The English Bulldog is an iconic and distinctive dog breed, particularly in the UK where it is as symbolic of the nation as tea and biscuits is or fish and chips. With its characteristically wrinkled face and stout body, it is a charismatic and courageous breed in equal measure.
It is a medium-sized dog, that has a genetic line leading back to the now extinct Olde English Bulldog.
Despite its strong, muscular and somewhat intimidating appearance, the English Bulldog is an affectionate and loyal dog that loves to be part of the family.
With its gentle disposition, it is as happy curled up on the couch as it is by your side for a gentle walk.
It’s not all sunshine and roses for the Bulldog. It can face many health challenges due to its Brachycephalic features (a short skull shape, appearance of a flattened face). Breeding in some countries is seen as controversial, and in others, it is illegal. Despite this, there is no denying it’s charm and its overwhelmingly enjoyable company.
To discover more about this breed, continue reading as we take a look into their history, characteristics, and what life with an English Bulldog is like.
History Of The English Bulldog
The English Bulldog was originally bred to be a companion dog, from older now extinct bulldog breeds. These parent breeds had been used for bull baiting. Once this brutal sport was banned, it left these breeds of Bulldogs without much of a purpose.
The modern bulldog was a much more laid back and approachable breed. It has developed into a much loved and affectionate companion dog. They share many physical characteristics of their parent breeds, but without the savage aggression. They are not the sporting dogs that their ancestors were.
The first Bulldog Clubs started to appear in the 1860’s. The first two collapsed after only a few years, but the third one, established in 1875 still exists to this day. It is from this club that the modern breed standards for the English Bulldog were established. In 1886 the breed was officially recognised by the American Kennel Club.
Breed Origin
The first mentions of ‘bulldog’ date back to the 17th Century. The name comes from dogs that were bred specifically for baiting bulls. This was a really violent sport in which many dogs would usually be killed by the bull in their attempt to pin it by the nose. It was in breeding for this sport that these dogs developed their stocky and muscular frame.
The original bulldogs, particularly the Old English Bulldog were savage and fierce. They had to be if they wanted to survive. The sport of bullbaiting was eventually banned and because of this the Old English Bulldog was effectively made redundant as a dog breed. The savagery in their breed was no longer seen as a positive trait. It is from these Old English Bulldogs that the modern bulldog was bred.
Breeders wanted a dog that carried many of the Old English’s physical traits, but with a more amiable nature. They were bred to be companion dogs rather than sporting dogs and as a result, the modern English Bulldogs, despite their appearance, don’t have the fitness, agility or jaw grip to function in the sporting role of their parent breed. They do however carry the courage of their ancestors, but are much more lovable and friendly.
Quick Facts
Courageous but Not Aggressive
The English Bulldog embodies courage and determination without veering into aggression. This breed, has origins tracing back to the ‘old english bulldog’ a fierce contender in bull-baiting arenas. This is where its bravery comes from, but it channels this into a steadfast companionship, rather than aggression.
Short-Lived Breed
English Bulldogs have a relatively short lifespan, typically ranging between 8 to 10 years. If they make it to old age, they can reach a respectable 11 years. The median life expectancy however, is just over 8 years.
Breeding Restrictions in Some Countries
Due to concerns over health issues associated with their brachycephalic (flat-faced) features, breeding English Bulldogs is illegal in countries like Norway and the Netherlands.
Companionable Couch Potatoes
While not known for their energy or agility like some breeds, Bulldogs are unmatched companions for relaxation. Above all, they are known for their loving, loyal nature. They might not be very active, but their tolerance for various people and pets make them excellent family members.
Distinctive Physical Features
The English Bulldog’s coat is short, sleek, and comes in various colors and patterns. Their most distinctive features are the pronounced wrinkles and pushed-in nose. These are very charming traits, but also need special attention when it comes to grooming and health care.
Characteristics Of The English Bulldog
You might think that British Bulldog and English Bulldog are different breeds, but they are actually just different names for the same dog. Very often the name is just shortened to ‘Bulldog’ but as there are other breeds, such as the American Bulldog and French Bulldog, it can help to avoid confusion by leaving the country in the name.
Beyond the official names, you might hear this breed referred to as the ‘British Bully,’ or simply the ‘Bully.’ In the UK you might also here them affectionately called the ‘Churchill Dog,’ in reference to a friendly character seen in adverts for an insurance brand of the same name. These terms of endearment all point to the same lovable breed, known for its distinctive, wrinkled face and muscular, compact build. The ‘Churchill Dog’ nickname, in particular, draws a parallel between the breed’s stoic, determined demeanor and the famous Prime Minister, Winston Churchill.
