Let's talk Bulldogs
Friendly, easy-going, and with a face that has won fans far and wide, the Bulldog is a cherished breed the world over. Its endearing underbite framed by chunky jowls give it an irresistible look that has made it the star of numerous advertisements and the mascot of college sports teams. But despite its hulking body and tough looks, the Bulldog is, in reality, a softie. Hanging at home—or anywhere his owner goes—suits him just fine.
Official name: Bulldog
Other names: English Bulldog, Old English Bulldog, British Bulldog
Origins: Britain
Drooling tendencies
5 out of 5Grooming needs
3 out of 5Shedding Level
3 out of 5Barking tendencies
4 out of 5Energy level*
1 out of 5Compatibility with other pets
5 out of 5Warm weather?
1 out of 5Cold weather?
1 out of 5Suited to apartment living
4 out of 5Can stay alone
1 out of 5Family pet?*
4 out of 5
| Male | Female |
|---|---|
| Height | Height |
| 36 - 38 cm | 30 - 35 cm |
| Weight | Weight |
| 25 - 30 kg | 23 - 25 kg |
| Life stages | |
|---|---|
| Puppy | Adult |
| 2 to 12 months | 1 to 7 years |
| Mature | Senior |
| 7 to 10 years | From 10 years |
| Baby | |
| Birth to 2 months | |
Drooling tendencies
5 out of 5Grooming needs
3 out of 5Shedding Level
3 out of 5Barking tendencies
4 out of 5Energy level*
1 out of 5Compatibility with other pets
5 out of 5Warm weather?
1 out of 5Cold weather?
1 out of 5Suited to apartment living
4 out of 5Can stay alone
1 out of 5Family pet?*
4 out of 5
| Male | Female |
|---|---|
| Height | Height |
| 36 - 38 cm | 30 - 35 cm |
| Weight | Weight |
| 25 - 30 kg | 23 - 25 kg |
| Life stages | |
|---|---|
| Puppy | Adult |
| 2 to 12 months | 1 to 7 years |
| Mature | Senior |
| 7 to 10 years | From 10 years |
| Baby | |
| Birth to 2 months | |
Get to know the Bulldog
All you need to know about the breed
Noble, docile, and a best friend for life, the Bulldog has too many winning attributes to mention. They’re a fantastic family dog with intense loyalty, and are easily pleased with the simplest gesture. Contrary to what some may think, the Bulldog isn’t the least bit lazy. Their heftier build comes from decades of breeding and its history as a sporting dog.
Their coat is a perennial favorite. Smooth and short-haired, the Bulldog sheds very little. They might look tough, but they’re really a very sweet companion. One thing they get grumpy about? Scolding. So much so that they might ignore you for a bit if they feel it’s unjustified.
The Bulldog’s temperament is a courageous one– sometimes a little too much as they are known to dominate other dogs. But this just comes from being competitive. They’re super social with everyone, and content with a few short walks a day.
An important health concern for the Bulldog breed surrounds their breathing, due to the flat shape of their face and nostrils¹. Known as a brachycephalic breed, their short muzzles, noses, and undersized breathing passages mean overly hot or cold temperatures should be avoided. Cardiac problems, like arrhythmia or irregular heartbeats, can also happen. Make routine vet visits to keep your Bulldog in check and remember to acquire your Bulldog from a responsible breeder.
Facts about Bulldogs
1. A charming face that requires care
The folds of skin around their face are terribly charming but need to be wiped often to make sure moisture and food aren’t trapped inside. Use a clean, dry cloth to clean as often as possible.
2. Size matters
Bulldogs are a hefty lot–a factor to consider when picking them up at home or loading them in and out of a car. Their dense body could be too much for one person. Pay close attention to their daily feeding to avoid undue weight gain
History of the breed
The Bulldog breed can trace its legacy to 13th century England, to the now-illegal sport of bullbaiting (hence the “bull” in their name). The breed’s predecessors—stout dogs with larger jaws—were used to wrestle bulls to the ground. Thankfully, this was banned in 1835.
Due to their long relationship with British culture, the breed is now considered a national icon. In the United States, the Bulldog became the mascot of notable institutions thanks to their seemingly tough demeanor. Yale University made a Bulldog the mascot for their sports teams, dubbing him “Handsome Dan,” while the United States Marine Corps adopted the breed as a mascot after World War I.
The Bulldog Club of America was established in 1890, and the breed has ranked in the American Kennel Club’s top five most popular breeds over the past seven years.
From head to tail
Physical characteristics of Bulldogs
1.Ears
2.Head
3.Body
4.Fur
5.Tail
Things to look out for
From specific breed traits to a general health overview, here are some interesting facts about your Bulldog.
That flat face can be cause for concern
The Bulldogs’ most attractive feature might be their most hazardous: They are prone to brachycephalic airway syndrome, a respiratory problem that is caused by their unique facial structure with its flattened snout and nostrils. Breathing difficulties—especially in hot or overly cold weather—can be common, or when their exercise session is too strenuous. Bulldogs do well in a space with proper ventilation and air conditioning where necessary.
Bulldogs do like to run. Just not far.
Despite their burly build, the Bulldog is one breed that enjoys agility training and has fun doing it. Don’t think that competition is reserved for the long-limbed canines of the world. The Bulldog’s competitive spirit means they’re always up for a good round of anything that tests their skill. The breed can run quickly, just not for long distances. Exercise is vital for any dog, and especially important for the Bulldog breed, whose stocky body can reach 50 pounds but still needs to stay fit and trim.
