Australian Bulldog vs English Bulldog: Breed Comparison Guide

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Posted Oct 22, 2024

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French Bulldog Playing with Ball
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The Australian Bulldog and the English Bulldog are two beloved breeds that share some similarities, but also have some key differences. Both breeds are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them great companions for families.

One of the main differences between the two breeds is their origin. The English Bulldog has a long history dating back to the 13th century, while the Australian Bulldog was developed in the 1990s as a more athletic and heat-tolerant version of the English Bulldog.

In terms of physical characteristics, the Australian Bulldog is generally taller and leaner than the English Bulldog, with a more muscular build.

English Background

The English Bulldog has a long and complex history that's quite different from the Australian Bulldog's. They originated in England.

They have a violent past as a result of the cruel practice of bullbaiting. This involved them competing against bulls.

Their breeding process was influenced by combat mastiff bloodlines. As a result, they developed a powerful physique and large heads.

Credit: youtube.com, Amazing facts of Australian Bulldog | Interesting Facts | The Beast World

Unfortunately, this breeding process also led to several health issues. Some of these issues are also present in the Australian Bulldog breed.

Today, English Bulldogs are well-behaved and tamed dogs. They've shed their violent reputation thanks to responsible breeding and dog ownership.

The American Kennel Club currently ranks them as the fifth most widely known dog breed. This is among other popular breeds like the French Bulldog, German Shepherd, Labrador Retriever, and Golden Retriever.

Physical Characteristics

The Australian bulldog is a larger breed compared to its English cousin. They typically weigh between 50-75 lbs (23-34kg) for males, while English bulldogs usually weigh between 40-50 lbs.

Their height also differs, with Australian bulldogs standing taller at 17-20 inches (45-50cm), and English bulldogs coming in slightly shorter at 12-16 inches (31-40 cm).

Weight and Size

The Australian Bulldog is significantly larger than its English counterpart.

An average Australian Bulldog male weighs about 50-75 lbs (23-34kg), while an English Bulldog typically weighs between 40-50 pounds.

Credit: youtube.com, Is It Heavy or Light? | Jack Hartmann Measurement Song

Australian Bulldogs are also taller, with some growing as tall as 17 inches, compared to the English Bulldog's maximum height of 15 inches.

The Australian Bulldog's larger size is largely due to its pig hunting genes, which contributed to its height and overall build.

Here's a comparison of the two breeds' weights and heights:

Both breeds are prone to weight gain and obesity, so it's essential to monitor their food intake and ensure they get regular exercise.

An Australian Bulldog requires 2 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dog food daily, divided into two meals, while an English Bulldog needs only 1/2 to 1.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day.

Appearance

Both Aussie and English bulldogs have a classic bulldog look, with a scrounged-up face and stout muscular stance that makes them instantly identifiable.

Their facial features are quite similar, but if you look closely, you'll notice that Aussie bulldogs have a slightly longer snout than English bulldogs.

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Aussie bulldogs also have fewer facial wrinkles, longer legs, and wider hips compared to English bulldogs.

Their heads and chests are smaller and squarish, giving them a less muscular appearance, but don't let that fool you - Aussie bulldogs are still very powerful dogs.

Both breeds have fine, short coats that require regular grooming to stay looking their best.

English bulldogs have a smooth and fine coat, while Aussie bulldogs have a coarser coat.

Their coat colors can vary, with English bulldogs often coming in white, red, gray, and brindle, and Aussie bulldogs sometimes having black, red, white, and brindle coats.

Their noses, eyeliner, lips, and paw pads are usually black, while their ears are shorter, pointy, and folded.

Take a look at this: English Bulldog Blue Brindle

Health and Wellbeing

The Australian Bulldog has a longer snout and less wrinkly skin on its face, making breathing easier and reducing skin irritation. This physical trait improvement is a deliberate result of breeding to address health concerns.

A unique perspective: English Bulldog Skin Issues

Credit: youtube.com, Australian Bulldog Breed Profile - Expert Dog Training & Dog Health Tips | S6 Ep5 | Pooches at Play

Australian Bulldogs are also at risk for bloat and hip dysplasia, just like their English counterparts. In fact, both breeds are prone to the same health issues, including arthritis, eye conditions, skin allergies, and joint injuries.

A key difference between the two breeds is their lifespan, with Australian Bulldogs averaging 11-13 years and English Bulldogs averaging 8-10 years. This increased lifespan is a result of intentional breeding to correct medical issues.

