English Bulldog

English Bulldog Temperament and Personality

With its wrinkled face, distinct underbite, and stocky, muscular build, the English Bulldog may look like a tough guy, but this breed is all heart.

Affectionately known for their gentle nature, these incredibly loyal dogs love nothing more than being surrounded by their humans. They have a calm, easy-going temperament that’s perfectly suited to family life, especially as they adore the company of children. From lengthy cuddle sessions on the couch to entertaining the household with their funny snorts and silly antics, this people-oriented pooch is a wonderful companion for owners who enjoy a slower pace of life. 

Don’t be entirely fooled by their laid-back attitude though – English (or British) Bulldogs do have a few quirks. They’re known for their stubborn streak and slow approach to learning, which can make training a challenge. While they’re eager to please, they prefer to do things their own way, often staring at their owner with a quizzical look before shuffling away. They’re also notorious for their flatulence, which can be overwhelming at times. If you’re sensitive to strong smells, be prepared for the occasional room-clearing trump! 

You should expect some serious snoring, grunting, and snuffling with this breed too. It might be part of the Bulldog charm, but these noises are actually a result of them being a brachycephalic breed. Dogs of this nature have flat, squished faces which causes a lot of breathing problems. Short daily walks and gentle, indoor playtime with a rope toy is enough for these couch potatoes.

Their noisiness doesn’t extend to barking though. They’re generally a quiet breed, but make effective watchdogs purely from their iconic appearance, which can be somewhat intimidating to a would-be intruder. However, if the time calls for it, these docile dogs quickly become loyal, courageous defenders, protecting their family from any perceived threat. 

Although they generally make friends wherever they go, English Bulldogs might not always greet unknown dogs – particularly those of the same sex – with a wagging tail and wide grin. Their facial structure can make it difficult for other dogs to read their expressions, and their exceptional memories mean bad experiences stick with them for a long time. As with all dogs though, early socialisation and consistent training is key to raising a confident and well-mannered pooch. 

With the right care and plenty of love, this breed can make any house a warm, welcoming home. So, if you’re looking for a laid-back, lovable dog that’s always ready for a nap by your side, the British Bulldog could be the breed for you.

English Bulldog Vs Olde English Bulldog: What’s the difference?

While they share a name, the English Bulldog and the Olde English Bulldog are distinct in both history and temperament. The English Bulldog, known for its laid back, affectionate nature, is a modern breed that evolved from the original Old English Bulldog, which was bred for bull-baiting in the 18th century. Today’s English Bulldogs are popular companions, with a more relaxed and gentle demeanor.  

The Olde English Bulldog, often called the Old Tyme English Bulldog, is a more athletic breed developed to resemble the robust, agile build of the original Old English Bulldog. They are energetic, confident, and loyal, making them a great fit for active families. While English Bulldogs thrive on couch cuddles, Olde English Bulldogs need more exercise and mental stimulation to channel their spirited temperament. Both breeds are loving and loyal, but their activity levels and physical needs set them apart.

English Bulldog paw-sonality traits

• Gentle and docile
• Super friendly
• Sweet, loving, and affectionate
• Chilled and laid-back
• Lazy and low energy
• Funny and playful
• Thrives on attention
• Loves human interaction
• Enjoys cuddles
• People-oriented
• Devoted to owners
• Forms strong bonds
• Loyal and loving
• Gets on well with people and dogs
• Has a stubborn streak
• Snores and snorts a lot
  
• Doesn’t need much exercise
  

English Bulldog pros and cons

Are English Bulldogs good family dogs?

Yes, British Bulldogs make fantastic family pets! These wrinkly wonders are affectionate cuddle-bugs who adore their humans and thrive on attention. Known for their sweet, easy-going nature, they’re often happy to plop down for a snooze while the kids play nearby. Despite their stocky build and serious expressions, British Bulldogs are total softies at heart and love nothing more than being part of the family action.

Are English Bulldogs good with children?

Yes, English Bulldogs are known to be extremely tolerant, and are a great buddy for children of all ages. If they get tired of a toddler’s antics, they’re much more likely to walk away than react, showcasing their gentle, amiable nature. However, they can be quite boisterous as puppies, and might cause accidental harm to a little one by knocking them over. 

