The word “bulldog” describes three very different dogs. The English Bulldog is a calm, heavily built companion known for its wrinkled face. The French Bulldog is a compact, playful dog with distinctive upright ears. The American Bulldog is a tall, athletic working breed. This guide compares the three on size, temperament, exercise needs, health and popularity, so you can see clearly how they differ.
Bulldog breeds side by side
The figures below are typical ranges taken from breed guides. Individual dogs vary.
| Trait | English Bulldog | French Bulldog | American Bulldog |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | About 40 to 50 pounds | Under 28 pounds | About 60 to 100 pounds or more |
| Height | 14 to 15 inches | 11 to 13 inches | About 20 to 25 inches or more |
| Lifespan | 8 to 10 years | 10 to 12 years | About 10 to 12 years or more |
| Personality | Calm and easygoing | Playful and outgoing | Confident, active and eager to learn |
| Daily exercise | About 20 to 40 minutes | Short walks and play | About 60 to 90 minutes |
English Bulldog
The English Bulldog is a stocky, low-slung dog with loose skin, a broad chest and a flat face. It is best known for a gentle, easygoing temperament and a strong attachment to its family. Because it needs little exercise, it is a popular choice for owners who want a relaxed companion.
The trade-off is health. Common concerns include skin fold infections, allergies, hip dysplasia, eye problems and obesity. The breed also lives a shorter time than the other two, typically 8 to 10 years according to the breed guides we reviewed.
French Bulldog
The smallest of the three, the French Bulldog usually weighs under 28 pounds and is easily recognized by its upright “bat” ears. It is playful, sociable and devoted to its people, and its size suits apartment living.
Like the English Bulldog, it can struggle to breathe because of its flat face. It is also prone to hip, elbow, kneecap and spinal problems, as well as heart disease.
American Bulldog
The American Bulldog is considerably larger and more athletic than the other two. It stands about 20 inches or taller at the shoulder, often weighs 60 to 100 pounds or more, and needs far more activity, roughly 60 to 90 minutes a day. It is confident and affectionate.
The breed is generally considered healthier than the English Bulldog, although it can develop allergies, hip and elbow dysplasia, torn knee ligaments and deafness.
Which bulldog is the most popular?
The American Kennel Club’s 2025 ranking of the most popular dog breeds in the United States placed the French Bulldog first for the fourth consecutive year. The English Bulldog, listed simply as the Bulldog, fell from ninth place in 2024 to tenth in 2025.
Which bulldog is right for you?
- A small home or apartment: the French Bulldog, which is compact and adaptable.
- A calm companion with modest exercise needs: the English Bulldog, provided you are prepared for higher veterinary costs.
- An active household with space: the American Bulldog, which thrives on daily exercise.
Whichever breed you choose, speak with a veterinarian about breathing and joint health before bringing a dog home. Flat-faced breeds also need extra care in hot weather.
For bulldog lovers
Get this English Bulldog t-shirt on Amazon.
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