pup is a happy one!
French Bulldog vs. Boston Terrier: Health and Lifespan Comparison
Both French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers are adorable, but their flat faces come with some health challenges. While they may look sweet, their short snouts make them prone to breathing issues, especially in hot weather. Because of this, they should avoid excessive exercise in the heat.
French Bulldogs have an average lifespan of 10-12 years, while Boston Terriers tend to live a bit longer, around 11-14 years. That extra time can make a bit of a difference for those looking for a long-term companion.
Common Health Concerns
Brachycephalic Syndrome: Due to their flat faces, both breeds are prone to breathing difficulties, snoring, and overheating.
Patellar Luxation: This knee condition is common in small animals, including both breeds, and can cause mobility issues.
Skin Allergies: French Bulldogs, in particular, can develop sensitivities to certain foods, including chocolate (which is toxic to all dogs!).
Eye Issues: Boston Terriers have large, expressive eyes that make them more prone to infections and cataracts.
Keeping Them Healthy
Providing a balanced diet, avoiding harmful foods like chocolate, and ensuring plenty of mental stimulation can help both breeds stay happy and healthy. Regular vet visits, proper care, and keeping them cool in hot weather can lower the risk of severe health issues and help them live their best lives!
Conclusion
Choosing between a French Bulldog and a Boston Terrier isn’t easy! Both are brachycephalic breeds, meaning they can experience breathing problems, especially in warm weather. Boston Terriers, with their white stripe and pointed ears, tend to have more energy, while Frenchies, with their erect ears, are known for being stubborn yet loving.
If you live in an urban environment, both breeds adapt well. Since they share a common ancestor, their personalities overlap, but your lifestyle will determine the best fit. Either way, you’re gaining a loyal and affectionate companion!