Are English Bulldogs good with other pets?

Yes, English Bulldogs are sociable, laid back dogs that like to make furry friends. If socialised well from a young age, they generally get on well with most other animals, including cats. However, like many dogs, they might be cautious when meeting unfamiliar dogs and can try to dominate dogs of the same sex. 

Care Requirements

We all want our dogs to live long, happy, healthy lives, so it’s important you know how to look after an English Bulldog properly. From tasty nutritious meals to exercise, training and grooming, we’ve got it covered. 

How much exercise does an English Bulldog need?

Not that much! Full grown English Bulldogs need around 30–40 minutes of exercise a day, ideally split into a couple of short, leisurely strolls with some indoor playtime thrown in too.

While they might prefer to snooze on the sofa, daily walks are vital for their wellbeing, as these dogs can easily pile on the pounds. This not only puts pressure on their joints and internal organs, but it makes their breathing problems a lot worse.

Being a brachycephalic breed, English Bulldogs are prone to overheating, so extreme care must be taken in hot temperatures. Avoid exercising them in warm weather and keep them indoors during the hottest time of the day. Short, shaded walks during cooler parts of the day will ensure they can sniff to their heart’s content while staying nice and comfortable. Always use a harness instead of a collar to prevent their airways from becoming even more restricted if they pull. 

While they won’t be signing up for any marathons, British Bulldogs still love a playful romp. A gentle game of tug-of-war or indoor fetch with their favourite toy can unleash their fun-loving side. And don’t underestimate the joy of a good belly wriggle in the grass – it’s the Bulldog’s happy dance!  

Mental enrichment is super important too. Bulldogs thrive on puzzle toys, treat-stuffed challenges, and games of hide-and-seek. These are great ways to keep their brains busy and ensure you have a calm couch companion. 

Without enough stimulation, your British Bulldog might get into some mischief, but with a little effort and a lot of love, they’ll happily snuggle up and snore their afternoon away.

How do you train an English Bulldog?

British Bulldogs can be famously stubborn, making training a blend of patience and persistence. They often like to do things at their own pace, requiring several requests from their owner before finally obeying. Starting early with basic commands and positive reinforcement is essential to set the tone for good behaviour.  

Their laid-back temperament makes them less likely to be dominant, but they can easily lose interest if training sessions aren’t engaging. British Bulldogs are best suited to owners who are patient, understanding, and equipped with plenty of tasty treats and praise. With the right approach, they can be loving, obedient companions who thrive in a structured environment.

Unleash your English Bulldog’s potential with some fun training tips.

1. Be positive. Always use positive reinforcement by rewarding good behaviour with lots of praise and tasty treats, such as our Duck & Rosemary Meaty Treats – just be mindful of how many treats you dispense during training as this breed puts on weight easily. Avoid using harsh tones or raising your voice, as this can massively demotivate them.  

2. Socialise from an early age. Socialisation is still crucial, even for the sociable English Bulldog. Expose them to new people, children, dogs, animals, smells, and situations from an early age to help them become calm and confident canines.

3. Establish who’s top dog. English Bulldogs like to do things their own way, and may act out if they don’t have a strong leader to look up to. Make sure you set and consistently enforce boundaries from day one, as this will help them understand their position in the pecking order and reduce the risk of them becoming unruly.

4. Prioritise potty training. The Bulldog can sometimes be a little slow to learn the concept of housetraining, so establish a routine for feeding times, potty breaks, and playtime to help them understand what's expected of them. 

5. Be repetitive. These dogs need lots of repetition to master new skills, so practise commands daily in different environments to help them progress in training.

6. Keep sessions short, sweet, and interesting. With their short attention span and laid-back nature, Bulldogs can lose interest quickly. Aim for 5–10 minute sessions using fun toys and games to teach important commands.

7. Practise recall. They don’t need huge amounts of exercise, but they’re playful pups that still enjoy off-lead time as much as the next dog. Use a long line lead, clear vocal commands, and high-value treats to encourage them to come back to you.

