Coach Max
The Bulldog — often called the English Bulldog — is No. 9 in the AKC’s 2025 rankings. With their wrinkled faces and rolling walk, Bulldogs are gentle, affectionate and famously laid-back. Their flat face and compact build also come with serious health needs, especially around breathing and heat. Here’s an honest guide.
Bulldog at a glance
- Size: about 14–15 inches tall; roughly 40–50 lbs
- Life expectancy: about 8–10 years
- Energy: low
- Good with kids: usually very good
- Heat tolerance: poor
- Watch-outs: breathing problems, skin folds, joint and eye issues
Alt text: English Bulldog resting on a cool kitchen floor
Bulldog Temperament
Bulldogs are calm, friendly and devoted. They are usually patient with children and get along with other pets.
They can be stubborn and are not built for long runs or hot days. Most are happiest with short walks, play sessions and plenty of couch time with their people.
Common Bulldog Health Problems
Knowing a breed’s typical health risks helps you choose a responsible breeder, budget for care and spot problems early. Always ask for health-test results for both parents.
Breathing problems (BOAS)
Flat-faced breeds often have narrow nostrils and airways. Loud breathing, snoring and exercise intolerance are common; severe cases may need surgery.
Heat stroke
Bulldogs overheat quickly. Keep them cool, avoid exercise in warm weather and never leave them in a car.
Skin fold infections
Facial and tail folds trap moisture and bacteria; clean and dry them regularly.
Joint and eye problems
Hip dysplasia, cherry eye and entropion are seen in the breed.
Daily Care
Exercise
Short, gentle walks in cool parts of the day and indoor play are enough. Watch for heavy panting and stop to rest.
Grooming
Brush weekly, clean and dry skin folds several times a week, and trim nails regularly.
Food
Keep your Bulldog lean — extra weight makes breathing and joint problems worse. Before sharing snacks, check our list of safe and toxic human foods for dogs.
Training a Bulldog
Bulldogs are smart but can be stubborn. Short, upbeat sessions with food rewards work best.
- Use a harness instead of a collar to protect the airway
- Train in short sessions and stop before your dog overheats
- Reward calm behavior around food and toys
- Practice handling for fold cleaning from puppyhood
Struggling with the basics? See our guides on stopping leash pulling, puppy biting and excessive barking — the methods work for every breed.
Is a Bulldog Right for You?
A great match if you want a gentle, low-energy companion and have air conditioning and a budget for vet care.
Think twice if you want a running or hiking partner, live in a hot climate without A/C, or can’t handle higher vet costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Bulldogs good apartment dogs?
Yes, thanks to their low energy — as long as the home stays cool.
Can Bulldogs swim?
Most cannot swim well. Always use a dog life jacket around water.
How long do Bulldogs live?
Typically about 8 to 10 years.
The Bottom Line
Bulldogs are sweet, loyal and wonderfully relaxed. Keep them cool, lean and well cared for, and they’ll be your favorite couch buddy. Many care tips also apply to our French Bulldog guide. See where the Bulldog ranks among America’s 10 most popular dog breeds.
