What Does a French Bulldog Look Like?
Torn in the debate between Boston Terrier vs. French Bulldog? French Bulldogs are petite canines that stand 11–13 inches (28–33 centimeters) tall. They are generally under 28 pounds (13 kilograms). They have perked ears with large bases and rounded tips that are easily identifiable.
Brown eyes, especially dark, almost black eyes, are prevalent in French Bulldogs. The base of their tails is thick, while the tips are fine.
What Does a Boston Terrier Look Like?
The Boston Terrier is a well-proportioned, small dog. It has a slightly arched neck and a square-looking head with erect ears. The muzzle is short and wrinkle-free, with an even or slightly undershot bite. The tail is short, and the chest is broad. The Boston Terrier is a very intelligent canine breed with a strong need to express itself.
They are vivacious and like being in the company of others. They express affection through touch and like snuggling with individuals they care about. Boston Terriers make excellent family pets since they are constantly affectionate toward their owners and never fail to bring a smile to their faces.
Other Dogs That Look Like French Bulldogs
Border Terriers and Other Terriers
Are you looking for a playful breed? A Border Terrier, West Highland, Norwich, and Norfolk Terrier are good choices. These breeds are tough and don’t have many health problems. They are friendly and like spending time with their family. These terriers may live comfortably in apartments if they get daily walks and meet their modest exercise needs.
They have great, feisty personalities and a lot of motivation, which is beneficial to training projects. Border Terriers, in particular, are not known for barking excessively until you meet their demands. They are fearless, self-assured dogs.
They have intermediate grooming needs, which some owners prefer over a breed with high grooming requirements. You can best strip them by hand, but they can also be brushed or clipped. Their coats do not match as quickly as those of a Poodle or Labradoodle. The dead rough outer coat is removed by hand stripping, allowing a new wire coat to grow in.
The Border Terrier, for example, is excellent in the house and can relax for long periods, but it does require daily walks. Potential owners should be aware that these breeds have high prey drives and enjoy chasing creatures, as this is what you breed them to do! Therefore, it’s good to walk them on a leash, especially near roadways. It’s also a good idea to install a robust recall.
They aren’t the finest options for living in an apartment with cats. Another characteristic of these terriers is that they are picky about their canine companions. It is critical to socialize them from an early age, but they may still be feisty and not get along with every dog they encounter despite your best efforts.
Terrier breeds are less tolerant of other dogs charging forward. Try a Sealyham Terrier or a Dandie Dinmont if you enjoy what you’re reading but want something a little less spiky.
Cairn Terrier
While not typically thought of as a dog for first-time dog owners, the cairn terrier possesses a demeanor similar to that of a Frenchie. They have the terrier zeal that would put a new owner off. Still, we’ve found that with little training (a skilled professional is better) and other cerebral stimulation, you can channel their love for life appropriately.
While they are active tiny dogs, their legs are short, so it takes less physical exercise to tire them out.” In addition, Cairn has a good sense of humor. Their terrier wit may fool the average person (or dog), but the few cairns you’ll meet are quick learners who can become well-behaved, entertaining family members.
Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers
Due to their widespread popularity, golden retrievers and Labrador retrievers require no introduction. Although it may sound cliche, I urge that individuals choose Labrador and golden retrievers. Every year, there are good reasons why these dogs make the most popular lists.
They are often amiable, decent family dogs, and easy to train, making them ideal for busy individuals. You couldn’t ask for a finer hiking companion who will want to cuddle with you when you come home.
Havanese
Havanese are toy dogs of Cuban background, hence their name. You spend time with a range of breeds and mixes as a professional dog trainer. The Havanese is a small dog that will steal your heart. They are happy, friendly companion dogs who do well in apartments.
The Havanese is popular on neighborhood walks since they are friendly with humans, children, and other dogs. They excel at dog sports like agility, nose work, and obedience, but they also like spending time with their “humans.”
Havanese, like the French Bulldog, is a peaceful dog. Brushing or cutting their gorgeous silky coats, which come in various colors and patterns, is required. The Havanese are natural people, pleasers, whether in a selfie pose or with a new skill.
Italian greyhound
Italian greyhounds, sometimes known as Iggies for short, are petite, attractive sighthounds. Italian greyhounds are healthy, apartment-friendly dogs who don’t require much activity. Italian greyhounds have a reputation for being quiet and affectionate. They’re even tinier than Frenchies and look especially cute in knitwear (they get very cold).
They’re amiable dogs. They also come in a variety of hues and can be extremely attractive. Let’s face it; many people adore Frenchies because they’re so adorable. Iggies (Italian greyhounds) match the bill as well.
