The French Bulldog and the Boston Terrier are the two breeds that topped the list for potential pet parents looking for the best canine companions. You really cannot say no when you look into their adorable faces, chubby and chunky bodies, and seemingly grumpy expressions. But when it comes to choosing one, who would you pick out if you match the Boston Terrier vs. French Bulldog?
Both of these breeds share a similar lineage, though they are two very different dogs. You’ll notice that they have the same squishy faces and bulky small bodies. However, if you are not very observant and you don’t know which is which, you might not be able to tell them apart! So let’s find out more about their similarities and differences. Getting to know these unique breeds will also ensure that you decide on the best match for your family and your lifestyle.
History
These two breeds are as unique as the other, but they sure will quickly find their way into your hearts. Before we go into their differences, it is interesting to note that these breeds were first seen during the 1800s and have the English Bulldog as their ancestor. They have played their parts well in canine history, and both have become popular pets in their own right.
As we now know, the French Bull terrier was favored pooches by lacemakers in Nottingham, England. They were brought to the streets of Paris and soon became popular with the Parisian elite. These dogs were a cross between the English Bulldog and some local French terrier.
Before they were recognized, the French Bulldog terrier was fighting dogs because of their advantageous physical features. Their flat faces allowed them to bite and breathe, and their pointed ears made it harder for opponent dogs to retaliate. As the popularity of canine blood sport waned, French Bulldogs became popular companion pets. With selective breeding, they became smaller with friendlier temperaments. They are now the modern Frenchies that we know now.
In comparison, the first Boston Terrier was a pet of Robert C Hooper of Boston, Massacheusset purchased a canine in 1870. The pooch was from an unknown bull and terrier lineage. He named it Judge – and this pooch became the ancestor of the modern Boston Terrier. By the year 1889, this breed has become extremely popular and was one of the few famous canines that came from America.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the Boston Terrier breed in 1893, while the French Bulldog was admitted six years later in 1898.
Differences and Similarities in Appearance
Generally, it is easy to get confused when you glance at the French Bulldog and Boston Terrier. They have some similar features, such as short snouts, bug eyes, and minimal tails. But if on a closer look, you’ll discover glaring differences.
- Colors and Markings – the French Bulldog are well-known for their colorful coats such as brindle, piebald, fawn, and cream. There are also Frenchies in rare shades of lilac, blue, chocolate, and solid black. On the other hand, Boston Terriers are famous for having the tuxedo-style markings of black, seal, or brindle with white colors.
- Differences in their Snouts – both these breeds have broad, square jaws and a short almost flattened snout. French Bulldogs have an extremely short nose with broad nostrils and a noticeable line in between. Likewise, Bosties have broad black noses with a well-defined line in-between their nostrils. These two are brachycephalic breeds and are both prone to health issues and breathing conditions.
- Coat and Shedding – both Boston Terriers and French Bulldog require low grooming maintenance except for occasional odor. They have short coats that shed minimally. However, both of them may also have skin sensitivities due to their short coats, and these health issues are more prevalent in the French Bulldogs.
- Tail – Boston Terriers and French Bulldogs both have little stumpy tails that can be straight or screwed. Their tail sits low over the rectum. Typically, a screwed tail is due to a deformity in the vertebrae. This condition is more common in Frenchies, though.
- Activity Level – the Frenchie and Boston Terriers both need moderate levels of physical activity. Boston Terriers are more active than Frenchies as they can have large bursts of energy. These tuxedoed canines love jumping, running, and playing fetch. They are great running buddies; however, their short snouts make them prone to overheating. Similarly, Frenchies with their more substantial bodies are more relaxed and agile. They are also playful and excitable. Long walks and short hikes are ideal activities to keep them lean and healthy.
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Ears
Boston Terriers have rounded faces and pointed ears. And by contrast, Frenchies have those distinctive ‘bat-like’ ears that stand erect on their square-shaped head.
Size
The French Bulldog is known for anything goofy. These dogs have short and stocky legs and a bulky triangular body to match. They have a heavy set flat face and pointed ears. Generally, Frenchies grow up to 15” to 17” at the withers and can weigh up to 10 to 25 pounds in adulthood. They can live up to 10 to 13 years.
In comparison, Boston Terriers carry themselves with grace. They have large heads, short tails, and pointed ears. Their body is short and stocky. And while they also have flat faces, it is less bulky set than the Frenchie. These can grow up to 11-12” at the withers and weigh 16 to 28 pounds. Their typical lifespan is from 10 to 14 years.
