Two of America’s Favorites | The French Bull Dog and The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

September 28, 2023

Americans really love their dogs, and two of the most popular breeds of dogs in the United States are the French Bulldog and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Both of these pups make terrific family pets for dozens of reasons and annually rank very high in popularity. If you are in the process of choosing which breed of dog is best for you, this blog will help you out. We will go over their basic history, their personalities, and their physical characteristics.

History of The French Bulldog 

In the early 1800s, Normandy lace workers from England settled in France for employment. They brought with them smaller bulldogs who were primarily used as companion dogs and to hunt rats on farms. By the 1800’s, their popularity was growing, and the French Bulldog was fetching, no pun intended, up to $750 per dog. This breed took off and was a success in the farming communities.

 History of The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 

The Cavalier King Charles spaniel is the descendant of a small toy spaniel depicted in many 16th Century paintings of northern Europe. This dog was originally bred to warm the laps of royalty in drafty castles. The breeding of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel in the United States took place in the 1950s. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1996.

Living With the French Bulldog 

The French Bulldog adapts well to contemporary or apartment-style housing. They make an ideal fit for those who don’t have a lot of property (big yard) and prefer to spend a Saturday morning relaxing on the couch with a soft blanket versus taking a long jog outside. This breed does require exercise but much prefers taking it easy and relaxing. The French Bulldog requires minimal grooming and is very easy to maintain.

Living With the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed is happy in just about any housing situation. They are not selective and do not require a lot of room. They tend to be more active than the French Bulldog but enjoy a warm lap and blanket as much as the French Bulldog does. This breed is certainly a top companion dog and simply loves being around her family. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel requires routine brushing but is a very easy-to-maintain dog.

French Bulldog’s Personality

Many would describe the French Bulldog breed as having a funny, silly, and loving personality. This breed is affectionate and just wants to be close to his family. They are not known for aggression or for being overly rambunctious. They do enjoy playing within reason and tend to be happy when you are. They are great family pets who love kids and other dogs.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel’s Personality

Loving, loving, and loving. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed is a very caring, calm, and charming dog. They enjoy your lap and company and are outgoing in a calm fashion. They are not known for aggression and have very warm and approachable demeanors. They will win your heart in no time at all as the hearts of kids and other dogs in the house.

Breed List Comparisons:

Height / Weight: French Bulldog 11 to 13 inches and about 30 pounds

Height / Weight: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 12 to 14 inches tall and 17 pounds

Energy Level: French Bulldog: Average

Energy Level: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Average

Life Expectancy: French Bulldog 9-11 years

Life Expectancy: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 9-14 years

Daily Exercise Time: French Bulldog 20 minutes

Daily Exercise Time: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 20 minutes

Barking Rate: French Bulldog: Moderate Barking Rate: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Low