The Ultimate Guide to Bulldogs: Owning, Training, and Caring for These Resilient Canine Companions

The Bulldog: A Guide for Owners

The English Bulldog (often referred to as the "Bulldog") is considered one of the most courageous, friendliest, and calm-natured dog breeds in the world. Although they were initially bred in the early 1200s for bull-baiting, this breed is now favored for its remarkable companionship and family-friendly personality. This makes them ideal for homes with kids, young adults, and elderly individuals.

This work examines the Bulldog and provides an overview of the dog's personality traits, physical appearance, and general characteristics. It includes a discussion of the Bulldog's health concerns, grooming requirements, and frequently asked questions (FAQs).

Is the Bulldog suitable for your home? Let's find out!

Scientific Classification

• Common Name: Bulldog
• Binomial Name: Canis Lupus Familiaris
• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Mammalia
• Order: Carnivora
• Family: Canidae
• Genus: Canis
• Species: Canis Lupus
• Subspecies: Canis Lupus Familiaris
• Other Name(s): English Bulldog; British Bulldog

History of the Bulldog

• Life Span: 8 to 12 years
• Group: Non-Sporting Group
• Area of Origin: England
• Date of Origin: 1200s
• Original Function: Bull-baiting
• Family: Mastiff; Bull

Origins

The Bulldog is believed to have originated in England around the thirteenth century. Some of the earliest dogs were developed for the purpose of attacking and maddening bulls by grabbing/biting them on the nose or neck. This blood sport was known as bull-baiting.

Despite its horrific nature, the event was considered a major form of entertainment during the Middle Ages. Unfortunately, it often had deadly consequences for the Bulldog (and bull), who were forced to show bravery and fortitude in the face of extreme danger (Coile, 264). Tragically, a great number of bulldogs were either maimed or killed during these grisly spectacles.

Following the abolition of bull-baiting in the early 1800s, the Bulldog quickly found itself in danger of extinction due to their sudden drop in demand. Recognizing their potential, however, a breeder known as Bill George continued to breed bulldogs in the decades that followed.

To save the dog, George began a painstaking process of only breeding bulldogs with gentle temperaments and strong physical features. His efforts helped to keep the breed alive until 1875, when an official "Bulldog Club" was established in England. Through their combined efforts, the Bulldog's ferocious temperament was slowly eradicated in favor of a dog that was both amiable and sweet-natured.

In subsequent years, a "Bulldog Club of America" was formed in the 1890s, leading to a surge in the breed's popularity overseas. This popularity has stood the test of time, as the dog is currently listed by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as the sixth most popular breed in the United States.

Function and Purpose

As we saw above, the Bulldog was initially developed for bull-baiting during the early 1200s. In the modern era, though, their role has changed significantly, as this breed is now favored for its remarkable companionship qualities. For these reasons, they are often a favorite of elderly individuals and family-based environments since they usually do exceptionally well with children of all ages.

Characteristics of the Bulldog

• Weight: 50+ pounds (male); 40+ pounds (female)
• Height: 12 to 15 inches (male and female)

The Bulldog is a medium-sized breed known for their stout and tough-looking appearance. Because of this rugged look, the Bulldog has served as the official mascot of the United States Marine Corps since 1922. They are even recognized as the unofficial symbol of England, a feat that was recognized during the late 1800s.

In regard to their overall size, few Bulldogs exceed 40 to 50 pounds or 12 to 15 inches in total height. Although small deviations from these rules are considered normal, extreme differences are considered major faults that should be evaluated by a qualified veterinarian.

Head

The overall head of the Bulldog is usually quite large and is described as both broad and "square-like" in its appearance. This breed is also known for its well-rounded cheeks, small face, short muzzle, and well-defined forehead. Noses, in turn, should be "large, broad, and black." Completing the head is a series of wide-spaced eyes that are well-rounded and dark, along with a pair of small and thin ears.

