Are you interested in a French Bulldog or a Boston Terrier for a pet?
How are these dogs different from one another?
Come with us as we explore more on Boston Terrier Vs. French Bulldog to help make your choice easier.
Boston Terrier vs. French Bulldog: A Comparison at Glance
| Trait | French Bulldog | Boston Terrier |
| Origin | England | US |
| Size | Small | Small |
| Height | 11-12 inches | 15-17 inches |
| Weight | 16-28 pounds | 12-25 pounds |
| Energy level | Low | High |
| Coat type | Short, fine, and smooth | Short, fine |
| Coat color | A wide range of colors including fawn, white, cream, brindle | Black, brindle, seal, and white |
| Shedding level | Low | Moderate |
| Temperament | Alert, easy-going, playful, and independent | Sociable, lively, gentle, and friendly. |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years | 11-13 years |
| Price | Starts from $1,500 | Starting from $1,000 |
| Exercise needs | Low | Moderate |
The Key Differences Between Boston Terriers and French Bulldogs
The following are the key differences between Boston Terriers and Frenchies in various aspects:
Boston Terrier vs. Frenchies History
While Boston Terriers and Frenchies share Bulldog ancestry, they have distinct histories. While the former originates from the United States, the latter’s origin can be traced back to England.
Boston History at a Glance
As earlier stated, Boston Terriers originate in the US, specifically, Boston, Massachusetts, from where they derive their name. Their history can be traced to the mid-1800s and is believed to be a result of the crossbreed between the English Bulldog and the English White Terrier. This is a brief history of the Boston Terrier:
- 1865: Robert C. Hooper of Boston, Massachusetts, imports a dog and names it Hooper’s Judge. This dog became the founding father of the current Boston Terrier breed, originally called the American Bull Terrier.
- 1870s: The popularity of the Boston Terriers began growing in Boston, with the dogs being referred to as round heads.
- The late 1800s: The Boston Terriers are crossed with French Bulldogs creating Boston Bulldogs.
- 1889: The American Terrier Club is formed and later changed to the Boston Terrier Club of America.
- 1893: The AKC (American Kennel Club) officially recognizes the Boston Terrier as a breed.
Types of Boston Terriers
Boston Terriers come in several mixes, which include:
- Boston Lab: is a crossbreed between a Labrador Retriever and a Boston Terrier.
- Frenchton: This is a mix of a French Bulldog and a Boston Terrier
- Boston Spaniel: It’s a mix between a Cocker Spaniel and Boston Terrier
- Pomston: This is a Pomeranian and Boston Terrier mix
- Bostchon: It’s a Bichon Frise and a Boston Terrier mix
- Bolgen Terrier: This is a mix of a Beagle and a Boston Terrier Mix
Frenchies History at a Glance
Frenchies owe their origin to English Bulldogs. When the English lacemakers were forced to move and work in Normandy, France, following the industrial revolution, they took their small dogs with them. These dogs were later bred with Terriers in France, creating the French Bulldog we know today.
This is the history of Frenchies at a glance:
- 1800s: English breeders began crossbreeding English Bulldogs with smaller dogs to create a toy version of the Bulldog that’s suitable for companionship.
- The mid-1800s: The British breeders popularize French Bulldog development
- 1862: Frenchies are exhibited at the Birmingham dog show
- Late 188s: Frenchies become popular in France and were used as a symbol of luxury and sophistication.
- 1898: The Societe Centrale Canine(SCC) and American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognize French Bulldogs as a breed.
- 1905: French Bulldogs receive official recognition from the Kennel Club in England.
- 1910s-1920s: French Bulldogs become popular in the US.
Types of French Bulldogs
Boston vs. Frenchie History Comparison
| French Bulldog | Boston Terrier | |
| Country of origin | England | United States |
| Year Recognized | 1898 | 1893 |
Frenchie vs. Boston Terriers Appearance
It’s easy to confuse Frenchies and Boston Terriers as they are similar in shape and size. They are both small dogs with a flat-facial structure, stocky and muscular bodies, plus short snouts. However, the two breeds also have noticeable differences that help to distinguish them.
