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
Yorkshire Terrier
A tiny terrier with a huge personality, the Yorkshire Terrier is a spirited, glamorous companion. Despite their small size, Yorkies are bold, confident, and make excellent watchdogs.
Quick Answer
Choose Bulldog if you want better with kids. Choose Yorkshire Terrier if you want easier to train and less shedding.
Quick Comparison
Bulldog
Attribute
Yorkshire Terrier
medium
Size
small
18–25 kg (40–55 lbs)
Weight
2–3 kg (4–7 lbs)
31–40 cm (12–16 in)
Height
18–23 cm (7–9 in)
8–10 yrs
Lifespan
13–16 yrsBetter
2/5
Trainability
3/5Better
2/5
Energy
3/5
Better4/5
Good with Kids
2/5
3/5
Shedding
1/5Better
Better2/5
Grooming
5/5
5/5
Apartment
5/5
1/5
Health
3/5Better
$1,500–$4,000
Price
$800–$3,000Better
Attribute Comparison
Health & Lifespan
Yorkshire Terrier tends to be the healthier breed overall.
Bulldog
Yorkshire Terrier
Lifespan (years)
8–10
vs13–16Better
Health Robustness
1/5
vs3/5Better
The lifespan difference is significant. Yorkshire Terriers live 13–16 years on average, while Bulldogs live 8–10 years.
Temperament & Personality
Bulldog is calmer; Yorkshire Terrier is more energetic.
Bulldog
Yorkshire Terrier
Playfulness
3/5
vs4/5Better
Barking Level
Better2/5
vs5/5
Energy
2/5
vs3/5
The Bulldog and Yorkshire Terrier bring very different personalities to the table. Bulldogs are docile, willful and friendly, while Yorkshire Terriers tend to be spirited, bold and affectionate.
Grooming & Shedding
Bulldog sheds more; Yorkshire Terrier is easier to maintain.
Bulldog
Yorkshire Terrier
Shedding
3/5
vs1/5Better
Grooming Needs
Better2/5
vs5/5
Shedding is a major differentiator. The Bulldog is a prolific shedder (3/5) — expect fur on your clothes, furniture, and car seats year-round.
Family & Social Life
Bulldog is better suited for families with children.
Bulldog
Yorkshire Terrier
Good with Kids
Better4/5
vs2/5
Good with Dogs
Better3/5
vs2/5
Strangers
Better4/5
vs3/5
If kids are part of the equation, the data is clear: the Bulldog scores 4/5 with children while the Yorkshire Terrier manages 2/5. The Bulldog is naturally patient and gentle around young ones.
Size & Appearance
Bulldog is the larger breed; Yorkshire Terrier is more compact.
Bulldog
Yorkshire Terrier
Weight (kg)
18–25
vs2–3
Height (cm)
31–40
vs18–23
You'll notice the size difference immediately. The Bulldog stands 31–40 cm (12–16 in) tall and weighs 18–25 kg (40–55 lbs), making it considerably larger than the Yorkshire Terrier at 18–23 cm (7–9 in) and 2–3 kg (4–7 lbs).
Cost of Ownership
Yorkshire Terrier is less expensive to own annually.
Bulldog
Avg. Purchase$2,750
Annual Food$600
Annual Vet$900
Annual Grooming$100
Annual Total$1,600
Yorkshire Terrier
Avg. Purchase$1,900
Annual Food$300
Annual Vet$450
Annual Grooming$500
Annual Total$1,250 ✓
Both breeds cost a similar amount upfront — $1,500–$4,000 for a Bulldog versus $800–$3,000 for a Yorkshire Terrier. Where the real cost differences emerge is in ongoing expenses.
Training & Intelligence
Yorkshire Terrier is generally easier to train.
Bulldog
Yorkshire Terrier
Trainability
2/5
vs3/5Better
Intelligence
2/5
vs4/5Better
The Yorkshire Terrier has a slight training edge (3/5 vs 2/5). Both respond to positive reinforcement, but the Yorkshire Terrier tends to catch on a bit faster.
Exercise & Activity
Both breeds have similar exercise requirements.
Bulldog
Yorkshire Terrier
Energy Level
2/5
vs3/5
Exercise Needs
2/5
vs2/5
Apartment Friendly
5/5
vs5/5
Exercise won't be the deciding factor here — both the Bulldog and Yorkshire Terrier need low daily activity (2/5). Neither breed will overwhelm you with exercise demands.
Summary: Which Should You Choose?
On balance, the Yorkshire Terrier has the edge — it's easier to train (3/5 vs 2/5), less shedding (1/5), better health profile (3/5). For most families, the Yorkshire Terrier is the more practical choice, particularly if you value an easy-to-train companion.
Which Breed Is Right for You?
Question 1 of 3
Do you have children at home?
The Verdict
The Bulldog and Yorkshire Terrier are both popular breeds, but they suit different lifestyles. The key differences: Bulldog sheds considerably more, Bulldog is much more kid-friendly. Annual ownership costs are lower for the Yorkshire Terrier by roughly $400/year.
Choose Bulldog if...
- ✓You have young children — Bulldogs are generally more patient and gentle with kids.
Choose Yorkshire Terrier if...
- ✓Budget matters to you — Yorkshire Terriers cost roughly $400 less per year in food, vet, and grooming.
Looking for more options?
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for families, Bulldog or Yorkshire Terrier?
The Bulldog scores 4/5 for being good with kids, making it the better family choice compared to the Yorkshire Terrier's 2/5. The Bulldog is specifically recommended for families.
Is a Bulldog or Yorkshire Terrier easier to train?
The Yorkshire Terrier is easier to train, scoring 3/5 versus the Bulldog's 2/5. The Yorkshire Terrier's eagerness to please makes training sessions more productive.
Which costs more, a Bulldog or Yorkshire Terrier?
A Bulldog puppy costs $1,500–$4,000 while a Yorkshire Terrier costs $800–$3,000. Annual maintenance runs about $1,600 for the Bulldog and $1,250 for the Yorkshire Terrier. The Bulldog is the more expensive breed to own long-term.
Do Bulldogs or Yorkshire Terriers live longer?
The Bulldog lives 8–10 years on average, while the Yorkshire Terrier lives 13–16 years. The Yorkshire Terrier tends to live longer. Proper diet, exercise, and regular vet care help maximize lifespan for either breed.
Can a Bulldog or Yorkshire Terrier live in an apartment?
The Bulldog is equally suited for apartments (5/5) as the Yorkshire Terrier (5/5). The Bulldog is one of our top picks for apartment living.