The French Bulldog is one of the most popular breeds right now, with many celebrities and families alike starting to see the appeal in these comical, loving dogs.

However, there is another dog out there that looks very similar and some people may get a little confused, or perhaps simply curious. That other dog is the Boston Terrier. While this is a similar looking dog in many ways, it is a different breed. This other dog means that there are debates over the merits of the Boston Terrier vs French Bulldog, but who wins?

In this guide we will compare French Bulldog and Boston Terrier pups to showcases their pros and cons.

The first place to start here is by looking at the physical differences between the two dogs, this means the difference in the Boston Terrier size and other key physical features. Then we will look at care needs, such as exercise requirements and health care issues.

Also, we will look at buying options and French Bulldog similar breeds, such as the French Bulldog Boston Terrier hybrid. From there, we will look at the temperament and training of the two breeds and how they are different.

In the end you should be able to determine a personal winner in the battle between Boston Terrier vs French Bulldog puppies.

Some differences between Boston Terrier and French Bulldog dogs in terms of looks

These dogs share many physical similarities because of their history. They both share a genetic line that goes back to the English Bulldog. Of course this was so long ago that the two dogs have since become distinguishable separate breeds.

[thrive_text_block color=”blue” headline=””]The first major difference in the physical features of these dogs is in the build.

The Boston is a taller dog with a range of 15-17 inches compared to the 11-13 of the Frenchie. Yet, the Frenchie is often heavier set than the lean, muscular Boston.

A Boston Terrier size comparison here is 22-28 pounds to the Frenchie compared to 10-15 to the Boston. However, some would dispute this and say that the Boston can get a lot heavier. [/thrive_text_block]

Boston Terrrier: Image Source

Another key feature with these dogs is the Boston Terrier vs French Bulldog ears.

[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]The Boston’s ears are upright and pointed, and a key part of their appeal. The Frenchie’s ears are also upright, but a little softer and less promienent.[/thrive_text_block]

Other facial features are the wrinkles on the Frenchie’s muzzle and rounder face, and also the eyes. Some see these as “bug eyed” dogs and the severity of these can vary from dog to dog. We also can’t ignore the fact that these dogs also tend to have very short tails. This can seem odd to those used to the long wagging tails of other breeds, but it is a breed trait here.

French Bulldog Puppies: Image Source

The coat of a Frenchie vs Boston Terrier

The coat on both of these animals is fine and short, with similarities in the coats and colors.

Boston Terriers tend to be seen in black and white, with the distinctive facial markings and dark saddle. There are also brown variants too. The French Bulldog is similar, with a similar look in the facial markings. Yet, there is a wider variety of coat markings and colors, such as some paler, all-white dogs and reds.

[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]Some will ask about Boston Terrier vs French Bulldog shedding issues. This coat means that both dogs are minimal shedders, so there are few concerns over piles of hair left behind or difficult grooming needs. A simple brush and wipe down is great. [/thrive_text_block]

Boston Terrier & French Bulldog – Image Source

French Bulldog vs Boston Terrier puppy care needs

All puppies, whether Frenchie or Boston, need a good home with the right care.

This means a good understanding of the best food for both French Bulldog and Boston Terrier, the right home environment, and the exercise needs of French bulldog vs Boston Terrier.

[thrive_text_block color=”blue” headline=””] The exercise needs of both dogs are pretty minimal, they need exercise and daily walks to stay fit and healthy, but not miles and hours of physical play. They tend to keep their shape fairly well. This minimal need for exercise means that these dogs can adapt pretty well to an apartment. [/thrive_text_block]

Even so, be careful with portion control and don’t overfeed them. You don’t want them getting fat. On the subject of obesity, it is time to move onto health concerns.

Boston Terrier vs French Bulldog health

It is the issue of health where the two dogs really stand out from each other.

There are no major concerns with the Boston Terrier, just some minor issues with the risk of cataracts, PDA, stenotic nares and patellar luxation. These issues can also be seen in the Frenchie, cataracts not so much, but stenotic nares are a bigger issues. There are also risks over hemivertebrea, invertebral disc degeneration, canine hip dysplasia and breathing issues.

Breathing issues are to be expected with these dog because they are brachycephalic dogs, just like many dogs similar to French Bulldog. A big concern here is the chance of an elongated soft palate. The slightly longer muzzle of the Boston reduces this risk, but they are still classed as brachycephalic.

[thrive_text_block color=”red” headline=””]When we look at the lifespan of French Bulldogs and Bostons, we see another slight difference.

The life expectancy of a Boston Terrier is 10-14 years, compared to the 9-11 years of the Frenchie. Therefore, the Boston could live a little longer. [/thrive_text_block]

Image Source

The difference between French Bulldog and Boston Terrier personalities

One of the key concerns for some new owners is the issue of the Boston Terrier temperament against that of the Frenchie.

