The English Bulldog is unlike many other dog breeds: the short, squat, muscular stature combined with excessive folds of skin, loose chops and squashed nose combine to form an instantly recognizable breed of dog that’s perennially popular. 

Indeed, the English Bulldog is constantly in the top 10 most popular breeds, as tracked by the American Kennel Club, since it was first recognized as a breed in 1886, and currently sits in seventh place.

Aside from their distinctive appearance, their personality and character is what makes English Bulldogs popular with dog lovers across the world. Laid-back, friendly, gentle and courageous, they make perfect family pets, although they do require regular exercise as they are prone to weight-gain if they remain inactive. 

It’s thought that the first Bulldogs were bred in England in the 1300s specifically for a bloodsport called ‘bullbaiting’, where a pack of dogs was pitted against a staked bull, fighting to the death. The dogs that took part were renowned for their aggression, strength and bravery.

Once bloodsports were banned in England in the 1830s, Bulldogs were bred to be more friendly, attractive and relaxed to appeal to pet parents, eventually becoming the popular breed we know and love today.

General Characteristics:

• Origin: England.
• Size: Medium.
• Height: Around 12-16 inches.
• Weight: 50 pounds (male), 40 pounds (female).
• Lifespan: 8-10 years.

Appearance:

• Coat: Short, smooth hair with medium levels of shedding.
• Colors: Fawn, white, red, red brindle, fallow, or combinations of these colors.
• Build: Thick-set, muscular, squat.

English Bulldog Temperament:

• Gentle: Thanks to their friendly, easygoing nature, Bulldogs make perfect family pets.
• Energetic: Medium energy levels mean Bulldogs require around 40 minutes of exercise a day.
• Intelligent: Bulldogs’ high intelligence means they pick up commands and listen to instructions.

Training and Exercising:

• Training: Bulldogs’ intelligence and eagerness to please mean they’re easy to train.
• Exercise: Daily exercise for Bulldogs is key to help them remain trim — they enjoy walks, although they are equally happy lazing around the house.

Grooming:

• Shedding: Bulldogs’ shedding is minimal, and a quick brush once or twice a week will help remove old hair.

Interesting Facts About English Bulldogs:

• Bulldogs’ distinctive large heads and loose skin was originally bred into the breed specifically to help them when bullbaiting so they could withstand attacks and continue to fight.
• Their large heads also cause problems when giving birth. As a result, around 80% of bulldog puppies are born via C-section.
• Bulldogs are not friends with water — their weight, short stature and small legs are not built to keep them afloat, so they struggle to swim in water deeper than only a few inches.
• The English Bulldog is a popular mascot across the world, but is particularly popular with American universities, including Yale and Georgetown.  
• Bulldogs are exceptionally talented at skateboarding, and have broken a number of World Records.
• A Bulldog was part of the first drive across the U.S. in an automobile in 1903. Dr. Horation Nelson Jackson completed the journey with his Bulldog, Bud, who both wore goggles to keep dust from their eyes.

English Bulldog Price:

The average cost of a Bulldog in the U.S. varies depending on the dog’s pedigree, the breeder’s reputation, location, and whether the dog is intended for show, breeding, or as a pet. Here’s a general guide:

Show Quality or Breeding Quality Bulldog:

Price Range: $3,000-$5,000

If buying a Bulldog puppy or specific breeds of Bulldog, the price will be towards the more expensive end of the spectrum.

Rescue or Adoption:

Adoption Fee: Around $800

A Bulldog adopted from a rescue organization or shelter generally costs less. This fee often includes initial veterinary care and spaying/neutering.

Best Foods for English Bulldogs

Redbarn Ocean Recipe: This is a rich in fish-based protein and omega fatty acids, which support English Bulldogs’ skin health and help manage allergies, a common breed concern. Its easily digestible ingredients and added probiotics promote gut health, reducing digestive issues like gas and bloating.

For more choices: See our Best Food for English Bulldogs page.