English Bulldog breed guide

As a symbol of determination and strength, the English bulldog is a popular choice of companion for pet parents across the UK!

Read our guide to find out more about the iconic English bulldog breed…

Please note: English bulldogs are also known as British bulldogs – however, we’ll be referring to dogs of this breed as ‘bulldog’ at various points throughout this breed guide.

English bulldog breed history

Some sources believe the bulldog originated in places like Greece, Egypt, and Rome as a type of guard dog called the ‘Bullenbeisser’. This large guard dog was eventually brought over to the UK, and from the 13^th century, they were crossbred to develop a smaller dog with equally powerful jaws.

Ancestors of the modern English bulldog were once bred for bull baiting (a barbaric event in which dogs attacked a bull as entertainment), until it was banned in the 1830s. After bull baiting was made illegal, the bulldog breed declined in numbers.

Thanks to the Kennel Club’s recognition of the breed in 1873 as part of the ‘utility’ group, the iconic bulldog we know today became a popular show dog and companion.

Over the last few decades, the desire for exaggerated features has led to a lot of health concerns for the loveable bulldog. So, efforts are now being made by vets and other organisations, like the Kennel Club, to promote welfare-focused breeding practices that’ll improve the overall health of the breed.  

Common characteristics of the English bulldog breed

Please remember that the following characteristics are considered ‘average’ for bulldogs, and since each dog is a unique individual, your bulldog’s characteristics may differ. 

Average height for an English bulldog

Bulldogs usually reach a height of 31-40cm at the shoulder.

Average weight for an English bulldog

Generally, bulldogs tend to weigh approximately 18-25kg – though females often weigh slightly less than males.

Average lifespan for an English bulldog

On average, bulldogs live for around 8-10 years.

Typical English bulldog appearance

The bulldog has a broad head with inquisitive, dark-coloured eyes and a button nose. Their body is compact yet muscular, with a wide chest, relatively small legs, and a fairly short tail that’s thicker at the base.

Sadly, the bulldog’s appearance is one of the major causes of poor health, due to their flat face making it difficult for them to breathe properly (meaning they’re ‘brachycephalic’).

Additionally, owing to the way the bulldog breed has been developed to have exaggerated features, they often end up suffering from a wide range of life-limiting health conditions. 

In terms of coat type, the bulldog has a sleek, smooth coat that requires brushing a couple of times a week to keep it in tip top condition.

A bulldog’s coat can be a variety of colours – though the following colours are recognised by the Kennel Club in the UK as being standard for the breed:

• Brindle (distinctive darker striped pattern over a lighter base colour).
• Brindle and white.
• Fawn (light brown).
• Fawn and white.
• Fawn brindle.
• Fawn brindle and white.
• Red (orange-brown).
• Red and white.
• Red brindle.
• Red fawn (light orange-brown colour).
• White.

Typical English bulldog temperament

Thanks to their laidback attitude and cuddly nature, bulldogs are happiest when they’re part of a family who prefers creature comforts to long-distance adventures!

Although bulldogs are usually great with children, it’s essential that children are taught to be gentle and respectful around them. Likewise, since they’re so friendly, bulldogs get along well with other pets, too – provided they’ve been introduced safely.

In terms of exercise, most bulldogs would rather curl up with you under a blanket instead of venturing out on long walks, especially if it’s cold and/or raining!

However, bulldogs still require around an hour’s exercise daily, which should be broken down into smaller walks throughout the day. Due to their breathing issues, it’s vital that bulldogs aren’t exercised in hot weather, because they’re prone to heat-related conditions.

Training sessions with your bulldog need to be made fun and engaging, since some bulldogs can be stubborn, despite their intelligence and eagerness to please. You’ll also have to find the right reward to motivate your bulldog, and don’t be surprised if you end up repeating a training exercise several times before they pay attention!  

English bulldog health conditions

It’s not unusual for pedigree breeds to be prone to certain health concerns, and English bulldogs are no exception. Here are a few health conditions commonly seen in the English bulldog:  

• BOAS (brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome).
• Skin infections.
• Eye ulcers.
• Cherry eye.
• Joint problems (like elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia).

Remember: Keep an eye out for any health issues your bulldog may develop, and get your canine companion checked by a vet if you have any concerns.

Fun facts about English bulldogs

Fact 1 – Tillman, the English bulldog, was entered into the Guinness Book of World Records in 2009 for his skateboarding skills!

Fact 2 – During World War II, bulldogs were used in propaganda across the UK to represent the spirit of the nation.

Fact 3 – Yale University was the first in the USA to have a live animal mascot, an English bulldog named Handsome Dan; there have been 18 ‘Handsome Dans’ since the 1890s!

Fact 4 – US presidents Warren G. Harding and Calvin Coolidge kept English bulldogs as pets.

Fact 5 – Bulldogs often snore really loudly!