| Height | 14-15 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 50 pounds (male), 40 pounds (female) [1] |
| Life expectancy | 8–10+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Friendly / Courageous / Calm [1] |
| AKC group | Non-Sporting Group [1] |
| Origin | England [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 10 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Bulldogs are mellow and are happy to relax next to their owner's feet, but they also enjoy an occasional romp and going on walks. Moderate exercise will help the dog to stay trim. Very warm days are best spent in front of an air-conditioner, however, as the Bulldog's short muzzle can make breathing difficult in heat and humidity. [1]
Grooming
An all-over brushing with a soft brush for 10 minutes two or three times a week will keep the Bulldog looking his best. During periods of heavier shedding, it can help to first use a rubber curry brush. The wrinkles on the Bulldog's face need to be regularly checked to make sure the skin is clean and dry, as food or moisture can get trapped and cause irritation or infection. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Bulldog owners should be vigilant to ensure their dog does not become overheated. A Bulldog should not be left out in the hot sun unsupervised or without access to shade and water, and of course no dog should be left in an enclosed car in even mildly warm weather. If a Bulldog is overexcited or breathing too hard, his tongue will hang out unusually far and have a bluish cast instead of the normal pink. Immediate soaking with cool water and giving ice can help to cool the dog. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Patella Evaluation, Cardiac Exam, Tracheal Hypoplasia Radiographic Evaluation. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Bulldog in 1886. [1]
- It ranked No. 10 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 4 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Sourmug.” [1]
- The AKC lists England as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC includes it in its “Best Family Dogs, Best Dogs for Apartment Dwellers, Medium Dog Breeds” breed lists. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 4/5)
Common questions
How long do Bulldogs live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 8-10 years.
How big does a Bulldog get?
AKC breed information lists height 14-15 inches and weight 50 pounds (male), 40 pounds (female).
How much are vet bills for a Bulldog?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Bulldog, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.