French Bulldog physical traits
Source: Wikicommons
The French Bulldog is shorter, stockier, and has a larger bone structure than Boston Terriers. They have moderate-sized bat-like ears that stand erect on large square heads. Frenchies are shorter but heavier compared to Boston Terriers. A fully grown Frenchie stands between 11-12 inches in height and weighs between 16-28 pounds.
Like the Boston Terrier, Frenchies have single, short, smooth coats. However, Frenchies tend to shed more and come in a wider range of coat colors and markings, including brindle, cream, white, fawn, brindle and white, and white and fawn.
Boston Terrier physical traits
Source: Wikicommons
Boston Terriers are leaner but more leggy than French Bulldogs. This gives them an advantage over Frenchies in terms of height. Boston Terriers are also lighter than Frenchies. An adult Boston Terrier is 15-17 inches tall and weighs 12-25 pounds on average.
Unlike Frenchies in various colors, Boston Terriers are renowned for their distinctive tuxedo-style coat markings in black, brindle, white, or seal. Boston Terriers have more pointed ears and rounded heads. Terriers also shed lesser than Frenchies.
What the Frenchie & Boston Terrier have in common
Frenchies and Boston Terriers have a lot in common. Both are brachycephalic dog breeds with flat faces, short muzzles, and constrained nostrils. This makes them prone to breathing problems. They also have big bug eyes, large erect ears, and short tails.
Frenchies and Terries also boast a short, smooth coat requiring minimal grooming. Both dogs also have a similar life expectancy of 11-13 years.
Frenchies and Boston Terriers are smart dogs that quickly follow commands and cues. They are also eager to please, which makes them easy to train. However, both breeds have a stubborn streak, making training a challenge.
Boston Terrier vs. French Bulldog ears
French Bulldogs have distinctive medium-sized bat-like ears that stand erect on large square heads. Boston Terriers, on the other hand, have pointed ears that stand on round heads.
Comparing their snouts
Boston Terriers and Frenchies are both flat-faced. Short snouts, constrained nostrils, narrow tracheas, and long palates mark these brachycephalic dogs. This unique facial structure makes these dogs prone to breathing problems and other health issues.
Boston Terriers have wide, black, and well-defined noses with a line between their nostrils. Just like Bosties, Frenchies have very short snouts. However, their nostrils are wider but have a distinctive line between them.
Their tails
Boston Terriers and Frenchies have short, stumpy tails that sit low over their rectum and can be straight or twisted. A twisted tail results from an abnormality in the vertebrae, a more prevalent condition in Bulldogs and Boston Terriers.
Barking
Both Frenchies and Boston Terriers are not known for a lot of barking. They are generally silent dogs that don’t bark without a reason. Although Boston Terriers tend to bark a bit more than Frenchies, they are still not as loud as other breeds.
Frenchie vs. Boston Terrier Temparament
Frenchies and Bosties were both bred to be companion dogs. They both have pleasant and lively temperaments, making them a darling for many. Both breeds are extremely loving dogs that love spending time and bonding with their families. These dogs won’t mind curling up and cuddling on the couch all day with you. Frenchies and Boston Terriers are loving, loyal, and friendly dogs that get along well with everyone.
Both breeds are smart dogs that can quickly learn commands with the proper training techniques, such as positive reinforcement and words of encouragement. However, Boston Terriers are easier to train than Frenchies. French Bulldogs are more stubborn than Bosties, making training a bit difficult.
While both Frenchies and Boston Terriers have low barking tendencies, Boston Terriers are more vocal. This makes Frenchies better suited for apartment living than Bosties.
The following are the personality traits of Boston Terriers and Frenchies:
Boston Terrier personality traits
- Independent: Boston Terriers are considered more independent than most other small breeds. These are free-spirited dogs that like to make their own decisions.