Bulldog litters typically consist of 3 to 4 puppies, and due to their physical attributes, particularly their large heads, they are usually delivered via caesarean section. It’s safer this way, and most reputable breeders will do this. After around 8 to 10 weeks they are ready to be rehomed, after learning important social skills from their parent and siblings.
Prospective Bulldog owners should expect to pay anything between $1500 to $4000 for a puppy. More important than the price, is that you research for a reputable breeder before buying a bully pup. They are a breed that even with the best genes, can face many health challenges in their life so you need to seek out a reputable breeder. One that can willingly provide health clearances for the puppy’s parents is advisable.
Appearance
Modern English Bulldogs are muscular, medium-sized dogs with a distinctive wrinkled face and a pushed-in nose. They have broad shoulders, stout limbs, and a characteristic rolling gait. Big drooping lips and pointed teeth, which are often comically over pronounced by their underbite and upturned jaw. English Bulldogs look like absolute villains, but nothing could be further from the truth.
They are a Brachycephalic breed, and while this provides a very popular and charismatic look, comes with a range of health concerns that can develop for these types of dogs. Unfortunately for them, it is some of their most aesthetically charming features that also give them the greatest health challenges.
The tails of these dogs can either be corkscrewed like a pig or straight, and in either case they are relatively short.
| Male | Female | |
| Height | 14 – 15 inches at shoulders | 12 – 14 inches at shoulders |
| Weight | 50 – 55 lbs (23 – 25 Kg) depending on local breed standard | 40 – 50 lbs (18 – 23 Kg) depending on local breed standard |
Coat
English Bulldogs have a short, uniform and smooth coat. It’s an easy coat to maintain and they are light to average shedders so regular brushing is recommended. They are not a hypoallergenic breed, but their fur doesn’t get everywhere like with some other breeds.
Color
These bulldogs come in various colors and patterns, including brindle, piebald, and solid hues of red, fawn, or white. Separate to these standard and common colors, there are some rarer colors too. Rare bulldog colors include combinations of Black, Blue, Lilac, Chocolate, Merle, and Tricolor.
Temperament
The English Bulldogs of today, are a far cry from their bull baiting ancestors. While they do still hold the courage in their genes, they carry this strength with a gentle demeanor. Affectionate and dependable are two stand our traits for the breed, and they form strong, loyal bonds with their family. They are also a breed known for getting along very well with children and other pets. You would be hard pressed to find a more amiable and charismatic dog.
Lifespan
Compared to other breeds, English Bulldogs have a below average lifespan. They have the ability to live over 11, possibly up to 12 years in the best case of reaching old age. But a lot of them don’t get that far, as there are several things that can impact their health and quality of life. One medical study suggests the median average is 8.4 years, but in some other studies the lifespan was closer to 7 years. A common takeaway from all the studies, is that these little charmers have one of the lowest life expectancies of all dog breeds.
Known Health Issues
As we’ve suggested throughout this post, there are many health issues that might impact the life of an English Bulldog. Some of the most severe, specific to this breed include:
Brachycephalic Syndrome
Due to their short snouts and compact skull structure, English Bulldogs can suffer from breathing difficulties, snoring, and overheating. This is a problem that all Brachycephalic breeds face, and one of the reasons that breeding is sometimes seen as controversial. It’s also one of the reasons why if you are going to buy one, you need to do so from a reputable breeder. Brachycephalic Syndrome can lead to more serious issues like respiratory distress and requires careful monitoring, especially in hot weather or during exercise.
- Treatment – Limiting exercise during hot weather, maintaining a healthy weight, and using a harness instead of a neck collar can help manage symptoms. In more severe cases to improve airway function, surgeries such as stenotic nares correction (widening the nostrils) or shortening the soft palate may be recommended.
Hip Dysplasia
This is a common condition in many dog breeds, where the hip joint doesn’t fit together perfectly, leading to arthritis or lameness. Bulldogs are particularly susceptible due to their muscular build and compact frame.
- Treatment – Keeping the Bulldog at a healthy weight to minimize joint stress and low-impact exercise to strengthen the muscles around the joint. In severe cases, surgeries like total hip replacement or femoral head ostectomy may be considered.
Skin Infections
The deep wrinkles and folds in a Bulldog’s skin can trap moisture and debris, leading to bacterial infections if not cleaned regularly. Common areas affected include the folds on the face, around the tail, and between the toes.
- Treatment – Keeping the skin folds dry and clean is crucial to prevent infections. Antibacterial and antifungal treatments might also be provided to address infections that have taken hold.
Cherry Eye
Bulldogs can experience prolapse of the third eyelid gland, commonly known as cherry eye.