Here are some common health issues to look out for in both breeds:

  • Arthritis
  • Eye conditions (cherry eye, dry eye, cataracts, and inverted eyelids)
  • Skin allergies
  • Joint injuries
  • Skin infection
  • Gastric torsion
  • Bladder stones
  • Obesity
  • Cancer
  • Heart disease
  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Dental disease

Health

The health of bulldogs is a serious concern, and it's essential to understand the potential issues they may face. Bulldogs are prone to breathing problems due to their flat faces and narrow upper airways, making hot weather and exercise a significant risk factor.

The average lifespan of English Bulldogs is between 8 to 10 years, with a range of health concerns including arthritis, eye conditions, skin allergies, and joint injuries. They are also at risk for gastric torsion, bladder stones, obesity, cancer, heart disease, bloat, hip dysplasia, and dental disease.

Related reading: English Bulldog Health

Yellow Figurine Bulldogs
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Australian Bulldogs, on the other hand, tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds. They are susceptible to hip dysplasia, eye problems, bloat, dry skin, and obesity. However, their longer snout and less wrinkly skin on their face can make breathing easier and lower the occurrence of skin irritation.

Here are some common health issues that bulldogs may face:

  • Arthritis
  • Eye conditions (cherry eye, dry eye, cataracts, inverted eyelids)
  • Skin allergies
  • Joint injuries
  • Skin infection
  • Gastric torsion
  • Bladder stones
  • Obesity
  • Cancer
  • Heart disease
  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Dental disease

Regular veterinary visits are crucial to monitor and address these health concerns. Australian Bulldogs may require more frequent visits, at least once or twice a year, while English Bulldogs can get by with a complete physical check-up every 12-18 months.

Allergies and Grooming

If you're considering bringing a Bulldog or Australian Bulldog into your family, you'll want to think about their grooming needs. Both breeds have short hair, but that doesn't mean they're low-maintenance.

The Bulldog requires average grooming effort, which means you'll need to brush them regularly to prevent matting and tangling. They also shed moderately, so be prepared for some dog hair around the house.

French Bulldog Puppy with Tongue Out
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The Australian Bulldog, on the other hand, requires a lot of grooming. They have smooth coats that need to be regularly cleaned to prevent oil buildup and skin irritation.

Here's a comparison of the grooming needs of both breeds:

Both breeds also have a high chance of bad smell, so regular bathing is essential. The Bulldog needs to be bathed every 3-4 weeks, while the Australian Bulldog can go 4-6 weeks between baths.

Remember, grooming is an essential part of dog care, and neglecting it can lead to serious skin infections and other health problems.

Temperament and Behavior

The Australian Bulldog and English Bulldog are both known for their affectionate and loyal nature, making them wonderful family companions. They are social animals that thrive on human interaction and attention.

Both breeds are also known to be quite stubborn, which can make training a challenge if you don't establish clear boundaries and expectations early on.

Credit: youtube.com, The Australian Bulldog Personality and Temperament

Australian Bulldogs, in particular, have a strong need for care and companionship, and can become restless and worried if left alone for too long. They require regular attention and interaction to prevent separation anxiety.

On the other hand, English Bulldogs are generally more laid-back and don't require as much stimulation or exercise. However, they still need regular training and socialization to prevent behavioral problems.

Here's a comparison of the two breeds' temperaments:

As you can see, both breeds are social and affectionate, but the Australian Bulldog is slightly more sensitive and requires more attention and interaction. English Bulldogs, on the other hand, are more laid-back and don't require as much stimulation.

It's also worth noting that both breeds can develop a guarding instinct, particularly around children, and may require training to be obedient and well-behaved. With the right training and socialization, they can make excellent family pets and loyal companions.

If this caught your attention, see: English Bulldog Training

Care and Maintenance

Credit: youtube.com, What it's REALLY like caring for an English Bulldog

The Australian Bulldog and English Bulldog both require regular care and maintenance to stay healthy and happy. The Australian Bulldog requires a lot of grooming, which can be a challenge for some owners.

Their short coats may seem easy to maintain, but they can still collect dust and dirt, which can lead to skin infections if not cleaned regularly. In fact, the creases of a Bulldog's skin can be a breeding ground for dust and microbial growth.

Both breeds are prone to ear infections due to their floppy ears, which can collect dirt and debris. Regular cleaning and checking of their ears is essential to prevent infections.

Grooming Needs

When it comes to grooming, Bulldogs and Australian Bulldogs have some unique needs. The Australian Bulldog, in particular, requires a lot of grooming due to its smooth coat.

The grooming demands of these breeds range from moderate to somewhat high. Bulldogs, for example, require average grooming effort, while Australian Bulldogs require advanced grooming.

Additional reading: Grooming an English Bulldog

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Bulldogs have a fine coat, which can be prone to dust and microbial growth in the creases of their skin. This can lead to serious skin infections if not adequately cared for.

