Terrier vs. Bulldog — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 23, 2024
Terriers are a group of breeds known for their energetic and feisty temperament, bred for hunting and vermin control; Bulldogs are characterized by their stocky build, distinctive pushed-in nose, and gentle demeanor, originally bred for bull-baiting.
Difference Between Terrier and Bulldog
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Terriers, a diverse group including breeds like the Jack Russell, Airedale, and Scottish Terrier, are generally small to medium-sized dogs known for their lively and spirited nature. Whereas Bulldogs, which include the English Bulldog and French Bulldog, are medium-sized breeds recognized for their muscular, hefty physique and a flat, wrinkled face. Terriers are typically very active and require a lot of exercise to manage their high energy levels, while Bulldogs are more laid-back and require less physical activity due to their brachycephalic (shortened head) nature.
The coat of a Terrier can vary significantly across breeds but often features dense, wiry hair that may require regular grooming depending on the type. Bulldogs, on the other hand, have short, smooth coats that are easier to care for but may require regular cleaning of facial wrinkles to prevent skin infections. Terriers are often very alert and make excellent watchdogs due to their quick reactions and sometimes territorial nature. Bulldogs are generally known for their loyalty and affectionate nature, making them excellent family pets, though their alertness can also make them good watchdogs.
Terriers were originally bred to chase down vermin and other small animals, which explains their high prey drive and tendency to dig and chase. Bulldogs were historically bred for bull-baiting, but after the practice was banned, they were bred to be companions, leading to a significant decrease in aggression and an increase in friendliness. While Terriers often maintain a level of independence and can be stubborn about training, Bulldogs are usually more placid and can be easier to train, although they can also show stubbornness.
Terriers are generally hardy with fewer genetic problems, but like all breeds, they can be prone to specific health issues depending on the terrier type. Bulldogs suffer from a range of health problems mainly related to their physical structure, like respiratory issues, and skin infections. Lifespan also varies, with Terriers typically living longer than Bulldogs due to the latter's health complications.
In terms of environment, Terriers can adapt well to various living situations, including apartments, as long as they get enough exercise. Bulldogs, due to their low energy, can do well in smaller spaces like apartments but they are sensitive to extreme temperatures, particularly heat, due to their breathing issues.
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Comparison Chart
Size
Small to medium
Medium
Energy Level
High
Low
Coat
Dense and often wiry
Short and smooth
Temperament
Energetic, feisty, independent
Gentle, affectionate, loyal
Original Purpose
Hunting vermin
Bull-baiting, now companionship
Exercise Needs
High
Moderate to low
Compare with Definitions
Terrier
Energetic companion.
The family needed a dog that could keep up on long hikes, so they chose a Terrier.
Bulldog
Family-friendly pet.
The gentle Bulldog was a patient and protective companion for the children.
Terrier
Hunting prowess.
The Terrier quickly chased the squirrel up the tree.
Bulldog
Low exercise needs.
A short walk and some playtime in the yard are enough daily exercise for most Bulldogs.
Terrier
Varied coat types.
Grooming a Terrier can be a regular task depending on the breed's specific coat type.
Bulldog
Companionable nature.
The Bulldog lay by his owner's feet, snoring softly.
Terrier
Independent nature.
Unlike some dogs that constantly seek attention, Terriers are often content with some time alone.
Bulldog
Sensitive to heat.
During hot weather, the Bulldog stayed indoors to avoid overheating.
Terrier
Watchdog capability.
The small Terrier alerted the family to visitors with a sharp bark.
Bulldog
Distinctive appearance.
The Bulldog's pushed-in nose and wrinkled face drew admiring looks at the dog park.
Terrier
Terrier (from the French word terrier [tɛʁje], meaning "burrow") is a type of dog originally bred to hunt vermin. A terrier is a dog of any one of many breeds or landraces of the terrier type, which are typically small, wiry, game, and fearless.
Bulldog
The Bulldog, also known as the English Bulldog or British Bulldog, is a medium-sized dog breed. It is a muscular, hefty dog with a wrinkled face and a distinctive pushed-in nose.
Terrier
A dog of any of various typically small, active breeds originally developed for driving game from burrows.
Bulldog
A dog of a breed originally developed in England for bullbaiting, having a short stocky body, large head, and strong square jaws with dewlaps. Also called English bulldog.
Terrier
A dog from a group of small, lively breeds, originally bred for the hunting of burrowing prey such as rats, rabbits, foxes, and even otters; this original function is reflected in some of their names (e.g. rat terrier).
Bulldog
A short-barreled, large-caliber revolver or pistol.
Terrier
Someone displaying terrier-like qualities.