Temperament
Though they may be small in size, both Bosties and Frenchies have far from tiny personalities. Both are loving and friendly breeds. They make excellent canine companions for all types of pet families.
Boston Terriers are fiercely affectionate and loving pets. They live up to their nicknames as the American Gentleman. More so, they are lively, funny, alert, and intelligent. They can have a burst of energy at one point, then want to curl up and cuddle the next.
On the other hand, French Bulldogs are known as little clowns for their friendly and cheeky personality. They love making their owners laugh and are always up for a cuddle.
Frenchies get along with other pets better than Boston Terriers does. Bosties are rarely aggressive, but they often work their way to get what they want from you. They are more prone to suffer from separation anxiety than Frenchies, do watch out for destructive behavior like biting, scratching, and chewing.
Specific Grooming Requirements
Both the Frenchie and Bostie does not require specific grooming as they have short coats. They shed moderately, though, and can affect allergy sufferers. More so, French Bulldogs may need gentler grooming products as they have sensitive skin.
These dogs have brachycephalic heads and will need dental monitoring. They will need regular tooth brushing and regular visits to the veterinarian for dental works. Additionally, nail clipping needs to be done regularly by professional groomers or your veterinarian.
FAQs About the Frenchie and the Boston Terrier
Do Boston Terriers Get Along With French Bulldogs?
Boston Terriers are good-natured and playful pooches. Generally, they get along well with other pets, especially when they are raised together. On the other hand, Frenchies can be overly spoiled and can have jealous tendencies over other dogs. Both these breeds can be stubborn and need early socialization so that they can have good relationships with other pets in the family.
Are Boston Terriers Healthier Than French Bulldogs?
Many pure breed canines are prone to health problems because they have a restricted gene pool. Some of these conditions are avoidable by ensuring that your puppy’s parents were tested and cleared for specific health problems.
Both the Frenchie and the Boston Terriers are at risk of having severe health conditions that come with their breed. Frenchies are more at risk of having brachycephalic airway syndrome, while Bosties are prone to developing deafness and eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataract, and corneal ulcer.
As pet parents, you should learn the common health conditions that affect your pet. It will help you prepare and prevent potential triggers and ensure that they live a healthy and happy life with your family.
Are These Breeds Good with Families?
Frenchies are very famous with children and other family members. They love spending time around their loved ones or playing ball games in the garden. Similarly, Boston Terriers are loving pets to their families. They will take kids very quickly and love them as they do their owners. Despite their small bodies, Bosties also enjoy playing and running in the garden.
Additionally, you need to know that these two dogs are also famous for their snoring! Both of them have flat faces; thus, they tend to snore and make noises such as wheezing when they sleep. If you compare these two, you’ll discover that Frenchies have louder snores than the Bosties. But in any way, you should prepare your family for a life of snoring and noisy pups when you take in any of these two breeds.
Do Frenchies and Bosties Bark a Lot?
Boston Terriers like to bark, and they tend to bark more when they are bored. To minimize this habit, it is ideal for them to have more physical and mental stimulation so that they won’t get bored. Get them to play games consistently, they are intelligent, so ball puzzles or hide and seek are wonderful games to play with them.
On the flip side, Frenchies rarely barks. Thus they are ideal pets for those looking for a quieter pooch.
Is Boston Terrier A Good Dog?
The Boston Terrier ranks 21st on the most popular dogs in America, while the French Bulldog ranks 6th. These two are common breeds and make excellent pets in terms of personality.
The Boston terrier are small in size, but they are affectionate and lively. They make great family pets and companions. Children love them, and they have lots of amusing and unique antics to entertain you. They are great companions for older people and people living in small spaces like condo and apartments.
Are Boston Terriers lazy dogs?
Boston Terriers are not necessarily lazy dogs, but they do love snuggling and cuddling inside. These dogs do not require a lot of exercise and can be content to stay in small spaces. Regular short walks are enough to keep them lean, happy, and healthy.
Wrap up
Choosing between French Bulldog vs. Boston Terrier is not an easy decision to make. Both of them make lovely family pets. The Frenchie can be your family’s crowning jewel. They will make you laugh and love throughout their years. Alternatively, Boston Terriers are highly intelligent and quick-witted pets. These two are also very emotive and may not do well when left alone, especially the Boston terrier. Therefore, you must consider the kind of lifestyle you have before taking in any of these two breeds.
Do you have a Frenchie or a Boston terrier? Feel free to share with us your experience with these two adorable little canines!