- Sensitive: Boston Terriers are highly sensitive dogs that easily get affected by changes. This dog breed does best on routines and can get stressed or anxious if their routine changes.
- Energetic: Boston Terriers have high energy levels and require regular exercise and playtime to vent their energy and remain fit. These dogs love playing, running around, and jumping.
- Intelligent: Bosties are renowned for their quick learning capabilities. These dogs are eager to please their owners, making them easy to train.
- Loyal: Boston Terriers are highly devoted canines that love to form close relationships with their owners. Bosties like to follow their owners around the house.
French Bulldog personality traits
- Playful: Frenchies are known for their playful nature. These pups love to play with toys and their owners.
- Athletic: Bosties have a stocky body but are athletic and enjoy engaging in physical activities such as jumping and running.
- Stubborn: Frenchies tend to be stubborn, which can make training a bit challenging.
- Clingy: French Bulldogs love spending time with their owners and can’t stand being alone for a long time. Leaving these dogs alone for long durations makes them prone to separation anxiety.
- Affectionate: Frenchies are extremely affectionate dogs that love cuddling and snuggling with their owners. This trait makes them excellent companions.
Boston Terrier vs. French Bulldog: pet or child-friendly
Boston Terriers are social dogs that relate well with kids and other pets making them excellent family pets. Frenchies are not among the most kid-friendly dogs available. These dogs are also unknown for tolerating other dogs and pets. However, with proper socialization, Frenchies can get along with other pets and children.
Boston Terriers vs. French Bulldogs city living
Both Frenchies and Bosties are small dogs that do not require large spaces. These dogs are well suited for those with limited spaces, such as those living in apartments and flats. Both dogs are highly adaptable and can easily adapt to changes in the environment and living situations. Both breeds also have low exercise needs.
Are Bosties and Frenchies good family dogs?
Yes, Frenchies and Bosties are highly affectionate, loving, and loyal dogs, making great family dogs. Both are generally gentle and playful, which makes them great with children. Since Frenchies are quite protective around little kids, it’s important to socialize them at an early age.
Boston Terrier vs. French Bulldog Health Issues
Both French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers are prone to various health issues. They are both brachycephalic breeds making them susceptible to breathing issues. Due to their large protruding eyes, both dogs are prone to eye problems such as cataracts, glaucoma, and corneal ulcers. Frenchies and Bosties are also prone to obesity.
French Bulldog Health Problems
Frenchies have shorter snouts compared to Bosties. This means they have flatter faces and are prone to more severe breathing issues than Boston Terriers. Other problems affecting Frenchies include skin allergies, hip dysplasia, luxating patella, and cherry eye.
Boston Terrier Health Problems
Boston Terriers have longer snouts and less severe breathing problems than French Bulldogs. Some health issues affecting Bosties include deafness, heart murmurs, seizures, and cherry eye.
Boston Terrier vs. French Bulldog: Life Expectancy
Boston Terriers have a slightly longer lifespan than Frenchies. While French Bulldogs have an average life expectancy of 10-12 years, Boston Terriers are expected to live for 11-13 years on average.
Frenchie vs. Boston Price
While the price of a puppy depends on the breeder, location, and health condition of a pup, Frenchies are generally more expensive than Boston Terriers. You can get a French puppy at an average price of $3,500 and a Boston Terrier at $1,500.
Frenchie vs. Boston Price Comparison
| French Bulldog | Boston Terrier | |
| Average Price | $ 3500 | $1500 |
| Vet bills | Medium to High | Low to medium |
Grooming
Frenchies and Boston Terriers have short coats with minimal shedding. They thus have low grooming needs. Weekly brushing is all these dogs need to keep their coats healthy and shiny. Frequent coat brushing will help prevent matting and aid in redistributing body oils evenly for a shiny and healthy coat.
