Breed comparison

French Bulldog vs Newfoundland

How the two breeds compare on the American Kennel Club's 1 to 5 trait ratings, and which one suits which home.

5Affection with family5
5Good with young children5
4Good with other dogs5
5Openness to strangers5
5Playfulness3
3Energy level3
4Trainability3
3Mental stimulation needs3
5Adaptability4
3Watchdog / protective5
1Barking1
3Shedding3
1Coat grooming2
3Drooling5

The biggest differences

  • Playfulness: the French Bulldog scores 5 out of 5, the Newfoundland 3.
  • Watchdog / protective: the Newfoundland scores 5 out of 5, the French Bulldog 3.
  • Drooling: the Newfoundland scores 5 out of 5, the French Bulldog 3.

They score the same on affection with family, good with young children, openness to strangers, energy level, mental stimulation needs, barking.

Which one should you choose?

Pick the French Bulldog if you want a dog that is easier to train, you live in a smaller home or move often. Pick the Newfoundland if you want a more protective watchdog, you have other dogs.

Ratings are general breed tendencies from the AKC. Every dog is an individual, so meet the dog, and its parents if you can, before you decide. Not sure? Try the breed selector.

Source: American Kennel Club breed ratings (compiled February 2022). How we check.

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