When you hear of a Bulldog breed, you probably picture those soft skin wrinkles for days, squished faces, stocky, muscular bodies, and perpetual smiles with their long, pink tongues. You may also think of your favorite sports team’s Bulldog mascot, whether for your beloved professional, collegiate, or youth sports organization. However, did you know that over a dozen dog breeds fall under the Bulldog umbrella? Some are very familiar to most people, but there are less commonly known Bulldog breeds you’ve never heard of.
April 21 is Bulldogs are Beautiful Day, a perfect time to celebrate all types of Bulldogs. We can’t wait to see what you post on social media platforms with the hashtag #bulldogsarebeautifulday to find others who share your love of these wonderful dogs!
Learn about some of the Bulldog types and their differences as we discover that all Bulldogs are beautiful.
Then Vs. Now: The History of Bulldogs to Modern Times
The history of Bulldog breeds is a journey from cruelty to companionship. Originating in England, Bulldogs were initially bred for the gruesome sport of bull-baiting in the 13th century, where their courage and strength were prized attributes. However, as attitudes towards animal cruelty shifted, bull-baiting was outlawed in the 19th century, leading to a decline in the breed's popularity.
Fortunately, dedicated breed enthusiasts intervened, reshaping the Bulldog's image and purpose even into the 1970s. Through selective breeding, modern Bulldog breeds emerged with a gentler temperament and focus on companionship rather than unethical fighting. Today, types of Bulldogs are kept as pets for their loyalty, affectionate nature, and distinctive appearance. While they retain physical traits of their past purpose, they're now cherished as beloved family pets, symbolizing resilience and adaptability in the face of changing times.
Types of Bulldog Breeds
When learning about Bulldogs, you may have questions: “What do they look like? Do they have a unique history? Are they good family dogs?” Discover the unique characteristics of Bulldog breeds to pick the one that resonates with you the most.
American Bulldog
American Bulldog
The American Bulldog is a versatile, hardworking dog with origins from English Bulldogs brought over to America by immigrants. Before its modern American Bulldog name, different regions called the dog various names, like the Southern Bulldog, White English Southern Bulldog, or just “Bulldog.” Because they have a great work ethic and steady energy levels, American Bulldogs do best when they have a “job” to do so they stay busy and happy. American Bulldogs are excellent with children, playing with them and watching over them as loyal family dogs.
Apahala Blue Blood Bulldog
Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog
You might not have heard of the Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog, a somewhat rare, localized Bulldog from the Southern United States. Also called Otto Bulldogs, they were developed to guard properties and work with livestock. Despite their muscular bodies that can weigh over 100 lbs., Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldogs are quite agile and light on their feet. They are excellent watchdogs and very loyal to their families. However, their independent, bold spirit means they will not lie on your lap all day looking for snuggles. An experienced dog owner familiar with training methods who has the time and energy to devote to this breed will be rewarded with an obedient, smart powerhouse of a companion.
American Bully
American Bully
The American Bully dog breed traces its roots back to the 1990s, originating from the American Pit Bull Terrier and American Staffordshire Terrier. Known for their muscular build and blocky heads, they demonstrate confidence and strength. Despite their robust appearance, they are affectionate, loyal, and gentle with their families, making them excellent companions. American Bullies come in various sizes, ranging from Pocket to XL, and excel in various canine sports due to their agility and athleticism.
French Bulldog
If you’re looking for a friendly dog full of personality, you’ll say, “Oui! Oui!” to a French Bulldog puppy. French Bulldogs are the Number One most popular dog breed on the AKC’s Most Popular Dog Breeds of 2023, surpassing the Labrador Retriever for the second time in over 30 years! These little clowns are great family dogs and love romping around with children. Also called Frenchies, French Bulldogs are adorable with their tall, bat-like ears, squishy faces, and short, stocky bodies. Frenchies are a great choice for apartment living as companions since they do not like to be left alone for long periods. These social, curious puppies may be stubborn when training, but it’s hard to stay frustrated with them for long when they look up at you with that wide, goofy grin.
American Pit Bull Terrier
American Pit Bull Terrier
An American Pit Bull Terrier is an often misunderstood breed due to its strong, muscular build and historical use as a bull-baiting dog. In reality, they’re an incredibly sweet, loyal, and friendly breed requiring extensive training to be a good canine citizen. Pit Bulls are devoted, family-friendly pets with a zest for life. Pit Bulls are incredibly smart and need lots of mental stimulation to keep them busy, but be sure to use a durable, indestructible toy since they’re heavy chewers. Before adopting a Pit Bull, check your lease and local laws about owning this breed, as some places have restrictions.
Handsome Dan, English Bulldog
English Bulldog
With the pronounced underbite, an abundance of wrinkles, and a smooshed face, what’s more adorable than an English Bulldog puppy? As one of the most iconic Bulldogs, English Bulldogs encompass determination, courage, and grit. It’s no wonder over 40 collegiate and professional sports teams' mascots are English Bulldogs. English Bulldogs are endearing members of the Non-Sporting group, and they take that seriously with their affinity for lying around napping in the sun. Even though they can be over 55 lbs., an English Bulldog thinks it's a lap dog.
