A detailed side-by-side comparison to help you choose the right breed for your lifestyle.
| Attribute | Bulldog | Dachshund |
|---|---|---|
| Size | medium | small |
| Weight | 18–25 kg (40–55 lbs) | 7–15 kg (15–33 lbs) |
| Height | 31–40 cm (12–16 in) | 20–23 cm (8–9 in) |
| Lifespan | 8–10 yrs | 12–16 yrs |
| Trainability | 2/5 | 2/5 |
| Energy Level | 2/5 | 3/5 |
| Good with Kids | 4/5 | 3/5 |
| Shedding | 3/5 | 2/5 |
| Grooming | 2/5 | 2/5 |
| Apartment Friendly | 5/5 | 4/5 |
| Health | 1/5 | 3/5 |
| Price | $1,500–$4,000 | $500–$2,000 |
The Bulldog is known for being docile, willful, friendly, while the Dachshund is typically described as clever, stubborn, playful. These distinct personality traits mean each breed offers a different kind of companionship.
The Dachshund tends to be more playful, scoring 4/5 versus the Bulldog's 3/5. Expect the Dachshund to be more eager for playtime and interactive games.
Noise-wise, the Dachshund is more vocal with a barking level of 4/5, while the Bulldog is quieter at 2/5. If you prefer a calmer household, the Bulldog may be the better choice.
The Bulldog is a medium breed standing 31–40 cm (12–16 in) tall and weighing 18–25 kg (40–55 lbs). In comparison, the Dachshund is a small breed at 20–23 cm (8–9 in) and 7–15 kg (15–33 lbs).
There's a significant size difference between these two breeds. The Bulldog is considerably heavier, which means higher food costs and the need for more physical space. The Dachshund's smaller frame makes it easier to handle and transport.
The Bulldog has a short coat available in brindle, white, fawn, red, piebald, while the Dachshund sports a short coat in red, black and tan, chocolate, cream, dapple. Coat type significantly impacts grooming needs and shedding, which we cover below.
The Bulldog has low energy (2/5) with low exercise needs (2/5). The Dachshund has moderate energy (3/5) and moderate exercise needs (3/5).
You'll need to dedicate more time to exercising the Dachshund, which thrives on vigorous daily activity. The Bulldog is less demanding in this regard and settles more easily into a relaxed routine.
For apartment dwellers, the Bulldog is the stronger choice with an apartment-friendliness score of 5/5, compared to the Dachshund's 4/5. The Dachshund generally does better with access to a yard or larger living space.
When it comes to shedding, the Bulldog drops more fur with a shedding level of 3/5, while the Dachshund is lighter at 2/5. If pet hair on furniture is a concern, the Dachshund will be easier to live with.
Both breeds have similar grooming demands at 2/5. Regular brushing and occasional professional grooming visits will keep either breed looking their best.
Annual grooming costs average around $100 for the Bulldog and $100 for the Dachshund. Factor this into your budget when deciding between the two.
The Bulldog has a lifespan of 8–10 years, while the Dachshund lives 12–16 years. The Dachshund generally has a longer lifespan.
The Dachshund is generally the healthier breed, scoring 3/5 for health robustness versus the Bulldog's 1/5. This often translates to fewer vet visits and lower medical costs.
Common health issues for the Bulldog include brachycephalic syndrome, hip dysplasia, cherry eye, skin infections. The Dachshund is prone to intervertebral disc disease, obesity, dental issues, patellar luxation. Regular vet checkups and health screenings are essential for both breeds.
Annual vet costs average $900 for the Bulldog and $500 for the Dachshund. Pet insurance is worth considering for either breed.
Both breeds are equally trainable at 2/5. Consistent, positive reinforcement methods work well with either breed.
The Dachshund ranks higher in intelligence (3/5 vs 2/5), which can be both a blessing and a challenge. Smarter dogs learn commands faster but also get bored more easily and may develop behavioral issues without mental stimulation.
Regardless of which breed you choose, early socialization and consistent positive reinforcement training are key to raising a well-behaved dog. Puppy classes are a great investment for either breed.
For families with children, the Bulldog is the stronger choice, scoring 4/5 for kid-friendliness compared to the Dachshund's 3/5. The Bulldog's docile nature makes it a natural fit for households with young ones.
The Bulldog is more welcoming to strangers (4/5), while the Dachshund tends to be more reserved (3/5). If you frequently have guests, the Bulldog's sociable nature will make entertaining easier.
The initial purchase price for a Bulldog ranges from $1,500–$4,000, while a Dachshund typically costs $500–$2,000. The Bulldog has a higher upfront cost.
Ongoing annual costs (food, vet, grooming) come to approximately $1,600 for the Bulldog and $1,020 for the Dachshund. The Bulldog is more expensive to maintain year over year, mainly due to higher food costs.
Monthly food costs run about $50 for the Bulldog and $35 for the Dachshund. Over a typical lifespan, the total cost of ownership can differ by thousands of dollars, so it's worth factoring in the long-term financial commitment.
Question 1 of 3
Do you have children at home?
The Bulldog scores 4/5 for being good with kids, making it the better family choice compared to the Dachshund's 3/5. Both breeds can be great family dogs with proper training and socialization.
The Bulldog is equally easy to train with a score of 2/5, matching the Dachshund. Patience and consistency are important with both breeds.
A Bulldog puppy costs $1,500–$4,000 while a Dachshund costs $500–$2,000. Annual maintenance runs about $1,600 for the Bulldog and $1,020 for the Dachshund.
The Bulldog lives 8–10 years on average, while the Dachshund lives 12–16 years. The Dachshund tends to live longer. Proper diet, exercise, and regular vet care help maximize lifespan for either breed.
The Bulldog is better suited for apartments (5/5) compared to the Dachshund (4/5). It adapts well to smaller spaces.
Bulldog vs French Bulldog
See the full comparison →
Bulldog vs Labrador Retriever
See the full comparison →
Bulldog vs Golden Retriever
See the full comparison →
Dachshund vs German Shepherd
See the full comparison →
Dachshund vs Poodle
See the full comparison →
Dachshund vs Rottweiler
See the full comparison →