Bull TerrierVSBulldog

The Bull Terrier is known for being playful, mischievous, exuberant, while the Bulldog is typically described as docile, willful, friendly. These distinct personality traits mean each breed offers a different kind of companionship.

When it comes to playfulness, the Bull Terrier has the edge with a 5/5 rating compared to the Bulldog's 3/5. If you're looking for a dog that's always ready for a game of fetch, the Bull Terrier is your pick.

Noise-wise, the Bull Terrier is more vocal with a barking level of 3/5, while the Bulldog is quieter at 2/5. If you prefer a calmer household, the Bulldog may be the better choice.

The Bull Terrier is a medium breed standing 53–56 cm (21–22 in) tall and weighing 22–32 kg (49–71 lbs). In comparison, the Bulldog is a medium breed at 31–40 cm (12–16 in) and 18–25 kg (40–55 lbs).

The Bull Terrier is somewhat larger, though the difference isn't dramatic. Both breeds are manageable for most owners, but the size gap does affect food portions and space requirements.

The Bull Terrier has a short coat available in white, brindle, red, fawn, tricolor, while the Bulldog sports a short coat in brindle, white, fawn, red, piebald. Coat type significantly impacts grooming needs and shedding, which we cover below.

The Bull Terrier has high energy (4/5) with high exercise needs (4/5). The Bulldog has low energy (2/5) and low exercise needs (2/5).

The Bull Terrier requires more daily activity to stay happy and healthy. Without enough exercise, they may develop destructive behaviors. The Bulldog is more adaptable and can get by with shorter walks and play sessions.

For apartment dwellers, the Bulldog is the stronger choice with an apartment-friendliness score of 5/5, compared to the Bull Terrier's 3/5. The Bull Terrier generally does better with access to a yard or larger living space.

The Bulldog sheds more than the Bull Terrier — 3/5 versus 2/5. You'll want to invest in a good lint roller and vacuum if you go with the Bulldog.

Grooming-wise, the Bulldog needs more upkeep (2/5) than the Bull Terrier (1/5). The Bulldog's short coat demands regular professional grooming to stay in top shape.

Annual grooming costs average around $100 for the Bull Terrier and $100 for the Bulldog. Factor this into your budget when deciding between the two.

The Bull Terrier has a lifespan of 11–14 years, while the Bulldog lives 8–10 years. The Bull Terrier tends to live longer on average.

In terms of overall health robustness, the Bull Terrier scores 3/5 compared to the Bulldog's 1/5. The Bull Terrier is generally a hardier breed with fewer genetic health concerns.

Common health issues for the Bull Terrier include deafness, heart disease, kidney disease, patellar luxation. The Bulldog is prone to brachycephalic syndrome, hip dysplasia, cherry eye, skin infections. Regular vet checkups and health screenings are essential for both breeds.

Annual vet costs average $500 for the Bull Terrier and $900 for the Bulldog. Pet insurance is worth considering for either breed.

The Bull Terrier is easier to train with a trainability score of 3/5, making it more suitable for first-time dog owners. The Bulldog scores 2/5 and may require more patience and experience during training sessions.

The Bull Terrier ranks higher in intelligence (3/5 vs 2/5), which can be both a blessing and a challenge. Smarter dogs learn commands faster but also get bored more easily and may develop behavioral issues without mental stimulation.

Regardless of which breed you choose, early socialization and consistent positive reinforcement training are key to raising a well-behaved dog. Puppy classes are a great investment for either breed.

The Bulldog edges ahead as a family dog, scoring 4/5 with children versus the Bull Terrier's 3/5. The Bulldog's docile temperament makes it especially patient around kids.

If you have other pets, the Bulldog tends to get along better with other dogs (3/5) than the Bull Terrier (2/5). Proper introductions are still important, but the Bulldog is naturally more sociable with canine companions.

The Bulldog is more welcoming to strangers (4/5), while the Bull Terrier tends to be more reserved (3/5). If you frequently have guests, the Bulldog's sociable nature will make entertaining easier.

The initial purchase price for a Bull Terrier ranges from $1,200–$3,500, while a Bulldog typically costs $1,500–$4,000. The Bulldog is the more expensive breed to purchase.

Ongoing annual costs (food, vet, grooming) come to approximately $1,260 for the Bull Terrier and $1,600 for the Bulldog. The Bulldog costs more annually, largely because of veterinary bills.

Monthly food costs run about $55 for the Bull Terrier and $50 for the Bulldog. Over a typical lifespan, the total cost of ownership can differ by thousands of dollars, so it's worth factoring in the long-term financial commitment.