French Bulldog vs Boston Terrier
Two flat-faced clowns in tuxedos. The Boston is the lighter, more athletic, easier-to-train cousin; the Frenchie is sofa ballast with bat ears.
Side by side
| French Bulldog | Boston Terrier | Verdict | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 2/5 | 2/5 | Tie |
| Energy | 2/5 | 3/5 | The Boston Terrier has more energy |
| Shedding | 3/5 | 2/5 | The French Bulldog sheds more |
| Barking | 2/5 | 2/5 | Tie |
| Trainability | 3/5 | 4/5 | The Boston Terrier is easier to train |
| Kid-friendliness | 4/5 | 5/5 | The Boston Terrier is better with kids |
| Drooling | 3/5 | 2/5 | The French Bulldog drools more |
| Life expectancy | 10–12 years | 11–13 years | The Boston Terrier lives longer |
Vet costs
Age 1, U.S.-average prices, $2,000 emergency savings.
French Bulldog
- First-year expected vet cost: $1,323
- Fair monthly insurance price at age 1: $109/mo
- Top cost drivers: BOAS (breathing problems) · Slipped disc (IVDD)
- Expected lifetime vet cost: $13,491
Boston Terrier
- First-year expected vet cost: $1,193
- Fair monthly insurance price at age 1: $96/mo
- Top cost drivers: Wedge-shaped vertebrae · BOAS (breathing problems)
- Expected lifetime vet cost: $14,267
Lifetime totals include lifespan: the French Bulldog is expected to live 10–12 years, the Boston Terrier 11–13 years.
In year one, the Boston Terrier is expected to cost about $130 less.
Statistical estimate, not a quote or insurance advice.
Choose the French Bulldog if…
- You want a low-energy apartment roommate
- You love the stocky build and the bat ears
- You can keep a flat-faced dog cool in summer
Choose the Boston Terrier if…
- You want a bit more energy for walks and games
- You want easier training
- You want a little less shedding on your black pants
FAQ
Which is cheaper to insure?
In year one, the Boston Terrier is expected to cost about $130 less. Fair monthly insurance price at age 1: French Bulldog $109, Boston Terrier $96. Statistical estimate, not a quote or insurance advice.
Which sheds more?
The French Bulldog sheds more. Shedding: French Bulldog 3/5, Boston Terrier 2/5.
Which lives longer?
The Boston Terrier lives longer. French Bulldog: 10–12 years; Boston Terrier: 11–13 years.
Which is better with kids?
The Boston Terrier is better with kids. Kid-friendliness: French Bulldog 4/5, Boston Terrier 5/5.
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