Side-by-side comparison: temperament, exercise, grooming, health, and cost of ownership.
A dainty, domed-headed royal lapdog with a pushed-in face and silky coat. English Toy Spaniels are quiet, gentle companions that were favored by King Charles II and remain devoted couch companions today.
A playful, adaptable companion with bat-like ears and a charming personality. French Bulldogs thrive in city apartments and make excellent companions for singles and families alike.
Quick Answer
Choose English Toy Spaniel if you want a great companion. Choose French Bulldog if you want better with kids and less shedding.
English Toy Spaniel
Attribute
French Bulldog
Size
Weight
Height
Lifespan
Trainability
Energy
Good with Kids
Shedding
Grooming
Apartment
Health
Price
English Toy Spaniel is less expensive to own annually.
English Toy Spaniel
French Bulldog
Purchase prices are in the same ballpark: $1,500–$3,000 for a English Toy Spaniel and $1,500–$5,000 for a French Bulldog. The initial investment won't differ dramatically between these two breeds.
English Toy Spaniel sheds more; French Bulldog is easier to maintain.
English Toy Spaniel
French Bulldog
Shedding
Grooming Needs
The English Toy Spaniel sheds a bit more (3/5) than the French Bulldog (2/5). It's not a night-and-day difference, but if you prefer a cleaner home, the French Bulldog has a slight edge.
French Bulldog is better suited for families with children.
English Toy Spaniel
French Bulldog
Good with Kids
Good with Dogs
Strangers
The French Bulldog has a slight edge with children (4/5 vs 3/5). Both breeds can do well in families, but the French Bulldog's playful temperament gives it a small advantage around young kids.
English Toy Spaniel is calmer; French Bulldog is more energetic.
English Toy Spaniel
French Bulldog
Playfulness
Barking Level
Energy
English Toy Spaniels from the Toy group carry a gentle, quiet and loving personality, shaped by their heritage as toy dogs. French Bulldogs, belonging to the Non-Sporting group, are playful, adaptable and affectionate — reflecting their own distinct breeding history.
French Bulldog needs more exercise; English Toy Spaniel is lower-maintenance.
English Toy Spaniel
French Bulldog
Energy Level
Exercise Needs
Apartment Friendly
The French Bulldog needs slightly more exercise (2/5) than the English Toy Spaniel (1/5), 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 French Bulldog.
French Bulldog is the larger breed; English Toy Spaniel is more compact.
English Toy Spaniel
French Bulldog
Weight (kg)
Height (cm)
The English Toy Spaniel stands 25–28 cm (10–11 in) and weighs 4–6 kg (9–13 lbs), while the French Bulldog measures 28–33 cm (11–13 in) and 8–13 kg (18–29 lbs). The French Bulldog is the larger of the two, though not by a dramatic margin.
Both breeds have similar health profiles.
English Toy Spaniel
French Bulldog
Lifespan (years)
Health Robustness
Lifespan is a near-tie: the English Toy Spaniel lives roughly 10–12 years while the French Bulldog averages 10–12 years. Neither breed has a clear longevity advantage, so other factors should drive your choice.
Both breeds are equally trainable.
English Toy Spaniel
French Bulldog
Trainability
Intelligence
Both breeds score 3/5 for trainability — you'll have a similar experience training either one. Both are moderately responsive and benefit from consistent training sessions.
Neither breed is objectively "better" — it depends on your priorities. Choose the English Toy Spaniel if you value lower exercise needs (1/5).
Question 1 of 3
Do you have children at home?
The English Toy Spaniel and French Bulldog are both popular breeds, but they suit different lifestyles. Annual ownership costs are lower for the English Toy Spaniel by roughly $300/year.
Choose English Toy Spaniel if...
Choose French Bulldog if...
Neither may be right if...
Both breeds have significant health concerns and above-average vet costs. If budget is a constraint, consider looking at breeds with health robustness scores of 4–5/5, such as the Beagle or Australian Cattle Dog.
Looking for more options?
The French Bulldog is generally better with children, scoring 4/5 compared to the English Toy Spaniel's 3/5. The French Bulldog is one of our top-recommended breeds for families.
The English Toy Spaniel is equally easy to train with a score of 3/5, matching the French Bulldog. Consistent, positive reinforcement methods work well.
A English Toy Spaniel puppy costs $1,500–$3,000 while a French Bulldog costs $1,500–$5,000. Annual maintenance runs about $1,100 for the English Toy Spaniel and $1,380 for the French Bulldog. The French Bulldog costs more to maintain annually.
The English Toy Spaniel lives 10–12 years on average, while the French Bulldog lives 10–12 years. Both breeds have similar lifespans. Proper diet, exercise, and regular vet care help maximize lifespan for either breed.
The English Toy Spaniel is equally suited for apartments (5/5) as the French Bulldog (5/5). The English Toy Spaniel is one of our top picks for apartment living.