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Home > Dogs > Dog Breeds > Bulldog Dog Breed: Pictures, Info, Care Guide & Traits

Bulldog Dog Breed: Pictures, Info, Care Guide & Traits

English Bulldog_shutterstock_Ann Tyurina

There are few dog breeds that are as easily recognizable as the Bulldog. Bulldogs have a distinct wrinkled face, underbite, and sturdy body. Whether you live in an apartment in the city or on several acres in the country, these breeds are one of the most adaptable of them all. Bulldogs are friendly dogs that are happy just about anywhere so long as a familiar face surrounds them. They love all children and are easy to train, so you have one less thing to worry about.

Breed Overview

Height:

14 – 15 inches

Weight:

40 – 50 pounds

Lifespan:

8 – 10 years

Colors:

White, red, fawn, brindle, chocolate, black, tri-color, blue

Suitable for:

Families who enjoy going for an occasional walk paired with lounge time after

Temperament:

Friendly, calm, confident, courageous, easy to train

In general, people love having bulldogs as a family pet because of their minimal care. Their exercise and grooming needs are manageable, and they will be your best companion as both an athlete and a couch potato.

Bulldog Characteristics

Energy:
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High-energy dogs will need a lot of mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy, while low-energy dogs require minimal physical activity. It’s important when choosing a dog to make sure their energy levels match your lifestyle or vice versa.
Trainability:
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Easy-to-train dogs are more skilled at learning prompts and actions quickly with minimal training. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice.
Health:
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Some dog breeds are prone to certain genetic health problems, and some more than others. This doesn’t mean that every dog will have these issues, but they have an increased risk, so it’s important to understand and prepare for any additional needs they may require.
Lifespan:
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Some breeds, due to their size or their breeds potential genetic health issues, have shorter lifespans than others. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet.
Sociability:
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Some dog breeds are more social than others, both towards humans and other dogs. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. No matter the breed, it’s important to socialize your dog and expose them to lots of different situations.

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Bulldog Puppies

english-bulldog_Black17BG_Pixabay
Image By: Black17BG, Pixabay

Bulldogs lie somewhere in the middle of low-energy and high-energy dogs. Their adaptability makes them able to handle whatever their owner may throw at them, whether it is for a light job or a movie marathon on the couch. Some prefer more high-level action, while others enjoy lounging all day with their owners, but these dogs are great for families regardless of their activity levels.

While Bulldogs aren’t the most intelligent of breeds, they are eager to please, and most people have minimal issues getting this type of dog to follow simple commands.

All dog breeds have some sort of health risks, but you are taking a safe bet with Bulldogs. They are prone to common health issues like hip dysplasia, but most seem to live a complete life with regular trips to the vet. You do have to be careful when buying a bulldog. Some breeders are getting into trouble because of their poor breeding practices that are passing on more severe issues like brachycephalic syndrome. Bulldogs live up to ten years old, so they don’t live as long as other breeds, but they do give you and your family an entire decade of happy memories.

english bulldog
Image By: AndreiTobosaru, Shutterstock

Temperament & Intelligence of the Bulldog

The appearance of a Bulldog is sometimes intimidating, but Bulldogs are one of the gentlest breeds out there. However, just because they’re kind doesn’t mean they won’t face danger head-on to protect you. These affectionate and dependable animals love children and enjoy the attention they get from all the play. They seek out human attention and enjoy every tiny bit of it that they can get their paws on.

If not trained from a young age, some Bulldogs might have a more dominant personality. They thrive when they have strong leadership, and it takes a persistent person to break through their bad patterns. Similarly, Bulldogs may be combative with some dogs if they aren’t socialized properly. Get your Bulldogs out around other dogs so that they learn to be as friendly with pets as they are with humans.

Are These Dogs Good for Families? 👪

It’s arguable that Bulldogs are one of the best family dogs. Their loving personality, calm nature, and ability to adapt to a variety of situations make them a smart choice for anyone looking for a new dog. Even though they are gentle, make sure to teach your kids how to play nicely with all dogs so that they are never pushing a specific breed past their limits.

