12 Bull Dog Types Compared: Temperament, Health & Best Fit Guide
Explore 12 bull dog types compared by size, health risks, energy, and family fit.
What Qualifies as a "Bull Dog Type"? Our Selection Criteria
The term "bull dog types" gets thrown around loosely online, but for this guide we're applying a strict definition rooted in breed history and kennel club classification. A breed earns a spot on this list if it meets at least two of three criteria:
1. Historical Bull-Baiting or Catch-Dog Lineage: The breed descends from the Old English Bulldog or was developed from bulldog-type stock used for bull-baiting, farm work, or guarding. This includes breeds in the AKC Working Group, Non-Sporting Group, and Foundation Stock Service that trace ancestry to Molosser-type dogs.
2. Brachycephalic or Semi-Brachycephalic Skull Structure: The breed has a noticeably shortened muzzle (brachycephalic) or moderately shortened muzzle (mesocephalic with brachy tendencies), giving the characteristic broad, flat face.
3. Stocky, Muscular Build with Broad Chest: The breed standard calls for a compact, heavily muscled frame with a wide chest, thick neck, and substantial bone structure relative to height.
Using these criteria, we evaluated 18 candidate breeds and selected the 12 that most strongly represent the bulldog family tree. We excluded breeds like the Dogo Argentino and Cane Corso, which share Molosser ancestry but have diverged significantly in build and purpose, as well as brachycephalic breeds like Pugs and French Bulldogs that lack the stocky, muscular bulldog frame. We've organized the list into three size tiers — toy/miniature, standard, and large/giant — so you can scan by the space and lifestyle constraints that matter most.
Toy & Miniature Bull Dog Types (Under 25 lb)
These compact bulldog-type breeds deliver the characteristic look and personality in a package suited to apartments and smaller homes.
1. French Bulldog
Size Class: Toy/Small — 16–28 lb (7–13 kg), 11–13 in (28–33 cm)
Key Bull Trait: Direct descendant of the Old English Bulldog, miniaturized by lace workers in Nottingham and later refined in Paris. Retains the signature bat ears, roach back, and muscular build scaled down to toy proportions.
Profile: The French Bulldog has held the #1 AKC registration spot since 2022 and shows no signs of slowing down in 2026. They're low-energy companions requiring just 20–30 minutes of daily activity, making them ideal for apartment dwellers. Expect to pay $2,500–$5,500 from a responsible breeder who performs OFA health testing, or $300–$600 through breed-specific rescues like French Bulldog Rescue Network.
Why It Made the List: The Frenchie is the most popular modern bulldog-type breed by a wide margin. Their brachycephalic structure, bulldog ancestry, and compact muscular frame check all three criteria boxes.
2. Boston Terrier
Size Class: Small — 12–25 lb (5–11 kg), 15–17 in (38–43 cm)
Key Bull Trait: Developed in the 1870s by crossing English Bulldogs with white English Terriers. The original Boston Terriers weighed up to 44 lb before breeders refined them downward, but the broad skull, square jaw, and muscular neck remain distinctly bulldog.
Profile: Known as the "American Gentleman" for their tuxedo-like markings, Bostons are more energetic than Frenchies — expect 30–45 minutes of daily exercise. They rank among the most trainable of the brachycephalic breeds, which makes them a strong choice for first-time owners. Purchase price from health-tested breeders runs $1,200–$2,500; rescue adoption fees average $250–$450.
Why It Made the List: Direct bulldog ancestry combined with brachycephalic skull structure and a compact, sturdy build. Their slightly longer muzzle compared to Frenchies gives them marginally better airway health.
3. Miniature Bulldog (Rare/Developing)
Size Class: Small — 25–40 lb (11–18 kg), 14–17 in (36–43 cm)
Key Bull Trait: A modern recreation breed attempting to replicate the smaller, healthier bulldogs of the Regency era before extreme brachycephaly was selected for. Breeders cross English Bulldogs with Pugs, French Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers to produce a smaller dog with fewer health complications.
Profile: Not recognized by the AKC but tracked by the Miniature Bulldog Club and Continental Kennel Club. These dogs are still a developing breed, meaning temperament and size can vary between litters. Expect to pay $1,500–$3,000 from established breeders. Health testing is inconsistent across breeders — ask specifically for OFA hip and cardiac evaluations before purchasing.
Why It Made the List: Intentionally bred to preserve bulldog characteristics in a smaller, healthier package. Represents an interesting effort to address the health concerns that plague standard English Bulldogs.