Forequarters

In regard to the forequarters, the Bulldog possesses a pair of short legs that are both muscular and stout. The shoulders for this breed should also exhibit these muscular qualities and will generally slant forward (slightly). This helps provide the Bulldog with their "tough" appearance, as the stance exhibits both "stability and great power." Completing the forequarters is a pair of medium-sized feet that are compact with high knuckles. They are highlighted by thick padding and short nails.

Hindquarters

The hindquarters of the Bulldog follow many of the same traits as the front. Legs should be strong and muscular. Likewise, the back legs are generally longer than the front, with the stifles turned slightly out. Completing this region is a pair of feet that are compact and well-padded (same as the front).

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Tail

Tails on the Bulldog are relatively short and maintain a straight or "screwed" appearance. However, they should never be curved or curly. Generally speaking, most Bulldog tails are carried somewhat low and are renowned for their thick root and fine tip.

Coat and Coloration

Coats on the Bulldog are a combination of straight, short, flat, and fine in their overall texture. For these reasons, most coats exhibit a smooth and glossy look. Likewise, their skin should be exceptionally soft and loose, with wrinkles common around the head, face, throat, and chest.

In regard to color, the Bulldog's coat can take on a variety of hues. This includes red, white, fallow, or fawn. Combinations of these colors are also common, along with specific patterns (i.e., brindle, black tipping, piebald, and ticking).

Traits of the Bulldog

• Energy Level: 1/5
• Exercise Needs: 1/5
• Playfulness: 4/5
• Affection Towards Owners: 5/5
• Friendliness Towards Other Animals: 3/5
• Training Difficulty: 3/5
• Grooming Level: 2/5

Temperament and Personality Traits

Although the Bulldog possesses a strong and fearsome appearance, this breed is actually one of the most gentle and even-tempered dogs in the world. In the modern era, they are prized for their sweet nature and amiable personality.

Bulldogs are quite friendly and laid back. Moreover, they are capable of getting along with just about anyone. For this reason, they are well-suited for various living situations, including families with younger children.

In spite of these positive traits, prospective owners need to understand that the Bulldog's personality can be dramatically affected by its early development and heredity. Early socialization is key to promoting positive relationships with strangers, including both people and humans. Likewise, regular exposure to new sights and sounds helps them become well-adjusted to daily life, ensuring they can live a happy and satisfying life in the company of others.

Are Bulldogs Good With Children?

Yes! Despite their "rough and tough" appearance, Bulldogs are wonderful family pets due to their loving nature and even-tempered personality. For these reasons, the Bulldog is an excellent companion to children (of all ages) as they are willing to put up with quite a lot without becoming angry.

As with all dogs, however, it is vital that parents teach their children how to approach and handle their Bulldog companion properly. This includes forbidding your kids from pulling your dog's delicate ears or tail. Children should also be taught not to squeeze or handle their Bulldog in a rough manner.

In addition to these requirements, kids should never approach a Bulldog that is eating or sleeping. Failure to heed this warning can result in the development of negative behaviors, as your Bulldog may interpret these actions as a "threat" to their safety and well-being. This may prompt them to respond via growling, barking, or even biting if they feel threatened enough.

Although it may seem daunting to teach your children these concepts, ensuring that proper behaviors are followed will go a long way toward establishing a positive relationship between your kids and Bulldog that will last a lifetime!

How Smart Is the Bulldog?

The Bulldog is a moderately intelligent breed within the canine world. As of July 2023, this breed is ranked #77 amongst the world's smartest dogs. This places them alongside the Chow Chow and Basenji regarding their overall intelligence level (Coren, 182).

Often characterized by experts as a "sixth tier" breed, most Bulldogs can learn a new command after 100 repetitions of an action. Likewise, they will typically obey a new command (after mastering it) 30 percent of the time for owners. Some Bulldogs will learn faster than this, while others may take additional time.

With this in mind, owners can expect a great deal from their Bulldogs, as they can learn a wide array of tricks and commands throughout their lifetime. Nevertheless, it is important to note that successful training will likely require a lot of practice and repetition with this breed.

