Small, round and squat, these cuddly Bulldogs with wrinkled faces make loving family pets and affectionate companions.
With a face some may say only a mother could love, British Bulldogs are squat and sturdy dogs. Their faces are slightly squished and their eyes nearly hidden behind thick wrinkles. Needless to say they are super cute.
While in the 1700s and 1800s Bulldogs were bred for bull-baiting, today they are bred to be family pets and are much less aggressive. Known as both the British and English Bulldog, they are even-tempered, loyal, affectionate and devoted to their family. They are tolerant of children but early training is essential to have a well-behaved pet, especially as they tend to act protective toward their family.
Fun fact: Many celebrities, including Leonardo DiCaprio,
Hugh Jackman and Reese Witherspoon, own Bulldogs.
A British Bulldog makes an excellent watchdog, family pet and loyal companion. They have a sweet and gentle disposition and just want human attention. They will happily sit with their head in your lap. They’re not overly energetic dogs and tend to overheat. A gentle daily stroll in the early morning or at night is ideal. Try to exercise your pet on dry land as Bulldogs aren’t great swimmers. They will generally get along well with other dogs and cats if introduced early.
Their face needs to be wiped with a clean cloth and their coats brushed down weekly. They are suited to living in both apartments and houses with a yard. Bulldogs shed moderately and tend to snore, wheeze and even drool.
Scheduled six monthly health check visits with your vet are important to ensure that your dog is healthy and happy throughout all life stages. While uber cute, a British Bulldog’s features make it more susceptible to health issues. Elbow and hip dysplasia are common, as well as skin diseases and eye problems. Breeding is also very difficult. Together with your vet, you can determine a preventative health care program based on the individual needs of your canine companion.
Size
A British Bulldog is a medium-sized breed weighing between 23-25kgs, with a height between 31-36cms.
Space
These pets suit most spaces.
Energy Levels
They are not the most energetic of dogs, they just want to sleep, eat and cuddle. A gentle daily stroll and some games will keep your pet healthy.
Difficulty of Training
They are intelligent and can learn lots of tricks, although they have a stubborn streak.
Family Suitability
They are great family pets, loyal companions and excellent watchdogs.
Compatibility with other Pets
British Bulldogs will befriend other pets, if introduced at a young age.
Need for Company
They have a high need for company and enjoy spending time with their family. You may find your pet snuggling on the couch next to you.
Hypoallergenic Dog Breed?
No
Coat and Grooming Needs
This breed is high-maintenance. The coat (short and straight in brindle, piebald, red, fawn or white) needs to be brushed weekly, and their face cleaned daily.
Shedding
They are moderate shedders.
Tendency to Bark
They have a low tendency to bark, so don’t expect frequent conversations.