Bulldog

The Bulldog is a heavy breed, and these solid dogs don’t always realise their own strength. They’re not known for being aggressive towards people, but they are likely to accidently knock small children over as they barge past them. For this reason, they are best suited to older children that can respect the family dog and know to leave them alone when they’re resting, and who can cope with the boisterous side of their personality. 

Yes! Bulldogs are VERY affectionate and fancy themselves as a lap dog, regardless of their size. Prepare for your legs to get squashed as your Bulldog clambers onto the sofa for some attention.

Although they do like the occasional play, it’s not on top of the list of a Bulldog’s priorities. They prefer to sit and calmy chew stuff, so lots of toys and chews are needed. Get them in the mood though and your Bulldog will get the case of the zoomies! 

Bulldogs are not known to be a noisy breed of dog. However, they will let you know if someone’s at the door or if they hear something that’s disturbed them. If you’re looking for a loyal watchdog, Bulldogs are a good breed for this, but they’re not so good if you’re getting burgled in the middle of the night – they’re very deep sleepers! 

Bulldogs have a habit of stopping dead in their tracks if they decide they’ve walked too far. Encouraging them to move can be challenging to say the least! Male Bulldogs aren’t overly tolerant of other dogs, especially other males, they’re self-assured and confident so it’s important they know their boundaries, or they’ll run rings round you. 

Bulldogs absolutely love their people, so they can struggle to cope on their own. They are known for guarding their toys too so be aware of their tenacious attitude.

As with all dogs, providing their needs are met and they receive good socialisation and training, a Bulldog can make a great companion.

Bulldogs aren't best suited to first-time dog owners; they thrive in a home with humans who already have experience. They cannot handle long walks, so bear that in mind if you’re looking for a hiking buddy, a Bulldog might not be the one for you. They do enjoy a bit of a social life, so trips in the car or short, interesting walks makes for a good day out. So long as you provide them with lots of space to spread out and a cosy spot on the sofa, they’ll be content canines.

Bulldogs are not particularly tolerant of other animals though, so keep that in mind if you have another dog. If you have one of the opposite sex, they can get on if they’ve been introduced properly. A good quality diet is essential to help reduce potential allergies and settle their sensitive tummies. Bulldogs like company and will not suit a home where they will need to be left more than a few hours at a time.

Bulldogs don’t need much exercise at all, in fact a couple of 15 to 20 minute walks a day is enough. Be mindful on warm days not to walk your dog if the temperature is over 20 degrees. They are vulnerable to the heat and at risk of heat exhaustion due to their short noses.

It’s essential to keep them mentally active though with plenty of activities, toys and enrichment feeding (fun ways of giving your dog food, like from a puzzle feeder or a Kong toy)

All puppies need to learn how to be around people, pets, and other dogs, in a calm and polite way (known as socialisation). They also need help to feel calm, comfortable, and confident in everyday situations like travelling, the sound of traffic, and being in busy places (known as habituation). This is essential to prevent tricky behavioural problems in the future, and you'll be off to a great start with your ongoing training.

When it comes to dog training, Bulldogs are a tricky breed to motivate. They don’t get much enjoyment out of it unless there is something appealing at the other side. It’s best to start any sort of training with your Bulldog when they’re very young - you will need the tastiest treats you can find to hold their attention for any length of time.

Whilst a Bulldog is unlikely to win any obedience awards, it’s important they learn about the world around them. Socialisation and habituation (helping your dog understand the environment around them and intro them to people and other animals) should be at the top of your ‘to do’ list when you bring your puppy home.

Loose lead walking is a useful skill for your Bulldog to learn as they are incredibly strong.  Always walk you Bulldog on a harness not a collar or slip lead as this will affect their breathing. 

Bulldogs aren’t heavy shedders, but they still require a lot of personal care. They have many deep facial folds that need to be cleaned daily to keep the area clean and free of bacteria.

As they are prone to lots of different allergies, it’s always best to wipe them down when they return from a rural walk to remove any pollen they may have picked up.

The modern British Bulldog today looks nothing like their original ancestors. This is because breeders through the years have mixed their genetic make-up to the point where they are one of the most genetically unhealthy breeds available to pet owners.

Breathing problems are common in Bulldogs as well as allergies, eye problems, hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis, heart disease and a range of cancers.

Bulldogs require a specialised diet to reduce their risk of developing allergies and their weight must be monitored as they are prone to  obesity.