English Bulldogs are one of the most recognisable dog breeds in the world, known for their distinctive appearance and calm, people-focused nature.
While they are often associated with a laid-back lifestyle, there is far more to this breed than many owners realise.
Behind their wrinkled faces and sturdy build are traits shaped by history, selective breeding, and a surprisingly adaptable personality.
From their origins to their modern role as companion dogs, English Bulldogs have developed characteristics that set them apart from many other breeds.
Understanding these lesser-known facts can help owners and admirers appreciate why English Bulldogs behave the way they do and what they truly need to thrive.
This article is for general knowledge only and is based on information from online sources.
Individual dogs may vary in temperament, health, and behaviour.
Always consult a qualified veterinarian or breed specialist for personalised advice.
Photos are for illustrative purposes only.
1. Originally Bred For Bull-Baiting
Back in 13th-century England, Bulldogs were developed for a brutal sport called bull-baiting, where dogs would attack tethered bulls for public entertainment.
Their muscular bodies, powerful jaws, and low centre of gravity made them perfectly suited for this dangerous activity.
The breed’s famous pushed-in nose actually served a purpose during these matches, allowing them to breathe while maintaining their grip.
Thankfully, bull-baiting was outlawed in 1835, and breeders began transforming these fierce fighters into the affectionate pets we know today.
Their aggressive tendencies were gradually bred out over generations, creating the sweet-tempered companions that now snooze on couches across the globe.
2. They Can’t Swim Well
Most Bulldogs sink like adorable little bricks when placed in water, making them one of the few dog breeds that genuinely struggles with swimming.
Their heavy, front-loaded bodies combined with short legs create an unbalanced weight distribution that makes staying afloat nearly impossible.
Their flat faces also mean they must tilt their heads way back to keep their noses above water, which further throws off their balance.
Many Bulldog owners invest in special life jackets designed for the breed if they want their pups near pools or lakes.
Never leave your Bulldog unsupervised around water, as they can tire quickly and sink within moments of entering deep areas.
3. Most Are Born Via Caesarean Section
Around 80 to 95 percent of English Bulldog puppies enter the world through surgical delivery rather than natural birth.
Decades of selective breeding have created puppies with disproportionately large heads and shoulders compared to the mother’s birth canal.
The female Bulldog’s narrow hips simply cannot accommodate the passage of these big-headed babies safely.
Veterinarians typically schedule C-sections in advance to reduce risks for both mother and puppies.
This medical necessity contributes significantly to the breed’s higher price tag, as breeding Bulldogs requires substantial veterinary intervention and expertise.
The procedure has become so routine that many breeders work closely with reproductive specialists throughout the entire pregnancy.
4. They Snore Louder Than You’d Expect
If you value peaceful nights, sharing your bedroom with a Bulldog might test that commitment.
These compact canines produce snoring sounds that rival a grown human, sometimes reaching decibel levels comparable to a lawnmower.
Their brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure causes airway restrictions that lead to noisy breathing even while awake.
The soft palate often partially blocks their throat, creating those signature snorts, wheezes, and thunderous snores.
Some owners report needing white noise machines or earplugs to sleep through the nightly symphony.
While the snoring is usually harmless, excessive noise coupled with breathing difficulties might indicate a condition requiring veterinary attention, so monitor your pup’s respiratory patterns regularly.
5. Winston Churchill’s Nickname Was Based On Them
The famous British Prime Minister earned the nickname “British Bulldog” due to his resemblance to the breed and his tenacious, determined personality during World War II.
Churchill’s jowly face, stocky build, and stubborn resolve mirrored the Bulldog’s physical appearance and temperament perfectly.
This association became so strong that the Bulldog transformed into a symbol of British determination and courage throughout the war.
Political cartoons frequently depicted Churchill alongside Bulldogs or drew him with canine features to emphasize his fighting spirit.
The breed’s image as a national icon remains tied to Churchill’s legacy even today.
Interestingly, Churchill himself actually preferred poodles as pets, despite his lifelong association with Bulldogs in popular culture and wartime propaganda.
6. They Overheat Extremely Easily
Bulldogs rank among the most heat-sensitive dog breeds, making summer a genuinely dangerous season without proper precautions.
Their compromised airways prevent efficient panting, which is how dogs regulate body temperature.
When temperatures climb above 24 degrees Celsius, Bulldogs face serious risks of heatstroke that can prove fatal within minutes.
Their dark-coloured coats absorb more heat, and their muscular bodies generate additional warmth during activity.
Responsible owners limit outdoor time during hot weather, provide constant access to shade and water, and often use cooling mats or vests.
Air conditioning becomes essential rather than optional for Bulldog households.
Watch for excessive panting, drooling, or lethargy as warning signs your pup needs immediate cooling and possibly emergency veterinary care.
7. They’re Surprisingly Stubborn
Training a Bulldog requires patience that would impress a saint, as these dogs possess an independent streak wider than the Thames.
While intelligent enough to understand commands, they often choose whether or not to obey based purely on their mood.
This selective hearing stems from their original breeding as determined fighters who made independent decisions during matches.
Modern Bulldogs inherited this strong-willed temperament, making them delightfully challenging companions.
Positive reinforcement with high-value treats works better than harsh corrections, which they’ll simply ignore.
Short training sessions prevent boredom, as Bulldogs lose interest quickly.
Their stubbornness isn’t defiance but rather a personality trait that requires creative, patient training approaches and realistic expectations about perfect obedience.
8. Skateboarding Bulldogs Are A Real Thing
Bulldogs have become unlikely skateboarding superstars, with several holding Guinness World Records for their boarding skills.
Their low centre of gravity and sturdy build actually make them naturally suited for balancing on moving boards.
Tillman, a Bulldog from California, became an internet sensation and set records for fastest skateboarding times by a dog.
The breed’s calm, fearless temperament helps them remain composed while rolling along.
Many Bulldogs genuinely enjoy skateboarding once introduced properly, pushing themselves forward with their paws.
Videos of boarding Bulldogs regularly go viral, showcasing their unexpected athletic abilities.
Training requires patience and positive reinforcement, but numerous Bulldogs have proven this quirky talent isn’t just a fluke but something the breed genuinely excels at with proper encouragement.
9. They Have Extremely High Vet Bills
Owning a Bulldog means budgeting for veterinary expenses that often exceed those of other breeds by significant margins.
Their numerous health vulnerabilities create ongoing medical needs throughout their lives.
Common issues include skin fold infections, hip dysplasia, cherry eye, breathing problems, and spinal disorders that require regular monitoring and treatment.
Pet insurance companies often charge higher premiums for Bulldogs or exclude certain breed-specific conditions entirely.
Many owners spend thousands annually on routine care alone, not counting emergency situations.
Prospective Bulldog parents should honestly assess their financial readiness for these costs before bringing one home.
Despite the expenses, devoted owners consider the investment worthwhile for the companionship these dogs provide, but financial preparation remains crucial.
10. Their Tails Come In Different Shapes
Contrary to popular belief, not all Bulldogs sport the same tail type, with three distinct variations appearing within the breed.
Some have straight tails that stick out behind them, while others have corkscrew tails that spiral tightly.
A third type features the inverted or deeply embedded tail that sits in a pocket of skin.
Each tail type requires different grooming attention, with corkscrew and pocket tails needing regular cleaning to prevent infections in the surrounding skin folds.
Breed standards accept all three variations as equally valid.
The tail type is determined genetically and becomes apparent as puppies grow.
Regardless of shape, Bulldogs wag enthusiastically when happy, though their abbreviated tails produce less dramatic movement than longer-tailed breeds.
