Expert Tips for Raising English Bulldog Puppies

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With their wrinkly faces, stubby legs, and endearing waddle, English Bulldog puppies are undeniably cute. But don’t let the sleepy expressions fool you. These pups can be surprisingly active and stubborn during their first year.

Most English Bulldogs reach their adult height by around 12 months, but they continue to fill out and gain chest depth until they’re closer to two years old. With patient training and consistent care, they grow into affectionate, dependable companions. “They’re gentle and sweet,” says Annette Nobles of the Bulldog Club of America, “but they do have a stubborn streak. Early and consistent training makes all the difference.”

If you’re planning to purchase a Bulldog puppy, expect to pay anywhere from $2,500 to $5,500, depending on the breeder and bloodline. Show-quality dogs tend to cost more, while rescue adoption usually ranges from $300 to $800.

Key Puppy English Bulldog Facts

• Litter size: English Bulldog litters are usually relatively small, with just 3 to 4 puppies. And since breeders are highly selective, finding a Bulldog puppy for adoption can take time.
• Puppy weight: When they’re ready to go home at around 10 weeks, Bulldog puppies usually weigh between 10 and 15 pounds.
• Puppy temperament: Many Bulldog pups are intensely affectionate, often seeking out soft spots to nap and curling up on (or next to) their favorite people.
• Energy levels: Despite their roly-poly build, Bulldog puppies are more energetic and agile than many expect.
• Maturity: While some Bulldogs mellow out by age two or three, many stay goofy and rambunctious well into adulthood.
• Unique traits: Stubbornness is a Bulldog’s most famous trait, and lots of Bulldog puppies have “selective hearing” when it comes to training cues. Consistency, encouragement, and a patient approach are key. Bulldogs puppies are also famous chewers, using their mouths to explore, so it’s important to find appropriate chew toys.
• Bonding likelihood: While they bond closely with the whole family, Nobles says Bulldogs tend to choose one person as their favorite, usually the one who feeds or spends the most time with them.

Where To Find English Bulldog Puppies

Because English Bulldogs are a popular breed with significant health considerations, finding the right puppy takes research and patience. Responsible breeders will prioritize health screenings and may limit how often their dogs are bred, which helps protect the long-term health of the breed but can make puppies harder to come by. Waitlists can be several months to over a year long.

Rescue organizations can be a wonderful option for adopters who are open to an older puppy or adult dog. No matter where you look, it’s important to choose sources that prioritize health, transparency, and the long-term welfare of the dog.

Rescue groups

Though Bulldog puppies are rarely found in shelters, rescues do occasionally have puppies and often have adult Bulldogs looking for new homes. Many of these dogs are surrendered around 6–12 months of age when new owners realize the breed’s care requirements or can’t manage emerging health issues.

• Bulldog Club of America Rescue Network (BCARN)
• East Coast Bulldog Rescue
• No Borders Bulldog Rescue

Show breeders

Show breeders are often the best source for a Bulldog puppy, because their dogs are health-tested and they use careful, ethical breeding. These breeders focus on preserving the breed’s structure and temperament according to national standards and often prioritize health over profit.

• Bulldog Club of America (BCA): The BCA maintains a breeder referral list.
• Official Facebook Groups: Groups like “English Bulldog Owners” can help connect you to responsible breeders, but beware of scammers. Look for groups with active moderation and don’t send money without verified references.

Online marketplaces

While it’s possible to find English Bulldog puppies online, it’s important to be extra cautious. Always verify breeder credentials, request health documentation, and ask to meet the puppy’s parents in person.

• AKC Marketplace: Offers listings from AKC-registered breeders, many of whom participate in health testing and breed clubs.
• Good Dog: Screens breeders and breaks down what kind of health testing they perform.

Avoid sites like Craigslist or puppy listing pages with vague contact info, unusually low prices, or multiple breeds from one seller. These are often red flags for puppy mills.

Recommended health tests

English Bulldogs are prone to a number of health conditions, so it’s essential to work with a breeder who prioritizes health testing or to ask informed questions when adopting from a rescue. Responsible breeders will test their dogs and be transparent about the results.

