12 Types of Bull Dog Breeds: Complete Guide to Bulldogs,...
Explore 12 types of bull dog breeds with our detailed comparison. Learn temperament, health risks, costs, and which bully breed fits your lifestyle best.
Selection Criteria for This List
Not every muscular dog qualifies as a "bull breed." For this guide, we include breeds that meet all three criteria:
- Lineage: Direct descent from Old English Bulldog, bull-and-terrier crosses, or recognized "bully" type breeds
- Registry recognition: Registered by at least one major kennel club (AKC, UKC, FCI, or UK Kennel Club)
- Physical type: Stocky build, broad skull, muscular frame, and characteristic short-to-medium coat
We excluded breeds that merely resemble bull types (e.g., Dogue de Bordeaux, Presa Canario) and focused on dogs most people actively search for when looking for "bulldog types."
When someone asks about "types of bull dog breeds," they're usually thinking of one of three distinct groups: the true bulldogs (English, French, American), the bull-and-terrier breeds (Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, Bull Terrier), or the modern "bully" breeds (American Bully variants). These groups share ancestry but differ dramatically in temperament, exercise needs, health profiles, and ownership costs.
Having worked with hundreds of bull breed owners—from first-time French Bulldog parents to experienced American Bully handlers—I've compiled this guide to cut through the confusion. Below you'll find 12 recognized bull-type breeds organized by group, a head-to-head comparison table, and a decision framework to help you choose the right fit for your household.
True Bulldogs: The Brachycephalic Companions
These breeds descend most directly from the original English Bulldog and share the characteristic pushed-in face, wide chest, and low-slung body. They're companion dogs first—bred for temperament over athleticism.
1. English Bulldog
Size class: Medium (40-50 lb / 18-23 kg, 14-15 inches tall)
Key trait: The original—calmest of all bull breeds, minimal exercise needs (20-30 minutes daily)
Profile: The English Bulldog is the blueprint from which all other bulldog types descend. Today's English Bulldog is a far cry from its bull-baiting ancestors: docile, stubborn, and deeply affectionate. They're prone to overheating and require climate-controlled environments—never leave one outdoors in temperatures above 75°F (24°C). According to AKC breed standards, they rank among the most popular breeds in the US despite significant health challenges.
Why it made the list: The archetype of the category. Every other bulldog type is measured against the English Bulldog's conformation and temperament.
2. French Bulldog
Size class: Small (16-28 lb / 7-13 kg, 11-13 inches tall)
Key trait: Compact apartment-friendly size with "bat ears" and clownish personality
Profile: French Bulldogs have overtaken Labrador Retrievers as America's most popular breed. Their small size makes them apartment-viable, but their brachycephalic anatomy means they snore loudly, overheat easily, and often require C-sections for breeding (contributing to their $2,000-$5,000+ puppy price). They need only 15-25 minutes of gentle daily exercise. The Merck Veterinary Manual notes their predisposition to brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS).
Why it made the list: The most accessible bull breed for urban dwellers and first-time owners, with the lowest exercise requirements of any breed on this list.
3. American Bulldog
Size class: Large (60-120 lb / 27-54 kg, 20-28 inches tall)
Key trait: Athletic working bulldog with 60-90 minutes daily exercise needs
Profile: Unlike the English Bulldog, the American Bulldog retained working-dog athleticism. Two recognized types exist: the stockier Johnson (bully) type and the leaner Scott (standard/performance) type. They're confident, protective, and need a job—whether that's weight-pull competition, farm work, or vigorous daily hikes. They're recognized by the UKC and AKC Foundation Stock Service. Expect a lifespan of 10-16 years, notably longer than the English Bulldog's 8-10 years.
Why it made the list: The healthiest and most athletic of the true bulldogs, ideal for active owners who want bulldog temperament in a functional body.