8. Get them used to a lead. Stocky and robust, British Bulldogs can be strong pullers, so they need to learn how to walk nicely on a lead and harness. Practice indoors where there are fewer distractions, and gradually move to busier environments as they become more comfortable.

9. Reduce the risk of food aggression. This breed is renowned for being protective over food, which could become a problem when they’re fully grown. From a young age, frequently touch their bowl or remove food from it while they’re eating so they don’t become aggressive around food in later life.

10. Prevent separation anxiety. While they should never be left alone for hours on end, you can help them be more comfortable with their own company by gradually increasing the amount of time you're away from home. Start with small increments (e.g., 5–10 minutes) and make sure they have a toy or puzzle to keep them busy.

How much grooming do English Bulldogs need?

English Bulldogs have a short, smooth coat that’s easy to maintain – perfect for time-poor pet parents. But they do shed moderately throughout the year and have a lot of skin folds around their face, neck, and tail that need daily attention. 

The English Bulldog coat comes in many colours, with the breed standard including brindle, fawn, red, white, and various combinations of these. However, you can also get lilac, merle, blue, lilac merle, and blue merle English Bulldogs, but these colours are rare and often come with health risks. 

Here are some British Bulldog grooming tips to keep them looking their best all year round.

• Brush their coats once a week using a bristle brush or grooming mitt to remove dead hairs and promote extra shine.
  
  
• Check their muzzle wrinkles and skin folds daily for signs of infection, dirt, food, or debris, and clean using a soft, damp cloth. Make sure to dry thoroughly after.
  
  
• For English Bulldogs with a corkscrew tail or tail pockets, make sure the tail base doesn’t become moist, as this can lead to bacterial infections. Wipe the skin folds regularly to keep this area clean.
  
  
• Check their ears for signs of infection and clean regularly; use a soft cotton pad to gently wipe around the inner areas but don’t stick anything down their ear canal.
  
  
• Bathe when necessary using a dog-friendly shampoo. Don’t overdo it though, as too many baths can disrupt the Ph balance of their skin and cause allergies to flare up. Always dry their skin folds thoroughly after bathing, as the warm, moist environment promotes yeast growth.
  
  
• Trim their nails every month if they don’t wear them down naturally. It’s important you know what you’re doing when it comes to nail trimming, so learn from a professional or let the groomers take care of it.
  
  
• Don’t forget their teeth and gums. Use a dog-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent bad Bulldog breath.
  
  
• Give them a healthy dental stick once a day to keep the dog dentist at bay!

Health and Wellness

Properly looked after, cared for, and loved, the British Bulldog lifespan is 8–10 years. However, they’re a brachycephalic breed and are prone to a number of health problems. 

Common English Bulldog health problems

• Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome. British Bulldogs are prone to respiratory issues due to their flat face, squished nose, and narrow airway. Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome causes severe breathing problems. If you notice heavy or distressed breathing in your dog, seek immediate veterinary attention. Your vet may recommend surgery to widen the nostrils or correct an elongated soft palate to improve breathing. It’s a routine procedure and can be done at the same time as spaying/neutering.
  
  
• Skin Fold Pyoderma. English Bulldogs have a lot of skin problems, mainly due to moisture getting trapped in their skin folds, allowing bacteria and yeast to grow – commonly referred to as pyoderma. This can cause crusty scabs and pus-filled skin bumps on your English Bulldog. To prevent this, their skin folds need to be cleaned daily and thoroughly dried after getting wet.  
  
  
• Atopy. Canine atopic dermatitis (allergic dermatitis, canine atopy) is a hereditary condition affecting the skin. Much like allergies in humans, dogs can be allergic to otherwise harmless substances. Skin allergies in dogs tend to make themselves known between the ages of 1 and 3, with itchiness and scratching being the main symptoms.
  
  
• Allergies. Allergies can be triggered by food or environmental factors like pollen, grass, household chemicals, dust mites or flea bites. Allergies cause itchy skin and digestive issues. If your dog is excessively scratching, rubbing their face, licking their paws, vomiting or having bouts of diarrhoea, they may be suffering from an allergy.
  