Below are the recommended health screenings:

• Patella Evaluation (OFA): Confirms that the knees are stable and not prone to luxating patellas, a condition Bulldogs can be susceptible to.
• Hip Evaluation (OFA or PennHIP): Screens for hip dysplasia, which is common in the breed and can cause long-term mobility issues.
• Cardiac Exam (OFA): Detects inherited or congenital heart defects that may not be visible in young puppies.
• Ophthalmologist Evaluation (OFA/ACVO): Identifies issues such as cherry eye, entropion, or cataracts, which are conditions Bulldogs are prone to.
• Tracheal Hypoplasia Radiographic Evaluation (OFA): Evaluates the structure of the windpipe, which affects breathing efficiency and overall airway health.
• CHIC Certification: Confirms that the breeder has completed and publicly registered a standard set of health tests in accordance with the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC).

When speaking with a breeder or rescue, be sure to ask:

• What is the health history of the litter and the parents?
• Have the puppy’s parents undergone all OFA or PennHIP recommended evaluations?
• Can I meet the parents of the puppy?
• Can I visit the facilities where you breed and house your dogs?
• Can I see references from other people who have purchased or adopted a dog from you?

For more guidance on recommended tests, visit the Bulldog Club of America’s “Why Should I Healthscreen My Bulldog?”

JLSnader via iStock

English Bulldog Puppy Physical Characteristics

While adult English Bulldogs are known for their compact, muscular bodies, their growth as puppies happens in quick and sometimes surprising stages. From tiny, wrinkly bundles at 8 weeks to sturdy, stocky companions by 6 months, Bulldog puppies gain size fast. Here’s what to expect as your puppy grows, along with practical tips for each stage.

Raising a Well-Adjusted English Bulldog Puppy

Raising an English Bulldog puppy isn’t always smooth sailing, but with the right mix of patience, positive reinforcement, and a good sense of humor, it’s a deeply rewarding experience. We’ll walk you through the basics of raising a Bulldog that’s happy, healthy, and ready to take on the world (or at least the couch).

Breed-specific training needs

Training a puppy, especially an English Bulldog puppy, is all about consistency and positive reinforcement. These pups are smart, but also a little stubborn. Without guidance, that stubbornness can turn into an untrained adult Bulldog that is mouthy, pushy, or difficult to handle.

Start with short, upbeat sessions that use positive reinforcement like treats, toys, and praise.

“It’s necessary to establish clear rules and routines,” says Nobles. “Training areas should include leash training, potty training, socialization with people and other pets, understanding commands, and bite inhibition.”

Bulldogs respond well to firm but gentle boundaries. This breed does best when they feel like they’re working with you, not for you. Remember to keep sessions short and cool, temperature-wise.

Socialization

Bulldogs are often described as calm and collected, but they still need plenty of socialization, especially as puppies. It’s important to give your Bulldog puppy lots of safe, positive experiences with new people, friendly dogs, different places, and everyday sounds and objects.

If your Bulldog pup is acting shy or overwhelmed in new situations, don’t push. Let them observe, reward calm behavior, and give them space to explore at their own pace.

Socialization checklist for Bulldog puppies:

• Meeting people of different ages, sizes, and appearances
• Gentle playdates with other calm, vaccinated dogs
• Exposure to car rides, strollers, bicycles, and skateboards
• Familiarity with being touched on face, ears, paws, and tail (English Bulldogs are strong, so clipping nails or washing their face wrinkles as adults when they don’t like it can be a challenge)
• Familiarity with the leash (because of their strength, leash manners are a must)
• Short visits to pet-friendly stores or outdoor cafés
• Calm, supervised introductions to loud sounds (doorbells, vacuums, thunder apps)

Potty training

English Bulldogs are generally considered fairly easy to potty train, especially when you combine a solid schedule with crate training. Nobles recommends sticking to a routine: take them out every couple of hours, plus after eating, sleeping, or playing. Use a consistent potty cue and keep playtime separate so they know what they’re out there to do.

Crate training

Crate training is one of the most helpful tools for managing a Bulldog puppy’s chewing phase, and it also sets the stage for smoother vet visits and travel. Bulldogs can be prone to separation anxiety, so introducing the crate early (in a positive way) helps them see it as a cozy, safe retreat.

Tip: Nobles says to never leave a collar or harness on your Bulldog while they’re crated. It can snag and become a choking hazard.

