At a glance
| Energy level | |
|---|---|
| Shedding | |
| Grooming needs | |
| Apartment-friendly | |
| Handles cold | |
| Affectionate / cuddly | |
| Good with kids | |
| Good for first-time owners | |
| Easy to train | |
| Good with other dogs | |
| Good with cats | |
| OK being left alone | |
| Reliable off-leash | |
| Protective / watchdog | |
| Barking | |
| Drooling |
Great for
- Low-activity owners
- Apartments
- Families
Watch out for
- Breathing, skin and joint problems are common
- Can't handle heat; overheats quickly
- Higher-than-average vet bills
Daily care
Exercise: 20–30 minutes a day of slow walks.
Grooming: Weekly brushing; clean face wrinkles daily.
Cold weather: Short coat means it needs a jacket and short trips in the cold.
*Yearly cost covers food, routine vet care, preventatives, toys and supplies. It doesn't include the purchase or adoption fee, emergencies or grooming beyond basics.
Gear for a Bulldog
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- FoodMedium breed dog food
Formulas made for medium breeds match their energy needs and kibble size. Look for "complete and balanced" (AAFCO) on the bag, and ask your vet what's right for your dog.
See options on Amazon - Crate36-inch dog crate
A 36" crate fits most adult Bulldogs (up to about 50 lb). Choose one with a divider so it grows with a puppy.
See options on Amazon - HarnessFront-clip harness
Flat-faced breeds breathe more easily in a harness than a collar that presses on the throat.
See options on Amazon - ToysPuzzle and snuffle toys
Food puzzles keep a calmer dog's mind busy without a lot of running.
See options on Amazon - GroomingBristle or rubber grooming brush
A quick weekly brush keeps the coat clean and shiny.
See options on Amazon - WinterInsulated dog coat and boots
Bulldogs get cold quickly; a coat and boots make winter walks safer.
See options on Amazon - BedWashable dog bed
A washable cover makes life easier, especially with a puppy.
See options on Amazon
Find a Bulldog near you
We're building a list of trusted Bulldog rescues, breeders and trainers. Rescues are listed first.
Listings coming soon. In the meantime:
- Search adoptable dogs near you on Petfinder
- AKC's Bulldog page, which links to breed club rescue networks
Run a Bulldog rescue, training or grooming business? Get listed free.
Not sure a Bulldog is right for you? Take the 3-minute quiz to see which breeds fit your home and lifestyle.
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