  
• Mange. This condition is caused by mites infesting a dog’s skin and coat. It’s itchy, irritable, and often leads to hair loss. Medicated baths and oral medications are usually offered as treatment.  
  
  
• Overheating. In brachycephalic breeds, the structure of the throat and breathing passages limits how much air reaches their lungs. This makes panting less effective and more difficult for the dog to cool down. As such, English Bulldogs are not suited to hot climates and shouldn’t be outdoors in hot weather.
  
  
• Hip Dysplasia. This is a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit together properly, potentially leading to arthritis and mobility issues. Those looking to bring an English Bulldog puppy home should aim to buy from reputable breeders who disclose the hip scores of the parents. It can usually be managed with a combination of pain relief, anti-inflammatories, joint supportive dog food, and joint supplements.
  
  
• Patella Luxation. This is when the kneecaps slip out of place, causing discomfort and pain. Pet owners can help prevent this by stopping their pooch from engaging in high-impact activities or jumping up and down from furniture.  
  
  
• Obesity. British Bulldogs are prone to packing on the pounds, dramatically reducing their quality of life. Owners can prevent obesity by ensuring their dog gets daily exercise, and that they’re not fed too many high calorie treats.
  
  
• Entropion. This is where the eyelid folds inward, causing the fur and eyelashes to rub against the cornea. It’s very painful and uncomfortable, and can lead to corneal ulcers. Surgery is the only way to correct this condition.
  
  
• Dry Eye. This occurs when a dog can’t produce enough moisture in their eyes, or their eyelids can’t close properly over their bulging eyes. There are medications to help keep the eyes moist, but it’s often a lifelong condition.
  
  
• Cherry eye. This is where a dog’s tear gland swells into a red mass that resembles a small cherry. Treating cherry eye requires surgery.

Food and nutrition

Feeding your British Bulldog a well balanced diet that’s tailored to their size and medical needs is an essential part of being a responsible dog owner. From helping their coat stay shiny to maintaining healthy joints, the food you give them is so im-paw-tant! 

How much should an English Bulldog eat in a day?

The amount you feed your British Bulldog will depend on a number of factors, such as whether they’re a puppy or an adult, if you’re using dry food, wet food or a mix, their energy levels, and whether they’ve been neutered or spayed. 

A good rule of thumb is to feed an adult English Bulldog 2 times a day. Some brachycephalic breeds are prone to regurgitation, so you might want to use a slow feeder bowl so they don’t guzzle it down too quickly. As they can easily become overweight, British Bulldogs shouldn’t be allowed to free-feed, benefiting more from portioned meals given at set times. 

You'll find a handy feeding calculator at the bottom of every product page here at Pooch & Mutt, helping you identify how much of our health-led recipes are right for the age, size and weight of your dog. Take our quick quiz to find your pooch’s perfect food!

Keep your hound healthy with these preventative tips:

Feed a balanced diet
Choose a high-quality, vet recommended dog food that meets your English Bulldog’s nutritional needs, and consider adding natural supplements to their diet such as Salmon Oil to boost their physical and mental health. Our grain-free, Health & Digestion Dry Food is a good choice for English Bulldogs, as kibble is easier for them to pick up with their underbite. 

Protect their joints
To help keep the hip dysplasia at bay, consider a Joint Care Dry Food, or add Joint Supplements to their diet as an extra preventative measure. Also, puppies should never be over exercised while they’re still developing.

Protect their skin & coat
For English Bulldogs with skin allergies, the best food is a hypoallergenic one, such as our Sensitivity Dry Food. You also might want to consider a daily care supplement like our Bionic Biotic. 

Monitor weight
A healthy adult English Bulldog should weigh 20–25 kg. It’s handy to use kitchen scales to measure their food portions to prevent overfeeding. Some of their daily calories should be allocated to yummy dental treats and chews to help keep their teeth nice and healthy, such as our Dental Probiotic Meaty Treats or Spirulina & Mint Dental Sticks. 