Bulldog
A heat-resistant material used to line puddling furnaces.
Terrier
A collection of acknowledgments of the vassals or tenants of a lordship, containing the rents and services they owed to the lord, etc.
Bulldog
Chiefly British A proctor's assistant at Oxford University or Cambridge University.
Terrier
(legal) An inventory (book or roll) in which the lands of private persons or corporations are described by their site, boundaries, number of acres, etc.; a terrar.
Bulldog
Relentless or stubborn
"The Boston team has seldom before given such an exhibition of bulldog tenacity and fight" (Glenn Stout).
Terrier
An auger or borer.
Bulldog
To throw (a calf or steer) by seizing its horns and twisting its neck until the animal falls.
Terrier
An auger or borer.
Bulldog
A breed of dog developed in England by the crossing of the bullbaiting dog and the Pug to produce a ladies' companion dog, having a very smooth coat, a flattened face, wrinkly cheeks, powerful front legs, and smaller hind legs.
Terrier
One of a breed of small dogs, which includes several distinct subbreeds, some of which, such as the Skye terrier and Yorkshire terrier, have long hair and drooping ears, while others, at the English and the black-and-tan terriers, have short, close, smooth hair and upright ears.
Bulldog
The original form of this breed, the British bulldog.
Terrier
Formerly, a collection of acknowledgments of the vassals or tenants of a lordship, containing the rents and services they owed to the lord, and the like.
Bulldog
A stubborn or determined person.
We need a lawyer who will fight for our case, a real bulldog.
His bulldog determination was destined to bring him the opportunity he was seeking.
Terrier
Any of several usually small short-bodied breeds originally trained to hunt animals living underground
Bulldog
A refractory material used as a furnace lining, obtained by calcining the cinder or slag from the puddling furnace of a rolling mill.
Bulldog
One of the proctors' officers.
Bulldog
(pro wrestling) Any move in which the wrestler grabs an opponent's head and jumps forward, so that the wrestler lands, often in a sitting position, and drives the opponent's face into the mat.
Bulldog
A bulldog edition.
Bulldog
Any of various species of African freshwater fish in the genus Marcusenius, a type of elephantfish.
Bulldog
To force oneself (in a particular direction).
Bulldog
(transitive) To chase (a steer) on horseback and wrestle it to the ground by twisting its horns (as a rodeo performance).
Bulldog
A variety of dog, of remarkable ferocity, courage, and tenacity of grip; - so named, probably, from being formerly employed in baiting bulls.
Bulldog
A refractory material used as a furnace lining, obtained by calcining the cinder or slag from the puddling furnace of a rolling mill.
Bulldog
Characteristic of, or like, a bulldog; stubborn; as, bulldog courage; bulldog tenacity.
Bulldog
A sturdy thickset short-haired breed with a large head and strong undershot lower jaw; developed originally in England for bull baiting
Bulldog
Attack viciously and ferociously
Bulldog
Throw a steer by seizing the horns and twisting the neck, as in a rodeo
Bulldog
Stubbornly unyielding;
Dogged persistence
Dour determination
The most vocal and pertinacious of all the critics
A mind not gifted to discover truth but tenacious to hold it
Men tenacious of opinion
Common Curiosities
Why are Bulldogs so expensive?
Bulldogs are expensive due to their popularity and the high costs associated with their breeding and health care.
Are Terriers good with children?
Many Terriers are good with children, especially when raised with them, but their high energy and prey drive should be monitored to ensure safe interactions.
Are Bulldogs good for first-time dog owners?
Bulldogs can be great for first-time dog owners due to their easygoing nature and lower exercise needs, but potential owners should be aware of their significant health care needs.
What is the best environment for a Terrier?
Terriers do best in environments where they have plenty of space to explore and exercise, though they can adapt to apartment living if given enough physical activity.
Can Terriers be left alone?
While Terriers can handle some alone time, they do best with interaction and activity to prevent boredom and associated destructive behaviors.
How can the health issues of Bulldogs be managed?
Health issues in Bulldogs can often be managed with regular veterinary care, appropriate diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding overheating and excessive exercise.
What makes Terriers challenging to train?
Terriers can be challenging to train due to their high energy, intelligence, and independent nature, which may require more patience and consistency.
Is a Bulldog suitable for an active family?
Bulldogs can be suitable for families that are less active, as they require less exercise, but they are always eager to participate in family activities within their capabilities.
Can Bulldogs live in hot climates?
Bulldogs can live in hot climates but require careful management to avoid heat exhaustion, including air conditioning and access to shade and water.
What are the exercise requirements for a Terrier?
Terriers require regular, vigorous exercise to manage their energy levels and satisfy their natural instincts.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
