12 Bulldog Type Dog Breeds: Bull Breeds & Molosser Cousins
Explore 12 bulldog type dog breeds with detailed profiles, health data, cost breakdowns, and a decision framework to find the right bull breed for your lifestyle.
What Defines a Bulldog Type Dog Breed?
When prospective owners search for bulldog type dog breeds, they're usually drawn to a distinctive combination of traits: a stocky, muscular build, a broad skull with a short muzzle, and a temperament that blends stubborn confidence with deep loyalty to family. But "bulldog type" isn't a formal kennel club classification — it's a descriptive category spanning several breeds that share ancestry in the bull-and-terrier and molosser lineages of Europe.
To qualify as a bulldog type dog breed on this list, a breed must meet at least three of the following five criteria:
- Brachycephalic or mesocephalic skull: A noticeably shortened muzzle relative to skull length
- Stocky, muscular build: Body weight concentrated in a compact frame with broad chest
- Bull-baiting or guardian ancestry: Historical roots in bull sports, livestock guarding, or property protection
- AKC/UKC recognition in Working, Companion, or Terrier groups with breed standards emphasizing substance over speed
- Shared health profile: Predisposition to brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), hip dysplasia, or skin fold dermatitis
We've organized the 12 breeds below into three logical groups by primary function and size class so you can quickly find the category that fits your situation. Each entry includes specific data — not vague generalizations — so you can make an informed decision.
Bulldog Type Dog Breeds: The Core Bulldogs
These breeds carry the word "bulldog" in their name and represent the most direct descendants of the original Old English Bulldog used in bull-baiting before the sport was banned in 1835.
1. English Bulldog
Size class: Medium (40–50 lb / 18–23 kg, 14–15 inches tall)
Key trait: The archetypal bulldog — extreme brachycephaly, unmistakable wrinkled face, and a low-slung, massive body
The English Bulldog is the breed most people picture when they hear "bulldog." According to AKC breed standards, males should weigh around 50 lb and females around 40 lb. Their lifespan averages 8–10 years, one of the shorter ranges among all recognized breeds. They rank consistently in the top 10 most popular AKC registrations. Expect to pay $2,500–$5,000 from a responsible breeder who conducts health testing for cardiac and patellar conditions.
2. American Bulldog
Size class: Large to extra-large (60–120 lb / 27–54 kg, 20–28 inches tall)
Key trait: Athletic and functional — far less extreme in conformation than the English Bulldog, built for farm work and catch-dog duties
The American Bulldog is a working dog, not a couch companion. Two main types exist: the Johnson (larger, bulkier) and the Scott (leaner, more athletic). Recognized by the UKC but not the AKC (they are in the AKC Foundation Stock Service as of 2026), these dogs need 60–90 minutes of vigorous daily exercise. Lifespan runs 10–16 years, significantly longer than the English Bulldog, reflecting less extreme selective breeding. Puppy prices range $1,500–$3,500 from tested lines.
3. French Bulldog
Size class: Small (16–28 lb / 7–13 kg, 11–13 inches tall)
Key trait: Compact apartment-friendly bulldog with bat ears and clownish personality — the #1 most popular AKC breed since 2022
French Bulldogs were the most registered AKC breed for four consecutive years through 2025. Their small size and moderate exercise needs (20–30 minutes of walking daily) make them ideal for urban living. However, their extreme brachycephaly means they are highly susceptible to heat stroke — never exercise a Frenchie when temperatures exceed 75°F (24°C). Responsible breeders charge $3,000–$6,000+ and should provide BOAS screening results. Lifespan: 10–12 years.
4. Olde English Bulldogge
Size class: Medium-large (60–85 lb / 27–39 kg, 16–20 inches tall)
Key trait: A modern recreation of the healthier, more athletic 18th-century bulldog — bred specifically to eliminate the extreme health problems of the English Bulldog
Developed in the 1970s by David Leavitt using English Bulldog, American Bulldog, American Pit Bull Terrier, and Bullmastiff crosses, the Olde English Bulldogge is recognized by the UKC. The breed was designed for function: longer muzzle (reduced BOAS risk), easier whelping (fewer C-sections required), and longer lifespan (9–14 years). They're more active and trainable than English Bulldogs, needing 45–60 minutes of daily exercise. Puppy cost: $2,000–$4,000.
