Boston Terrier vs Bull Terrier

Side-by-side comparison — size, temperament, traits, costs, and health

Boston Terrier
Category
Bull Terrier

📏 Physical Stats

10 - 25
Weight (lbs)
50 - 70
16 - 17
Height (inches)
21 - 22
11 - 13 years
Life Expectancy
10 - 12 years
Non-Sporting
Breed Group
Terrier
United States
Origin
England
Ratting, Companionship
Bred For
Bull baiting, Fighting

⚡ Temperament & Traits

Scores are 1–5 from breed data. Higher = more of that trait. Barking: lower is quieter.

5/5
Better
Energy Level
2/5
2/5
Trainability
4/5
Better
5/5
Good with Children
5/5
5/5
Good with Other Dogs
5/5
5/5
Grooming Needs
5/5

💰 Cost of Ownership

Based on breed-specific cost data at a moderate care level — quality food, routine vet, occasional grooming, standard insurance. Actual costs vary by location and provider.

Annual Cost
$1,746
Boston Terrier
vs
Annual Cost
$2,563
Bull Terrier
Boston Terrier
Expense
Bull Terrier
$1,746
Lower ✓
Annual Cost
$2,563
$2,466
Lower ✓
First Year
$3,283
$21,672
Lower ✓
Lifetime Total
$28,913
$336
Lower ✓
Food (annual)
$780
$515
Lower ✓
Vet Care (annual)
$630
$210
Lower ✓
Grooming (annual)
$264
$660
Lower ✓
Insurance (annual)
$864
$55
Lower ✓
Insurance (monthly)
$72

Over their lifetimes, a Boston Terrier (~12 yrs) costs approximately $7,241 less than a Bull Terrier (~11 yrs) in total.

🏥 Health Considerations

Health conditions listed are common concerns for these breeds or breed groups. Not every dog will develop these conditions. Regular vet check-ups are the best prevention.

🐾 Temperament

Boston Terrier

Friendly, Lively, Intelligent, Affectionate, Curious, Gentle, Quiet, Brave, Playful, Loyal, Protective

Bull Terrier

Protective, Sweet-Tempered, Keen, Active, Affectionate, Curious, Friendly, Playful, Enthusiastic, Resilient, Loyal, Gentle