Say no to table scraps
Their cute squishy faces might be hard to resist, but it’s important you don’t overfeed your British Bulldog. Extra weight on these pooches can impact their quality of life, make it difficult for them to move, and exacerbate their respiratory issues. For Bulldogs that are getting a bit too big, consider our Slim & Slender Dry Food to help with weight management. 

Stay out of the sun
English Bulldogs can overheat very quickly due to their brachycephalic head structure, so great care should be taken when it’s hot. Don’t allow them to sunbathe outside and avoid walks in warm weather.

Keep exercise light
Breathing is already an effort for this breed, so make sure exercise is light, fun, and not too strenuous. Simple walks on the lead, some back garden zoomies and indoor playtime is an ideal workout routine. 

Look after their eyes
Regular eye tests can detect early signs of corneal ulcers, and a balanced diet rich in omega-3s (found in fish) can help support eye health. 

Take them to the vet
It might not be their favourite place in the world but regular check-ups with a vet can help identify potential health issues early on.

Living Conditions

Take a look at the British Bulldog’s dream home.

English Bulldog Vs French Bulldog Vs American Bully: Which one’s right for me?

Choosing between these charming breeds depends on your lifestyle and preferences. The English Bulldog is the ultimate couch companion, with a laid-back attitude and a love for cuddles, making them perfect for quieter households. The French Bulldog, or Frenchie, is a smaller, sassier version, bursting with personality and ideal for apartment living or anyone seeking a playful yet low-maintenance pal.  

On the other hand, the American Bully is a muscular, athletic breed with a heart of gold. They’re great for active families who can keep up with their energy and provide plenty of structure and training. While all three breeds are affectionate and loyal, their needs vary. Whether you want a snuggle buddy, a clownish entertainer, or an energetic companion, there’s a perfect pup waiting to match your vibe.

Cost of Ownership

The unconditional love of a British Bulldog is priceless, but there are costs to consider if you plan to own one. 

How much is an English Bulldog?

The price of an English Bulldog is anywhere between £400 and £1,000. The price you pay will depend on the breeder or private seller, and the pedigree of the dog. The average monthly total cost for owning an English Bulldog is between £90 and £170, depending on food and insurance levels. 

Set up costs
Primary vaccines in the UK cost between £40-£70 on average, but this depends where you live and the vets you choose. You’ll also need equipment such as a lead, collar, harness, dog tag (this is a legal requirement), bedding, food bowls, toys, and a crate if you’re crate training.

If you decide to neuter your pup, the cost of the operation ranges from £110 to £300, and is usually done between six and 12 months old. Spaying costs can be higher and you should always talk to your vet about the best time to have this procedure done.

Ongoing costs
When it comes to food, these pooches need a high-quality dog food packed with vitamins and natural ingredients. On average in the UK, feeding a English Bulldog costs between £30 and £40 per month. On top of this, you’ll also have booster vaccinations, flea and worm treatments and regular accessories like poop bags to buy.

Insurance costs
It’s highly recommended to purchase pet insurance for your British Bulldog, should anything happen. The exact cost of insurance is based on your location, your dog’s age, breed, medical history and the type of cover you choose. Pet insurance prices vary wildly so always compare to get the right protection. (The average annual cost to insure a pedigree dog without any pre-existing conditions is around £403. This might sound a lot but you can’t put a price on peace of mind.)

Fun English Bulldog Facts and Trivia

Get to know the English Bulldog even more with these interesting titbits and tales!

• They get their name from the cruel blood sport of bullbaiting. A bull would be tethered to the ground and dogs were encouraged to bite its nose without getting impaled by their horns. The Bulldog’s loose skin protected them from injury and aided in recovery.
  
  
• When blood sports were outlawed in 1835, the breed almost went extinct as they suddenly had no purpose. However, dedicated breeders revived the breed and turned them into lovable family companions.
  
  
• British Bulldogs have three tail types: the curly tail is where the tail forms a tight, corkscrew shape; the tail pocket is a small, skin fold at the base that requires regular cleaning; and the stubby tail is a short, straight tail that’s often barely visible. Each type adds to their unique, lovable look!
  
  
• English Bulldogs aren’t born for swimming. Their dense bodies, short legs, and heavy heads aren’t compatible with aquatic activities, so a life jacket must be worn if they’re to go in water.
  