4. Olde English Bulldogge
Size class: Medium-Large (60-80 lb / 27-36 kg, 16-20 inches tall)
Key trait: Deliberately bred to recreate the healthier, more athletic Georgian-era bulldog
Profile: Created in the 1970s by crossing English Bulldogs with American Bulldogs, Bullmastiffs, and American Pit Bull Terriers to produce a healthier bulldog with fewer breathing problems and easier birthing. They're more active and trainable than English Bulldogs while maintaining the gentle, loyal temperament. The UKC recognized the breed in 2014. Puppy prices range from $2,000-$4,500 from health-tested breeders.
Why it made the list: Represents the best compromise for owners who love bulldog looks but want fewer health complications and a longer lifespan (9-14 years).
Bull-and-Terrier Breeds: Athletic and People-Oriented
These breeds descend from crosses between the Old English Bulldog and various terriers, originally developed for bull-baiting and later rat-catching. They combine bulldog tenacity with terrier energy and intelligence. Note: Several breeds in this group are subject to breed-specific legislation (BSL) in certain jurisdictions. Always check your local laws and housing restrictions before committing to a pit bull-type breed.
5. American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT)
Size class: Medium (30-65 lb / 14-29 kg, 17-21 inches tall)
Key trait: Highest dog-to-human friendliness of any bull breed; exceptional athleticism
Profile: The APBT is recognized by the UKC but not the AKC (the AKC recognizes the closely related American Staffordshire Terrier instead). Contrary to popular myth, well-bred APBTs score exceptionally well on temperament tests—the American Temperament Test Society records an 87% pass rate for APBTs, comparable to Golden Retrievers. They need 60-90 minutes of vigorous daily exercise and excel at weight pull, agility, and nose work. Puppy prices range from $1,000-$2,500 from UKC-registered breeders.
Why it made the list: The foundational breed for several modern bully types and the most athletic of the terrier-bull crosses. Essential for understanding the broader bull breed family.
6. American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff)
Size class: Medium (40-70 lb / 18-32 kg, 17-19 inches tall)
Key trait: AKC-recognized show variant with slightly stockier build than the APBT
Profile: The AmStaff and APBT share common ancestry but have diverged through separate breeding programs. AmStaffs tend to be slightly heavier-boned and broader-headed. They're AKC-recognized, which means access to AKC events (conformation, obedience, rally). Temperament is similar to the APBT—extremely people-oriented, often poor dog-to-dog socializers without proper early socialization. Exercise needs: 45-75 minutes daily.
Why it made the list: The AKC-registered alternative for owners who want pit bull-type temperament with access to AKC competitive events.
7. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Size class: Small-Medium (24-38 lb / 11-17 kg, 14-16 inches tall)
Key trait: "Nanny dog" reputation; most compact of the pit bull-type breeds
Profile: Known as the "nanny dog" in its native England for its legendary patience with children, the Staffy is the smallest of the pit bull-type breeds. They're muscular, agile, and surprisingly fast for their size. Their shorter coat requires minimal grooming. They're prone to hereditary cataracts and L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria (a metabolic disorder)—responsible breeders test for both. Puppy prices: $1,500-$3,000.
Why it made the list: The most family-friendly and space-efficient option for owners who want pit bull-type temperament in a smaller, UK-heritage package.
8. Bull Terrier
Size class: Medium (50-70 lb / 23-32 kg, 21-22 inches tall)
Key trait: Unique egg-shaped head and clownish, high-energy personality
Profile: Instantly recognizable by their Roman-nosed, egg-shaped profile, Bull Terriers are the extroverts of the bull breed world. They're notoriously playful, sometimes to the point of being overwhelming—they need 60+ minutes of exercise and mental stimulation daily. The Miniature Bull Terrier variant (10-15 inches, 18-28 lb) offers the same personality in a smaller package. They're prone to skin allergies and compulsive behaviors (tail chasing, flank sucking). Lifespan: 12-14 years.
Why it made the list: The most visually distinctive and personality-driven bull breed, ideal for experienced owners who want an active, entertaining companion.
Modern Bully Breeds: The New Generation
The "bully" category includes breeds developed in the last 30 years, primarily by crossing American Pit Bull Terriers with various bulldog breeds to create a stockier, more muscular dog with a stable companion temperament. This is the fastest-growing segment of the bull breed world.