A breed with a tender heart
The Bulldog breed can have a predisposition to arrhythmia, also known as an irregular heartbeat. Although the condition is rare, it can arise and may result in fainting if not picked up in time. Bulldogs are also predisposed to Tetralogy of Fallot, a congenital (meaning 'present at birth') cardiac malformation. For starters, it's important to make regular visits to the veterinarian to conduct a proper diagnosis of your Bulldog. This way you can get the right treatment for either condition should they occur.
Tailored nutrition for Bulldogs
When choosing food for a Bulldog, there are many factors to consider: their age, lifestyle, activity level, physical condition, and health - including potential sickness or sensitivities. Food provides energy to cover a dog’s vital functions. A complete nutritional formula should contain an adjusted balance of nutrients to avoid any deficiency or excess in their diet, both of which could have adverse effects on the dog. Clean and fresh water should be available at all times. In hot weather and especially when out exercising, bring water along for your dog’s frequent water breaks. Energy intake will always have to be adapted to the climatic conditions. A dog that lives outdoors in winter will have increased energy requirements. The following recommendations are for healthy animals. If your dog has health problems, please consult your veterinarian who may recommend an exclusive veterinary diet.
Immune System Support
As puppies grow, they will experience big changes and new discoveries. During this key period, the puppy’s immune system develops gradually. The formula helps support your puppy’s natural defenses with an exclusive complex of antioxidants including vitamin E.
Digestive Health
Formulated with high quality and highly digestible proteins and prebiotics to support digestive health and a balanced intestinal flora, contributing to optimal stool quality.
Bone & Joint Health
Precise mineral content (calcium and phosphorus) and a balanced energy intake contribute to the development of strong bones and healthy joints in Bulldog puppies. This formula also helps your Bulldog maintain an ideal weight.
The main nutritional goals for adult Bulldogs are:
Odor Reduction
This formula helps to reduce intestinal fermentation which can lead to digestive disorders and an unpleasant stool odor. Good digestion is supported via the use of highly digestible proteins (L.I.P), an appropriate fiber content and high quality carbohydrate sources.
Healthy Skin
Diet plays an important part in maintaining healthy skin which is a critical component to the Bulldog’s overall well-being. The formula helps support the skin’s role as a barrier with an exclusive complex of nutrients that helps maintain skin health.
Bone & Joint Health
The Bulldog's tendency to be overweight, due to its heavy structure can put stress on their joints. The formula helps support healthy bones and joints thanks to EPA and DHA.
Exclusive Kibble
Bulldogs have an upper jaw shorter than their lower as well as a flat head shape. Due to these physical characteristics they exemplify a brachycephalic breed. Bulldog Adult's kibble are designed exclusively to make it easy for the Bulldog to pick up and to encourage them to chew.
After 7 years old, Bulldogs start facing the first signs of aging. A formula enriched with antioxidants will help maintain their vitality, and specific nutrients, such as chondroitin, and glucosamine, will help maintain healthy bones and joints. Aging is also accompanied by the modification of digestive capacities and particular nutritional requirements, so food for older Bulldogs should have the following characteristics:
Vitality Support
The formula has precise nutrient content to help Bulldogs with the first signs of aging.
High Digestibility
The formula uses very high quality protein and a balanced supply of dietary fiber to help promote optimal digestion.
Coat Condition
Contains precise levels of EPA and DHA to help support skin and coat health
Caring for your Bulldog
Grooming, training and exercise tips
Moderate exercise is best for this breed. Make no mistake, they like to run and are very energetic, but they're not going to do a 5K. Their flattened faces and shortened snouts can make breathing difficult when they are put to the test, so long distances should be avoided. Quick spurts of play will be enough to tucker them out. Avoid exercising in weather that’s too hot or too cold as either can be potentially dangerous.
Bulldog owners are in luck: The breed’s short hair needs no more than a 10-minute brushing with a soft brush a few times a week. Bulldogs are known for those fetching wrinkles around their face and upper body - especially around the tail - however moisture can become trapped there, or even food in the facial area. Clean within the folds with a damp cloth followed by a clean dry one to absorb moisture. Take extra care around the eye area! Bulldogs are prone to pododermatitis, inflammation of the skin and the paw. Make sure the paws are also kept clean and dry.
Obedient but reserved, the Bulldog enjoys human companionship but needs a gentle approach when it comes to discipline. They are an intelligent breed but can be vulnerable at times, especially when reprimanded too strongly. Satisfy their attention-seeking streak with affirmation and positive reinforcement.
Moderate exercise is best for this breed. Make no mistake, they like to run and are very energetic, but they're not going to do a 5K. Their flattened faces and shortened snouts can make breathing difficult when they are put to the test, so long distances should be avoided. Quick spurts of play will be enough to tucker them out. Avoid exercising in weather that’s too hot or too cold as either can be potentially dangerous.
Bulldog owners are in luck: The breed’s short hair needs no more than a 10-minute brushing with a soft brush a few times a week. Bulldogs are known for those fetching wrinkles around their face and upper body - especially around the tail - however moisture can become trapped there, or even food in the facial area. Clean within the folds with a damp cloth followed by a clean dry one to absorb moisture. Take extra care around the eye area! Bulldogs are prone to pododermatitis, inflammation of the skin and the paw. Make sure the paws are also kept clean and dry.
Obedient but reserved, the Bulldog enjoys human companionship but needs a gentle approach when it comes to discipline. They are an intelligent breed but can be vulnerable at times, especially when reprimanded too strongly. Satisfy their attention-seeking streak with affirmation and positive reinforcement.
7/7
All about Bulldogs
Although they’ve got a tough look about them, the reality is quite the opposite: The Bulldog has a friendly demeanor and doesn’t tend to be threatening. Their use in the aggressive sport of bull-baiting was outlawed over 100 years ago, thankfully. The breed is now an endearing companion.
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