Bull-and-Terrier Cousins: Breeds With Bulldog Ancestry
These breeds share the bull-baiting heritage but were crossed with terriers to create more agile, driven dogs. They carry the bulldog's stocky build but tend to be more energetic and less brachycephalic.
5. American Staffordshire Terrier
Size class: Medium (40–70 lb / 18–32 kg, 17–19 inches tall)
Key trait: Powerful, people-oriented bull-and-terrier with exceptional bite inhibition when properly socialized
The AmStaff is the AKC-recognized counterpart to the American Pit Bull Terrier (the AKC split from the UKC registry in 1936). They carry the broad skull and muscular build of bulldog ancestry but with a longer muzzle and far fewer respiratory issues. Highly trainable with positive reinforcement methods, they excel in weight pull, agility, and therapy work. Note: breed-specific legislation (BSL) affects AmStaffs in many US jurisdictions — check your local ordinances before committing. Lifespan: 12–16 years. Cost: $1,500–$3,000.
6. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Size class: Small-medium (24–38 lb / 11–17 kg, 14–16 inches tall)
Key trait: The "nanny dog" — exceptionally patient with children despite a muscular, intimidating appearance
Known as the Staffy, this breed originated in England's Black Country from Old English Bulldog and terrier crosses. They are notably smaller than the AmStaff but equally muscular. Staffies earned the "nanny dog" nickname in Victorian England for their reliability around children. They are high-energy dogs needing 45–60 minutes of activity and mental stimulation daily. One key trait: Staffies have a very short, smooth coat that provides almost no insulation — they need sweaters in cold weather and cooling measures in heat. Lifespan: 12–14 years. Cost: $1,500–$3,500.
7. Bull Terrier
Size class: Medium (50–70 lb / 23–32 kg, 21–22 inches tall)
Key trait: The only breed with an egg-shaped head and triangular eyes — a truly unique skull structure among bulldog-type breeds
Bull Terriers diverge from typical bulldog conformation with their distinctive Roman-nosed profile and lack of a stop (the angle between muzzle and forehead). They are intensely social, sometimes to the point of separation anxiety, and are known for their "zoomies" and comedic behavior. Two varieties exist: Standard and Miniature (the Miniature Bull Terrier is a separate AKC breed at 10–15 lb). They need 60+ minutes of exercise daily and respond best to reward-based training. Deafness (especially in white Bull Terriers) and compulsive behaviors like tail-chasing are breed-specific concerns. Lifespan: 12–13 years. Cost: $1,500–$3,000.
8. Boxer
Size class: Large (50–80 lb / 23–36 kg, 21–25 inches tall)
Key trait: The athletic brachycephalic — moderate muzzle shortening with the endurance and playfulness of a working breed
Boxers descend from the extinct Bullenbeisser (German bull-biter) crossed with English Bulldogs. They carry bulldog-type ancestry but are far more athletic, capable of sustained running and jumping. Their brachycephaly is moderate — they breathe more easily than English or French Bulldogs but still face heat sensitivity. Boxers are notoriously playful well into adulthood and bond intensely with families. Major health concerns include cardiomyopathy (affecting an estimated 5–10% of the breed), aortic stenosis, and cancer predisposition — they have one of the highest cancer rates among all breeds. Lifespan: 10–12 years. Cost: $1,500–$3,500.
Molosser & Mastiff-Type Cousins: The Giant Bulldogs
These breeds share the bulldog's broad skull and guardian instincts but were developed primarily as estate guardians and livestock protectors rather than bull-baiting dogs. They are significantly larger and generally calmer.
9. Bullmastiff
Size class: Extra-large (100–130 lb / 45–59 kg, 24–27 inches tall)
Key trait: A 60% Mastiff / 40% Bulldog cross developed to silently track and pin poachers on English estates
The Bullmastiff was created in the mid-1800s by crossing English Mastiffs with Old English Bulldogs. They are powerful but surprisingly gentle indoors, often described as "low-energy giants" needing only 30–45 minutes of moderate walking daily. Their short muzzle causes moderate BOAS risk. Training requires patience — Bullmastiffs are intelligent but independent, and harsh methods shut them down completely. Use positive reinforcement with high-value treats. Drool management is a daily reality with this breed. Lifespan: 7–9 years. Cost: $2,000–$4,000.
