English Bulldog vs Golden Retriever

Non-Sporting · Medium vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Golden Retriever is the larger breed at 65–75 lbs (males) vs 50 lbs for the English Bulldog.
  • The Golden Retriever typically lives longer (10–12 years).
  • The Golden Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
  • The English Bulldog sheds less.
  • The Golden Retriever is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitEnglish BulldogGolden Retriever
Group
Non-SportingSporting
Size
MediumLarge
Origin
EnglandScotland
Height (male)
14–15"23–24"
Height (female)
14–15"21.5–22.5"
Weight (male)
50 lbs65–75 lbs
Weight (female)
40 lbs55–65 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
8–10 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the English Bulldog

The English Bulldog is a calm, courageous, friendly English breed — wrinkly-faced, jowly mascot of universities and the Marines. Originally from England, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 50 lbs and lives 8–10 years. Breeders describe them as calm, courageous, friendly.

About the Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is a friendly, intelligent, devoted gundog — the all-American family dog with a golden coat. Originally from Scotland, this large sporting breed typically weighs 65–75 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, intelligent, devoted.

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English Bulldog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Brachycephalic syndrome
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Skin fold dermatitis

Golden Retriever health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Cancer
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease
  • Skin conditions