Bulldogs are adorable, loyal creatures that are perfect for the dog lover who wants a pet with a more unique look. But did you know that there are many different types of bulldogs? Here, our Orange vets list 9 breeds of bulldogs, their differences, and their traits and qualities.
Humans began breeding bulldogs in mid-1800s England. Since then, bulldogs have grown to become a popular breed across many continents, leading to many different variations and types being bred.
Because of this, it is almost impossible to list all bulldog breeds and their unique traits in one place. Below, our Orange veterinarians have put together a list of 10 large, medium, and small bulldog breeds that are commonly adopted for their unique looks and loyal personalities.
1. English Bulldog
The first recorded breed of bulldog is the English bulldog, which originated in England in 1864.
These are the most classically known bulldogs, with their short but sturdy build weighing in about 50 to 60 pounds on average. Their wrinkly faces and commonly light-brown short fur are staples of the classic bulldog appearance, making them a popular choice of pet.
These bulldogs tend to be a bit lazier, making them great for you if you work from home a lot or don't have a particularly active lifestyle. Keep in mind, they are still dogs who need to go outside every day for their physical and mental health!
English bulldogs are patient and loving creatures, making them an ideal pet for households with children. They live between 8 and 10 years on average.
2. American Bulldog
The American bulldog is a taller, often slimmer version of a bulldog that can grow to anywhere between 60 and 130 pounds. Socialized properly, they are very gentle and playful with children and other dogs. However, this is also a very protective breed, meaning they require proper training early on so they don't develop aggressive or reactive behaviors.
If they are trained well, the American bulldog can be a great, athletic addition to your family. This high-energy, short-hair breed typically lives from 10 to 15 years.
3. French Bulldog
These bulldogs are considered a more "chic" choice of pet. Their much smaller size, distinct flat face and pointy ears make them a popular choice cosmetically. These little guys only weigh in from 20 to 28 pounds with a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years.
Aside from their adorable looks, Frenchies are known for being very outgoing, curious, and lovers of attention. Despite being an average-energy breed, they love to run and play, mostly with humans. However, it is good to keep in mind that their attention-seeking nature can also make them a bit jealous when their owners are giving another dog some love.
4. Australian Bulldog
Australian bulldogs are similar to the English bulldog in looks, though they tend to be a bit stockier at 50 to 78 pounds on average.
This type of bulldog has a stronger personality than some other breeds, making them very protective, sometimes territorial, and highly intelligent. Their adaptability and method of breeding make them more impervious to health conditions than the English bulldog and some other bulldog breeds. However, like many bulldogs, they are susceptible to heat-related issues and skin conditions.
These highly loyal dogs usually live between 10 and 12 years.
5. Olde English Bulldogge
Contrary to popular belief, the Olde English Bulldogge is not too similar to the English bulldog. Adult Bulldogges weigh between 70 and a whopping 130 pounds with an average lifespan of 9 to 14 years.
While loyal and loving, these dogs have strong personalities and need to be taught early on that they are not the alpha, their owner is. Unlike many of their bulldog cousins, this breed has a higher energy and requires consistent exercise. Toys and strong chewables are key to preventing their destructive habits.
6. Catahoula Bulldog
Of every bulldog on this list, the Catahoula looks the least like a classic bulldog. These lovable canines are the cross between an American Bulldog and Catahoula Leopard, making them a taller and leaner choice.
Catahoula bulldogs are known for their multi-colored spotty coats and bright eyes, as well as their high energy and love for playing. Weighing anywhere between 75 and 100 pounds, these fantastic family pets tend to live from 13 to 15 years.
7. Bullmastiff
Similar to Boxers in looks, Bullmastiffs are gentle giants that can weigh 130 pounds or more. They are devoted, friendly and warm, making them a great addition to any family with children or other pets.
Due to their size and strength, it is important to train good manners in them early on to curb any destructive habits. Socialized properly, Bullmastiffs are very well-behaved and lovable dogs.
Being larger dogs, their average lifespan is 7 to 9 years, and they are a bit prone to hip health issues later in life.
8. Victorian Bulldog
This calm-tempered and friendly dog was bred to eliminate the health issues that the original English breed tends to have. While they have the adorable rolls and patient attitude of a classic bulldog, they also tend to be a bit more active.
Victorian bulldogs tend to weigh between 50 and 75 pounds and have a slightly higher life expectancy of 12 to 14 years.
Health issues are rarer for this breed, though they do still have a disposition toward allergies and ear infections.
9. Serrano Bulldog
Strong and muscular in physique, the Serrano Bulldog is actually a rather gentle and intelligent breed. Protective and loyal in nature, they are bred to be trained and well-behaved as they age. Like the Catahoula, Serranos also have a more divergent look from bulldogs, with their leaner build and triangle ears.
These gentle giants weigh between 60 and 90 pounds with an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years.