Lifestyle exercise and activities

Bulldog puppies may not be marathon runners, but they still need daily exercise and enrichment. Aim for a few short walks (with lots of sniffing breaks) and indoor playtime with interactive toys or puzzle feeders designed for flat-faced breeds. Avoid high heat and humidity, because Bulldogs can overheat quickly due to their smooshed faces.

Build up gradually to longer walks, and keep an eye out for heavy panting, wheezing, or lagging behind. A Bulldog’s favorite activity is just hanging out with you, whether it’s a car ride or a light game of fetch.

Grooming Routine for English Bulldog Puppies

English Bulldog puppies may look like low-maintenance dogs, but they do have specific grooming needs. While they don’t require professional haircuts or extensive brushing, their signature wrinkles, short muzzle, and deep tail pocket all need regular attention. Starting a consistent grooming routine early will help your Bulldog learn to enjoy (or at least tolerate) the upkeep they’ll need as adults.

Recommended grooming routine:

• Daily wrinkle cleaning. Use a damp cloth or unscented pet-friendly wipe to gently clean between the facial folds, then dry thoroughly to prevent skin infections.
• Daily toothbrushing. Bulldogs are prone to dental issues due to their crowded teeth and short jaw.
• Tail pocket care several times a week. Clean with a gentle wipe or cotton pad.
• Brushing 1–2 times a week. A soft bristle brush helps remove loose hair and keep the coat healthy.
• Weekly ear cleaning. Use a vet-approved ear cleanser to prevent wax buildup and infections.
• Nail trimming every 2–3 weeks. Start early with gentle paw handling and use a nail grinder if needed.
• Bathing every 4-6 weeks. Dry thoroughly, because moisture trapped in wrinkles can lead to skin issues.

Grooming should be calm, consistent, and positive. Treats and praise go a long way!

Health Considerations

Bulldog puppies may require more frequent vet visits than other breeds, and pet insurance is highly recommended to help offset the cost of ongoing care.

As puppies, English Bulldogs are especially vulnerable to skin problems and respiratory issues due to their wrinkles and short muzzles. It’s important to monitor them closely outside so they don’t overheat, and keep walks short and shady. Bulldogs also have a reputation for “eating first, thinking later,” which means you’ll want to keep an eye out for chewing on inappropriate items like socks, toys, or furniture.

Essential English Bulldog Puppy Checklist

English Bulldog puppies bring a lot of charm in a compact package, but their unique features mean it helps to be well-prepared from the start. Whether you’re prepping for mealtime, training, or a walk, here’s what to put on your puppy shopping list.

• High-quality puppy food. Bulldogs have a high risk of obesity, so look for a balanced puppy food that meets standards for the “growth stage” set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). If you’re unsure what kind of food to buy, asking your vet is a great place to start.
• No-pull harness (not a collar). Avoid collars that put pressure on your Bulldog’s airway. Instead, choose a harness made specifically for broad-chested breeds with strong buckles and breathable mesh to prevent overheating. Make sure the fit is snug but not restrictive.
• Crate with divider panel. Bulldog puppies grow quickly. A crate with a divider allows you to size up as they grow while still giving them a safe, cozy space for crate training and sleeping.
• Orthopedic dog bed. These pups are heavy-boned and love a good nap. Opt for an orthopedic bed that offers joint support and a removable, washable cover in case your puppy has accidents.
• Cooling mat or vest. Bulldogs are prone to overheating. A cooling mat or vest can help regulate temperature after walks or during warmer months.
• Slow feeder bowl. Bulldogs are fast eaters. A slow feeder bowl can help prevent gas and reduce the risk of bloat.
• Wrinkle wipes. Start early with daily wrinkle care to prevent yeast or bacterial infections.
• Dremel-style nail grinder. Bulldogs often have thick, dark nails, so their quick can be hard to see. A nail grinder (instead of clippers) offers more control and reduces the chance of accidentally cutting too short.
• Teething and chew toys. Nobles says tough toys like Nylabone or Benebone are great for teething Bulldog pups. Mix in some tunnels or wobble boards to keep that Bulldog brain busy.
• Training program (group or one-on-one). Early training is essential. Choose positive reinforcement–based group classes that will also help with socialization, or consider one-on-one sessions.