Both dogs also require occasional baths, especially when they get dirty. Too much bathing will rid these dogs’ bodies of natural oils resulting in dry and itchy skin.
Boston Terrier vs. French Bulldog shedding
Both Terriers have short coats that don’t shed much. As such, they are both considered fairly low-maintenance dogs regarding grooming needs.
Activity level
Frenchies and Bosties require only moderate exercise. Both breeds can easily overheat when over-exerted due to their flat facial structures. It’s thus important to schedule their exercise in the early mornings or late evenings when it’s cooler. Always watch these dogs during hot weather or after vigorous exercise.
Compared to French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers tend to be more active and more energetic. Bosties enjoy running, jumping, and playing fetch. Because of their larger energy spurts, Bosties make wonderful jogging partners.
Training
While both Bosties and Terriers are smart dogs, Boston Terriers are easier to train. This makes them a good choice for first-time owners. These dogs are eager to please and can quickly learn tricks and commands.
Also, Bosties are obedient and make good listeners, making training them easier. However, Bosties can be a bit territorial and require early socialization.
Frenchies, on the other hand, are also intelligent. However, they can be quite stubborn, which makes training them challenging. It’s thus essential to remain firm and consistent while training these dogs. Frenchies respond best to positive reinforcement training techniques such as words of encouragement and treats. Due to their stubbornness, Frenchies, if not properly trained, can be quite aggressive towards other dogs.
Should I get a Frenchie or a Boston Terrier?
Frenchies and Boston Terriers are loving and affectionate dogs that make good family pets. While they have similarities, they also have some differences. As such, your choice of the two will depend on your preference.
Generally, Boston Terriers are more energetic and active compared to Frenchies. This makes them a good choice if you lead an active lifestyle. Frenchies, conversely, are more relaxed and reserved, hence suitable for a sedentary lifestyle.
Reasons to get a French Bulldog over a Boston Terrier
- Low barking tendencies: Frenchies are silent dogs and are less vocal than Boston Terriers. This makes them a good choice if you live in an apartment or flat.
- Low exercise needs: French Bulldogs have low energy levels and thus require little exercise to keep them fit and healthy. These are thus suitable for apartment living and those who don’t have a lot of time for exercise.
- Sociable: Frenchies are renowned for their highly social nature. They love spending time with and around people, making them excellent companions.
Reasons to get a Boston Terrier over a French Bulldog
These are some of the reasons why a Boston Terrier may be a better choice over a Frenchie:
- Trainability: Boston Terriers are easier to train than Frenchies because of their eagerness to please and high intelligence levels.
- They are smaller: Boston Terriers are lighter than Frenchies, making them great if you prefer a smaller dog.
- Cost: Boston Terriers cost less than French Bulldogs; hence a good choice if you are on a budget.
- Fewer health issues: While both breeds are prone to various health issues, Boston Terriers have fewer health issues. Boston Terriers are a good choice if you want a dog with lower health risks than Frenchies.
- Lesser shedding: Boston Terriers generally shed less than Frenchies; hence great if you prefer a cleaner home.
Boston Terrier vs. Pug
The table below summarizes the differences between a Terrier and a pug.
| Boston Terrier | Pug | |
| Calm, attentive, loving, affectionate, and not like being alone. | 13-15 inches | 10-14 inches |
| Weight | 15-25 lbs | 13-20 lbs |
| Breed type | Purebred | Purebred |
| Lifespan | 13-15 years | 12-15 years |
| Intelligence | Average | Below average |
| Origin | US | China |
| Temperament | Affectionate, loving, attention-seeking, loyal, and protective | Calm, attentive, loving, affectionate, does not like to be alone. |
| Energy level | High | Low |
| Grooming needs | Low | Moderate |
| Exercise needs | Moderate | Low |
| Shedding level | Low | High |
| Drooling level | Low | Low |
Dogs similar to French Bulldog
The following dog breeds are similar to Frenchies:
- English Bulldogs
- Pugs
- Boston Terriers
- Frenchton
Dogs similar to Boston Terriers
Some of the dogs that resemble Boston Terriers include:
- Boxer
- Pug
- Frenchton
- French Bulldog
- Bull terrier
Dogs similar to bulldogs
The following breeds resemble Bulldogs:
- Bullmastiff
- Staffordshire Bull terriers
- Pugs
- American Bully
How to tell the difference between a Boston Terrier and a French Bulldog
You can differentiate a Boston Terrier from a French Bulldog by their appearance. Frenchies are bigger and heavier than Bosties. Boston Terriers are, on the other hand, taller, leaner, and more athletic.
