Medium breed Regular energy Double coat Non-Sporting Group 🏆 #5 most popular

Bulldog

Friendly, Courageous, Calm

You can’t mistake a Bulldog for any other breed. The loose skin of the head, furrowed brow, pushed-in nose, small ears, undershot jaw with hanging chops on either side, and the distinctive rolling gait all practically scream “I’m a Bulldog!” The coat, seen in a variety of colors…

⚖️ 40–50 lbs 📏 14–15" 🎂 8–10 years 🧠 Intelligence #78 — below-average

Traits

Bulldog Characteristics

Energy

60%

Shedding

80%

Trainability

60%

Grooming

60%

Friendliness

80%

Coat Type

Double coat 2-3 Times a Week Brushing

Breed data

Data Snapshot

🧠 #78

Intelligence

🎂 6.3yr

Average lifespan

💰 $13K

Lifetime cost

🍖 $466/yr

Annual food estimate

👨‍👩‍👧 Great

With kids

🩺 5

Known conditions

Known genetic concerns: breathing, hip, heart problems, 'dry eye'

Health watch

Bulldog Health Context

Veterinary note

This section is general breed information, not veterinary advice. If your dog has symptoms, pain, breathing issues, sudden behavior changes, or urgent concerns, contact a veterinarian.

High

Brachycephalic Syndrome

Universal prevalence

Early signs: Loud snoring, labored breathing, blue-tinged gums

High

Hip Dysplasia

High prevalence

Early signs: Waddling gait, reluctance to exercise

Low

Cherry Eye

High prevalence

Early signs: Red bulge in corner of eye

Low

Skin Fold Infections

Universal prevalence

Early signs: Redness, odor, or discharge in skin folds

Keep cool at all times — bulldogs cannot pant efficiently. Clean all skin folds daily in hot weather. Limit exercise in heat.

Brachycephalic Syndrome

Breed health context can affect lifetime costs. Estimate food, care, and planning costs for a Bulldog.

Owner resources

Matched Resources for Bulldog Owners

Contextual partner picks from the PupWiki affiliate pipeline. These are matched by breed size, energy, training needs, lifestyle, and ownership intent.

Bulldog food & nutrition tools
ChefPaw Dog Food Maker
Chef Paw (US) · Appliances

ChefPaw Dog Food Maker

Revolutionary countertop pet food maker, simplifying the process of crafting fresh and highly-nutrit…

Affiliate link — no extra cost to you

Bulldog training & walking gear
🐾
JugBow · Training

JugBow No-Pull Training Harness

Dual-clip training harness with front and back D-rings. Reflective stitching, padded chest plate, an…

Affiliate link — no extra cost to you

For Bulldog owners
The Veteran - Custom Pet Canvas
Crown and Paw · Gifts

The Veteran - Custom Pet Canvas

Premium 8" x 10" custom pet canvas. Turn your pet into a legendary military veteran.

Affiliate link — no extra cost to you

Affiliate disclosure: PupWiki may earn a commission from qualifying partner links, at no extra cost to you. Availability and pricing can change.

Care basics

Bulldog Care Tips

Benefits from 30-60 minutes daily exercise — walks, play sessions, or swimming.

Heavy shedder — brush 3-4× per week and deShed weekly to manage coat.

Brush 2-3× weekly to maintain coat condition and reduce shedding around the home.

Owner fit

Who the Bulldog Suits

  • Best suited to owners with some dog experience — difficulty rated 5/10.

  • Urban-friendly: adapts well to apartment or townhouse living when daily exercise is consistent.

  • Naturally friendly and protective, this breed fits best with early socialization and clear routines.

Before you choose

Make an Informed Bulldog Decision

Related guides

All Bulldog Guides

Bulldog Cost Calculator

Puppy price, annual costs, food estimate, and lifetime ownership planning.

Editorial guides