Standard Bull Dog Types (25–80 lb)
The mid-range bulldog breeds represent the historical core of the bulldog family — these are the dogs most people picture when they hear "bulldog."
4. English Bulldog
Size Class: Medium — 40–50 lb (18–23 kg), 14–15 in (36–38 cm)
Key Bull Trait: The original. Every other breed on this list either descends from or was inspired by the English Bulldog. Developed in England from the 13th century for bull-baiting, then re-engineered as a companion after the sport was banned in 1835.
Profile: English Bulldogs are gentle, loyal companions but carry the heaviest health burden of any breed on this list. According to AKC breed health data, the median lifespan is only 8–10 years, with brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), hip dysplasia (prevalence ~38% per OFA data), and cherry eye being common concerns. Budget $3,000–$6,000+ annually for veterinary care. Purchase price from a responsible breeder: $2,000–$4,000.
Why It Made the List: The progenitor breed. You cannot discuss bull dog types without starting here. Every physical and temperamental hallmark of the bulldog family originates with the English Bulldog.
5. American Bulldog
Size Class: Medium-Large — 60–120 lb (27–54 kg), 20–28 in (51–71 cm)
Key Bull Trait: Descended from Old English Bulldogs brought to the American South by working-class immigrants in the 17th–18th centuries. Unlike the English Bulldog, the American Bulldog was never bred for extreme conformation — it retains the athleticism and functional build of the original bull-baiting dogs.
Profile: Two main types exist: the stockier Johnson (bully) type and the leaner Scott (standard) type, with many modern dogs being a blend. American Bulldogs need 60–90 minutes of vigorous daily exercise — they are not couch dogs. They excel in weight pull, agility, and protection sports. Health is generally better than English Bulldogs, with a 10–16 year lifespan. Price from health-tested breeders: $1,500–$3,500. Note: some jurisdictions include American Bulldogs under breed-specific legislation (BSL) — check your local ordinances.
Why It Made the List: The closest living approximation of the original working bulldog. Combines bulldog ancestry with a functional, athletic build that the English Bulldog has largely lost.
6. Olde English Bulldogge
Size Class: Medium-Large — 60–80 lb (27–36 kg) females, 70–100 lb (32–45 kg) males, 17–20 in (43–51 cm)
Key Bull Trait: Developed in the 1970s by David Leavitt using a formula of ½ English Bulldog, ⅙ Bullmastiff, ⅙ American Bulldog, and ⅙ American Pit Bull Terrier. The goal was to recreate the healthier, more athletic bulldog of Regency-era England.
Profile: Recognized by the UKC since 2014, the Olde English Bulldogge (note the deliberate spelling) is significantly healthier than the English Bulldog. They can breathe more easily, whelp naturally (no mandatory C-sections), and typically live 11–14 years. They're more active and driven than English Bulldogs — plan for 45–60 minutes of exercise daily. Price from Leavitt-line or health-tested breeders: $2,500–$4,500.
Why It Made the List: Represents the most scientifically informed attempt to breed a healthier bulldog while preserving the type. The specific breed formula and health outcomes data make this a standout among modern bulldog recreations.
7. Bullmastiff
Size Class: Large — 100–130 lb (45–59 kg), 24–27 in (61–69 cm)
Key Bull Trait: Created in the 1860s by English gamekeepers who crossed English Bulldogs (40%) with English Mastiffs (60%) to produce a dog fast enough to chase poachers and strong enough to pin them without mauling. The bulldog contribution gave the breed its brachycephalic head, determination, and courage.
Profile: Bullmastiffs are calm, confident guardians that bond deeply with their families. Despite their size, they're relatively low-energy indoors — 30–45 minutes of daily exercise suffices. Health concerns include hip dysplasia, cardiac issues, and cancer (particularly lymphoma and mast cell tumors). Lifespan: 7–9 years. Annual vet budget: $2,000–$4,000+. Purchase price: $1,500–$3,000 from OFA-testing breeders.
Why It Made the List: A deliberate bulldog-mastiff cross with documented breed history. The 40% bulldog genetic contribution produces the characteristic broad skull, wrinkled brow, and tenacious temperament.
8. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Size Class: Medium — 24–38 lb (11–17 kg), 14–16 in (36–41 cm)
Key Bull Trait: Developed in Staffordshire, England, in the 19th century by crossing Old English Bulldogs with various terriers. Originally bred for dog fighting (before it was outlawed), the breed was later refined for companionship. The bulldog ancestry shows in the broad skull, pronounced cheek muscles, and stocky build.