This doesn't mean your Bulldog is dumb or incapable of learning. It simply means they require additional time and practice.

Grooming Requirements

• Grooming Difficulty: Easy
• Coat Type: Short, smooth, and glossy.

Brushing and Bathing

As a short-haired breed, the Bulldog only requires minimal grooming to maintain their coat's smooth and glossy texture. In general, owners should plan to brush their Bulldog approximately 2–3 times a week with a soft brush. Baths, in contrast, should only be given when needed. As a rule of thumb, most experts agree that baths every 4–6 weeks are sufficient for this particular breed.

Ear Cleaning

As with all dog breeds, owners should pay particular attention to their Bulldog's ears when grooming, as this region is prone to various sores and infections. In general, you should inspect your Bulldog's ears daily for dirt and debris (such as earwax buildup and the accumulation of tiny hairs that result from regular shedding).

Promptly removing these foreign substances will go a long way in preventing the development of painful infections of the ear canal. This is especially important for the Bulldog as they possess a pair of "droopy" ears that hang close to the head. Dogs with this ear type are especially prone to infection as their ears tend to trap additional heat and moisture. This provides a perfect environment for bacteria to thrive.

Nail Trimming

Nails are another important area of your Bulldog's body that should be examined regularly for potential issues. In general, nails should be kept clean, short, and trimmed at all times. Failure to heed this warning can result in excessively long nails that are prone to breaking, resulting in painful tears. Longer nails can even curve inward over time, growing into the padding of your Bulldog's paws.

To prevent this, owners should plan to trim their Bulldog's nails every week, ensuring that the nails are both short and well-rounded (with no jagged edges). Nail trimming can be performed at home or by your dog's veterinarian if you are uncomfortable with the procedure.

If you choose the former option, you should only use dog-specific clippers or files. Guillotine-style clippers are usually the best option for this particular breed. You can even purchase a nail grinder for your Bulldog's nails. This device quickly grinds down your dog's nails, leaving them smooth and well-rounded. To prevent scaring your Bulldog, though, you should always choose a grinder that is relatively quiet, cordless, and doesn't vibrate excessively.

If money isn't an issue, professional groomers also offer "nail trimming" as part of their services. It should be noted, however, that prices charged by a groomer are considerably more expensive than the other options mentioned above.

Dental Health

Finally, and crucially, dental hygiene is also extremely important for the Bulldog. Unfortunately, this is an aspect of grooming that is often ignored by owners (even though it's one of the most important).

Ideally, you should plan to brush your Bulldog's teeth daily in order to remove food-based debris from the gums and teeth. This should be done using a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste, which can be purchased at nearly any pet supply store or retailer.

When brushing, gently hold your Bulldog's mouth in a steady position as you brush in a circular motion. Pay particular attention to the teeth during this procedure, examining the mouth region for broken teeth, cavities, sores, or signs of infection. If found, promptly report these issues to your veterinarian. This will help prevent long-term issues from arising.

In sum, properly cleaning your Bulldog's mouth is essential, as it helps to prevent gingivitis, gum disease, bad breath, and tooth decay. These health issues can dramatically affect the overall quality of your dog's life.

Exercise and Training Needs

Providing your Bulldog with the right amount of exercise is crucial for pet ownership. Likewise, you probably have questions about how to train your pet. Let's look at some of the most common concerns of Bulldog owners.

How Much Exercise Does a Bulldog Need Each Day?

As a medium-sized dog breed, the Bulldog requires substantially less exercise than some of the larger (more athletic) breeds, such as the Golden Retriever, Border Collie, and German Shepherd. On average, most experts agree that the Bulldog can get by with approximately 30–40 minutes of exercise each day.

Owners should pay close attention to their Bulldog's breathing and hydration levels while exercising. Is your dog panting more than usual? Do they exhibit signs of dehydration? If so, be sure to take plenty of water breaks so that your pet isn’t being pushed beyond their natural limits.