Poodle
Poodles are intelligent canines that come in standard, miniature, and toy sizes. Individuals and families considering a Frenchie or other brachycephalic dog breed should strongly consider a poodle as an alternative.
A poodle is much more than just a cute face! According to the American Kennel Club, poodles consistently rank among the top ten most popular dogs in the United States. They are energetic, clever, and friendly dogs who make excellent family pets.
There is a poodle for everyone, with three sizes to pick from the toy 4-6 pounds(1.8-2.7 kilograms), miniature 12-20 pounds(5.4-9.1 kilograms), and standard 50-70 pounds(22.7-31.8 kilograms). Grey, apricot, black, and white are among the many colors available in poodles.
Poodles are extremely trainable canines that are ideal for anyone who wants to engage in dog sports like agility, freestyle, nose work, or obedience competitions. In addition, due to their friendliness, intelligence, and trainability, we also recognize them to make excellent therapy and service dogs.
Because Poodles are energetic dogs, owners contemplating the breed should ensure their dog’s daily activity and enrichment requirements are satisfied. Their curly coats also necessitate frequent brushing and maintenance. Poodles have a lot going for them, and I would recommend them to anyone searching for a pleasant, active canine companion.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are a popular breed of small dog due to their lively disposition. We describe the Shih Tzu as happy-go-lucky and playful in a few words. But unfortunately, we sometimes dismiss the Shih Tzu as a frou-frou show dog who belongs on a fluffy cushion with a ribbon in its hair, but nothing could be further from the reality.
These are usually happy, playful canines with great personalities. Although they may not require as much exercise as working dogs, they still need daily exercise and play. Finding a competent breeder, early socialization, and positive reinforcement training are essential aspects of raising a happy and confident Shih Tzu.
Shih Tzus are typically very social dogs who make excellent companions for people of all ages. They’re great with kids and make great family dogs. However, due to the Shih Tzu’s small stature, the aggressive handling of rowdy children can be frightening. We strongly advise parental supervision.
The Shih Tzu’s biggest flaw is that its coat requires regular care. Most Shih Tzu owners opt for a close-cropped puppy trim, which gives them a lovely rough and tumbles appearance. Shih Tzus tops my list of dog breeds for new owners or anyone looking for a wonderful companion. Read our article and find out the Top 10 Shih Tzu Haircuts.
While the breed is known for many excellent characteristics, it’s important to note that each dog is unique, and there can be diversity within the species. Because this is a brachycephalic breed, choose a trustworthy breeder with caution.
Whippet
Whippets are attractive canines that are somewhat larger than Italian greyhounds but smaller than Greyhounds. Whippets are a wonderful breed for a variety of reasons. They are amicable, affectionate, intelligent, and get along well with other animals. They also don’t bark excessively.
They’re also incredibly tidy, with a low-shedding, low-maintenance coat. These characteristics make them ideal for apartment life (as long as you exercise them adequately). Whippets are one of the hardiest purebred dogs and make excellent companions for most people and living situations, including families.
On the other hand, Whippets feel the cold and may require extra coverage in the winter. These adorable little dogs thrive when allowed inside and part of the family.
Mutts
Mutts are popular for many reasons, and they come in different forms and colors by definition. If yes, you want to spend as much time with a healthy and happy canine companion.
Then get yourself a mutt. If you enjoy welcoming rescue canines from unknown backgrounds into your house, Perhaps you’re worried that a mutt won’t behave as predictably as a purebred dog. Still, research from the previous two decades suggests we should treat dogs as individuals. We can see just as much variance in behavior within a breed as we do between species.
We can’t assume that just because a dog belongs to a given breed or breed type, it will behave in a certain way. A mixed-breed dog has some advantages. Mixed breed dogs have a longer lifetime than purebred dogs, proportionate to body size.
Dogs with flattened (brachycephalic) faces have health and welfare problems. It’s simple: if you want a happy, healthy, and long-lived dog, you won’t get one with an extreme body type. Whatever kind of dog you choose to share your house with, make sure you get to know the individual. Spend time getting to know them, their personalities, and their activity levels.
Do your homework to learn about any breed-related health difficulties they may face over the course of their lives, and then think about whether you’ll be a suitable match for each other in the next fifteen years. Adult rescue dogs have the advantage of being well-known.
Mid-sized canines that are lively, hilarious, and have the same energy level as you can find a typical Frenchie in local rescues and shelters.
