Chow Chow vs French Bulldog
Everything we know about the Chow Chow and the French Bulldog, in the same order for both. Every figure comes from our own breed guides — follow the links under each column to read the detail.
| Trait | Chow Chow | French Bulldog |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 46–56 cm (18–22 in) | 28–33 cm (11–13 in) |
| Weight | 20–32 kg (45–70 lb) | 7–13 kg (16–28 lb) |
| Lifespan | 8–12 years | 10–12 years |
| Coat | Dense double coat, lion-like mane; rough or smooth | Short, smooth single coat |
| Shedding | Heavy — year-round, with two big seasonal moults | Light but constant, year-round |
| Grooming | Brushing several times a week; daily during a moult | Weekly brushing; wipe the face folds and ears often |
| Exercise | 30–60 min/day, split across two walks | 20–30 min/day, in short walks |
| Good with | Older children who respect its space; other pets with early socialisation | Children, other dogs; a people-focused companion breed |
Which one suits you
Chow Chow
Right for you if…
- You want a calm, dignified dog rather than a demonstrative one
- You are home enough to build the bond — Chows attach to one or two people
- You will brush several times a week, and daily when the coat blows
- You have space and a secure garden rather than a busy flat
Wrong for you if…
- This is your first dog — an aloof, independent breed is a hard place to start
- You want a dog that greets visitors warmly; Chows are reserved with strangers
- You live somewhere hot — that thick coat makes Chows overheat easily
- Nobody at home will do early, consistent socialisation
French Bulldog
Right for you if…
- You want a small, affectionate companion that suits a flat
- Someone is usually home — Frenchies are people-focused and prone to separation anxiety
- Short, easy walks suit you better than long hikes
- You have budgeted for the vet bills this breed can bring
Wrong for you if…
- You live somewhere hot or humid — short airways make heat genuinely dangerous
- You want a running or hiking companion; moderate exercise already strains their breathing
- A surprise vet bill would be a crisis — breathing, spine and skin problems are common in the breed
- Nobody is home most of the day