11 Types of Bulldogs That Are as Adorable as They Are Loyal
English, American, and Australian bulldogs are just a few furry possibilities.
Bulldogs are recognized by their iconic wrinkles, precious squished "sour mug" faces, and adorable stocky build. They have a specific look, personality, and temperament that may not be for every new or previous dog owner. But if you follow a bunch of French or American bulldog accounts for their utter cuteness, then adopting a pup from one of the dozens of bulldog breeds out there is probably a dog match made in Heaven. Still, it can be a long and emotional decision process that requires time and thought, which is why we've rounded up some of the most adorable, loving, loyal, and kid-friendly types of bulldogs to help you find the best bulldog for your home.
Regardless of breed, all bulldogs have that standout muscular build with a pushed in nose, small ears, and rolling gait. They have a short and smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors. Some types can even be classified as large dogs while other breeds are more of a tiny dog. Although bulldogs love curling up in your lap, they are not strictly lazy dogs and enjoy moderate exercise. That said, many can live happily in a city apartment or a countryside home with a backyard. What's important is that you give these pups the care and attention they need so they are fed a proper diet and are trained well from a young age. They should also stay in air-conditioned rooms in hot or humid weather as their short snout makes breathing difficult.
Bulldogs are a popular choice for many families across the U.S., but you should make sure to read up on their breed as these pups are unfortunately more prone to respiratory, spinal, and skin issues. They may act powerful and confident, but all bulldogs still need lots of love and care. If you are considering adopting a bulldog, familiarize yourself with the following types of bulldogs before heading over to a trusted adoption site to welcome your newest cuddle buddy to the family.
American Bulldog
American Bulldogs are sturdy and muscular dogs clocking in between 60 and 120 pounds. They have a short and soft coat in various colors. Although American Bulldogs may appear intimidating with a large head and height of 20 to 28 inches, they are actually extremely gentle and affectionate. According to Pet MD, they're known to be a "big lap dog" that loves children. They are also brave dogs; in fact, there are countless stories across the internet of American Bulldogs saving their owners from fires or other serious accidents.
French Bulldog
French Bulldogs (or Frenchies) are one of the most popular small dogs in the world. They have a bulldog's personality in a small dog's body — which means they are playful, alert, and totally irresistible watchdogs. They're known for their bat ears, according to the American Kennel Club. Their adorable wrinkles roll around their short nose, adding to their charming personality. Frenchies are also super adaptable which makes them a great choice for single dog owners, couples, or families. They also don't require a lot of exercise (so you won't necessarily have to get up early for that morning walk) and they get along great with other animals if you already have a furry family at home.
English Bulldog
Hill's Pet describes English Bulldogs as predictable and dependable, but that doesn't capture just how loving and loyal these bulldogs are. They're very affectionate dogs who want to be around their humans constantly, and they're especially big fans of kids. English Bulldogs weigh around 50 pounds depending on whether they are male or female, and require moderate exercise (about 20 to 40 minutes per day).
It's important to note that English Bulldogs are particularly at risk for breathing problems, heart problems, and other health issues due to how they've been bred. So if you adopt an English Bulldog, make sure you stay on top of their vet visits.
Australian Bulldog
An Australian Bulldog can be as happy in a city as in a house with a backyard as long as they receive proper food, exercise, and attention, according to Pet Guide. Like all other bulldogs, they love being part of a family and won't leave your side. They are affectionate, loyal, and intelligent dogs who weigh between 50 and 78 pounds. These bulldogs were bred to adapt to the Australian environment (as their breed name suggests), which means they may be more active than their cousins but aren't the most active dog out there.
Olde English Bulldogge
The Olde English Bulldogge is a cross between the Bulldog, American Pit Bull Terrier, Bullmastiff, and the American Bulldog, according to Dogster. They have a similar build to other bulldogs, but they're athletic and have a bit more stamina. Their ears can be perky or hanging and they have thick, powerful necks and stocky legs. They have a short coarse coat that can come in solid colors ranging from fawn to black and white. Olde English Bulldogges are loyal, protective, and docile, making them great for families but also athletic dog owners. These bulldogs also have a longer lifespan than other breeds, living up to as many as 12 yaers.
