Bulldog Puppy Blog

So you need help in determining the ideal English Bulldog? You’ve come to the right place. This article will give you the Characteristics that are most prevalent and characteristic of Bulldogs, and will help you in making the right choice.

1) Bulldog’s Size and Broad Head

The Bulldog is a medium sized dog, much bigger than a lap dog. The weight of an ideal Bulldog should range from anywhere between 40 to 50 pounds, with the bitches being generally lighter than the males. A thumb rule for measuring the ideal height, is that the circumference of the head in front of the ears should be equal to the height of the dog’s shoulders.

2) The Short Muzzle

A bulldog is famous for it’s “sourpuss” look and this primarily comes from the short muzzle. The muzzle must also be turned upward for best effect, and the corner of the mouth must be at a good distance from the eyes.

In addition, the appearance of the English Bulldog is enhanced by the fact that the distance between the tip of the nose and the spot between the eyes is no larger than the distance between the nose and the topmost part of the upper lip. All Bulldog’s must have a black nose

3) The Projection of the Lower Jaw

Also called Mandibular Prognathism, this is another defining feature of the Bulldog. The lower jaw must project out quite a distance compared to the upper jaw and must be slightly turned up.

4) Round, Low Set eyes

The Eyes of the English Bulldog must be as far away from the ears as possible, and as wide apart without the corners going beyond the cheeks when looked on from the front.

5) Low, stout shoulders and feet

The Entire lower and front half of the Bulldog should contribute towards stability. To produce this effect, the shoulders must be low set, far apart. In fact, they should even tilt outward slightly, but not so much that the feet look too close.

The calves should be muscular and when viewed from the front, must have a slightly curved shape. However, under no circumstances, should the bones of the bulldog be curved or bent.

6) Thick neck and Low Back

The neck of the English Bulldog must be thickset, and be slightly curved. The back must begin to fall when it touches the spine, and begin to rise again as it reaches the loins. The height of the loins must be higher than the shoulders of the Bulldog.

7) Short, low hanging tail

The tail of the Bulldog can be either straight, or zigzag, but must be short, and hand lower than the base which should be thick and wide. Also, the tail must not be curved.

8 ) Long, Muscular Hind legs

The Hind legs must be longer than the forelegs, and be thickset and muscular. The hock (or the “knee” of the hind leg), must be low, and bent, giving power to the lower legs. The Hind feet are turned outward, with high toes.

9) Glossy Coat and Loose Skin

The hair on the English Bulldog must be short and straight, and coat smooth and Glossy. The skin must not fit tightly over the dog’s body, and especially around the face. In fact, the entire face should be covered over with wrinkles. From the jaw, two folds must extend down to the chest forming what is called “The Dewlap”.

10) Swinging, Sideways Gait

Quite Characteristic of the Bulldog, is his shuffling and loose jointed gait, swinging them side to side. However, the entire appearance must be one of vigor and strength. This means that the gait must be quick and bouncing, not pendulous. 

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