10. Dogue de Bordeaux (French Mastiff)
Size class: Extra-large (99–150 lb / 45–68 kg, 23–27 inches tall)
Key trait: Massive head — the largest head-to-body ratio of any recognized breed — with deep facial wrinkles requiring daily cleaning
The DDB is one of the oldest French breeds, predating the English Bulldog's modern form. Their skull circumference can exceed 28 inches in males. They are intensely loyal and tend to bond with one primary person. Exercise needs are moderate (30–45 minutes daily), but they are not apartment dogs due to sheer size and heat vulnerability. Skin fold dermatitis is nearly universal without diligent wrinkle care — plan to clean facial folds daily with veterinary-recommended wipes. Lifespan is unfortunately short: 5–8 years, one of the briefest among all breeds. Cost: $2,500–$5,000.
11. Cane Corso
Size class: Extra-large (88–110 lb / 40–50 kg, 23–28 inches tall)
Key trait: The Italian mastiff — athletic, intelligent, and highly trainable with serious guardian drive
The Cane Corso descends from Roman war dogs (canis Pugnaces) and was used for property guarding, livestock protection, and boar hunting in Italy. Unlike many bulldog-type breeds, the Corso is highly athletic and capable of sustained physical work. They need experienced owners who can provide consistent training, early socialization (critical during the 8–16 week window), and 60+ minutes of daily exercise. Corsos are not recommended for first-time dog owners. Their short coat is low-maintenance, and their moderate muzzle length means fewer breathing issues than extreme brachycephalics. Lifespan: 9–12 years. Cost: $2,500–$5,000+ from health-tested lines.
12. Ca de Bou (Perro de Presa Mallorquin)
Size class: Large (66–84 lb / 30–38 kg, 20–23 inches tall)
Key trait: Rare Spanish bulldog — one of the least known bulldog type dog breeds, originating from bull-baiting dogs brought to Mallorca
The Ca de Bou is recognized by the FCI but not the AKC, making it extremely rare in the United States (estimated fewer than 500 registered individuals). They descend from Iberian bulldog-type dogs used in bull-baiting in the Balearic Islands. Temperament is calm and confident at home but alert and territorial with strangers. They require an experienced owner familiar with guardian breeds. Finding a reputable breeder in the US is challenging — most puppies must be imported from Spain or Eastern Europe. Lifespan: 10–12 years. Cost: $3,000–$6,000+ including import expenses.
Bulldog Type Breeds: Head-to-Head Comparison
| Breed | Weight (lb) | Lifespan (yr) | Exercise (min/day) | BOAS Risk | First-Year Cost Est. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Bulldog | 40–50 | 8–10 | 20–30 | Very High | $6,000–$10,000 |
| American Bulldog | 60–120 | 10–16 | 60–90 | Low | $4,000–$7,000 |
| French Bulldog | 16–28 | 10–12 | 20–30 | Very High | $6,500–$12,000 |
| Olde English Bulldogge | 60–85 | 9–14 | 45–60 | Moderate | $4,500–$8,000 |
| American Staffordshire Terrier | 40–70 | 12–16 | 45–60 | Low | $3,500–$6,500 |
| Staffordshire Bull Terrier | 24–38 | 12–14 | 45–60 | Low-Moderate | $3,500–$6,500 |
| Bull Terrier | 50–70 | 12–13 | 60+ | None | $3,500–$6,000 |
| Boxer | 50–80 | 10–12 | 60–90 | Moderate | $4,000–$7,500 |
| Bullmastiff | 100–130 | 7–9 | 30–45 | Moderate | $5,000–$9,000 |
| Dogue de Bordeaux | 99–150 | 5–8 | 30–45 | High | $5,500–$10,000 |
| Cane Corso | 88–110 | 9–12 | 60+ | Low | $5,000–$9,000 |
| Ca de Bou | 66–84 | 10–12 | 45–60 | Moderate | $6,000–$12,000 |
First-year cost estimates include puppy purchase price, initial veterinary exams and vaccinations ($500–$1,200), spay/neuter ($300–$800), supplies ($400–$800), and pet insurance premiums ($400–$900/year). Ongoing annual costs after year one typically run $1,800–$3,500 depending on breed health.
Health Considerations Across Bulldog Type Dog Breeds
The single most important factor in choosing a bulldog type dog breed is understanding the health trade-offs associated with brachycephalic conformation. According to AVMA resources on breed-related health, breeds with shortened muzzles face a cluster of related conditions known collectively as brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS).
