Dog Breed

Bulldog

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Primary image of Bulldog dog breed
Full Name
Bulldog
Alternate Names
English bulldog, Olde English Bulldog
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Life Span
8 - 10 years
Weight
40-51 pounds
Description

Bulldogs may not seem intimidating initially, but you should know they are docile and friendly. They are a medium-sized dog breed, and even though their face may be wrinkled just wait until they give you the most beautiful smile you have seen in your life. Despite their heavy frame, they are not the most energetic dog in the world, so can be perfect for small houses or even apartment living.

Origin
England
Bred For
Herding
Attachments
    Family Considerations
    Child Friendly

    Is the Bulldog good with children?

    Yes, the Bulldog is very friendly with children. We still recommend introductions to children while they are young so they get used to them, but the Bulldog naturally loves children.
    Stranger Friendly

    Is the Bulldog friendly with strangers?

    The Bulldog is not automatically friendly with strangers and we would not recommend for a living situation with frequent guests.
    Dog Friendly

    Is the Bulldog friendly with other dogs?

    The Bulldog is about average in how friendly they are with other dogs. They can be timid or defensive, but with proper training and socialization can be fine for dog parks and living with other dogs at home.
    Likes to Cuddle

    Does the Bulldog like to cuddle?

    The Bulldog likes to cuddle up every once in a while. They appreciate physical affection, but probably won't stay in your lap for extended amounts of time.
    Playfulness

    Does the Bulldog like to play?

    The Bulldog will almost always be ready for play! The Bulldog is great for a family with children, or otherwise, an environment that is always ready for play.
    Service Dog Ability

    Does the Bulldog make a good service dog?

    The Bulldog would not be a great fit as a service dog for several reasons.
    Overall Ease of Breed
    Ease for Novice

    Is the Bulldog good for first-time owners?

    The Bulldog is not the easiest breed for first-time owners, but can certainly still work out if the owner is willing to put the time into training and exercise.
    Training Potential

    How well can the Bulldog be trained?

    The Bulldog can be trained very well. With discipline and a routine training program the Bulldog can be incredibly well-trained.
    Amount of Shedding

    Does the Bulldog shed a lot?

    The Bulldog does shed, but less than average.
    Ease of Grooming

    Is the Bulldog easy to groom?

    The Bulldog requires some grooming, but less than the average dog breed. Typically you will not need to take the Bulldog to the pet salon, and occasional combing at home should be enough.
    Exercise Need

    Does the Bulldog need a lot of exercise?

    The Bulldog requires some daily exercise, but daily walks should be enough. The Bulldog appreciates going outside and on daily walks, but they will be ok without anything overly athletic.
    Personality
    Intelligence

    How smart is the Bulldog?

    The Bulldog has average intelligence. They are smart and witty, but do not need to be constantly challenged mentally, as some other breeds.
    Amount of Barking

    How much does the Bulldog bark? Does the Bulldog bark too much?

    The Bulldog barks an average amount. It can vary widely between Bulldogs - some may be much more expressive than others.
    Guard Dog Ability

    Is the Bulldog a good guard dog?

    The Bulldog is not typically used as a guard dog, although they can be alert and oftentimes notify you if there is a stranger at the door or otherwise something to be concerned over.
    Tolerates Being Alone

    Is the Bulldog good at staying alone? Is the Bulldog independent?

    The Bulldog does not enjoy being left alone for extended periods. They can do well for a couple of hours alone, but may have anxiety for time beyond that.
    Home and Environment Considerations
    Good for Apartment Living

    Is the Bulldog a good apartment dog?

    The Bulldog is an excellent dog breed for an apartment. Some daily exercise is still important, but if they get that then the apartment will be more than enough for them to call home.
    Size

    How big is the Bulldog?

    The Bulldog is a medium sized dog breed. They can range in size depending on genetics, and males are larger on average than females.
    Tolerates Heat

    How much does the Bulldog tolerate hot weather? When is it too hot for a Bulldog?

    The Bulldog does not tolerate hot weather very well, and we would not recommend having a Bulldog if you live in a very hot weather climate. At the minimum, they would need a home with air conditioning.
    Tolerates Cold

    How much does the Bulldog tolerate cold weather? When is it too cold for a Bulldog?

    The Bulldog can tolerate some cold, but should not be over-exposed to cold weather. In general, they can live in cold weather climates, but may need clothing on particularly cold evenings or in snow.
    Potential to Run Away

    Does the Bulldog try to run away?

    The Bulldog is very unlikely to run away. Of course, precautions should always be taken, and every dog is unique, but with a Bulldog it is very likely they will naturally follow you, even when they are off-leash.
    Physical Characteristics
    General Health

    Is the Bulldog a healthy dog? The health of a Bulldog should be measured not just by how many years they live, but also by how many health issues they've had. It is important to know which health conditions your breed is prone to- hip problems, eye problems, bloating, and arthritis are all common dog health problems.

    Unfortunately the Bulldog is prone to many health problems, and you should talk to the breeder or shelter for more information.
    Energy Level

    How energetic is the Bulldog?

    The Bulldog has a good amount of energy and it's important to give the Bulldog daily walks and ideally run time as well. A well-exercised dog is easier to train, and will be happier and have less likelihood for destructive habits.
    Amount of Drooling

    How much does the Bulldog drool?

    The Bulldog is one of the dog breeds that drools the most. It may not be the most important factor, but something to consider if you live in a home where that may bother you.
    Prey Drive

    Does the Bulldog have a large prey drive? Does the Bulldog like to chase birds, cats, and other small animals?

    The Bulldog has some prey drive, so should not be left alone with very small animals such as birds, mice, or gerbils, but with some gradual introduction should be fine living with a cat in the same home.
    Athleticism

    Is the Bulldog atheltic?

    The Bulldog can have athletic moments, and bursts of speed, but does not have the endurance as other highly athletic dog breeds. They would do great for occasional jogs, but probably not the best for long-distance runs or anything more athletic than that.

Breed Variations

  1. Non-Sporting
  2. Mastiff
  3. Bulldog
The Bulldog is a purebred dog that belongs to the Mastiff sub group, which falls under the larger Non-Sporting dog breed group.
Non-Sporting group: The Non-Sporting group of dogs is probably the most diverse in the sense that it has a variety of dogs, and they were not all bred for one specific purpose. Each breed in the non-sporting group is unique! They have been primarily bred as house pets, and because of that make excellent additions to the family. Exercise is still important for them, but the typical non-sporting dog does not have the energy of of a sporting or working group dog.
Mastiff sub-group: Masttiff breeds are the world's ancient and giant breed. They are thought to have originated from from Tibet and China, although there is evidence that they have been throughout Europe- the Roman Empire and Greece for thousands of years as well. They were used as big game hunters and noble guard dogs. Mastiffs are not particularly high endurance or energy, but quiet intense in short bursts, which is perfect for protection and property protection. Through the years the mastiff has become more friendly and suitable for families, and their calm and composed temperament can actually be more suitable for a house (or even apartment) than it may seem.

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