[thrive_text_block color=”blue” headline=””]The personality traits of these dogs are actually pretty similar. They are both seen as affectionate, friendly dogs that love their owners, even children, with a lively, playful nature.

They have a spirit that brings joy to many households and a social nature that is great for other people and animals. [/thrive_text_block]

What does this mean for behavioral problems in the French Bulldog and Boston Terrier?

There are some that point out a potential aggressive streak in the Boston that may cause concern for new owners. Good training can sort this out. They can also be much more sensitive than the Frenchie, which is much more adaptable. As for the Frenchie, there is an independent streak in some and moderate mouthiness that may need to be kept in check.

Another behavioral issue with the Boston is that they have a tendency to want to be the centre of attention. This desire to play can be persistent and they have the energy and drive to play fetch for a long time. This will be endearing to some, but exhausting for others.

Frenchie vs Boston Terrier training

The Boston Terrier is said to be easier to train because of its ability to listen and obey, while Frenchies may take a little more time. This doesn’t make them difficult, but it does mean that less effort is requited with the Boston for new owners. Some Frenchie owners can take this the wrong way and feel that this is a disparagement on French Bulldog vs Boston Terrier intelligence. There is no doubt that Frenchies can also be smart dogs, they just have more of that stubborn Bulldog trait in them than the Boston Terrier.

Those that struggle with certain behavior traits and commands with either dog may find help with some online training aids.

Both Doggy Dan the online dog trainer and the Secrets to Dog Training online program are both highly recommended by dog owners for their easy-access guides and user-friendly approach. They have lots of tips on plenty of behavioral issues and advice for many different breed types.

There is the alternative option of obedience classes, but they can be more expensive and perhaps not ideal for the stubborn, sociable Frenchie.

Options for buying a Boston Terrier or French Bulldog

With all of these pros and cons in mind, it is time to consider whether or not you would be prepared to buy either breed as a puppy. If you are, there are sure to be many breeders out there with puppies for sale.

Remember to always make sure that they are responsible breeders with happy, healthy dogs. That means the puppies and their parents. Check the linage of the animal, their health and paperwork and take your time.

Boston Terrier & Black French Bulldog – Image Source

Then there is the issue of the French Bulldog vs Boston Terrier price

[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]The cost could be a deal breaker for those that are still deciding between these very similar breeds. There are many areas where the Frenchie will cost considerably more than the Boston due to its current demand. This is the more fashionable dog right now, so those on a budget may lean to the similar, equality attractive Boston. [/thrive_text_block]

On there other hand, there are sure to be many people that completely fall in love with these French Bulldogs and decide that they will get one, no matter the cost.

As always, all new owners should be careful with those asking for a super high price that may be out to extort people. Similarly, beware of those with bargain puppies that may not be safe breeders with healthy pups.

Alternatively, there are options for adopting a French Bulldog or Boston Terrier

A high price puppy is not the only option here, not if you are happy to rescue an adult dog in need.

There is a chance that a shelter near you has either of these breeds up for adoption. Adoption fees are much lower and you can be saving a life. This is a great option for those that have come through this guide still split down the middle and intrigued by both breeds. The shelter may end up making that choice for you with the dogs available and the pup that steals your heart.

Here’s a funny video showing French Bulldog and Boston Terrier Playing:

Of course, there is also the cross breed of the Boston Terrier & French Bulldog, that you may want to consider

The Frenchton is a popular cross breed that was recently bred to bring together the best elements of the two dogs. You get a dog that looks like a French Bulldog, but there are some differences in the build and temperament that may make them a little easier to handle for new owners.

There is also the chance that the Boston genes could make them a little healthier and longer lived too, but this is no guarantee and they still need the best care from a good home.

Frenchton is the preferred term for these dogs, but French Terrier, Bulldog Terrier, French bull Terrier and Boston Bulldog may all pop up in adverts and guides. It can all depend on the seller and owner.

Frenchton Puppy (Boston Terrier French Bulldog Mix): Image Source

This all leads us to an important question here: Boston Terrier vs French Bulldog which is better?

It is hard to put one breed against the other like this and try to find a winner because there are clear pros and cons to both breeds.

This is why there is such strong debate on message boards.

There are Boston parents that wouldn’t get any other breed after experiencing life with these dogs. Similarly, there are many Frenchie owners insisting that there is no better dog than theirs. There is the alternative of the French Bulldog Terrier cross, should people really struggle with the decision, but many give their hearts to one breed or the other.

When we look at the Boston Terrier vs French Bulldog, we see two very similar looking dogs with small physical and personality differences. This leads to one dog being a little chunkier, potentially more unhealthy and a little stubborn. Yet, many are one over by the character of the French Bulldog. The Boston is leaner, longer-lived and highly attractive, but there are some potential behavioral issues.

There are lots of considerations here, from French Bulldog vs Boston Terrier cost and care, to personality and physicality. As long as you continue to research the best fit for your home and make sure you get a healthy dog from a good breeder, you will make the right choice.