9. American Bully (Standard)
Size class: Medium-Large (70-120 lb / 32-54 kg, 16-20 inches tall)
Key trait: Intentionally bred for companionship over working ability; calm and confident
Profile: The American Bully was developed in the 1980s-1990s and recognized by the UKC in 2013. The Standard class represents the original vision: a heavily muscled, broad-headed dog with a gentle, outgoing temperament. They need moderate exercise (30-45 minutes daily) and are generally less dog-aggressive than APBTs. The UKC breed standard emphasizes temperament stability. Puppy prices vary enormously by class and bloodline: $2,000-$10,000+.
Why it made the list: The flagship modern bully breed—purpose-built for families who want maximum "bully" appearance with minimum terrier-drive intensity.
10. American Bully (XL)
Size class: Large (80-150+ lb / 36-68+ kg, 20-23 inches tall)
Key trait: Largest bully variant; imposing presence with gentle temperament when well-bred
Profile: The XL class is the tallest American Bully variant (males 20-23 inches at the withers). They're often crossed with American Bulldogs or Mastiff-type breeds to achieve their size. Their larger frame means higher food costs ($80-$120/month on quality kibble), more joint stress, and potentially shorter lifespans (8-12 years). They're subject to the UKC breed standard but face growing scrutiny in jurisdictions considering BSL expansions.
Why it made the list: Represents the upper size extreme of modern bully breeding—important for owners specifically seeking a large-format companion with bully temperament.
11. American Bully (Pocket)
Size class: Small-Medium (30-60 lb / 14-27 kg, 13-17 inches tall)
Key trait: Compact bully build suitable for apartments and smaller homes
Profile: Pocket Bullies pack the muscular, broad-chested bully look into a smaller frame. Males stand 14-17 inches; females 13-16 inches. They're popular with urban owners who want bully aesthetics in a more manageable size. Exercise needs are moderate (30-40 minutes daily). Health concerns mirror the Standard class but may include proportionally more joint issues due to the stocky build on shorter legs. Prices: $2,500-$8,000 depending on bloodline.
Why it made the list: The space-efficient bully option, bridging the gap between French Bulldogs and Standard American Bullies for apartment dwellers.
12. Bullmastiff
Size class: Giant (100-130 lb / 45-59 kg, 24-27 inches tall)
Key trait: Largest breed on this list; gentle giant with guardian instincts
Profile: While technically a mastiff-bulldog cross (originally 60% Mastiff, 40% Bulldog), the Bullmastiff earns its place through its bulldog heritage and characteristic broad, wrinkled face. They're calm indoor companions despite their imposing size, needing only 30-45 minutes of moderate daily exercise. They drool, they snore, and they're deeply loyal. Lifespan is unfortunately short: 7-9 years. Health testing should include hip/elbow scores, cardiac evaluation, and cancer screening. Puppy prices: $1,500-$3,500.
Why it made the list: The largest bull-descended breed commonly kept as a companion, offering a "gentle giant" option for owners with adequate space and budget.