  
• They were known as the ‘Churchill Dogs’ when Winston Churchill was the British prime minister during World War II. While he didn’t own any Bulldogs himself, (he was actually a Poodle guy) both Churchill and the Bulldog breed were synonymous with strength and courage.
  
  
• The Bulldog is the most popular dog mascot in the United States, with over 40 universities using this dog as the face of their sports teams to carry them to victory!
  
  
• English Bulldogs struggle to give birth naturally, as the puppies have such large heads in comparison to their bodies. To avoid the risk of a puppy getting stuck in the birth canal, most litters (around 80%) are delivered via C-section.
  
  
• Bred to have incredibly strong jaws, the English Bulldog bite force is around 210 pounds per square inch (PSI), which can cause significant pain if they were to bite down with intent. However, their friendly demeanour and gentle nature means it’s unlikely you’ll feel their wrath.
  
  
• They’ve broken Guinness World Records! An English Bulldog named Tillman entered the books in 2009 for being the world’s fastest skateboarding dog, travelling 100 meters in 19.678 seconds. Inspired by this feat, another Bulldog named Otto set the world record for the longest human tunnel traveled through by a skateboarding dog, rolling through the legs of 30 people.
  
  
• You can get many English Bulldog cross breeds. The English Bulldog Staffy cross is called an English Bull Staffy, the English Bulldog crossed with a French Bulldog is called a Frenglish Bulldog, and the English Bulldog Boxer mix is called Bullbox…just to name a few.

History and Origin

The British Bulldog’s history is a tale of transformation from fierce fighter to beloved companion. Descending from ancient mastiff-type dogs called Bullenbeissers, Bulldogs were first mentioned in records around 1500, when they were known for their involvement in the brutal sport of bullbaiting. These early Bulldogs were bred for strength, with powerful jaws and a tenacious grip. Their job was to latch onto a bull’s nose and hold on tight, all while evading the bull's dangerous horns. With short, flat noses and wrinkled skin to protect their eyes, these dogs were perfectly designed for their gruelling day job.

When blood sports were outlawed in 1835, this posed a risk to the Bulldog’s future. However, dedicated breeders prevented these dogs from disappearing, and through careful breeding, they went through a tremendous transformation. By only breeding dogs with gentle, docile temperaments, the breed gradually became less of a ferocious dog and more of the sweet, loving companion we know today. 

By 1890, the breed’s new standard was solidified, and the Bulldog’s evolution from a fighting dog to a symbol of British charm was complete. Now known for their loyalty, affectionate nature, and relaxed attitude, the British Bulldog is one of the most endearing and iconic breeds around.

Choosing a Puppy or Dog

Before you bring a new furry friend into your life, you need to know you’re getting it from a reputable source. To help you navigate this decision, here are some essential tips for buying or adopting a British Bulldog. 

1. Research the breed. British Bulldogs are prone to a number of health problems, so you need to make sure you have the means to care for this breed properly. 

2. Ask potential British Bulldog breeders for references from previous customers, veterinarians, or other breeders. This will help you get an idea of their reputation and the health of their dogs.

3. Beware of scammers. A genuine seller will never ask for money upfront before seeing the dogs, and will always offer for you to see them in person before making a commitment. Also be wary if the price is significantly cheaper than other listings. 

4. Always visit the breeder in person to see the mother with her English Bulldog puppies and to check the environment. A responsible breeder or seller will never release the pups before they’re eight week olds. 

5. Watch out for people who breed multiple breeds at once. This is a sign they might not have the expertise on English Bulldogs and don’t prioritise their dogs’ health.

6. A reputable breeder will provide a health guarantee for your puppy, including paperwork about their lineage, vaccinations and microchipping.

When adopting an English Bulldog, research the shelter to ensure they’re a reputable rescue organisation, and meet with their adoption specialist to discuss your lifestyle, needs and dog ownership experience. English Bulldogs in shelters may have complex medical conditions or be quite senior, so you’ll need to ensure you have the time, love and dedication to give them a happy fur-ever home.