English Bulldogs_No-longer-here, Pixabay
Image Credit: No-longer-here, Pixabay

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Things to Know When Owning a Bulldog:

Owning a Bulldog is a significant investment with your money and your time. Review these requirements to make sure you can provide all the needs of this lovable breed.

Food & Diet Requirements 🦴

Bulldogs do best when they have regular meals of high-quality dog food that is approved by your veterinarian. Bulldogs are prone to obesity, so watch their calorie consumption and refrain from giving them too many treats or table scraps. Make sure they have a hefty supply of fresh, clean water available to them at all times throughout the day.

Exercise 🐕

Bulldogs are happiest when they have moderate exercise with equal rest time. They enjoy going on a casual stroll around the neighborhood, but also love to snooze the day away in front of the air conditioning. Never allow your Bulldog to go in deep water. Their large heads and short bodies make it impossible for them to swim.

English Bulldog runs on lawn with tennis ball on sunny day
Image By: Timothy Pleines, Shutterstock

Training 🎾

Devotion is at the forefront of a Bulldog’s personality. Starting these dogs in a training program early on is the best way to get a well-behaved pup. They have some issues with chewing, so give them a lot of designated chew toys to keep that habit in control.

Grooming ✂️

Unfortunately, Bulldogs shed more frequently than some other short-hair breeds. Giving them a full-body brushing for 10 minutes a couple of times a week is the easiest way to keep it under control. When they have periods of heavy shedding, rubber brushes get the most hair off.

Most people don’t realize that the folds in a Bulldog’s face must be wiped clean regularly, or those areas may get irritated and infected. Applying cornstarch to the crevices helps keep these spots free from moisture.

Health and Conditions 🏥

Keeping your dog in good health should be your top priority. Before you get in over your head, here are the most common health conditions that Bulldogs face.

Minor Conditions
  • Hip and joint problems
  • Dental disease
  • Parasites
Serious Conditions
  • Spinal deformities
  • Distichiasis
  • Kidney stones
  • Respiratory disease syndrome
  • Reproductive difficulties

Male vs Female

Once you’ve decided that the Bulldog is the right breed for you, it’s time to make the decision between getting a male or a female.

Female Bulldogs are overall friendlier, gentler, and more easy-going around humans and other animals. Females love to play and form close bonds with other members of the family. They are only slightly smaller than the males and they cost the same.

Males are a bit harder to train because they are more easily distracted. They enjoy a lot more attention than the females and they also mature a little slower. The males are the protectors of the family and are a great option for those who want a guard dog.

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3 Little-Known Facts About the Bulldog

1. They got their names from bullbaiting.

Bullbaiting was a blood sport that took place in England during the 13th century. A bull would be staked and forced to fight a pack of dogs. These dogs became known as the Bulldog. A law was passed in 1835 that banned bullbaiting, and shortly after, people took their sport underground, which transitioned into the horrendous act of dog fighting.


2. They have incredibly strong bodies for their small size.

Despite being small, Bulldogs can weigh up to 50 pounds. Their history gave them characteristics such as enormous jaws, the ability to withstand immense pain, and admirable bravery. These powerful features encouraged Ivy League Yale University and the U.S. Marine Corps to adopt them as their mascots.


3. They make a lot of noise without barking.

A major concern about buying a new pet is noise. Bulldogs aren’t known for barking, but they do make a lot of noise. Their short snouts give them a condition that makes it hard for them to breathe and makes them snore, fart, wheeze, and drool a lot more than other dogs.

Victorian Bulldog
Image By: RICHARD FALLAN, Shutterstock

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Conclusion

There is a reason that Bulldogs rank at the top of the American Kennel Club (AKC) list of best pet breeds year after year. Bulldogs appeal to a broad population with their friendly demeanor and eagerness to please. They will do everything in their power to gain your trust and love and be your partner in crime during every life event. If you’re looking for a loving dog breed with one of the best overall temperaments, then Bulldogs will be one of the greatest additions to your life.

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Featured Image Credit: Ann Tyurina, Shutterstock

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