Bulldog
The gentle, courageous Bulldog is a beloved symbol of determination. Despite their muscular build, they are calm and friendly companions who prefer lounging on the couch to long hikes.
VS
Dachshund
Bold and tenacious with a distinctive elongated body, the Dachshund is a spirited companion. Originally bred for hunting badgers, they are fearless, clever, and endlessly entertaining.
Quick Answer
Choose Bulldog if you want better with kids and more apartment-friendly. Choose Dachshund if you want less shedding and better health.
Quick Comparison
Bulldog
Attribute
Dachshund
medium
Size
small
18–25 kg (40–55 lbs)
Weight
7–15 kg (15–33 lbs)
31–40 cm (12–16 in)
Height
20–23 cm (8–9 in)
8–10 yrs
Lifespan
12–16 yrsBetter
2/5
Trainability
2/5
2/5
Energy
3/5
Better4/5
Good with Kids
3/5
3/5
Shedding
2/5Better
2/5
Grooming
2/5
Better5/5
Apartment
4/5
1/5
Health
3/5Better
$1,500–$4,000
Price
$500–$2,000Better
Attribute Comparison
Health & Lifespan
Dachshund tends to be the healthier breed overall.
Bulldog
Dachshund
Lifespan (years)
8–10
vs12–16Better
Health Robustness
1/5
vs3/5Better
The lifespan difference is significant. Dachshunds live 12–16 years on average, while Bulldogs live 8–10 years.
Cost of Ownership
Dachshund is less expensive to own annually.
Bulldog
Avg. Purchase$2,750
Annual Food$600
Annual Vet$900
Annual Grooming$100
Annual Total$1,600
Dachshund
Avg. Purchase$1,250
Annual Food$420
Annual Vet$500
Annual Grooming$100
Annual Total$1,020 ✓
Be prepared for sticker shock: the Bulldog costs $1,500–$4,000 from a reputable breeder — significantly more than the Dachshund's $500–$2,000. That's a $1,500 difference just to bring your puppy home.
Temperament & Personality
Bulldog is calmer; Dachshund is more energetic.
Bulldog
Dachshund
Playfulness
3/5
vs4/5Better
Barking Level
Better2/5
vs4/5
Energy
2/5
vs3/5
When you live with a Bulldog, you'll notice their docile, willful and friendly character in everything they do. A Dachshund, by contrast, shows a clever, stubborn and playful nature.
Exercise & Activity
Dachshund needs more exercise; Bulldog is lower-maintenance.
Bulldog
Dachshund
Energy Level
2/5
vs3/5
Exercise Needs
2/5
vs3/5
Apartment Friendly
Better5/5
vs4/5
The Dachshund needs slightly more exercise (3/5) than the Bulldog (2/5), but neither breed is at an extreme. Both have moderate to low energy levels, so the difference in your daily routine will be modest — perhaps an extra 15-20 minutes of activity for the Dachshund.
Size & Appearance
Bulldog is the larger breed; Dachshund is more compact.
Bulldog
Dachshund
Weight (kg)
18–25
vs7–15
Height (cm)
31–40
vs20–23
Size is one of the most obvious contrasts between these breeds. The Bulldog tips the scales at 18–25 kg (40–55 lbs), dwarfing the Dachshund's 7–15 kg (15–33 lbs).
Family & Social Life
Bulldog is better suited for families with children.
Bulldog
Dachshund
Good with Kids
Better4/5
vs3/5
Good with Dogs
3/5
vs3/5
Strangers
Better4/5
vs3/5
The Bulldog has a slight edge with children (4/5 vs 3/5). Both breeds can do well in families, but the Bulldog's docile temperament gives it a small advantage around young kids.
Grooming & Shedding
Bulldog sheds more; Dachshund is easier to maintain.
Bulldog
Dachshund
Shedding
3/5
vs2/5Better
Grooming Needs
2/5
vs2/5
The Bulldog sheds a bit more (3/5) than the Dachshund (2/5). It's not a night-and-day difference, but if you prefer a cleaner home, the Dachshund has a slight edge.
Training & Intelligence
Both breeds are equally trainable.
Bulldog
Dachshund
Trainability
2/5
vs2/5
Intelligence
2/5
vs3/5Better
Both breeds score 2/5 for trainability — you'll have a similar experience training either one. Both require patient, persistent training — don't expect instant obedience from either.
Summary: Which Should You Choose?
Neither breed is objectively "better" — it depends on your priorities. Choose the Bulldog if you value better with children (4/5) and more apartment-friendly (5/5).
Which Breed Is Right for You?
Question 1 of 3
Do you have children at home?
The Verdict
The Bulldog and Dachshund are both popular breeds, but they suit different lifestyles. Annual ownership costs are lower for the Dachshund by roughly $600/year.
Choose Bulldog if...
- ✓You have young children — Bulldogs are generally more patient and gentle with kids.
Choose Dachshund if...
- ✓Budget matters to you — Dachshunds cost roughly $600 less per year in food, vet, and grooming.
Looking for more options?
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for families, Bulldog or Dachshund?
The Bulldog scores 4/5 for being good with kids, making it the better family choice compared to the Dachshund's 3/5. The Bulldog is specifically recommended for families.
Is a Bulldog or Dachshund easier to train?
The Bulldog is equally easy to train with a score of 2/5, matching the Dachshund. The Bulldog is recommended for first-time owners thanks to its cooperative nature.
Which costs more, a Bulldog or Dachshund?
A Bulldog puppy costs $1,500–$4,000 while a Dachshund costs $500–$2,000. Annual maintenance runs about $1,600 for the Bulldog and $1,020 for the Dachshund. The Bulldog is the more expensive breed to own long-term.
Do Bulldogs or Dachshunds live longer?
The Bulldog lives 8–10 years on average, while the Dachshund lives 12–16 years. The Dachshund tends to live longer. Proper diet, exercise, and regular vet care help maximize lifespan for either breed.
Can a Bulldog or Dachshund live in an apartment?
The Bulldog is better suited for apartments (5/5) compared to the Dachshund (4/5). The Bulldog is one of our top picks for apartment living.