Profile: Nicknamed the "nanny dog" in the UK for their noted gentleness with children, Staffies are energetic, people-oriented dogs that need 45–60 minutes of exercise daily. They're highly trainable with positive reinforcement methods but can show dog-selectiveness due to their terrier heritage. Lifespan: 12–14 years — notably longer than most bulldog types. Hereditary conditions include L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria (L-2-HGA) and hereditary cataracts. Price from health-tested UK/US breeders: $1,500–$2,500. Check local BSL before committing.
Why It Made the List: Direct bulldog-terrier cross with a well-documented breed origin. Combines bulldog stockiness with terrier agility, resulting in one of the healthiest breeds on this list.
9. Victorian Bulldog
Size Class: Medium-Large — 55–75 lb (25–34 kg), 18–22 in (46–56 cm)
Key Bull Trait: Another recreation breed, developed in the UK by Ken Mollett in the 1980s. The breeding program used English Bulldogs, Bullmastiffs, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, and American Bulldogs to produce a taller, leaner, healthier dog resembling the bulldogs depicted in Victorian-era paintings and photographs.
Profile: The Victorian Bulldog is not AKC-recognized but has a growing following in the UK and Europe. They're notably more athletic than English Bulldogs — capable of sustained walks and play sessions — while maintaining the broad head and muscular build. Health data is still being collected, but anecdotal reports suggest fewer respiratory and orthopedic issues. Price: £1,500–£2,500 in the UK (~$1,900–$3,200 USD); limited availability in the US.
Why It Made the List: A thoughtful recreation breed with a specific historical target (Victorian-era bulldogs) and a documented multi-breed formula aimed at improving health without losing type.
Large & Giant Bull Dog Types (80+ lb)
These breeds carry bulldog ancestry but have been crossed with larger working breeds, resulting in imposing dogs that retain the characteristic bulldog head and temperament.
10. American Bully (Standard & XL)
Size Class: Medium to Large — Standard: 30–50 lb (14–23 kg), XL: 70–120 lb (32–54 kg), 16–23 in (41–58 cm)
Key Bull Trait: Developed in the 1980s–1990s primarily from American Pit Bull Terriers and American Staffordshire Terriers, with English Bulldog and American Bulldog influence added for bulk and head width. The UKC recognized the American Bully in 2013. Four size categories exist: Pocket, Standard, Classic, and XL.
Profile: American Bullies were bred specifically for companionship rather than work or sport, resulting in a calmer temperament than their pit bull ancestors. XL Bullies have surged in popularity since 2020, but the rapid demand has attracted irresponsible breeders who prioritize extreme size over health. Reputable breeders perform OFA hip, cardiac, and patella evaluations. Price from tested breeders: $2,000–$5,000 (Standard), $3,000–$10,000+ (XL). Note: The UK banned XL Bullies under the Dangerous Dogs Act in 2024; several US jurisdictions have considered similar measures.
Why It Made the List: The most commercially popular new bulldog-type breed of the 2020s. The deliberate inclusion of English and American Bulldog genetics for mass and head structure places it squarely in the bulldog family.
11. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog
Size Class: Medium-Large — 55–90 lb (25–41 kg), 18–24 in (46–61 cm)
Key Bull Trait: Descended from the Old English Bulldogs brought to the American South, specifically from a line maintained by the Lane family in Georgia since the late 1800s. The breed was nearly extinct by the 1970s before a preservation effort began. The Alapaha retains the functional catch-dog build of its ancestors.
Profile: This is a rare breed — the Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog Association estimates fewer than 2,000 registered dogs worldwide. They're loyal family guardians with strong protective instincts and require early, consistent socialization using positive reinforcement methods. Health is generally good thanks to a limited but carefully managed gene pool, though hip dysplasia and entropion occur. Lifespan: 12–15 years. Price: $1,500–$3,000 from ABBA-registered breeders. Availability is limited — expect waitlists of 6–12 months.
Why It Made the List: A heritage bulldog breed with deep American roots and a documented lineage stretching back over a century. Represents one of the purest surviving lines of the original working bulldog type in the US.
12. Boerboel
Size Class: Giant — 150–200 lb (68–91 kg), 22–27 in (56–69 cm)
Key Bull Trait: Developed in South Africa by Dutch, French, and German settlers who crossed European bulldog-type dogs (including the now-extinct Bullenbeisser) with mastiffs and local African breeds. The bulldog influence is visible in the broad, blocky head, pronounced stop, and muscular forequarters.