Boston Terrier vs. French Bulldog – The Differences
There are several differences between the Boston Terriers and French Bulldogs. Here is a look at some of the differences:
The appearance
The coat colors of Boston Terriers and French Bulldogs are probably the most noticeable distinction. While both breeds are frequently black and white, terriers are more likely to be bi-colored, with an equitable distribution of white and possibly chocolate, liver, and seal (a reddish hue). He’ll also have a white stripe between his eyes practically all the time.
A bulldog may be bi-colored in these colors, but she will often change things up with a solid coat, a black mask, or a large patch of an alternate color over her chest. Both puppers, on the other hand, will look at you with big mocha-colored eyes, making them quite appealing and deserving of every subscription box of treats!
Size
The Boston Terrier and the French Bulldog are little canines of similar sizes. The Boston Terrier is the lankier of the two breeds, with a muscular frame and greater bone structure.
Their larger legs give them a slight advantage over their Frenchie kin since they stand 1.18 feet-1.35 feet (36 centimeters-41centimeters) tall and weigh 15.4 pounds-28.7 pounds (7 kilograms-13 kilograms), whereas a French Bulldog stands 17.6 pounds-33.1 pounds (8 kilograms-15 kilograms) and stands 0.98 feet- 1.08 feet (30 centimeters- 33 centimeters) tall.
In addition, the bulldog is larger than the terrier. “Boston Terriers are less difficult to train than French bulldogs,” explains Moyano. “Before bringing their Frenchie home, the owner should start practicing squats and strengthening their back!”
The ears
The unique ‘bat-like’ ears of Frenchies are moderate in size and stand erect on their square-shaped skull. By comparison, while a Boston Terrier’s perky ears appear to be capable of transmitting satellite signals, many people refer to a Frenchie’s ‘bat ears,’ which are larger and rounder than the terrier’s. This is because Boston Terriers have pointed ears and round, not square, heads.
Their snouts
Short snouts and large, square jaws characterize Boston Terriers and French Bulldogs. Booties have a large, black, well-defined nose with a line between their nostrils. A Frenchie’s snout is similarly small, with wider nostrils and a clear line separating them.
Both dogs are brachycephalic breeds due to their flatter faces. In addition, their short tracheas, long palates, and tiny nostrils might create health and respiratory issues.
Their tails
The Frenchie and the Boston Terrier have stumpy little tails that are either straight or twisted and sit low over their rectum. A deformity in the vertebrae causes a twisted tail, which is more frequent in Bulldogs than Boston Terriers.
Activity level
you require moderate for both breeds. Boston Terriers are more energetic than French Bulldogs and can have explosive energy bursts. They enjoy running, jumping, and fetching, and they may even become obsessed with a tennis ball. They’d make wonderful running companions, but their short snouts can lead them to overheat.
Both types are prone to overheating owing to breathing problems, so keep an eye on them on hot days or if they’ve been running a lot. French Bulldogs are more calm and agile due to their bigger build when it comes to running and jumping, but they are no less lively or exuberant.
Like lengthy walks or treks, regular, moderate exercise is excellent for keeping Frenchies fit and healthy.
Personality
Although both Frenchies and Booties are petite in size, they are not small in personality. Both types are pleasant, caring dogs who make wonderful furry companions. If you can’t be around as frequently as you’d want, find an exceptional dog sitter who also offers dog boarding to keep your dog company.
The Boston Terriers are true to their reputation as American gentlemen. They can be active, attentive, and intellectual, alternating between spurts of energy and the want to wrap up and cuddle.
The Frenchie is also known as the Clown in a Philosopher’s Clock for their playful demeanor and equally friendly disposition. They are known for making their owners laugh and being extremely friendly and cuddly.
Their Health
A French Bulldog can live for over ten years, whereas Boston Terriers can live for 12-14 years. Their short muzzles render them prone to respiratory issues and heatstroke in warmer weather. Obesity can develop in French Bulldogs if they are overfed and under-exercised. They may also experience problems with their eyes, heart, or back.
Cataracts and seizures are common in Boston Terriers, as with allergies and hearing. While it may not be a health issue, both breeds are known for being loud snorers, and Frenchies are notorious for being a bit (or a lot!) gassy – be warned, it can be very unpleasant! However, there are numerous commonalities between these good dogs in this group.
Both, for example, are prone to a variety of eye diseases. In addition, Boston Terriers and French Bulldogs are brachycephalic breeds, which means they’re prone to respiratory disorders and breathing issues. As a result, both dogs may get clogged airways due to their flat faces, according to Moyano, and may require surgery for better respiratory health.
She also says that because brachycephalic dogs have trouble breathing on flights, it’s better to hire a pet sitter or plan dog-friendly road excursions where they may accompany you. Heat and exercise aren’t ideal for Boston Terriers or French Bulldogs. It’s simply impossible for them to breathe.
