Bull Terrier vs Papillon

Terrier · Medium vs Toy · Toy

Quick take
  • Bull Terrier is the larger breed at 50–70 lbs (males) vs 5–10 lbs for the Papillon.
  • The Papillon typically lives longer (14–16 years).
  • The Papillon sheds less.
  • The Papillon is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBull TerrierPapillon
Group
TerrierToy
Size
MediumToy
Origin
EnglandFrance
Height (male)
21–22"8–11"
Height (female)
21–22"8–11"
Weight (male)
50–70 lbs5–10 lbs
Weight (female)
50–70 lbs5–10 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–13 years14–16 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
shortlong
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 Papillon

The Papillon is a friendly, alert, happy butterfly-eared toy — the most trainable toy breed, fixture in agility podiums. Originally from France, this toy toy breed typically weighs 5–10 lbs and lives 14–16 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, alert, happy.

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Bull Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Deafness
  • Heart disease
  • Skin issues
  • Kidney problems

Papillon health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Dental issues
  • Progressive retinal atrophy