Boston Terrier vs French Bulldog
The Boston Terrier and the French Bulldog are often confused: both are small, flat-faced companions with big ears and big personalities. But they differ in size, build, energy and health. Here's how they compare side by side.
Boston Terrier vs Frenchie at a Glance
| Boston Terrier | French Bulldog | |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Boston, USA (late 1800s) | France, from English toy bulldogs (1800s) |
| AKC group | Non-Sporting | Non-Sporting |
| Height | 15–17 in | 11–13 in |
| Weight | Up to 25 lb | Under 28 lb |
| Build | Square, leggy, athletic | Compact, heavy-boned, muscular |
| Ears | Erect and pointed | Rounded "bat ears" |
| Standard colors | Brindle, seal or black with white markings | Many, including brindle, fawn, white and cream |
| Energy | Lively and playful | More laid-back |
| Lifespan | About 11–13 years | About 10–12 years |
The Difference Between a Boston Terrier and a French Bulldog
Size and Build
Bostons are taller and lighter-boned, with longer legs and a square outline. Frenchies are shorter, wider and heavier for their height. Side by side, a Boston looks like a sprinter and a Frenchie looks like a little weightlifter.
Head, Ears and Markings
Both have short muzzles, but a Frenchie's head is larger and wrinklier, with rounded "bat" ears. A Boston's ears are pointed, and the breed is defined by its tuxedo markings: a white blaze, muzzle and chest. French Bulldogs come in many more colors and don't need white markings.
Energy and Exercise
Bostons are the more athletic of the two and enjoy longer walks and games of fetch. Frenchies are happy with shorter outings and more couch time. Both overheat easily and need gentle exercise in warm weather.
Health
Both are brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds. On average, French Bulldogs tend to have more severe breathing problems, as well as more spinal and skin-fold issues. Bostons' large, prominent eyes make them more prone to eye injuries. Read more in our Boston Terrier health guide.
Grooming
Both have short coats that shed lightly. Frenchies' facial folds need regular cleaning, while Bostons have smoother faces. See how much Boston Terriers shed.
Cost
French Bulldog puppies typically cost more to buy, and often more to insure, than Boston Terriers. See our Boston Terrier price guide for what our puppies cost.
Which Breed Is Right for You?
- Choose a Boston Terrier if you want a lighter, more active companion for walks and play, with the classic tuxedo look.
- Choose a French Bulldog if you prefer a calmer, heavier-set dog that's content with short outings.
Both breeds are affectionate, good with families and well suited to apartment life. Read our Boston Terrier temperament guide for a closer look at the Boston personality.
What About a Boston Terrier French Bulldog Mix?
A Boston Terrier and French Bulldog mix is often called a Frenchton. Mixed puppies can inherit traits from either parent, so their size, looks and health are less predictable. All of our current litters are Boston Terriers, and you can meet our available Boston Terrier puppies.
Boston Terrier vs French Bulldog FAQ
Which is bigger, a Boston Terrier or a French Bulldog?
Bostons are taller (about 15 to 17 inches versus 11 to 13), but French Bulldogs are heavier for their size, at up to 28 pounds versus the Boston's 25.
Which is healthier, a Boston Terrier or a French Bulldog?
Both are short-nosed breeds, but French Bulldogs tend to have more severe breathing, spine and skin-fold problems on average. Bostons are more prone to eye injuries.
What is a Boston Terrier and French Bulldog mix called?
A Frenchton. As with any mix, a puppy can take after either parent breed, so its size, looks and health are less predictable.
Looking for a Boston Terrier puppy? We have 32 puppies available in Worcester, Massachusetts.