Like humans, dogs need regular water breaks to recover from strenuous activities. This is especially important during the summer months when higher temperatures can result in severe dehydration if left unchecked. Failure to heed this warning can result in serious injuries (or death) to your pet.

It's also important to note that exercise requirements will vary significantly for puppies and older dogs. Owners should avoid strenuous exercise with these two groups due to their age and susceptibility to injuries. Again, when in doubt, always consult a qualified veterinarian to determine a reasonable exercise routine for your Bulldog.

Is the Bulldog Difficult to Train?

Yes and no. In general, the Bulldog is a relatively intelligent breed capable of learning several tricks/commands throughout their lifetime. However, it is important to note that this particular breed is extremely stubborn and headstrong (to a fault), making them a challenge to train at times.

For best results, experts agree that patience and consistency are the key to successful training regimens. Likewise, the Bulldog is also highly-responsive to food-based rewards (since they love snacks). When utilized correctly, positive reinforcement helps to ensure that training is fun for your pet, thus, aiding in their receptivity to training. It also helps to make training more engaging and fun for owners, resulting in greater “chemistry” with your pet.

On a final note, the Bulldog is a relatively sensitive breed. As such, owners should never resort to heavy-handed techniques (i.e., yelling) when training their Bulldog. These methods will only result in regression of learned behaviors and commands.

How Difficult Is the Bulldog to Housetrain?

Generally speaking, Bulldogs are somewhat difficult to housetrain due to their stubborn nature. For best results, owners should begin training as soon as possible (during your dog's puppy stage of development). This helps to ensure that good habits are established as early as possible, as bad habits are difficult to break in the later stages of your dog’s life.

As with many breeds, repetition is the best way to housebreak your Bulldog. On average, owners should expect housetraining to take at least four to six months. Some dogs will learn at a faster rate, while others may take longer. Again, just be patient and consistent.

Nutritional Guidelines

As with most breeds, a high-quality dog food should always be the number one priority for your pet. Likewise, meals should be prepared with guidance from your dog’s veterinarian.

Although it is tempting to provide your Bulldog with table scraps following a family dinner (due to its cost-effectiveness), dog experts warn that such foods should be avoided whenever possible. Why? Human-based foods contain a variety of fats, preservatives, and substances (i.e., sharp bones) that are harmful to your dog’s health and well-being.

The following list shows 10 foods you should avoid giving your Bulldog. This list is in no way comprehensive. When in doubt about which substances harm your pet, always consult your veterinarian.

How Much Food Should a Bulldog Eat Per Day?

As with all dog breeds, feeding requirements vary significantly with every pet and depend greatly on your dog’s weight, energy level, and age. For this reason, owners should work closely with their dog's veterinarian to establish a feeding cycle that fits their Bulldog's specific needs.

Generally speaking, most Bulldogs require approximately 0.5 to 2 cups of dry dog food daily (depending on their overall size and stage of development). This should, in turn, be divided into two separate meals of nearly 0.25 to 1 cup, respectively. More active dogs will require slightly more food each day, whereas less-active ones will require less. Again, when in doubt about specific food needs, always consult your dog’s veterinarian for guidance.

It is important to note that feeding requirements will also differ significantly for Bulldog puppies, as their bodies require a dramatically different routine (when compared to adults). For most Bulldog puppies, experts suggest feeding them approximately 1.5 to 2.0 cups of food each day. This should, in turn, be divided into three separate meals until they reach 12 weeks of age.

At this stage, you should consult your dog's veterinarian to determine what feeding adjustments need to be made.

Water Needs

Maintaining proper hydration is also extremely important for the Bulldog. Nearly 70-percent of a dog’s body is comprised of water. Therefore, owners should pay active attention to their dog’s water needs throughout the day as their requirements can change in response to both outside temperatures and their daily activity levels.

As with most breeds, standard water requirements are usually determined by your dog’s weight. For every seven pounds of weight, a Bulldog should consume approximately 6 ounces of water per day. For example, a 56-pound dog would require 48 ounces of water in a day’s time.

