Boston Terrier vs American Bulldog
Size Category
Small
Ideal For
Families, Multi-pet Homes
Maintenance Level
Moderate
Size Category
Small
Ideal For
First-time Owners
Maintenance Level
Low
Decision Helper
Quick Decision Guide
Boston Terrier might be better if you:
- Want a dog great with children
- Have other pets at home
- Want an easily trainable dog
- Lead an active lifestyle
- Prefer low-maintenance grooming
- Live in an apartment or prefer quiet dogs
- Often have visitors or socialize frequently
- Want a smaller dog that's easy to carry
American Bulldog might be better if you:
- Want an easily trainable dog
- Prefer low-maintenance grooming
- Live in an apartment or prefer quiet dogs
- Want a smaller dog that's easy to carry
Find Your Match
Quick Match Quiz
Question 1 of 7
What best describes your lifestyle?
Breed Overview
Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier is a small, compact breed known for its friendly disposition and distinctive tuxedo-like coat pattern. They typically weigh between 10 to 25 pounds and stand about 15 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder. Boston Terriers have a square build, short muzzle, and large, expressive eyes. They are often referred to as 'The American Gentleman' due to their gentle demeanor and refined appearance. Generally, they are intelligent, lively, and affectionate, making them excellent companions. This breed is known for being adaptable, which allows them to thrive in various living situations, from apartments to larger homes. Their playful nature and moderate exercise needs make them suitable for families, singles, and seniors alike.
American Bulldog
The American Bulldog is a strong, muscular breed known for its loyalty and protective nature. They are medium to large-sized dogs with a stocky build, a broad head, and a powerful jaw. Their coat is short and can come in various colors, including white, brindle, and fawn. The breed is known for its agility and strength, making them excellent working dogs. American Bulldogs are affectionate and often form strong bonds with their families, displaying a playful and energetic demeanor. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to thrive, and early socialization and training are crucial for developing their friendly nature.
Key Statistics
Life Expectancy
Height (Male)
Weight (Male)
Breed Characteristics
Good with Children
Excellent with children
Good with children
Good with Other Dogs
Very social with other dogs
Generally friendly with other dogs
Shedding
Light shedding level
Light shedding level
Grooming Needs
Low grooming needs
Low grooming needs
Trainability
Highly trainable
Highly trainable
Energy Level
Very energetic breed
Relatively calm breed
Barking Tendency
Minimal barking tendency
Minimal barking tendency
Care Requirements
Care Requirements
Boston Terrier
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Grooming
Brush their coat weekly to reduce shedding and maintain coat health.
Feeding
Feed high-quality dog food suitable for their age and size.
Health Care
Regularly check and clean their ears to prevent infections.
American Bulldog
Exercise Needs
Provide a balanced diet tailored to the dog's age, weight, and activity level.
Grooming
Groom regularly to manage shedding and maintain coat health.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet tailored to the dog's age, weight, and activity level.
Health Care
Groom regularly to manage shedding and maintain coat health.
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Exercise Needs
Provide a balanced diet tailored to the dog's age, weight, and activity level.
Grooming
Brush their coat weekly to reduce shedding and maintain coat health.
Grooming
Groom regularly to manage shedding and maintain coat health.
Feeding
Feed high-quality dog food suitable for their age and size.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet tailored to the dog's age, weight, and activity level.
Health Care
Regularly check and clean their ears to prevent infections.
Health Care
Groom regularly to manage shedding and maintain coat health.
Additional Care Notes
Boston Terrier
- •Maintain dental hygiene with regular brushing and dental treats.
American Bulldog
- •Check and clean ears to prevent infections.
Training & Exercise
Training & Exercise Guide
Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Start with basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and leash manners. Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, to encourage good behavior. Consistency and short training sessions are key, as these dogs can become bored quickly. Socialization is also crucial; expose them to various people, environments, and other animals from a young age to ensure they develop into well-rounded adults.
Training Challenges
- •stubbornness when not motivated
- •short attention span leading to distractions
- •excessive barking if not properly trained
- •separation anxiety if not accustomed to being alone
- •possible dominance issues with other pets
American Bulldog
American Bulldogs are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Start with basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel. Use positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praise to encourage good behavior. Consistency and patience are key, as is socialization with other dogs and people from an early age to ensure well-rounded behavior.
Training Challenges
- •stubbornness, which may require more persistence and creativity in training
- •high energy levels that necessitate regular exercise and mental stimulation
- •strong prey drive, which can lead to distraction during training
- •protectiveness, which may require socialization to mitigate excessive guarding behavior
Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Start with basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and leash manners. Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, to encourage good behavior. Consistency and short training sessions are key, as these dogs can become bored quickly. Socialization is also crucial; expose them to various people, environments, and other animals from a young age to ensure they develop into well-rounded adults.
Training Challenges
- •stubbornness when not motivated
- •short attention span leading to distractions
- •excessive barking if not properly trained
- •separation anxiety if not accustomed to being alone
- •possible dominance issues with other pets
American Bulldog
American Bulldogs are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Start with basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel. Use positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praise to encourage good behavior. Consistency and patience are key, as is socialization with other dogs and people from an early age to ensure well-rounded behavior.
Training Challenges
- •stubbornness, which may require more persistence and creativity in training
- •high energy levels that necessitate regular exercise and mental stimulation
- •strong prey drive, which can lead to distraction during training
- •protectiveness, which may require socialization to mitigate excessive guarding behavior
Training Resources
Boston Terrier Training Guide
American Bulldog Training Guide
Find Breeders
Find Boston Terrier Breeders
Find American Bulldog Breeders
Local Search Tips
When looking for a reputable breeder in your area, consider these approaches:
- 1.
Contact local veterinarians for breeder recommendations - They often know reputable breeders who prioritize health testing and proper care.
- 2.
Join breed-specific clubs in your area - These communities can provide valuable connections and insights about responsible breeders.
- 3.
Attend local dog shows to meet breeders - This gives you the opportunity to see their dogs and discuss breeding practices in person.