They’re prone to overheating, so you should exercise extreme caution on hot days. Be willing to leave your brachycephalic dog at home in the air conditioning rather than taking them to the farmers’ market if you live in a hot climate. Daily walks in the early morning or late evening when milder weather will give your dog a healthy leg stretch.
Other options for keeping them cool in the summer include a cool bed or a cooled dog home. Frenchies can’t swim due to their heavy front structure, but they might enjoy splashing in a sprinkler!
Dogs Similar to Boston Terriers
Border Terrier
Border Terriers and Boston Terriers have similar short coats; thus, they may appear similar. Nonetheless, Boston Terriers have lovely coats, whereas Border Terriers have scratchy fur.
Border Terriers have thicker, more loose skin because it protects them from fox bites when fox hunting. While Border Terriers can have black and white fur, pale yellow, wheat, or grizzle, and tan colors are more frequent.
Boxer
Because of their striking squared heads, some people may mistake Boxer dogs for Boston Terriers when they are sitting. However, both breeds have similar stocky, muscular builds. The main distinction between these two breeds is their size.
The largest Boston Terriers can weigh up to 25 pounds (11.3 kilograms), whereas boxers can weigh up to 70 pounds (31.75 kilograms). Boxers can also stand up to 25 inches (63.5 centimeters) tall, whereas Boston Terriers can only reach 17 inches (43.18 centimeters).
Brussels Griffon
If you thought Boston Terriers had the most expressive faces, wait until you meet the Brussels Griffon, which regularly displays a human-like look. Although both breeds have flat faces, the Brussels Griffon has a broader set of eyes and a more pronounced chin.
Compared to Boston Terriers, the Brussels Griffon has a more petite physical frame. Instead of a beautiful coat, it has coarse hair that sheds little.
Bulldog
Bulldogs have medium-sized bodies that are robust and low-slung, giving them the appearance of Boston Terriers. They all have broad, strong limbs to sustain their massive bodies. Both breeds have huge heads with short muzzles and wrinkled or folded faces.
According to research, dogs with short muzzles, such as these two breeds, are more likely to develop Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome, affecting airflow through the upper airways.
Cairn Terrier
Like the Boston Terrier, the Cairn Terrier is a tiny, short-legged dog. However, unlike a Boston Terrier, A Cairn Terrier has a medium-length, weather-resistant coat. While they both have ears that stand up most of the time, the Cairn Terrier has shorter ears that give it a fox-like appearance. In terms of weight and height, it is also smaller.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are small canines that rarely weigh more than six pounds. Unlike Terriers, who usually have straight fur, they have off-square bodies with straight or silky coat textures.
A Boston Terrier is classified as a tiny, non-sporting breed by the American Kennel Club, while we classify Chihuahuas as toy dogs. Even the tallest Chihuahuas, at 10 inches, will fall short of the Terriers’ height.
Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux is a Mastiff-type dog with undershot jaws and expressive eyes as a Boston Terrier. It retains the classic brachycephalic features popular in combat dogs as an ancient French breed.
Despite the size difference, the buff physique with a sleek outline gives it the appearance of a Boston Terrier. Both have excellent coats, while the Dogue de Bordeaux’s fur is usually chocolate.
Norwich Terrier
Boston Terriers can reach a height of seven inches higher than Norwich Terriers. Despite having similar facial traits, Norwich Terriers have longer tails than Yorkshire Terriers. Norwich Terriers have slightly foxy expressions, although both species have perky ears. Furthermore, unlike Boston Terriers, they have double coats rather than single coats.
French Bulldog
Thanks to their shared English Bulldog ancestors, the French terrier and the Boston Terrier are little dogs. Furthermore, both dogs belong to the 24 major breeds with brachycephalic features. They have shorter noses due to this issue.
On the other hand, Terriers have longer legs and are hence taller. On the other hand, Frenchies have a muscular frame and a bigger bone structure.
Jack Russell Terrier
Because Boston Terriers and Jack Russell Terriers have short, smooth coats, they may appear to have a relationship at times. However, both breeds are also easy to groom due to their coats.
While Jack Russells are nearly the same height as Boston Terriers, they weigh less (13 to 17 pounds), which could be due to their unique diet. Also, in comparison to Bostons, Jack Russells have longer tails.
Japanese Chin
Japanese Chins have huge heads and wide eyes, similar to Boston Terriers. Their muzzles are also short, and their chins are prominent on their faces. While the dogs have similar facial features, a closer examination reveals that Boston Terriers have calm but alert expressions, while Japanese Chins have surprised emotions.