Victorian Bulldog
The Victorian Bulldog is similar to an English Bulldog except these doggies were bred by breeding English Bulldogs, Bull Terriers, Bullmastiffs and Staffordshire Bull Terriers to develop a much healthier breed, according to the Animal Corner. That said, they are taller than English Bulldogs (at about 17 to 19 inches) and have a larger snout plus fewer wrinkles. This means their face isn't so squished that it inhibits their breathing. They have similar personality traits to other bulldogs such as being super loyal and protective, but very gentle and affectionate. Victorian Bulldogs demand lots of attention as they can suffer from separation anxiety, but they aren't overly active dogs — so just curling up with them at night is enough comfort.
Catahoula Bulldog
The Catahoula Bulldog is a cross between the Catahoula Leopard Dog and American Bulldog, according to DogTime. Unlike some other bulldog breeds, they are incredibly energetic and athletic, meaning they'll need quite a bit of exercise. These bulldogs are very intelligent, loyal, and protective, making them stellar watchdogs. DogTime notes that you can often find them in shelters and breed-specific rescues, and recommends generally trying to adopt a bulldog breed before shopping for one.
Ca de Bou
The Ca de Bou was first introduced in the Balearic Islands off the coast of Spain in the 1200s, according to Old Red English Bulldogs Kennel. Before the 1700s, the English then brought over their bulldogs and mastiffs. Ca de Bous are quiet, playful, and friendly family dogs, but they won't let you down as a watchdog either thanks to their loyal, courageous, and protective traits. They do, however, need socialization and training from an early age since they were originally bred to be fighting dogs. They have a short coat and can weigh between 66 to 88 pounds. Ca de Bous also have a longer lifespan of up to 12 years.
Alapaha Blue-Blood Bulldog
The Alapaha Blue-Blood Bulldog was bred in the southern United States to be a "catch dog," which would chase and catch cattle or other animals, according to Vet Street. Alapaha Blue-Bloods are protective and possessive, but they are also playful and devoted dogs. With the proper training and socialization, they enjoy playing with children and love attention. Vet Street notes that they are best suited to more experienced dog owners who can train them well from a young age. These bulldogs can also be a bit indifferent towards strangers and don't necessarily get along great with other dogs so they may thrive best if they are your only household pup.
Bullmastiff
The Bullmsatiff, nicknamed "The Gamekeeper’s Night Dog," originated in England during the mid-1880s. Mastiffs and Bulldogs were breeded together to develop a stealthy and fast dog that could help gamekeepers stop poachers from stealing. These impressive and cunning canines protected the lives of gamekeepers and poachers. They are larger bulldogs, clocking in at 100 to 120 pounds and reaching 24 to 27 inches in height, but they aren't aggressive towards other dogs and can behave well around their furry friends with proper care. But don't be deceived by the breed's history, these bulldogs are huge cuddle buddies who just want to be in the same room as their owner.
Since they are a larger breed, they are more susceptible to bloat which requires emergency surgery and can be fatal. They have a shorter life span, as well, at 7 to 9 years.
Red-Tiger Bulldog
Red-Tiger Bulldogs have an almost chiseled head that gives off an air of elegance, character, and power. Indeed, they are discerning and confident dogs who can be aggressive towards other dogs and animals if not trained from an early age. While they are gentle towards children, it is recommended that they receive proper training from an early age so they are more welcoming towards strangers. Red-Tiger Bulldogs thrive best with a daily long walk but can do just as well living in an apartment as at a home with a yard. Typically, they have a "mantle" coat design with at least 70 percent color and no more than 30 percent white fur. They weigh between 75 and 110 pounds and can live up to 16 years, making them one of bulldog breeds with the longest life expectancy.
Elizabeth Berry (she/her) is the Updates Editor at the Good Housekeeping Institute where she optimizes lifestyle content across verticals. Prior to this role, she was an Editorial Assistant for Woman’s Day where she covered everything from gift guides to recipes. She also has experience fact checking commerce articles and holds a B.A. in English and Italian Studies from Connecticut College.
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