Is a Boston Terrier a French Bulldog Alternative?
No, a Boston Terrier is not a French Bulldog alternative. These are different dog breeds with unique features for each.
What are the differences between Frenchies & Boston Terriers?
Frenchies are heavier, stockier, and shorter than Bosties. They also have shorter snouts compared to Boston Terriers.
Bosties are longer-legged and hence taller than Frenchies. They are also more athletic and energetic and have fewer health issues.
What is more expensive? A Frenchie or Boston Terrier?
While both are expensive dog breeds, Frenchies are more expensive than Boston Terriers. This is hugely due to their popularity and the difficulty in breeding them.
What has more health problems? A Frenchie or Boston Terrier?
Although Boston Terriers and Frenchies are susceptible to various health issues, Frenchies are known to have more issues than Bosties. Specifically, Frenchies have more severe breathing and joint issues compared to Bosties.
Are Boston Terriers better than Frenchies?
This will depend on the specific attributes that you are looking for. Both dogs make great family pets due to their pleasant temperaments and loving nature. However, like all other dogs, Bosties and Frenchies have unique pros and cons.
Are French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers similar?
Although French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers have some similarities, they are different breeds with unique attributes.
What’s the difference between a Frenchie and a Bulldog?
French Bulldogs are smaller compared to Bulldogs. While Frenchies stand between 11-13 inches in height and weigh between 16-28 pounds, Bulldogs are about 14-15 inches tall and weigh between 40-50 pounds.
How do I know if I have a real French Bulldog?
A French Bulldog is marked by distinctive large bat-like ears that stand erect and always appear alert. Frenchies are also small-sized, standing between 11-13 inches when fully grown. They also have brown-colored eyes.
What dog is mistaken for French Bulldog?
Boston Terriers are often confused with French Bulldogs due to the similarities in their appearance.
What 2 dog breeds make a French Bulldog?
French Bulldogs results from crossbreeding of English Bulldogs and local Parisian ratter dogs.
Is a French Bulldog a pit bull?
No, a French Bulldog is different from a Pitbull. While both have ‘’bull’’ in their names, they are two unrelated breeds with different attributes and features.
What dogs can’t breed naturally?
All brachycephalic dog breeds like English Bulldogs, Boston terriers, pugs, mastiffs, and miniature Bull Terriers cannot give birth naturally due to anatomy.
How long are French Bulldogs pregnant?
Like other dogs, Frenchies have a gestation period of 58-68 days, with an average pregnancy period of 63 days from conception to birth.
Can Boston Terriers breed naturally?
Although some Boston Terriers can give birth naturally, some require a cesarean section due to their extremely small hips.
Why are French Bulldogs called Frenchies?
French Bulldogs are passionately called Frenchies by enthusiastic owners out of their love for them.
Wrapping Up Boston Terrier vs. French Bulldog
Frenchies and Boston Terriers are adorable dogs with likable personalities, making them suitable family pets. Both breeds are loving, affectionate, loyal, and social. Although they have similarities, these are unique breeds with some differences that set them apart.
Like other dogs, French Bulldogs and Terriers have their pros and cons. The Frenchie is more relaxed and laid back, while the Boston Terrier is more energetic and active. No matter the choice, you are sure to enjoy the company of any of these dogs.