French Bulldog vs Great Dane

Non-Sporting · Small vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • Great Dane is the larger breed at 140–175 lbs (males) vs 20–28 lbs for the French Bulldog.
  • The French Bulldog typically lives longer (10–12 years).
  • The Great Dane has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Great Dane is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitFrench BulldogGreat Dane
Group
Non-SportingWorking
Size
SmallGiant
Origin
FranceGermany
Height (male)
11–13"30–32"
Height (female)
11–13"28–30"
Weight (male)
20–28 lbs140–175 lbs
Weight (female)
16–24 lbs110–140 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 years7–10 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
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
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the French Bulldog

The French Bulldog is a compact, muscular, bat-eared companion bred for city living and apartment life. Originally from France, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 20–28 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as adaptable, playful, smart.

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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French Bulldog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Brachycephalic syndrome
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Allergies
  • IVDD

Great Dane health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease
  • Cancer