Manchester Terrier
The large, perky ears of both Manchester Terriers and Boston Terriers give them the appearance of being always alert. In addition, some Bostons have a full-black coat that resembles Manchester’s fur.
Manchester, on the other hand, have slimmer bodies and longer legs. Despite their disparities in height, Manchester Terriers can weigh anywhere from 12 to 22 pounds (5.4 kilograms to 9.98 kilograms), which is comparable to the average weight of Boston Terriers.
Mastiff
A Mastiff’s face may resemble that of a Boston Terrier’s near uncle despite the size difference. Both breeds have a quiet demeanor that exudes majesty and elegance. Like a Boston Terrier, a Mastiff is a lovely, loving, and good-natured dog despite its vast body. In contrast to a Terrier’s fine coat, it usually has a denser fur.
Miniature Bull Terrier
Because they both have strange, almost comical looks, Miniature Bull Terriers resemble Boston Terriers. Although Miniature Bull Terriers are bigger, they have compact, muscular bodies.
Miniature Bull Terriers have fine, glossy coats that grow very near the skin, similar to Boston Terriers. On the other hand, Miniature Bull Terriers have egg-shaped heads as opposed to the rounded skulls of Boston Terriers.
Miniature Pinscher
Miniature Pinschers are German dogs with coat colors similar to Chihuahuas and Manchester Terriers. However, their perky ears and docked tails give them the appearance of Boston Terriers. On the other hand, Min Pins have the same well-proportioned and compact bodies as Bostons. Aside from that, both breeds have short-haired, smooth coats.
Pomeranian
Pomeranians may resemble cotton candies come to life, but why do they resemble Boston Terriers? This is because they are petite breeds with flat facial features. Although Bostons are larger, both dogs make excellent lap dogs. However, because of shorter snouts and alert, prick ears, a half-breed Pomeranian may lose its fluffy coat and resemble Bostons more.
Pug
The wrinkle patterns on the faces of Pug Pugs and Boston Terriers are similar. They both have narrow or small nostrils as brachycephalic breeds, which may limit airflow when these dogs breathe through their noses.
We classify the Pug as a toy dog despite its similar stature to the American Kennel Club. Apart from that, Terriers have erect ears, while Pugs have folded-over ears.
Scottish Terrier
Scottish Terriers, like Boston Terriers, are small, strong dogs with short legs. The skulls of both breeds are proportionate to their stature. In addition, these two Terriers have pronounced erect ears, as do most Terriers. Despite their similar weight and height, Scottish Terriers have thick, wiry hair, which requires more maintenance than Boston Terriers.
Silky Terrier
Silky Terriers have V-shaped ears positioned high on the head, similar to Boston Terriers. Their skulls are also flat, resulting in short muzzles.
Silky Terriers are smaller than Boston Terriers in terms of height and weight, despite being both little dogs. Silky Terriers have beautiful, luscious locks that can grow short or long, as they are a cross between Australian and Yorkshire Terriers.
French Bulldog or Boston Terrier – Which is Right for You?
Both dogs make excellent pet companions for people who want to discover all of their best qualities. Here are some more details to assist you in figuring out which dog is most suited to your lifestyle. You might prefer a Boston Terrier if you’re:
- If you can appreciate his independence and intelligence by providing a safe environment with plenty of enrichment opportunities, you might choose a Boston Terrier.
- Looking for an energetic canine buddy who is good with children.
- He is committed to making sure he has someone to play with, exercise with, and hang out with for the majority of the day, every day, so he doesn’t get lonely. To be honest, this dog’s favorite activity is spending time with his family.
- You can give a patient a mix of early socialization and training and the ability to laugh when she gets off track.
A french Bulldog might be the dog for you.
- You or an elderly relative are looking for the ideal cuddly apartment dog.
- A little drool on the couch isn’t a huge issue.
The Final Say
It’s all about personality sometimes! While each little dog is unique, you recognize many breeds for specific qualities, which is true for these two species. There are various dog breeds that resemble the two species, and they can confuse you in the French Bulldogs vs. Boston Terriers debate.
It may be easy to discern whether a dog is a French Bulldog or a Boston Terrier if you know how to spot the differences. In terms of the face, body, and tail, some dogs resemble Boston Terriers and the French Bulldog. Even so, there are distinguishing characteristics that can help you distinguish them.
At the end of the day, what matters is that we give them the time, attention, and care they require. After reading this article in its entirety, we are confident that you now have all of the knowledge necessary to distinguish between the two dogs, even if the Boston Terrier mixed with French Bulldogs. Boston Terrier or the French bull terrier? The choice is for you to make.