BOAS components include:
- Elongated soft palate (obstructs airflow into trachea)
- Stenotic nares (narrowed nostrils restricting air intake)
- Everted laryngeal saccules (tissue protruding into airway)
- Hypoplastic trachea (narrower-than-normal windpipe)
The Merck Veterinary Manual estimates that BOAS affects 50% or more of English Bulldogs and French Bulldogs. Surgical correction of stenotic nares and elongated soft palate costs $2,000–$5,000 per procedure and is often necessary by age 2–4 in severely affected dogs.
Other shared health risks across bulldog type breeds:
- Hip dysplasia: Prevalence ranges from 15% (Staffordshire Bull Terrier) to 39% (English Bulldog) based on OFA data
- Skin fold dermatitis: Nearly universal in breeds with heavy facial wrinkling (English Bulldog, Dogue de Bordeaux, Bullmastiff)
- Cherry eye: Prolapse of the third eyelid gland, common in English Bulldogs and French Bulldogs; surgical correction costs $300–$800 per eye
- Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM): Elevated risk in Boxers and Bullmastiffs specifically
- Cruciate ligament tears: Stocky, heavy breeds put disproportionate stress on knee joints; TPLO surgery costs $3,000–$5,500
How to Choose the Right Bulldog Type Breed: A Decision Framework
Choosing among bulldog type dog breeds comes down to matching the breed's requirements with your realistic lifestyle constraints. Use this decision flowchart to narrow your options:
- What is your living situation?
- Apartment or condo → French Bulldog, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, or English Bulldog
- House with fenced yard → American Bulldog, Boxer, Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier
- Rural property with acreage → Cane Corso, American Bulldog, Bullmastiff
- How much daily exercise can you commit to?
- Under 30 minutes → English Bulldog, French Bulldog, Bullmastiff
- 30–60 minutes → Olde English Bulldogge, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Dogue de Bordeaux
- 60+ minutes → American Bulldog, Boxer, Cane Corso, Bull Terrier
- What is your experience level with dogs?
- First-time owner → French Bulldog, English Bulldog, Boxer (with puppy classes)
- Some experience → Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Bull Terrier, Olde English Bulldogge
- Experienced guardian-breed owner → Cane Corso, Bullmastiff, Dogue de Bordeaux, Ca de Bou
- What is your budget for the first year?
- Under $5,000 → American Staffordshire Terrier (adoption often available), Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- $5,000–$8,000 → American Bulldog, Boxer, Olde English Bulldogge
- $8,000+ → French Bulldog, English Bulldog, Cane Corso, Dogue de Bordeaux
- How important is lifespan to you?
- Want 12+ years → American Bulldog, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier
- Accept 8–12 years → French Bulldog, Boxer, Olde English Bulldogge, Cane Corso
- Accept under 10 years → English Bulldog, Bullmastiff, Dogue de Bordeaux
The Top 3 Decision Shortlist
If you've narrowed it down but can't decide between the most commonly compared bulldog type breeds, here's how the top three stack up for specific situations:
Best for apartment dwellers: French Bulldog
Compact size, low exercise needs, and relatively quiet (they bark less than most breeds). Trade-off: highest veterinary costs due to BOAS and heat sensitivity. Budget for $2,000–$4,000 in vet bills above routine care over the dog's lifetime.
Best for active families with kids: Boxer
Playful, patient, and athletic enough to keep up with children. They retain puppy-like energy through age 3–4. Trade-off: high cancer risk means pet insurance is essential — expect $50–$80/month for comprehensive coverage.
Best for experienced owners wanting a healthier bulldog: Olde English Bulldogge
Retains the bulldog look with dramatically improved health outcomes. Longer muzzle means easier breathing, fewer C-sections for breeding females, and 2–4 additional years of life compared to the English Bulldog. Trade-off: less widely available — you may need to join a breeder waitlist of 6–12 months.
Honorable Mentions and Breeds to Consider Carefully
Honorable mentions — breeds that narrowly missed the main list but still fit the bulldog type category:
- Miniature Bull Terrier: A separate AKC breed at 10–15 lb. Same egg-shaped head and clownish personality as the standard Bull Terrier in a smaller package. High energy relative to size.
- Presa Canario (Dogo Canario): A Spanish mastiff-type breed from the Canary Islands. 84–130 lb with serious guardian drive. FCI-recognized but extremely rare in the US. Not recommended for novice owners.
- Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog: A rare American bulldog type originally from Georgia. 55–90 lb, recognized by the UKC. Very low population — finding a reputable breeder requires extensive research.
- Victorian Bulldog: A UK-based recreation breed (not AKC or UKC recognized as of 2026) aiming for the healthier pre-1835 bulldog type. Primarily available through British breeders.
Breeds often confused with bulldogs but outside this category:
- American Pit Bull Terrier: Closely related to the AmStaff but UKC-registered. More terrier influence, leaner build. Often grouped with bulldog types due to shared ancestry but functionally more terrier than bulldog.
- Boston Terrier: Despite the "terrier" name and brachycephalic face, the Boston Terrier was developed from English Bulldog and English White Terrier (extinct) crosses. At 12–25 lb, they are small companion dogs rather than true bulldog types.
- Shar-Pei: Wrinkled and stocky, but of East Asian spitz-type ancestry — not related to European bulldog lineages at all.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bulldog Type Dog Breeds
What are the best bulldog type dog breeds for first-time owners?
The French Bulldog and English Bulldog are the most forgiving for beginners due to their low exercise requirements and generally easygoing temperaments. However, first-time owners should budget for higher veterinary costs — both breeds average $800–$1,500/year in health-related expenses beyond routine preventive care. The Boxer is also a reasonable first breed if you can commit to 60+ minutes of daily exercise and enroll in puppy socialization classes during the critical 8–16 week window.
Why are bulldog type breeds so expensive?
Several factors drive high prices: English Bulldogs and French Bulldogs frequently require artificial insemination and cesarean sections for breeding (C-sections cost $1,500–$4,000 per delivery), which limits litter sizes and increases breeder costs. Health testing (OFA hips, cardiac exams, BOAS screening) adds $500–$1,500 per breeding pair. High demand — especially for French Bulldogs, the #1 AKC breed — allows breeders to charge premium prices. Adoption from breed-specific rescues can reduce costs to $300–$600.
Which bulldog type breed has the fewest health problems?
The American Bulldog and Staffordshire Bull Terrier consistently show the lowest rates of inherited disease among bulldog type breeds. The American Bulldog's longer muzzle eliminates BOAS risk, and their working-dog breeding history has maintained genetic diversity. Staffordshire Bull Terriers have relatively low rates of hip dysplasia (approximately 15% per OFA data) compared to 39% in English Bulldogs. The Olde English Bulldogge was specifically designed to reduce health problems and falls in the middle — healthier than the English Bulldog but not as robust as the American Bulldog.
Can bulldog type breeds live in hot climates?
Brachycephalic bulldog types (English Bulldog, French Bulldog, Dogue de Bordeaux) are at serious risk of heat stroke in temperatures above 80°F (27°C). If you live in the southern US, choose a breed with a longer muzzle: American Bulldog, Cane Corso, or Boxer. All bulldog types should have air conditioning access and should never be exercised during peak heat hours (10am–4pm). Signs of heat emergency include excessive panting, dark red gums, vomiting, and collapse — seek emergency veterinary care immediately.
Are bulldog type dog breeds good with children?
Most bulldog types are excellent with children when properly socialized. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier earned the historical nickname "nanny dog" for its patience with kids. Boxers and English Bulldogs are notably tolerant and playful. However, any dog over 50 lb can accidentally injure a toddler through exuberant play, and all interactions between dogs and young children should be supervised. Teach children to respect the dog's resting space — resource guarding can develop in any breed if a dog is repeatedly disturbed while eating or sleeping.
How do I find a responsible breeder for bulldog type breeds?
Use the AKC Marketplace (marketplace.akc.org) for AKC-recognized breeds, or contact the breed's national club for breeder referrals. A responsible breeder will: provide OFA or PennHIP hip certifications for both parents, show you the breeding dogs in person, offer a written health guarantee (minimum 2 years for genetic conditions), require a spay/neuter contract for pet-quality puppies, and agree to take the dog back at any point in its life if you cannot keep it. Avoid breeders who have multiple litters available year-round, sell exclusively online without video calls, or cannot provide health testing documentation.
Adoption is also a valid and often rewarding option. Breed-specific rescues like Bulldog Rescue Network, French Bulldog Rescue Network, and American Staffordshire Terrier Rescue place dogs that have been temperament-tested and veterinary-evaluated, typically for $300–$600.
Aaron Whyte
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