Bull Breed Comparison Table
| Breed | Weight (lb) | Exercise/Day | Lifespan | Puppy Cost | Apartment OK? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Bulldog | 40-50 | 20-30 min | 8-10 yr | $2,500-$5,000 | ✅ Yes |
| French Bulldog | 16-28 | 15-25 min | 10-12 yr | $2,000-$5,000+ | ✅ Yes |
| American Bulldog | 60-120 | 60-90 min | 10-16 yr | $1,500-$3,500 | ❌ No |
| Olde English Bulldogge | 60-80 | 45-60 min | 9-14 yr | $2,000-$4,500 | ⚠️ Possible |
| American Pit Bull Terrier | 30-65 | 60-90 min | 12-16 yr | $1,000-$2,500 | ⚠️ Possible |
| American Staffordshire Terrier | 40-70 | 45-75 min | 12-16 yr | $1,500-$3,000 | ⚠️ Possible |
| Staffordshire Bull Terrier | 24-38 | 45-60 min | 12-14 yr | $1,500-$3,000 | ✅ Yes |
| Bull Terrier | 50-70 | 60+ min | 12-14 yr | $1,500-$4,000 | ⚠️ Possible |
| American Bully (Standard) | 70-120 | 30-45 min | 10-13 yr | $2,000-$10,000 | ⚠️ Possible |
| American Bully (XL) | 80-150+ | 30-45 min | 8-12 yr | $3,000-$15,000+ | ❌ No |
| American Bully (Pocket) | 30-60 | 30-40 min | 10-13 yr | $2,500-$8,000 | ✅ Yes |
| Bullmastiff | 100-130 | 30-45 min | 7-9 yr | $1,500-$3,500 | ❌ No |
How to Choose: Decision Framework
Most people narrow their search to one of three scenarios. Use this flowchart to identify which top-3 breeds fit your situation:
Scenario A: "I live in an apartment and want a low-maintenance companion"
- Do you want the smallest possible dog?
→ YES: French Bulldog — Lightest breed on the list, minimal exercise, ideal for studio/one-bedroom living - Can you handle a medium-sized dog and want better health?
→ YES: Staffordshire Bull Terrier — Compact but sturdy, better longevity than French Bulldogs, excellent with children - Do you want the bully look in a small package?
→ YES: American Bully (Pocket) — Maximum muscle in a smaller frame, though check your lease—some landlords restrict bully breeds
Scenario B: "I'm active and want an athletic outdoor partner"
- Do you want the highest-drive, most athletic breed?
→ YES: American Pit Bull Terrier — Endless stamina, excels at hiking, running, agility, and canine sports - Do you want bulldog looks with real athleticism?
→ YES: American Bulldog — Working-dog heritage means genuine endurance and versatility - Do you want a trainable, sporty terrier personality?
→ YES: Bull Terrier — Clownish energy and intelligence make them excellent sport-dog candidates
Scenario C: "I want a calm, imposing family guardian"
- Is budget flexibility high and space ample?
→ YES: American Bully (Standard or XL) — Bred specifically for stable temperament and impressive presence - Do you want AKC-recognized lineage and show potential?
→ YES: American Staffordshire Terrier — AKC recognition opens conformation and performance events - Do you want the gentlest giant possible?
→ YES: Bullmastiff — Naturally protective without high drive; calm indoor companion despite massive size
Honorable Mentions & Breeds to Consider Carefully
Honorable mentions that narrowly missed the list:
- Miniature Bull Terrier: Identical personality to the standard Bull Terrier in a 18-28 lb package. Great for owners who love the breed but need a smaller dog.
- Boxer: While technically a molosser/bull breed descendant, Boxers have diverged enough in temperament and conformation to warrant their own category. They're higher-energy and leaner than typical bull breeds.
- Ca de Bou (Perro de Presa Mallorquin): A rare FCI-recognized bulldog from Mallorca. Striking breed but extremely uncommon in the US—only a handful of breeders exist.
Breeds to approach with caution for first-time owners:
- American Bully (XL and XXL classes): The extreme size push in some bloodlines has produced dogs with significant orthopedic issues and shortened lifespans. Some XL Bullies exceed 150 lb, creating management challenges. Consult your veterinarian about joint supplements and weight management if you choose this route.
- English Bulldog (show-line extremes): Some show-line English Bulldogs have been bred for such extreme brachycephaly that they struggle to breathe, walk, and thermoregulate. If you choose an English Bulldog, seek breeders who prioritize longer muzzles and open nostrils. The AVMA has published guidance on brachycephalic breed welfare concerns.
- Any bull breed from unverified sources: Backyard breeders and puppy mills disproportionately produce pit bull-type and bully breeds. Without health testing (OFA hips, cardiac clearance, genetic panels), you risk inheriting expensive medical problems. Always verify OFA or PennHIP certifications before purchasing.