Olde English Bulldogge
Olde English Bulldogges
One would assume that Olde English Bulldogges have been around for hundreds of years given the name, but quite the opposite is true. It wasn’t until the 1970s that David Leavitt decided to recreate the original Olde English Bulldogge but with a better temperament. He created a new dog breed using English Bulldogs, Bullmastiffs, American Pit Bull Terriers, and American Bulldogs. These pups are popular among owners who want a protective, sweet companion with a unique history and tenacious, loyal personality.
Bullmastiffs
Bullmastiffs originated in England in the mid-1800s and were bred from a Bulldog and a Mastiff for guarding large estates mainly from poachers. While they are quite effective guard dogs when deterring trespassers thanks to their imposing size of 100-130+ lbs., Bullmastiffs don’t actually bite and are not inherently aggressive. They’re loyal, intelligent, confident companions who love spending time with their families. The Cleveland Browns have had Bullmastiffs as a mascot with Stripes, Muni, Swagger, and his son, Swagger Jr.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Staffordshire Bull Terriers
Staffordshire Bull Terriers, or Staffies, were originally bred in England for bull, bear, and lion baiting, but they have left their unfortunate past behind. They are often confused with American Pit Bull Terriers but are a completely separate breed with different qualities. Staffies are nicknamed the “Nanny Dog” due to their reputation as a child's playmate and guardian. Their gentle, dependable devotion to their families makes them excellent pets. Their broad heads, bright eyes, and agile, muscular build show their strength and courage. In addition to being popular with families, several celebrity Staffordshire Bull Terrier owners are Kevin Bacon, Liam Hemsworth, and Jessica Alba.
Caring For Bulldogs
If you are a Bulldog owner, you’ll find they require more care and have different health concerns than other breeds due to a few factors. Learn how to care for your Bulldog to give it the best quality of life possible.
Breathing concerns
You have definitely noticed Bulldogs have snort, scrunched-up snouts, adding to their unique look and charm. However, that funny-looking muzzle can cause some health concerns Bulldog owners should be aware of to monitor.
Bulldogs are all considered brachycephalic, which means they have short, wide skull bones and flattened facial features. “Brachy” means shortened and “cephalic” means of the head. Their compact upper airways affect their nose and throats which can result in breathing problems.
The most important thing you can do when caring for your Bulldog is to establish a relationship with a licensed veterinarian. He or she can explain further components of care and show you what signs to look for when your Bulldog’s health suffers.
Here are some issues unique to Bulldog breeds stemming from their brachycephalic anatomy to watch for that may affect their day-to-day living:
- Loud bodies: A Bulldog is one of the loudest dogs you can get as far as their snoring, grunting, and yes, those silent-but-deadly toots or flatulence loud enough to bust out windows!
- Respiratory distress: Coughing, noisier breathing than usual, or blue gums could be signs your Bulldog is having trouble breathing. They may be experiencing Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). Call the vet immediately!
- Overheating and exertion: Because of their breathing issues, you should never overexert your Bulldog. Watch to make sure they do not overheat or move their bodies too much.
- Dental Issues: Most Bulldogs have a protruding underbite. In addition, due to the shape of their jaw, they can be prone to dental issues and diseases. Keep up with dental hygiene at home and professional cleanings.
- Eye issues: Bulldogs are prone to Cherry Eye, a condition where tear glands become infected and protrude. They can also get corneal ulcers. Keep their eyes clean and monitored.
- Obesity: A Bulldog sure does love its treats! Because some Bulldogs are not supposed to have a lot of activity, obesity is easy to form. Keep a good balance of nutritious food, limit treats, and give them the exact amount of exercise they need.
- Swimming: Bulldogs should never be left unattended while swimming. If they do get into a body of water, put them in a flotation device and do not leave their side.
- Traveling: If you are flying with your Bulldog, check your airline’s rules about specific dog breeds. Brachycephalic dogs fly in the cabin instead of in cargo due to their potential breathing issues.
Other Bulldog health concerns
Those adorable wrinkly skin folds are fun to snuggle and gently grab, but they can come with health issues. Their saggy skin can get infected or irritated easily, especially if water is caught between the folds. It creates a perfect environment for bacteria and yeast to thrive. Wipe out their folds every day all over their bodies, especially on their smooshy faces.
Depending on the type of Bulldog, breeding some Bulldogs will most likely result in a C-section due to the large heads of puppies and the narrow birth canal and pelvises. Evans & Adams (2010) found that 86% of English and French Bulldog pregnancies end in a Cesarean section delivery. A licensed veterinarian must monitor a Bulldog mama’s health during pregnancy and delivery.
Beautiful Bulldogs at Pawrade
We may be biased, but all of our available Bulldogs of all breeds are beautiful at Pawrade year-round! We’ve partnered with hand-selected Bulldog breeders to prepare happy puppies of all Bulldog breeds to go to their forever homes. Our breeders consider parents’ temperament, genetic background, conformation, and other factors when choosing dams and sires. All Bulldog puppies come with a health guarantee, 30 days of MetLife insurance, a health certificate, up-to-date vaccinations, and post-adoption support. Speak to one of our Puppy Concierge team members to adopt Bulldog puppies for sale today!
