French bulldog vs Boston Terrier: What’s the difference?

French bulldog vs Boston Terrier: What’s the difference?

Distinguishing French Bulldogs from Boston Terriers 

If you can’t tell the difference between French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers, there’s good reason. Both are compact creatures with similar builds, colours and cuteness quotients, which confuse even the most serious dog lovers. Here’s how to differentiate one from the other. 

 

Appearance 

As you may have noticed, both French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers are relatively small in stature. There’s also some visual overlap since both breeds include white and dark colouration. Keep your eyes peeled for a few tell-tale differences between these breeds. 

 

French Bulldogs 

  • Bat-like ears (rounder edges) 
  • Stocky body build 
  • Slight facial jowls 
  • White, cream, fawn, black & white colouration 
  • Smaller size (approx. 32 cm tall) 
  • Stumpy tail, straight or screwed (where the latter is more likely) 
  • Bark slightly less 

 

 

Boston Terriers 

  • Slightly pointed ears 
  • Lean body build 
  • Trim facial features 
  • Possible tuxedo pattern in black & white, seal & white or brindle & white 
  • Slightly larger size (approx. 40 cm tall) 
  • Stumpy tail, straight or screwed (where the latter is less likely) 
  • Bark slightly more 

 

Temperament 

Both French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers are social breeds and family-friendly pets. However, there are some slight differences between the two upon closer inspection. Here’s what you need to know before deciding which suits you best: 

French Bulldogs 

  • Less serious about training/performance 
  • Relaxed dogs suited to urban environments 
  • Enjoys short walks on a daily basis 

 

Boston Terriers 

  • Active breed that likes to play 
  • Prefers constant companionship 
  • Enjoys enrichment opportunities like obedience or agility training 

 

Health 

When it comes to Bosties and Frenchies, their similarities run deep. Both overlap in terms of size, appearance and health. Here’s the lowdown on key health differences between the breeds. 

French Bulldogs 

  • Prone to moderate shedding 
  • Require extra maintenance related to skin folds and eye care 
  • Prone to respiratory conditions and deformed airways 
  • Require minimal daily exercise to prevent obesity 
  • Life expectancy of 11-14 years 

 

Boston Terriers 

  • Short coats for limited shedding 
  • Considered a low-maintenance breed 
  • Prone to cataracts, cherry eye, deafness and heart murmurs 
  • Prone to breathing difficulties and related discomfort 
  • Life expectancy of 13-15 years 

 

Final Thoughts 

Learning the difference between French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers is easier than you may think. Variation in appearance, temperament and health provide some degree of separation between the breeds. 

Got any other questions about Bosties, Frenchies or doggies in general? If so, we’d love to help. Check out our stories for more pet-friendly info, and we look forward to your next visit! 


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