Bedlington Terrier vs Bulldog
Side-by-side comparison: temperament, exercise, grooming, health, and cost of ownership.
Bedlington Terrier
A lamb-like terrier with a curly, non-shedding coat that belies a bold, athletic spirit. Bedlington Terriers are graceful, charming companions that can sprint like a whippet and cuddle like a lap dog.
VS
Bulldog
The gentle, courageous Bulldog is a beloved symbol of determination. Despite their muscular build, they are calm and friendly companions who prefer lounging on the couch to long hikes.
Quick Answer
Choose Bedlington Terrier if you want easier to train and less shedding. Choose Bulldog if you want more apartment-friendly.
Quick Comparison
Bedlington Terrier
Attribute
Bulldog
medium
Size
medium
8–10 kg (18–22 lbs)
Weight
18–25 kg (40–55 lbs)
38–44 cm (15–17 in)
Height
31–40 cm (12–16 in)
Better11–16 yrs
Lifespan
8–10 yrs
Better4/5
Trainability
2/5
3/5
Energy
2/5
4/5
Good with Kids
4/5
Better1/5
Shedding
3/5
4/5
Grooming
2/5Better
4/5
Apartment
5/5Better
Better3/5
Health
1/5
Better$1,500–$2,500
Price
$1,500–$4,000
Attribute Comparison
Health Profile: Bedlington Terrier and Bulldog Compared
Bedlington Terrier tends to be the healthier breed overall.
Bedlington Terrier
Bulldog
Lifespan (years)
Better11–16
vs8–10
Health Robustness
Better3/5
vs1/5
The lifespan difference is significant. Bedlington Terriers live 11–16 years on average, while Bulldogs live 8–10 years.
Grooming Differences: Bedlington Terrier and Bulldog
Bulldog sheds more; Bedlington Terrier is easier to maintain.
Bedlington Terrier
Bulldog
Shedding
Better1/5
vs3/5
Grooming Needs
4/5
vs2/5Better
Shedding is a major differentiator. The Bulldog is a prolific shedder (3/5) — expect fur on your clothes, furniture, and car seats year-round.
Which Is Easier to Train — Bedlington Terrier or Bulldog?
Training difficulty is a major difference. The Bedlington Terrier (4/5) is eager to please and picks up commands quickly — a very cooperative learner.
Which Costs More to Own — Bedlington Terrier or Bulldog?
Bedlington Terrier is less expensive to own annually.
Bedlington Terrier
Avg. Purchase$2,000
Annual Food$420
Annual Vet$500
Annual Grooming$350
Annual Total$1,270 ✓
Bulldog
Avg. Purchase$2,750
Annual Food$600
Annual Vet$900
Annual Grooming$100
Annual Total$1,600
Both breeds cost a similar amount upfront — $1,500–$2,500 for a Bedlington Terrier versus $1,500–$4,000 for a Bulldog. Where the real cost differences emerge is in ongoing expenses.
Exercise Needs: Bedlington Terrier vs Bulldog
Bedlington Terrier needs more exercise; Bulldog is lower-maintenance.
Bedlington Terrier
Bulldog
Energy Level
3/5
vs2/5
Exercise Needs
3/5
vs2/5
Apartment Friendly
4/5
vs5/5Better
The Bedlington Terrier needs slightly more exercise (3/5) than the Bulldog (2/5), but neither breed is at an extreme. Both have moderate to low energy levels, so the difference in your daily routine will be modest — perhaps an extra 15-20 minutes of activity for the Bedlington Terrier.
Bedlington Terrier and Bulldog: Size and Appearance Compared
Bulldog is the larger breed; Bedlington Terrier is more compact.
Bedlington Terrier
Bulldog
Weight (kg)
8–10
vs18–25
Height (cm)
38–44
vs31–40
These two breeds look nothing alike. The Bulldog is a medium breed at 18–25 kg (40–55 lbs) and 31–40 cm (12–16 in), while the Bedlington Terrier is a medium breed at just 8–10 kg (18–22 lbs) and 38–44 cm (15–17 in).
Temperament: Bedlington Terrier vs Bulldog
Bulldog is calmer; Bedlington Terrier is more energetic.
Bedlington Terrier
Bulldog
Playfulness
Better4/5
vs3/5
Barking Level
2/5
vs2/5
Energy
3/5
vs2/5
If you've spent time around both breeds, the personality gap is unmistakable. A Bedlington Terrier greets the world with a gentle attitude, whereas a Bulldog leans more toward a docile approach.
Family Fit: Bedlington Terrier vs Bulldog With Kids and Other Pets
Both breeds are similarly family-friendly.
Bedlington Terrier
Bulldog
Good with Kids
4/5
vs4/5
Good with Dogs
3/5
vs3/5
Strangers
4/5
vs4/5
Both breeds score 4/5 with children, making them equally suitable for families. Either breed would make an excellent family dog.
Summary: Bedlington Terrier or Bulldog?
Neither breed is objectively "better" — it depends on your priorities. Choose the Bedlington Terrier if you value easier to train (4/5 vs 2/5) and less shedding (1/5).
Which Breed Is Right for You?
Question 1 of 3
Do you have children at home?
The Verdict
The Bedlington Terrier and Bulldog are both popular breeds, but they suit different lifestyles. The key differences: Bulldog sheds considerably more, Bedlington Terrier is notably easier to train. Annual ownership costs are lower for the Bedlington Terrier by roughly $300/year.
Choose Bedlington Terrier if...
- ✓Budget matters to you — Bedlington Terriers cost roughly $300 less per year in food, vet, and grooming.
Choose Bulldog if...
- ✓Their temperament and lifestyle fit aligns better with your situation — use our quiz for a personalized recommendation.
Looking for more options?
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for families, Bedlington Terrier or Bulldog?
The Bedlington Terrier scores 4/5 for being good with kids, tying with the Bulldog at 4/5. The Bedlington Terrier is specifically recommended for families.
Is a Bedlington Terrier or Bulldog easier to train?
The Bedlington Terrier is easier to train with a score of 4/5, compared to the Bulldog's 2/5. Consistent, positive reinforcement methods work well.
Which costs more, a Bedlington Terrier or Bulldog?
A Bedlington Terrier puppy costs $1,500–$2,500 while a Bulldog costs $1,500–$4,000. Annual maintenance runs about $1,270 for the Bedlington Terrier and $1,600 for the Bulldog. The Bulldog costs more to maintain annually.
Do Bedlington Terriers or Bulldogs live longer?
The Bedlington Terrier lives 11–16 years on average, while the Bulldog lives 8–10 years. The Bedlington Terrier generally has a longer lifespan. Proper diet, exercise, and regular vet care help maximize lifespan for either breed.
Can a Bedlington Terrier or Bulldog live in an apartment?
The Bulldog adapts better to apartment living (5/5) than the Bedlington Terrier (4/5). The Bulldog ranks among our best apartment breeds.