- Treatment – The prolapsed gland typically requires surgical replacement or suturing into its original position. In some cases, the gland may be removed, although this can lead to dry eye and requires lifelong treatment.
Heat Sensitivity
With their brachycephalic facial structure, Bulldogs are highly susceptible to heatstroke.
- Treatment – They should be kept in air-conditioned environments during hot weather and exercised with caution.
Heart Conditions
Bulldogs can be prone to various heart conditions, including congenital heart defects and heart murmurs, which may require medical management.
- Treatment – Various drugs can manage heart disease, depending on the specific condition. Frequent checkups with the vet would also be a must to monitor the condition’s progression.
Patellar Luxation
This is a condition where the kneecap dislocates out of its normal position, which can cause pain or an abnormal gait. Bulldogs may experience mild to severe forms of this condition.
- Treatment – Weight control and anti-inflammatory medications can help manage mild cases. More severe cases may require surgery.
Daily Life
Now that we’ve covered the different characteristics and health concerns for an English Bulldog, let’s take a look at what daily life with one of these adorable dogs looks like.
Food and Diet
English Bulldogs need a balanced diet, rich in high-quality proteins to maintain their muscle mass. But you need to make sure their food mix has controlled levels of fat to prevent obesity. They don’t exercise much so this is important. Carbohydrates should come from digestible sources like whole grains or vegetables.
Food should be spread across two meals throughout the day to support the metabolism and prevent bloat from over eating. Generally, an adult dog will need about 2 cups of dry food per day – 1 cup per meal – but this will vary depending on your dogs weight, life stage and activity level.
Exercise
English Bulldogs are not active dogs, so don’t expect them to join you on long walks and hikes into the wilderness. If you want that, get a Labrador!
These are relatively sedentary dogs, more comfortable in the home than in the hills. They still require regular, gentle exercise though to maintain health.
Short walks in cooler parts of the day or play sessions are ideal. They also love mental challenges, so incorporating training exercises into play can keep them stimulated and help prevent obesity.
Family Compatability
They are great family dogs though and will get on well with everyone, including other pets and children.
English Bulldogs can adapt to various living situations, from apartments to houses with yards, as long as they have a cool, comfortable place to rest and are not left alone for extended periods.
They don’t need wide open spaces to run and play, but they do benefit from lots of attention. This is typically what you would expect from a non sporting companion dog.
Training
Training should start early. These dogs really benefit from short and engaging sessions. Training needs to be consistent though to help them learn good manners and command responses.
They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques such as treats and praise. Try not to go heavy on the treats though or they can remain very ‘reward motivated’ and not learn the core of the training. Harsh corrections and frustration from a trainer can lead to stubbornness.
The key is to be patient, consistent and reward their effort.
Socializing
Socialization from an early age is vital to prevent any potential aggression or fearfulness. Gradually introducing your Bulldog to various people, pets, and situations can really help them to become well-rounded adults. The more time and effort you invest in this, the better your dog will integrate into your family.
If you live alone, enrolling your Bulldog in puppy classes can be an excellent way to socialize them in a controlled environment, if you have one available in your area.
Grooming
The coat of an English Bulldog is really easy to maintain as it is short and straight. They are known as medium shedders. They can drool a fair bit though, and need grooming care beyond just the regular weekly brush. In particular, they need regular cleaning of their facial wrinkles to prevent moisture build up and infection. To do this, use a damp cloth for cleaning and a dry one to ensure the skin is completely dry after. A monthly bath should suffice as well as regular nail trims to prevent discomfort and mobility issues.
Breed Traits
| Positive Traits | Negative Traits |
| Deeply emotional | Brachycephalic breed |
| Very loyal | Low life expectancy |
| Low activity needs | Many health issues from selective breeding |
| Courageous but not aggressive | Breeding is illegal in some countries |
Breed FAQs
Is an English Bulldog a good family dog?
They are not an active breed, but they make excellent family dogs. With the proper training and socialization, they are very affectionate, loving dogs that will get on well with every member of the family, including other pets and children.
Are English bulldogs good for first time owners?
They can be stubborn if not trained properly, and they can develop many different health issues. They need more than the average amount of care too because of the type of breeding. As long as you are aware of these things and put in ample time to train them well, then they can be suitable for any owner.
Summary
Despite their health challenges, English Bulldogs continue to be cherished for their loyal, affectionate nature and indomitable spirit. They are one of the most popular breeds on record but there are easier dogs to own. If you want an active companion, a guardian or a working dog then the Bully is not for you. If you want a pet that will love all of your friends and family, is good with kids and you are willing to take the extra time they need for personal care, then they can make a loving addition to any home.