Profile: Boerboels are powerful farm guardians that need experienced owners who understand large, strong breeds. They require 45–60 minutes of daily exercise and benefit from structured training from puppyhood. AKC recognized the breed in 2015. Health concerns include hip and elbow dysplasia, vaginal hyperplasia, and eyelid conditions. Lifespan: 9–11 years. Price from health-tested breeders: $1,500–$3,500. Annual food cost for a dog this size: $1,200–$1,800 for premium large-breed kibble.
Why It Made the List: The bulldog genetic contribution to the Boerboel is well-documented in breed histories maintained by the AKC and South African Boerboel Breeders Association. The blocky head, broad chest, and protective temperament are direct bulldog inheritance.
Bull Dog Types Comparison Table
| Breed | Weight Range | Lifespan | Exercise (min/day) | Family Friendly | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| French Bulldog | 16–28 lb (7–13 kg) | 10–12 years | 20–30 | Excellent | $2,500–$5,500 |
| Boston Terrier | 12–25 lb (5–11 kg) | 11–13 years | 30–45 | Excellent | $1,200–$2,500 |
| Miniature Bulldog | 25–40 lb (11–18 kg) | 10–13 years | 25–40 | Good | $1,500–$3,000 |
| English Bulldog | 40–50 lb (18–23 kg) | 8–10 years | 20–30 | Excellent | $2,000–$4,000 |
| American Bulldog | 60–120 lb (27–54 kg) | 10–16 years | 60–90 | Good (with training) | $1,500–$3,500 |
| Olde English Bulldogge | 60–100 lb (27–45 kg) | 11–14 years | 45–60 | Good | $2,500–$4,500 |
| Bullmastiff | 100–130 lb (45–59 kg) | 7–9 years | 30–45 | Good (with socialization) | $1,500–$3,000 |
| Staffordshire Bull Terrier | 24–38 lb (11–17 kg) | 12–14 years | 45–60 | Excellent | $1,500–$2,500 |
| Victorian Bulldog | 55–75 lb (25–34 kg) | 10–13 years | 40–60 | Good | $1,900–$3,200 |
| American Bully (XL) | 70–120 lb (32–54 kg) | 10–12 years | 30–45 | Good | $3,000–$10,000+ |
| Alapaha Blue Blood | 55–90 lb (25–41 kg) | 12–15 years | 45–60 | Good (with socialization) | $1,500–$3,000 |
| Boerboel | 150–200 lb (68–91 kg) | 9–11 years | 45–60 | Moderate (experienced owners) | $1,500–$3,500 |
How to Choose: A Decision Framework for Bull Dog Types
With 12 breeds spanning a 188-pound weight range and wildly different exercise needs, choosing the right bulldog type comes down to matching the breed to your specific living situation, experience level, and budget. Use this framework to narrow your options:
- Step 1 — Determine your space constraint.
- Apartment or condo under 1,000 sq ft? → Focus on French Bulldog, Boston Terrier, or Staffordshire Bull Terrier. These breeds adapt well to smaller spaces and don't require yards.
- House with fenced yard? → All 12 breeds are viable. Move to Step 2.
- Rural property with acreage? → American Bulldog, Alapaha Blue Blood, and Boerboel thrive with space to patrol and exercise.
- Step 2 — Assess your daily time commitment for exercise.
- Under 30 minutes/day available? → French Bulldog, English Bulldog, or Bullmastiff. These are genuinely low-energy breeds that are content with short walks.
- 30–60 minutes/day? → Boston Terrier, Olde English Bulldogge, Victorian Bulldog, American Bully, Boerboel, or Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
- 60+ minutes/day with vigorous activity? → American Bulldog is the standout choice. They need real physical work — hiking, jogging, weight pull, or structured sport.
- Step 3 — Calculate your realistic health budget.
- Under $1,500/year for vet care? → Staffordshire Bull Terrier (healthiest on the list, 12–14 year lifespan) or Boston Terrier. Avoid English Bulldogs entirely — their health costs routinely exceed $3,000/year.
- $1,500–$3,000/year? → Olde English Bulldogge, American Bulldog, Victorian Bulldog, or American Bully (from health-tested lines).
- $3,000+/year is manageable? → All breeds are viable, but consult your veterinarian about breed-specific screening schedules before committing.
- Step 4 — Check your local regulations.
- If you live in a jurisdiction with breed-specific legislation, American Bulldogs, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, American Bullies, and Boerboels may be restricted or require special permits. Always verify with your city or county animal control office before committing to a breed.
Honorable Mentions & Breeds to Approach With Caution
Several breeds were considered for this list but ultimately excluded. Here's why, along with some breeds you should be cautious about if you're searching for a bulldog-type companion.
