French Bulldog vs. Boston Terrier? The breeds are closely related, but significant differences could be a big red flag for you. We’ve created an easy-to-read Boston Terriers and French Bulldogs guide to help you make an educated decision between them.
The French Bulldog Short History
The French Bulldog has a long tradition as a companion dog. But did you know they formerly came from England? As miniature Bulldog, they accompanied English lace-makers to France, eventually earning the French part of their name.
These miniature bulldogs were eventually mixed with regional Parisian ratters, a dog trained to hunt rats. Terriers are the most routine matters, and this was the breed with which the miniature bulldogs were bred.

The Boston Terrier Short History
The name of the Boston Terrier comes from the town of Boston in the United States. In the 1870s, this American breed of dog began after a cross between both the English Bulldog and the English White Terrier, a breed that no longer exists.
Over the decades, the encounters with both the English Bull Terrier, the Pit Bull, and even French Bulldog have developed and improved the breed today known under the label of Boston Terrier.
The French Bulldog and the Boston Terrier share a common ancestor, the English Bulldog.

Popularity
The AKC ranks the Boston Terrier as the USA’s 21st most common breed.
The French Bulldog comes close to the top, ranked 6th. They both make lovely companions in terms of personality, but they have some real disadvantages, notably to do with their health. A detailed assessment is the best way to learn which breed you will be more comfortable owning.
French Bulldog vs Boston Terrier Physical Differences
Size
French Bulldog 30-33 cm High8-15 kgBoston Terrier 36-41 cm High7-13 kg |
The Boston Terriers, as well as the French Bulldogs, are indeed small dogs. The Boston has longer legs, whereas the French has a larger physique.
Color
The Boston Terriers are often identified as the American Gentlemen in brindle, seal, or black with white for their tuxedo-style coloring.
Other markings include:
Black Brindle & White | Brindle & White |
Seal & White | Seal Brindle & White |
French Bulldogs comes in many different colors, such as:
Brindle | Brindle & White |
Cream | Fawn |
Fawn & White | Fawn Brindle |
White | White & Brindle |
White & Fawn | And more! |
Ears
The French are known for their large bat-shaped ears, which are well upright and tailored to their squarish head. Boston Terriers have far more pointed ears as well as a rounder head.
Coat
Both the French Bulldog and the Boston Terrier need little attention when grooming. Also, they both do not have a strong smell (Farting is another matter). Similarly, both can become susceptible to cold weather.
French Bulldog vs Boston Terrier Temperament
Both of these breeds are very well-behaved and get along with everyone, including kids and other animals.
These breeds do not like to be left alone for a considerable time. If left too long on their own, they can experience anxiety. If you are away for most of the day and no one is at home, you may want to find another breed instead.
Boston Terriers and French Bulldogs are well adapted to living in an apartment or small house. They are excellent for regulating their indoor energies and can adapt to new environments quickly. French Bulldogs don’t need extra activity but are glad to be home, allowing them to live in a small area.
French Bulldog vs Boston Terrier Training
If training is the primary motive when determining which breeds to take home, it’s probably safest to go to the Boston Terrier. In most cases, these dogs are a better option for those who are first-time dog owners or who don’t have a great deal of time to teach their new dog friend. However, it is worth noting that Boston Terrier can be territorial, so ensure that they will be socialized early with other dogs and other people.
French Bulldogs owners need to be more authoritative in their early training. It requires positive reinforcement whenever the situation calls for it to happen. French Bulldogs should go to a school of obedience to become more fully and successfully trained.
The differences in training requirements are an essential factor when it comes to Boston Terrier vs. French Bulldog.

French Bulldog vs Boston Terrier Health
Boston Terriers’ health problems that need to be closely monitored include asthma, cataracts, deafness, and seizures. On the other hand, French Bulldogs also have health issues related to their back, eyes, and heart. Although both types may ask for more food if there is a possibility, it is essential for their health not to over-feed them. Also, French Bulldogs are a little more likely to be overweight if they overeat or don’t exercise as often as they should.
Boston Terriers can live for about 13 years, while the French Bulldogs have an average life span of 10 years.
Price
The price depends on many factors; however, the Boston Terriers will generally cost about $800, whereas the French Bulldogs can cost about $2,500. A significant price gap will be noticed when you discuss Boston Terrier vs. French Bulldog.
Good with Families
French Bulldogs are fantastic with children and other family members, loving nothing better than a game in the backyard.
The Boston Terriers loves all people, and they’re going to take children very rapidly. Their compact size is excellent for playing with kids, and they will always be up for a chase around the backyard.
Do These Dogs Bark
The Boston Terriers want to bark with all Terriers, and they will do that if they’re bored. Discourage this by offering a lot of physical and mental stimulation. Activities should always be accessible for your Boston to enjoy. Boston Terriers are intelligent, so try different things like puzzle balls.
On the other hand, French Bulldogs seldom bark, so if you’re searching for a quiet dog, this might be a good alternative for you.
French Bulldog vs Boston Terrier Exercise
While these dogs can look quite alike, they have different exercise needs. The French Bulldogs are more than satisfied to lay on a couch all day long, while the Boston Terriers are misleadingly active.
Once you have gotten your Frenchie up and active, they are more than willing to go to stroll; making new friends and meeting other dogs is a tremendous source of happiness for the French Bulldogs. Though, most days, they’ll be happy to noodle around the dog park by your side.
Boston Terriers prefer to run, they bark at dogs that are a bit larger than themselves, but Bostons are all bark and no bite.
Their absolute favorite two activities in the world are being with their owners and chasing a ball, and walking gives them the chance to do both. Please bring them to a dog park or a park, and throw their ball for them.
But make sure that there is water always on hand since this breed can overheat. These dogs need both intellectual stimulation and physical activity.

French Bulldog vs Boston Terrier Conclusion
If you’ve already been thinking of purchasing any of these breeds, you can refer to the breeds’ traits described above. This will help understand what best suits your character, your timing, and, most crucially, the conditions in which you live.
You can also refer to people who own these breeds to learn more about their dogs. They’re both comfortable and excellent companions.