Border Terrier vs Bulldog

Terrier · Small vs Non-Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Bulldog is the larger breed at 50 lbs (males) vs 13–15.5 lbs for the Border Terrier.
  • The Border Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Border Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Border Terrier sheds less.
  • The Border Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBorder TerrierBulldog
Group
TerrierNon-Sporting
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
EnglandEngland
Height (male)
13–15"14–15"
Height (female)
13–15"14–15"
Weight (male)
13–15.5 lbs50 lbs
Weight (female)
11.5–14 lbs40 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years8–10 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
wirehairedshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Border Terrier

The Border Terrier is an affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered fox-hunting terrier from the English-Scottish border. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 13–15.5 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered.

About the Bulldog

The Bulldog is a calm, courageous, friendly companion — the iconic loose-skinned English mascot breed. Originally from England, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 50 lbs and lives 8–10 years. Breeders describe them as calm, courageous, friendly.

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Border Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Heart problems

Bulldog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Brachycephalic syndrome
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Skin fold dermatitis
  • Heart issues