They look like they’ve just tumbled out of a Victorian painting — stocky, wrinkly, solemn — yet in their bones is a clown that snores, farts, and demands your lap. The Bulldog is equal parts charm, stubbornness, and snuggle machine.
Tempted? Try our Which Dog Breed Is Best for Me? Quiz first — bulldog life is hilarious, but it comes with quirks.
Great Names for a Bulldog
Because they’re cartoonish yet noble, your Bulldog deserves a name that captures both.
Classic & solid: Winston, Bess, Duke, Millie, Henry, Florence
Soft & cuddly: Pudding, Butter, Munch, Snug, Daisy, Bella
Playful contrasts: Drool, Grunt, Snore, Chubbs, Bully, Brick
Gentle power: Titan, Sable, Athena, Rex, Aurora, Stella
Still unsure? Let fate pick via our Dog Name Generator on CrazyDogs.club.
Exercise
Don’t expect long runs or energetic sprints — Bulldogs walk at a dignified pace, then recline. But that doesn’t mean no movement: they still need regular strolls (in moderation) or they’ll put on weight or get grumpy.
Recommended routine:
- 20–30 minutes of walking a couple of times a day
- Gentle play (short bursts) in cool weather
- Avoid heat or humidity — they overheat easily
- Monitor effort, rest when signs of fatigue appear
“They are actually very trainable so long as what you’re asking suits them … but make sure kids are well behaved and never wake a sleeping one up by touching them.”
Heat & Brachy Warning
With that flat face and thick body, Bulldogs struggle in the heat. Always avoid midday sun, provide shade and water, and never overexert.
Temperament
Bulldogs are slow to move but quick to love. They often carry a calm dignity, but have a stubborn streak a mile wide. Loyalty, delight in routines, and a desire to be near you define them.
Typical traits:
- Calm, affectionate companions
- Can be stubborn or headstrong
- Quiet alertness (not loud watchers)
- Good with families, but firmness needed
“Our girl was from a small family … they are actually very trainable so long as what you’re asking suits them … if you don’t stay in charge otherwise they quickly become pack leader.”
Training
Training a Bulldog is a bit like convincing a couch to move — you’ll need patience, treats, consistency, and charm. They want to do your commands — as long as it’s not too demanding.
Training tips:
- Begin early with socialisation
- Short, positive sessions with praise and treats
- Set boundaries clearly; be consistent
- Teach basic obedience (sit, stay, down), but avoid strenuous demands
Need help navigating bulldog stubbornness? Use the World’s First AI Dog Trainer for custom, gentle plans.
“They are stubborn, powerful … you need to stay in charge or you’ll be raising a small tyrant.”
Strangers & Watchdog Potential
Bulldogs are more about presence than alarm. They tend to observe and bark minimally unless something truly demands attention — they’re not known for persistent noise.
- Will often alert with a bark
- Usually calm with strangers, given socialisation
- Can be wary or defensive if startled
Other Animals
Many Bulldogs coexist fine with other pets — especially if introduced young. Their calm nature helps, but size and temperament matter.
- Introduce slowly in neutral spaces
- Supervise with energetic or dominant animals
- Respect that some Bulldogs prefer peace over play
Grooming
The skin folds, drool, and short coat are all part of the package — but they demand care to keep your Bulldog healthy and comfortable.
Grooming tasks:
- Daily wipe-downs of facial folds
- Weekly brushing to remove loose hair
- Regular bathing and drying folds thoroughly
- Nail, ear, and dental checks
Fold & Skin Care Warning
These wrinkles trap moisture, bacteria, and dirt. Neglecting proper skin care and you’ll fight infections, irritation, and chronic skin issues.
Health
Bulldogs are charming but notoriously delicate. Every owner needs vigilance on this front.
Key concerns:
- Brachycephalic airway syndrome (breathing trouble)
- Heat sensitivity & overheating
- Skin fold infections
- Hip dysplasia, joint issues
- Eye problems (cherry eye, dry eye)
- Overweight risks, cardiac conditions
“They snore like a trooper … the slobbering, the noises, the flatulence, the stubbornness … still, their charm is impossible to resist.”
Always ask breeders for health clearances (respiratory, joints, eyes) and use our Best in Breeder Guide as your checklist.
Thinking of Bringing One Home?
Here’s the honest list: Bulldogs are lovable, funny, stubborn, and high-maintenance. They’ll give you loads of reasons to smile — and maybe cry.
Pros:
- Loyal, affectionate, mellow companions
- Gentle with families, excellent as indoor dogs
- Lower exercise needs compared to many breeds
- Lovably quirky, full of character
Cons:
- High health risk: breathing, skin, joints, eyes
- Sensitive to heat & humidity — limited outdoor time
- Grooming & daily skin/fold care is essential
- Stubbornness: Training can test your patience
- Hidden costs: vet visits, specialist treatments
Want to check whether a Bulldog fits your life before diving in? Use our New Puppy Paw-rent Planner and maybe immortalise that smooshy face with a Custom Cartoon Pet Portrait.
Breed Stats
- Size: Medium / heavyset
- Weight: ~22–25 kg (varies by lines)
- Lifespan: ~8–10 years (some less, some more)
- Best Trait: Loyalty, calm presence, personality
- Challenging Trait: Health risks, stubbornness, grooming demands