Bulldog vs Chihuahua
Side-by-side comparison: temperament, exercise, grooming, health, and cost of ownership.
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.
VS
Chihuahua
The world's smallest dog breed with the biggest attitude. Chihuahuas are fiercely loyal to their chosen person and pack enormous personality into their tiny frame.
Quick Answer
Choose Bulldog if you want better with kids. Choose Chihuahua if you want less shedding and better health.
Quick Comparison
Bulldog
Attribute
Chihuahua
medium
Size
small
18–25 kg (40–55 lbs)
Weight
1–3 kg (2–7 lbs)
31–40 cm (12–16 in)
Height
15–23 cm (6–9 in)
8–10 yrs
Lifespan
14–18 yrsBetter
2/5
Trainability
2/5
2/5
Energy
3/5
Better4/5
Good with Kids
1/5
3/5
Shedding
2/5Better
2/5
Grooming
1/5Better
5/5
Apartment
5/5
1/5
Health
3/5Better
$1,500–$4,000
Price
$400–$1,500Better
Attribute Comparison
Health Profile: Bulldog and Chihuahua Compared
Chihuahua tends to be the healthier breed overall.
Bulldog
Chihuahua
Lifespan (years)
8–10
vs14–18Better
Health Robustness
1/5
vs3/5Better
The lifespan difference is significant. Chihuahuas live 14–18 years on average, while Bulldogs live 8–10 years.
Which Costs More to Own — Bulldog or Chihuahua?
Chihuahua is less expensive to own annually.
Bulldog
Avg. Purchase$2,750
Annual Food$600
Annual Vet$900
Annual Grooming$100
Annual Total$1,600
Chihuahua
Avg. Purchase$950
Annual Food$240
Annual Vet$450
Annual Grooming$100
Annual Total$790 ✓
Be prepared for sticker shock: the Bulldog costs $1,500–$4,000 from a reputable breeder — significantly more than the Chihuahua's $400–$1,500. That's a $1,800 difference just to bring your puppy home.
Family Fit: Bulldog vs Chihuahua With Kids and Other Pets
Bulldog is better suited for families with children.
Bulldog
Chihuahua
Good with Kids
Better4/5
vs1/5
Good with Dogs
Better3/5
vs2/5
Strangers
Better4/5
vs2/5
If kids are part of the equation, the data is clear: the Bulldog scores 4/5 with children while the Chihuahua manages 1/5. The Bulldog is naturally patient and gentle around young ones.
Temperament: Bulldog vs Chihuahua
Bulldog is calmer; Chihuahua is more energetic.
Bulldog
Chihuahua
Playfulness
3/5
vs4/5Better
Barking Level
Better2/5
vs5/5
Energy
2/5
vs3/5
The Bulldog and Chihuahua bring very different personalities to the table. Bulldogs are docile, willful and friendly, while Chihuahuas tend to be sassy, charming and graceful.
Bulldog and Chihuahua: Size and Appearance Compared
Bulldog is the larger breed; Chihuahua is more compact.
Bulldog
Chihuahua
Weight (kg)
18–25
vs1–3
Height (cm)
31–40
vs15–23
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 Chihuahua is a small breed at just 1–3 kg (2–7 lbs) and 15–23 cm (6–9 in).
Grooming Differences: Bulldog and Chihuahua
Bulldog sheds more; Chihuahua is easier to maintain.
Bulldog
Chihuahua
Shedding
3/5
vs2/5Better
Grooming Needs
2/5
vs1/5Better
The Bulldog sheds a bit more (3/5) than the Chihuahua (2/5). It's not a night-and-day difference, but if you prefer a cleaner home, the Chihuahua has a slight edge.
Exercise Needs: Bulldog vs Chihuahua
Both breeds have similar exercise requirements.
Bulldog
Chihuahua
Energy Level
2/5
vs3/5
Exercise Needs
2/5
vs2/5
Apartment Friendly
5/5
vs5/5
Exercise won't be the deciding factor here — both the Bulldog and Chihuahua need low daily activity (2/5). Neither breed will overwhelm you with exercise demands.
Which Is Easier to Train — Bulldog or Chihuahua?
Both breeds score 2/5 for trainability — you'll have a similar experience training either one. Both require patient, persistent training — don't expect instant obedience from either.
Summary: Bulldog or Chihuahua?
Neither breed is objectively "better" — it depends on your priorities. Choose the Bulldog if you value better with children (4/5).
Which Breed Is Right for You?
Question 1 of 3
Do you have children at home?
The Verdict
The Bulldog and Chihuahua are both popular breeds, but they suit different lifestyles. The key differences: Bulldog is much more kid-friendly. Annual ownership costs are lower for the Chihuahua by roughly $800/year.
Choose Bulldog if...
- ✓You have young children — Bulldogs are generally more patient and gentle with kids.
Choose Chihuahua if...
- ✓Budget matters to you — Chihuahuas cost roughly $800 less per year in food, vet, and grooming.
Looking for more options?
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for families, Bulldog or Chihuahua?
The Bulldog scores 4/5 for being good with kids, making it the better family choice compared to the Chihuahua's 1/5. The Bulldog is specifically recommended for families.
Is a Bulldog or Chihuahua easier to train?
The Bulldog is equally easy to train with a score of 2/5, matching the Chihuahua. The Bulldog is recommended for first-time owners thanks to its cooperative nature.
Which costs more, a Bulldog or Chihuahua?
A Bulldog puppy costs $1,500–$4,000 while a Chihuahua costs $400–$1,500. Annual maintenance runs about $1,600 for the Bulldog and $790 for the Chihuahua. The Bulldog is the more expensive breed to own long-term.
Do Bulldogs or Chihuahuas live longer?
The Bulldog lives 8–10 years on average, while the Chihuahua lives 14–18 years. The Chihuahua tends to live longer. Proper diet, exercise, and regular vet care help maximize lifespan for either breed.
Can a Bulldog or Chihuahua live in an apartment?
The Bulldog is equally suited for apartments (5/5) as the Chihuahua (5/5). The Bulldog is one of our top picks for apartment living.