Requirements
Indoor
The English Bulldog is an ideal apartment dog and does well indoors. Air-conditioned or cool spaces are a requirement as excessive heat can cause this breed to overheat. They do not need much exercise and are happy to nap most of the day.
Outdoor
A Bulldog does not require much space to run. They are a slow, lumbering breed, and while they'll have bursts of energy, they prefer a leisurely stroll to games of chase. Bulldogs do not tolerate hot or cold weather, so a moderate climate is ideal. Bulldogs cannot swim and should be well supervised near pools or water to prevent accidents.
Exercise
Though short and stocky, the brawny Bulldog still enjoys a bit of exercise throughout the day. He will usually be ready to call it a day after a 20-minute walk. Enough exercise is important to prevent weight issues that can exacerbate already present breathing concerns.
Endurance
The very low endurance of the Bulldog breed is partly attributed to the brachycephalic face and tendency to overheat.
Activity distance rating
- Running Miles: The Bulldog is not made for running, and though there may be short bursts of activity during play, running should not be expected of this breed.
- Hiking Miles: The Bulldog is not well-suited to the trail due to the risk of overheating and breathing problems.
Food
This breed may require a soy-free diet as many Bulldogs are allergic to soy. The general recommendation for how much high-quality dry dog food (based on average weight and activity level) to feed is 1 ½ to 2 cups of food per day. Free feeding is not ideal for the Bulldog as they are prone to overeating and bloat is a greater risk with the breed, so food should be split between two or three meals.
Bulldogs can exhibit food guarding behaviors, despite their easygoing nature. Feeding Bulldogs and other dogs separately may be necessary to prevent resource guarding. Any instances of resource guarding should be discussed with a trainer before it escalates. Children should never be allowed to touch or remove food from any dog while it is eating.
Alone Time
Though the Bulldog is a loyal family dog, they do not mind being left to their own devices. They're always happy to take a little snooze, and they don't require a person to entertain them constantly. They can be known to chew, so rugged toys and a dog-proof play area should be provided. Crate training may be necessary.