Bull Terrier vs Great Dane

Terrier · Medium vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • Great Dane is the larger breed at 140–175 lbs (males) vs 50–70 lbs for the Bull Terrier.
  • The Bull Terrier typically lives longer (12–13 years).
  • The Bull Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Great Dane is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBull TerrierGreat Dane
Group
TerrierWorking
Size
MediumGiant
Origin
EnglandGermany
Height (male)
21–22"30–32"
Height (female)
21–22"28–30"
Weight (male)
50–70 lbs140–175 lbs
Weight (female)
50–70 lbs110–140 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–13 years7–10 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Bull Terrier

The Bull Terrier is a playful, charming, mischievous egg-headed gladiator — Spuds MacKenzie, the original Target dog. Originally from England, this medium terrier breed typically weighs 50–70 lbs and lives 12–13 years. Breeders describe them as playful, charming, mischievous.

About the Great Dane

The Great Dane is a friendly, patient, dependable giant — the 'Apollo of dogs' is sweet-natured despite imposing size. Originally from Germany, this giant working breed typically weighs 140–175 lbs and lives 7–10 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, patient, dependable.

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Bull Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Deafness
  • Heart disease
  • Skin issues
  • Kidney problems

Great Dane health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease
  • Cancer