Honorable Mentions (Narrowly Missed)
- American Staffordshire Terrier: Shares much of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier's heritage but was developed in the US to be larger (40–70 lb). Strong candidate, but overlaps significantly with the American Bully and Staffy in our list.
- Ca de Bou (Perro de Presa Mallorquin): A Mallorcan bulldog breed with genuine bull-baiting ancestry. Extremely rare outside Spain — fewer than 50 registered dogs in the US — making it impractical for most buyers.
- Dogue de Bordeaux: French mastiff with a brachycephalic head and massive build. The bulldog connection is debated — some historians trace it to Molosser dogs that predate the English Bulldog entirely.
Breeds to Approach With Caution
- "Designer" Bulldog Mixes (e.g., Bullador, Bullypit, Bulldog Shepherd): These crosses are often marketed as having "hybrid vigor," but crossbreeding does not automatically eliminate the health issues of either parent breed. A Bulldog-Labrador mix can still inherit BOAS from the Bulldog parent and hip dysplasia from both. Always ask for health testing on both parent dogs, not just assurances about the cross.
- Extreme-Type English Bulldogs: Some breeders select for increasingly flat faces, wider bodies, and shorter legs. These dogs often cannot breathe adequately, cannot breed naturally (requiring artificial insemination and C-sections), and may have lifespans under 6 years. The Merck Veterinary Manual outlines the reproductive challenges that extreme conformation creates.
- Unregistered "Exotic" or "Rare" Bulldogs: Any breeder marketing bulldogs as "exotic" (often meaning rare colors like blue, lilac, or merle) is prioritizing cosmetic traits over health. Merle coloring in bulldogs, for example, is linked to the merle gene, which in double-merle form causes deafness and eye defects. The AKC disqualifies merle in most bulldog-type breeds for this reason.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bull Dog Types
Which bull dog type is healthiest?
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier has the longest median lifespan (12–14 years) and the fewest breed-specific health conditions among the breeds on this list. The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog (12–15 years) and Olde English Bulldogge (11–14 years) also rank well for health. The English Bulldog has the worst health profile, with a median lifespan of just 8–10 years and high rates of BOAS, hip dysplasia, and skin fold infections.
Are bull dog types good with children?
Most bulldog-type breeds are excellent with children when properly socialized. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier earned the nickname "nanny dog" in England for its noted patience with kids. French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, and English Bulldogs are consistently rated among the best family dogs. However, all interactions between young children and any dog should be supervised, and children should be taught to read canine body language.
Which bull dog type is easiest to train?
The Boston Terrier and Staffordshire Bull Terrier tend to be the most responsive to training among bulldog types. English Bulldogs and Bullmastiffs are often described as "stubborn" — they respond best to short, positive reinforcement training sessions with high-value treats. Avoid aversive methods like shock collars or alpha rolls, which damage trust and can trigger defensive aggression in strong, powerful breeds.
How much do bull dog types cost to own annually?
Annual costs vary enormously by breed size and health status. For a French Bulldog or Boston Terrier, budget $2,500–$4,500/year (food, routine vet, insurance, supplies). For an English Bulldog, expect $4,000–$7,000/year due to frequent health interventions. For giant breeds like the Bullmastiff or Boerboel, food alone costs $1,200–$1,800/year, with total annual costs of $3,500–$6,000. Pet insurance premiums for bulldog-type breeds average $60–$120/month due to higher claim rates.
Can bull dog types live in hot climates?
Brachycephalic breeds (French Bulldog, English Bulldog, Boston Terrier) are extremely heat-sensitive. Their shortened airways make panting — dogs' primary cooling mechanism — inefficient. In temperatures above 80°F (27°C), these breeds risk heatstroke within minutes of exertion. If you live in a hot climate, the American Bulldog and Staffordshire Bull Terrier handle heat significantly better due to their longer muzzles. Always provide air conditioning, avoid midday exercise, and know the signs of heatstroke (excessive panting, drooling, collapse, vomiting).
Should I adopt or buy a bulldog-type dog?
Both paths are valid. Adoption through breed-specific rescues (e.g., Bulldog Club of America Rescue Network, Staffy Bull Terrier Rescue) typically costs $250–$600 and gives you a dog that has been temperament-tested and veterinary-evaluated. Buying from a responsible breeder costs $1,500–$10,000+ but gives you health history, genetic testing results, and a take-back guarantee. Avoid pet stores, online marketplaces, and any breeder who cannot provide OFA or PennHIP certification for hips, cardiac clearance, and breed-appropriate genetic panels.
Beth Carrasco
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
