The body structure and the facial expression of the Bulldogs usually give us the image of a fierce and grumpy dog, which does not like to make friends. But what is the truth in all this? What is the true temperament of the bulldog? Does the character of the breed vary depending on the type?
Read on below to find out what bulldogs are like, what to expect from them as a pet, and which one might be right for you: English, American, or French.
Table of Contents
What temperament do bulldogs have?
In general, bulldogs exhibit a friendly, protective, and loyal personality towards their owners. They tend to do very well when they receive enough attention, as well as proper socialization and training from puppyhood. However, temperament traits can vary depending on the type or bloodline.
English bulldog: the most charismatic couch companion
Personality and behavior
Known for their sweet and friendly temperament, English Bulldogs make great family pets. They exhibit dignified, relaxed, calm, and fun personalities. They love to rest next to their owner, whom they will try to amuse with some other cuteness.
They are friendly with almost everyone around them, including children and other pets, although they may not always get along with other dogs, especially if they are of the same sex. They are usually friendly with strangers, but some specimens can show a reserved attitude.
Despite the friendly disposition, one must not forget his past as a bull-baiting dog. The English bulldog is brave, trustworthy, and committed. His tenacity sometimes leads him to be stubborn; once he decides to do something, it is very difficult to change his mind.
Coexistence at home
He is often described as one of the best companions to live with, and the truth is that there are several reasons to think so. This bulldog is a calm dog that does not bark much, does not need too much exercise, can adapt to different environments, and does not require a high level of maintenance.
His tendency to bark is significantly low. The protective instinct may lead them to occasionally bark, but only if there is something really suspicious within their “domain”.
Having a low energy level, this breed is ideal for those whose lifestyle is not very active. A short walk or daily play session is all it takes to keep him happy. In fact, they tend to tire quite quickly.
Expert tip. English bulldogs need to live in an air-conditioned house and shouldn’t spend a lot of time outside in hot weather.
Something that can discourage some people is that being a brachycephalic dog, it has a certain tendency to snore.
Training
The English bulldog has a medium level of intelligence, but training it can be quite a challenge. An owner may have difficulty teaching even the simplest of tricks and commands. On the one hand, he is a lazy and laid-back dog by nature, and on the other, he prefers to think for himself rather than follow orders. Sometimes he can be quite stubborn.
It is important to provide socialization and obedience classes from puppyhood.
Expert tip. If you want to train an English bulldog to walk in a harness, you should start at a very young age, as this dog is known to love to pull on the leash.
General behavioral characteristics
- Affectivity level: Medium
- Friendship level: Medium
- Aggressiveness level: Low
- Tolerance to children: High
- Tolerance to other pets: Medium
- Energy levels: Low
- Exercise Need: Low
- Intelligence: Average
- Barking tendency: Low
- American Bulldog: A mix of gentleness with protective instincts
American Bulldog
Personality and behavior
As a direct descendant of the English bulldog, the American bulldog exhibits practically the same temperament, with some differences due to its marked origin as a guard and working dog.
This stocky, muscular bully is described as an affectionate and protective pet. He has an alert, trustworthy personality and is very devoted to people. He is an excellent family dog, capable of creating strong bonds of love and protection towards children. That same affectionate nature can lead you to be territorial and suspicious.
As an American Bulldog owner, you can expect the utmost in loyalty, stamina, and willingness to work, along with affection and gentleness. Likewise, it is a race with strong protective instincts; These dogs are well known for their acts of heroism towards their owners. It is normal for them to be reserved with strangers.
Timely Training and socialization are essential to avoid problems with people and animals outside the environment. Fortunately, their intelligence makes them highly adaptable and trainable.
Coexistence at home
Unlike the English, the American bulldog is more active and playful, which is why it is recommended for active people. Long walks and play sessions are very important in keeping a pet happy and stable in the home.
It is not the best dog to live in apartments or small spaces that do not allow it to burn energy. When he’s not physically and mentally stimulated, he can get bored, destructive, and start chewing on things he shouldn’t.
His massive muscular build makes him an incredible jumper, and thus an escape artist. He watches out for gaps and openings in the fences.
Training
Courageous, protective, and willful in temperament, this breed thrives best when trained from an early age. A positive training approach is recommended, as deep down he is sensitive and does not respond well to punishment.
An American bulldog will learn quickly and will always respect his master, as long as he is consistent and sure of himself.
Expert tip: It is imperative that their owner knows how to establish himself as the sole leader of the pack.
General behavioral traits
- Level of affectivity: High
- Friendship level: High
- Aggressiveness level: Medium
- Tolerance to children: High
- Tolerance to other pets: Medium
- Energy Levels: Medium
- Need for exercise: High
- Intelligence: Average
- Barking tendency: Medium
Recommended: How Many Types of American Bulldog Are There? Features and Differences + Photos
French Bulldog – lots of energy and fun in a small body
Personality and behavior
The French bulldog, affectionately called the Frenchie, is a happy dog by nature. It could be said that his energy of him exceeds his size; he is a pet who loves to play and run. Fun, love, and charisma are some of the main traits of his temperament.
It is also known to show a marked protective instinct towards its owners. Apparently, this behavior is derived from his self-centered personality of a spoiled dog; French bulldogs like to be the center of attention and as such can become protective if they feel ignored.
That doesn’t stop him from getting along well with strangers. Actually, he is quite sociable and feels good about meeting new people. The more attention she gets, the better.
He gets along well with children, even toddlers. The Frenchie has no age limit when it comes to making people laugh and play
Coexistence at home
Despite being an active and content bulldog, he is not considered an overly excited pet for the family environment. Most of his energy appears during the game, but the rest of the time he will behave like the classic lapdog. He is a good dog for people who are elderly or who live alone.
It does not have a great demand for physical exercise. A short walk or a game session a day is enough.
He doesn’t bark much, just a little occasionally. This, coupled with its small size, makes it even more ideal for apartment living or small spaces.
French bulldogs love human company, which is why they do not tolerate solitude well. It is a breed especially prone to separation anxiety when the owner leaves them alone for a long time. They thrive best when someone is home all day.
It may interest you: The 25 Smallest Dog Breeds in the World [+Photos and Description]
Training
While the humorous nature and mischievous behavior of a French bulldog may seem amusing to you, it’s important to make sure you let them know there are limits. It is normal that they do not know how to differentiate when something is unacceptable, but that must be corrected in time.
Surely you already know that this breed is famous for its tendency to be stubborn. If bad habits are not eliminated early in the dog’s life, then they will be almost impossible to eradicate. That said, Frenchies need a firm and self-confident owner who is capable of giving himself respect.
If they don’t feel like it, they won’t pay attention to you. Fortunately, they are very intelligent, hence they can learn easily.
As with its close cousins, socialization from puppyhood is recommended. This will result in a dog that is more calm, stable, and comfortable with other people and animals around him.
General behavioral characteristics
- Level of affectivity: High
- Friendship level: High
- Aggressiveness level: Low
- Tolerance to children: Medium
- Tolerance to other pets: Medium
- Energy Levels: Medium
- Exercise Need: Low
- Intelligence: Average
- Barking tendency: Medium
