If you’re trying to determine the differences between the English Bulldog vs boxer, then you've come to the right place.
The one major difference is energy levels. The boxer is a high-energy dog breed, while the English Bulldog is a low-energy dog breed as they are all about taking it easy.
These breeds may be on opposite sides of the spectrum when it comes to activity levels, but they are both very friendly dogs that bond closely with their humans.
In this feature, we dive into all the different aspects of these breeds and have our in-house vet, Dr Rebecca MacMillan, give her expert advice on things to know about these dogs.
Size: English Bulldog vs boxer
Size is the most obvious difference between the English Bulldog and the boxer. Boxers stand taller between 21–25 inches, while the Bulldog stands at just 14–15 inches.
Another difference is their weight; Bulldogs weigh anywhere between 40–55 lbs and are more compact, while boxers can weigh 50–80 lbs but have a sleeker, more muscular build.
Appearance: English Bulldog vs boxer
These two breeds can be differentiated by their size. While they are both classed as medium to large-sized dogs, the bulldog has a stockier build, and the boxer is leaner.
You will also notice the difference in head shape. Boxers have a more square-shaped face, and bulldogs have a rounder face.
Both breeds can be considered wrinkly dog breed, and both also have flattened faces.
Trainability: English Bulldog vs boxer
So which breed is easier to train? Boxers will have to take the prize here. Boxers are super smart and eager to please. This makes picking up new tricks and commands much easier.
While English Bulldogs are certainly not dumb, they are just more stubborn. They can learn quick and easy tricks using some of the best dog treats as motivation.
We recommend using tons of positive reinforcement training methods with both of these breeds. However, you may need a little extra patience with the English Bulldog.
Exercise: English Bulldog vs boxer
You might be able to guess which of these breeds needs more exercise than the other.
Dr. MacMillan says, "Depending on their age and health status, boxer dogs need one to two hours of good exercise each day to keep them happy. This can be a combination of both vigorous walks and play."
She goes on to add that without enough exercise, boxers can become bored and engage in more destructive behaviors.
In contrast, English Bulldogs only require 30 minutes of exercise each day. This can be a walk around the neighborhood or light playing, which is great if you live in a smaller space. The English Bulldog is one of the best large dogs for apartments due to their low energy levels.
Grooming: English Bulldog vs boxer
Both of these breeds have short coats that are pretty low maintenance. A good brush once a week should be enough to keep their coats in good shape. You can expect a moderate amount of shedding with both breeds.
However, a boxer will shed most during transitional times of the year at spring and fall. The English Bulldog sheds a moderate amount more regularly.
Health: English Bulldog vs boxer
Unfortunately, both of these breeds are prone to quite a few health conditions. Both the English Bulldog and boxer are both brachycephalic breeds, meaning they have more narrowed airways compared to other breeds.
"This can cause breathing issues, exercise intolerance, and snoring, as well as putting them at greater risk of heatstroke," says Dr MacMillan.
She goes on to add that both breeds may be susceptible to skin allergies, with bulldogs more prone to skin fold dermatitis, due to the deeper wrinkles around their face.
"Many boxer dogs will develop cancer. Malignant skin tumors are commonly diagnosed in this breed, including mast cell tumors. However, they can also suffer from lymphoma and other types of cancer," she also says.
"Boxer dogs can also suffer from inherited heart conditions, including Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC), otherwise known as ‘boxer cardiomyopathy’. This heart complaint can cause exercise intolerance, fainting, and breathing difficulties."
Along with Dr MacMillan, we also recommend investing in the best pet insurance to help offset the costs of care that you may incur with these breeds.
Owner Suitability: English Bulldog vs boxer
When deciding which breed is right for you, it's important to consider your lifestyle. If you are a more active owner and are excited about all the ways to workout with your pet, then the boxer is the right choice for you.
If you are looking for a pet who wants to chill with you, then the bulldog would be the best option. On the other hand, the English Bulldog may be better suited to a more experienced owner, as they can be a bit harder to train.
Enjoyed this? Here are more facts about boxers
Edited by Georgia Guerin and Megan Milstead.
Recent updates
This feature was last updated in April 2025.
