French and English Bulldogs are such adorable dogs! They have good temperaments, great rolls, and a knobby nose that's hard to resist. Here are the main differences between the French and English Bulldogs.
History
English Bulldogs have a very long history! The earliest mention of English Bulldogs was in the 12th Century. They were bred to participate in a blood sport called Bull-baiting. This cruel sport had dogs fighting bulls to the death. Participants in bull-baiting believed that this fighting made the flavours taste better in the bull meat. In 1835 England banned bull-baiting. English Bulldogs are a national icon of England and they symbolise determination. Sir Winston Churchill who led England during World War 2 was known as "The Bulldog" by the Russians due to his focus and determination. A trait that English Bulldogs carry.
French Bulldogs were bred at a much later date than English Bulldogs. French Bulldogs came into existence after Bull-baiting was banned in 1835. French Bulldogs originate from Nottingham, England and not France! French Bulldogs were bred to be companion lap dogs. French Bulldogs are the result of an English Bulldog being bred with a French Ratter. In the late 1800s English lacemakers began to migrate to France and the French Bulldogs breed soared in popularity. In America, the French Bulldog was the 4th most popular dog breed in 2019. A number of stars own French Bulldogs including Dwayne Johnson, Hillary Duff, and Hugh Jackman.
Appearance
English Bulldogs are stocky dogs, they have a large head, large folded ears, and a short muzzle. They have a lot of wrinkles on their head and faces. English Bulldogs typically have more wrinkles than French Bulldogs. English Bulldogs on average 31cm (13 inches) high and weigh 23kg (50lb)- 25kg (55lb). English Bulldogs come in a number of recognised colours. English Bulldog eyes are slightly smaller and set further apart when compared to English Bulldogs.
- Brindle
- Fawn
- Fawn & Brindle
- Fawn & White
- Fawn brindle & White
- Red
- Red & White
- Red brindle
- Red brindle & White
- White
- Fallow
Bulldogs have an average lifespan of 8-10 years.
French Bulldogs are short, stocky and have short muzzles. They are a smaller version of the English Bulldog with a few exemptions. They have large rounded upright ears, and French Bulldog facial expression is serious and alert compared to the more sullen English Bulldog look. French Bulldogs have an average height of 30cm (12 inches) and weigh on average 13kg (28lb). This makes them only an inch or two shorter than an English Bulldog but half of the weight. French Bulldogs come in a number of recognised colours.
- Brindle
- Brindle & White
- Cream
- Fawn
- Fawn & White
- Fawn Brindle & White
- White
- White & Brindle
- White & Fawn
French Bulldogs have an average lifespan of 10-12 years.
Temperament
English Bulldogs are known for their loving, cuddling, and chilled outbreed. They are great with children, love attention (actively seek attention) and have a gentle disposition. They make great family pets. English Bulldogs have low energy levels. They are happy with a walk to the letterbox but they will also go for larger walks. Due to their flat face, they do not like warm temperatures and must be walked in cooler temperatures.
French Bulldogs are known as clowns dressed up as professors. They are also a very relaxed, affectionate and fun-loving breed. French Bulldogs love to play and are great with children. They can be a stubborn breed, they love attention, and are very sensitive.
Healthcare
Both English and French Bulldogs are Brachycephalic. Brachy means shortened, and cephalic means head. This can lead to a condition called Brachycephalic Airways condition. Typical symptoms include struggling to breathe, foam vomiting, and a lack of energy. If they suffer from this they will need vet attention. This makes French and English Bulldogs susceptible to overheating. They prefer to spend summer in an airconditioned room and play to be kept indoors while it is hot.
Grooming- Both the English and French Bulldogs require little grooming due to their short coats. We recommend brushing them once a week to keep shedding under control.
The skinfolds on French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs require regular cleaning to ensure the folds are dry to stop infections.
French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs are predisposed to gain weight. Please ensure they are regularly exercised and eating the correct amount of food. Any additional weight puts excess stress on their joints.
Skin and fur allergies are common in both breeds of dogs. To read more about skin allergies view our blog post here.
Trainability
English Bulldogs are very strong-willed dogs and like to think they are in control of their own life. However, they are sweet, easy-going, and devoted. Bulldogs do want to please their owners and aim to follow orders.
French Bulldogs have a ritualistic tendency. This plus positive reward makes training French Bulldogs relatively easy.
Both dogs have a stubborn streak but by persistently training them you will find them to be very obedient. English Bulldogs like to get along with the entire family. French Bulldogs are more particular and are likely to imprint themselves on one person. If you don't want this make sure you socialise them with people and animals at an early age.
Quick reference guide for breed information.
