Bulldog: Size, Lifespan, Health and Care
Quick answer
PDSA, the UK veterinary charity, puts the Bulldog at about 31-40 cm tall and 23-25 kg, living under 10 years. It suggests up to an hour a day, and lists 8 health problems to watch, including brachycephalic syndrome: narrowed nostrils and a long soft palate and elbow and hip dysplasia. Minimum running cost: at least £80 a month (PDSA gives no lifetime figure).
From PDSA, the UK veterinary charity. Not veterinary advice. Worried about your own pet? See who to call.
On this page (7 sections)
Key facts
| Size | Medium |
|---|---|
| Average height | 31-40 cm |
| Average weight | 23-25 kg |
| Average lifespan | Under 10 years |
| Exercise | Up to an hour a day, never in the heat of the day |
| Grooming | A weekly brush and daily cleaning of the facial wrinkles |
| Cost | At least £80 a month (pdsa gives no lifetime figure) |
Source: PDSA, Bulldog breed information.
Health problems to watch
PDSA lists these for the breed. A higher risk does not mean every animal will be affected; where a screening scheme or test exists, ask the breeder for the parents' results.
- brachycephalic syndrome: narrowed nostrils and a long soft palate
- elbow and hip dysplasia (screening schemes)
- entropion and ectropion
- dry eye
- cherry eye
- tail problems
- skin-fold infections
- difficulty giving birth, often needing caesareans
Source: PDSA, Bulldog breed information.
Exercise and grooming
PDSA suggests up to an hour a day, never in the heat of the day. Grooming: a weekly brush and daily cleaning of the facial wrinkles. Source: PDSA, Bulldog breed information.
Temperament
PDSA describes the breed as affectionate, gentle and very calm. PDSA describes the Bulldog as a severely flat-faced breed very likely to have serious health and welfare issues, and strongly recommends considering a healthier breed, crossbreed or mongrel. Source: PDSA, Bulldog breed information.
Cost
PDSA's figure: at least £80 a month (PDSA gives no lifetime figure). These are minimums that leave out buying the animal and vet bills for illness or injury. More: annual cost of owning a dog and puppy first-year costs. Source: PDSA, Bulldog breed information.
Questions people ask
How long do Bulldogs live?
PDSA gives an average lifespan of under 10 years.
How much exercise does a Bulldog need?
PDSA suggests up to an hour a day, never in the heat of the day.
What health problems do Bulldogs have?
PDSA lists brachycephalic syndrome: narrowed nostrils and a long soft palate; elbow and hip dysplasia (screening schemes); entropion and ectropion; dry eye; cherry eye; tail problems; skin-fold infections; difficulty giving birth, often needing caesareans.
How much does a Bulldog cost?
PDSA's estimate: at least £80 a month (PDSA gives no lifetime figure).
Sources
- PDSA, Bulldog breed information, read 7 November 2026.
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