As with food, more active dogs will require slightly more water (in the vicinity of 70+ ounces per day), whereas less active animals will require only the minimum suggested intake. Likewise, hotter weather will warrant additional water throughout the day, whereas colder conditions will be far less taxing to your Bulldog’s hydration levels.

In the majority of cases, the best way to handle water requirements is to keep your Bulldog's bowl filled with fresh water throughout the day. According to experts, you should never restrict your dog's water intake. The guidelines described above were provided to show what's "average" for the Bulldog and should only be used for monitoring purposes.

When in doubt about your dog's water needs, or if you notice they are drinking excessively, always consult a veterinarian.

What Type of Home Is Good for a Bulldog?

Adopting a Bulldog is a major life decision that should never be taken lightly. Did you know that spur-of-the-moment decisions to adopt pets are one of the number one reasons for pet abandonment in the United States? Why? Because many owners learn (quickly) they are incapable of providing for the basic needs of a puppy or new pet.

Taking on an additional pet requires a great deal of commitment, especially if you want to provide your dog with the best lifestyle possible. For these reasons, great care should be taken when adopting a new dog into your family.

To aid in the decision-making process, the following list has been prepared for prospective owners. Before adding a new Bulldog to your home, ask yourself these basic questions to determine your suitability for a new dog:

• Is my home adequately equipped for a new dog?
• Am I ready (emotionally) for the ups and downs of dog care?
• Can I afford a new pet at this stage of my life?
• Does the Bulldog fit my personality and lifestyle?
• Should I get a puppy or an older dog?
• Am I prepared for potential behavioral issues?
• What kind of grooming is required for the breed I’m interested in?
• Will this type of dog get along with my other pets?
• What is my motivation for adopting a new pet?
• Do I have time for a new dog?

If you are incapable of answering any of these questions in the affirmative, have specific (and troubling) doubts, or lack the resources and patience to undertake a new pet, ownership of a Bulldog is probably not right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Is the Best Type of Owner for a Bulldog?

In regard to personality type, the Bulldog is best suited for an owner that is both laid-back and easy-going (matching the Bulldog’s general personality). In addition to this basic requirement, prospective owners should also demonstrate a remarkable level of patience and understanding. Why? Bulldogs are renowned for their stubborn and headstrong nature, which can be a major problem during training. If you are incapable of exhibiting these traits, a Bulldog may not be suitable for you.

Is the Bulldog Good With Other Pets?

Yes and no. Generally speaking, the Bulldog often makes for an amiable companion to other pets in the home. This is based on the assumption they were raised around these animals from an early age and were properly socialized during their puppy stage of development.

In spite of this, it is important to note that the Bulldog’s origins as a “bull-baiter” should not be taken lightly, as this breed can occasionally display signs of aggression towards other pets (especially male dogs). Likewise, smaller animals (such as rabbits, gerbils, hamsters, birds, guinea pigs, and even some cats) should be closely monitored when in the presence of a Bulldog.

Is the Bulldog a Good Guard Dog?

Yes and no. Some Bulldogs can become extremely aggressive when they sense a threat to themselves or family members, and will actively protect their loved ones from danger when the occasion arises. Because of their amiable and docile temperament, though, they are more likely to greet strangers with wagging tails and slobbery kisses. For owners seeking protection and guardianship, they will be better served by a larger and more aggressive breed, such as the Doberman Pinscher.

Choosing a Bulldog

As mentioned above, the decision to adopt a Bulldog is a major life decision that should never be taken lightly. This also applies to the selection of puppies, as great care should be taken when adopting a new dog from a breeder.

When examining litters, potential owners should evaluate Bulldog puppies with several things in mind. The following list provides some questions for individuals to consider when selecting a new puppy:

• How social (and interactive) is the Bulldog puppy you are interested in?
• Does the puppy actively try to sniff your hand, or cower in fear when approached?
• Does the puppy play well with their brothers and sisters?
• Is the puppy prone to roughhousing and more aggressive behaviors? Do they growl when you are near, or try to cover you in kisses?

