Dog breed · Non-sporting / Utility
Bulldog
A calm, affectionate housemate with serious conformation-related health needs. Prospective owners should budget for veterinary care.
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Breed characteristics
- Group
- Non-sporting / Utility
- Origin
- England
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 18–25 kg (40–55 lb)
- Height
- 31–40 cm
- Lifespan
- 8–10 years
- Coat
- Short and smooth with facial folds
- Temperament
- PlacidStoicFriendlyObstinate
History
Descended from dogs used in the banned sport of bull-baiting, then rebred from the 1830s as a gentler companion.
Appearance
Wide, low-slung body, heavy wrinkled head and an undershot jaw.
Exercise and activity
Short, slow walks in cool weather only; swimming is unsafe because of the body shape.
Care and grooming
Clean and dry facial folds daily, keep weight low and keep the home cool in summer.
Health considerations
- Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome
- Hip dysplasia
- Skin-fold infections
- Heat stroke
- Dystocia requiring caesarean
Honest challenges
Before choosing a Bulldog
- Treat the breed profile as a starting point, not a guarantee of temperament. Meet the individual and discuss its history, needs and behaviour with the rescue or responsible breeder.
- Check your routine can support the activity described here: Short, slow walks in cool weather only; swimming is unsafe because of the body shape. Allow for age, weather, health and recovery rather than imposing a fixed target.
- Ask the breeder or rescue and your vet about problems reported in this breed (such as Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, Hip dysplasia, Skin-fold infections, Heat stroke, Dystocia requiring caesarean), which of them have recognised screening tests, and the parents' results where relevant. Screening reduces some uncertainty but cannot promise a healthy lifetime.
- Plan grooming, veterinary costs and care during holidays. Children and other pets still need careful introductions and supervision whatever a breed's typical rating.
Educational reference, not an individual diagnosis or a verified professional review. Read our editorial policy.
Guidance libraries and further reading
These organisations publish relevant guidance. Their links are further reading, not evidence that they have reviewed this page.
- RSPCA — animal care and welfare advice across species
- PDSA — veterinary charity pet health advice
- Dogs Trust — dog care, behaviour and welfare advice