Annual Cost of Ownership by Bull Breed Category
Bull breeds vary dramatically in lifetime cost. Here's a realistic first-year budget breakdown by category:
| Expense | Small (Frenchie, Staffy) | Medium (APBT, AmStaff, Bully Std) | Large/Giant (Am. Bulldog, Bullmastiff, XL Bully) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quality food (annual) | $360-$600 | $600-$960 | $960-$1,440 |
| Pet insurance (annual) | $600-$1,200 | $600-$1,400 | $800-$1,800 |
| Veterinary care (routine) | $400-$700 | $400-$700 | $500-$900 |
| Training classes | $200-$600 | $200-$800 | $300-$1,000 |
| Estimated annual total (after puppy purchase) | $1,560-$3,100 | $1,800-$3,860 | $2,560-$5,140 |
Important insurance note: Some pet insurance companies and homeowner's insurance policies restrict or surcharge coverage for pit bull-type breeds and American Bullies. Before purchasing, confirm that your insurer covers your chosen breed. Companies like Trupanion, Healthy Paws, and Nationwide generally do not exclude specific breeds, but policies vary by state.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best types of bull dog breeds for first-time owners?
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier and French Bulldog are generally the most forgiving breeds for new owners. Staffies are eager to please, highly trainable with positive reinforcement methods, and their moderate size makes them manageable. French Bulldogs are low-energy and adaptable but come with higher health maintenance costs. Avoid starting with American Pit Bull Terriers or XL Bullies—these breeds benefit from experienced handlers who understand canine body language and socialization protocols.
Why is the American Pit Bull Terrier on this list if it's banned in some areas?
The APBT is foundational to understanding bull breeds—several modern breeds (American Bully, AmStaff) derive directly from APBT stock. While breed-specific legislation (BSL) exists in some jurisdictions, the AVMA, ASPCA, and AKC all oppose BSL as ineffective. We include the APBT because it remains legal in most US jurisdictions and is a beloved companion for millions of families. Always verify your local laws and housing restrictions before committing to any breed.
How do bully breeds compare to pit bull breeds in temperament?
Bully breeds (American Bully variants) were specifically bred to reduce terrier drive and dog-to-dog aggression while maintaining the muscular build. The result is generally a calmer, less prey-driven dog than the APBT. However, individual variation is enormous—temperament depends more on genetics of specific parents, early socialization (critical window: 3-16 weeks), and training consistency than on breed label alone. Neither group is inherently aggressive toward humans; both groups may show same-sex dog aggression without proper socialization.
Which bull breed has the fewest health problems?
The American Pit Bull Terrier and Staffordshire Bull Terrier are generally the healthiest breeds on this list, with lifespans of 12-16 years and fewer breed-specific genetic conditions. The American Bulldog also ranks well for longevity (10-16 years). At the other extreme, English Bulldogs have the most health challenges—brachycephalic airway syndrome, hip dysplasia, cherry eye, skin fold infections, and difficulty breeding naturally. If minimizing vet bills is a priority, avoid extreme brachycephalic breeds.
Can I adopt a bull breed from a rescue instead of buying from a breeder?
Absolutely—and for bull breeds, rescue is an especially strong option. Pit bull-type dogs are disproportionately represented in shelters, meaning thousands of wonderful, temperament-tested dogs are available through breed-specific rescues. Organizations like the Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club of America Rescue, Pit Bull Rescue Central, and local SPCAs often have adult bull breeds with known temperaments, established training, and spay/neuter already completed. Adoption fees typically range from $150-$500—a fraction of breeder prices. For first-time owners, an adult rescue with a known temperament can be a safer bet than an unpredictable puppy.
Veterinary reminder: Bull breeds are predisposed to several conditions that benefit from early screening. Ask your veterinarian about hip scoring (PennHIP or OFA), cardiac evaluation, and breed-specific genetic panels. Early detection of hip dysplasia, heart conditions, and hereditary cataracts can significantly improve long-term outcomes and reduce treatment costs.
Priya Sutaria
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