These are just a few of the questions individuals should consider before selecting a Bulldog puppy, as these items reveal a great deal of the dog’s personality and temperament that will be dominant for the remainder of their lives. As one might expect, there are no “right” or “wrong” answers to these questions as they are geared towards ensuring your new puppy possesses a personality that mimics your own. This helps ensure your new companion is a good fit for you and your home.

How Much Does a Bulldog Cost?

Overall costs for a Bulldog vary significantly and depend heavily on the dog’s age, location, and availability (i.e., public demand at the time of purchase). In addition, the source of the dog is also a determining factor in price, as private individuals, sellers, and breeders tend to charge higher than adoption agencies.

As of August 2023, an individual can expect to pay approximately $2000 to $4000 for a Bulldog puppy, with $2,500 being the average price for this breed in the United States. However, higher-end breeders will charge significantly more, with the average Bulldog going for $4,500 to $9,000 per puppy. Purebred AKC puppies with show dog parents can cost even more, with some going as high as $10,000 to $30,000 each!

Health Concerns

Recommended Medical Tests and Evaluations for the Bulldog:

• Hip and Elbow Evaluation
• Knee Exam
• Eye Exam

Owners should actively work with a qualified veterinarian to develop a nutritional and preventive care plan for their Bulldog. Proper diet, nutrition, and early detection of health issues can go a long way in helping your dog achieve a happy and healthy life.

Generally speaking, Bulldogs are somewhat healthy. As a brachycephalic dog breed, though, it is important to note that the Bulldog is prone to several respiratory problems. This is due to their "smushed" and somewhat flattened facial structure. This issue can be problematic during exercise or when your pet spends an excessive amount of time outside (especially in hot temperatures).

The Bulldog is also susceptible to canine hip dysplasia (CHD), keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), stenotic nares, an elongated soft palate, shoulder luxation, and internalized tails. Some bulldogs may also develop distichiasis, patellar luxation, or demodicosis (mange).

Fortunately, many health issues can either be prevented or treated when caught early enough by owners and/or veterinarians. This is why regular veterinary checkups are so important.

With proper care, owners can expect their Bulldog to live between 8 to 12 years, though it is common for this breed to live several years beyond this.

Pros and Cons of the Bulldog

We have now made it to the end of our guide! Are you still wondering if the Bulldog is right for your home? Are you worried that the negatives outweigh the positives for this particular breed? This final section outlines some of the potential pros and cons of owning a Bulldog.

Although most of these traits were discussed above, this handy guide offers a quick overview of the dog's basic characteristics.

Pros

• Due to their short coat, this breed is extremely easy to groom and requires only moderate brushing on a weekly basis.
• Easygoing breed that gets along with just about anyone.
• Extremely loyal and devoted dog.
• Doesn’t require a great deal of exercise.
• Quiet breed that rarely barks.

Cons

• Extremely stubborn breed that can be difficult to control.
• Known for their “food possessiveness,” leading to aggressiveness towards other pets (or people) that get too close while they are eating.
• Prone to excessive shedding at certain times of the year.
• Prone to slobbering and drooling.
• Afflicted by numerous health issues and concerns, meaning a shorter lifespan (on average) and costly bills from your local veterinarian.
• Expensive breed with most puppies selling for $1,000 or more.

Is the Bulldog Right for You?

In conclusion, the Bulldog is a fascinating dog breed that is well-known for its steadfast loyalty, courage, and calm-natured disposition. Although they are incredibly stubborn and headstrong (making them extremely difficult to train at times), owners will be hard-pressed to find another dog that is as friendly, even-tempered, and protective as this breed. For these reasons, the Bulldog will likely remain a favorite of breeders and dog lovers alike for the foreseeable future.

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This article is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge. It is not meant to substitute for diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescription, or formal and individualized advice from a veterinary medical professional. Animals exhibiting signs and symptoms of distress should be seen by a veterinarian immediately.

© 2023 Larry Slawson