To keep your Bulldog or Australian Bulldog clean, you'll need to bathe them regularly. Bulldogs need to be bathed every 3-4 weeks, while Australian Bulldogs can go 4-6 weeks between baths.

Here's a comparison of the grooming needs of Bulldogs and Australian Bulldogs:

Both breeds are also prone to ear infections due to their floppy ears, which can collect dirt and debris. Regular ear cleaning is essential to prevent infections.

In terms of shedding, both breeds shed moderately, so be prepared for some dog hair around the house.

Weight Management

Both Bulldog and Australian Bulldog breeds have a strong tendency to be overweight, which can lead to serious health issues. They require careful monitoring of their food intake to prevent obesity.

French bulldog in bed
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To manage their weight, it's essential to feed them the right amount of food. The average daily food consumption for a Bulldog is 1/2 to 1.5 cups of high-quality dry food, divided into two meals. In contrast, the Australian Bulldog requires 2 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dog food daily, divided into two meals.

Here's a comparison of their average daily food consumption:

By being aware of their weight gain potential and adjusting their food intake accordingly, you can help your Bulldog or Australian Bulldog maintain a healthy weight.

Owning an Australian/English Bulldog

They are relatively low-maintenance pets, requiring only short walks and playtime.

Australian Bulldogs have a short, easy-to-maintain coat that requires minimal grooming, while English Bulldogs have a longer coat that sheds heavily.

Both breeds are prone to health issues, such as respiratory problems and skin infections, due to their flat faces and wrinkled skin.

English Bulldogs are known to be more laid-back and gentle, making them a great choice for families with children, while Australian Bulldogs are more energetic and playful.

Australian Bulldogs typically live for 10-12 years, while English Bulldogs have a shorter lifespan of 8-10 years.

Owning Essentials

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Owning an Australian or English Bulldog can be a delightful experience, but it's essential to be prepared with the right essentials.

Their short coats require regular grooming to prevent skin folds from becoming a breeding ground for bacteria.

These gentle giants need a comfortable place to rest, and a large, sturdy bed is a must-have.

You'll want to invest in a high-quality harness and leash to ensure safe walks and prevent damage to their delicate necks.

Their love for food can lead to obesity, so monitoring their food intake and exercise is crucial to maintain a healthy weight.

Regular veterinary check-ups are vital to detect any potential health issues early on, such as respiratory problems and skin infections.

Price and Availability

Owning an Australian/English Bulldog can be a wonderful experience, but it's essential to consider the costs involved. The price of a Bulldog can range from $1200 to $2000.

If you're looking for a more affordable option, the Australian Bulldog might be a better choice, priced between $500 and $700.

Credit: youtube.com, Outrageous Cost Of English Bulldogs Revealed

The availability of these breeds also varies, with the Bulldog being quite easy to get, while the Australian Bulldog is a commonly available dog breed.

Here's a quick comparison of the two breeds in terms of price and availability:

Overall, while the Bulldog may be more expensive, it's also widely available. The Australian Bulldog, on the other hand, offers a more affordable option with reasonable availability.

Health and Lifespan

The Australian Bulldog and the English Bulldog are two beloved breeds with distinct characteristics. The Australian Bulldog is considered a very healthy dog breed, whereas the English Bulldog tends to have more frequent health issues.

Both breeds are prone to hip dysplasia, but the Australian Bulldog is also at risk for eye problems, bloat, dry skin, and obesity. In contrast, the English Bulldog is more susceptible to breathing problems due to its flat face and narrow upper airways.

Regular veterinary visits are crucial for both breeds, but the Australian Bulldog requires more frequent check-ups, at least once or twice a year. The English Bulldog, on the other hand, needs a complete physical check-up every 12-18 months.

The Australian Bulldog has a longer lifespan, living between 10-12 years, while the English Bulldog's average lifespan is around 8-10 years.

Comparing Australian and English Bulldogs

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One of the most noticeable differences between Australian and English Bulldogs is their size. Australian Bulldogs typically weigh between 40-50 pounds, while English Bulldogs usually weigh between 40-55 pounds.

Their coats are also distinct, with Australian Bulldogs having a shorter, smoother coat that requires less maintenance. English Bulldogs, on the other hand, have a longer, more wrinkled coat that needs regular grooming.

Both breeds are known for their affectionate nature and love of human interaction. Australian Bulldogs are often described as more energetic and playful, while English Bulldogs are generally more laid-back and relaxed.

Their breathing habits are also worth noting, with both breeds prone to respiratory issues due to their brachycephalic skull structure. However, Australian Bulldogs are generally considered to be more tolerant of heat and exercise, while English Bulldogs are more sensitive to temperature and humidity.

Their lifespan is relatively similar, with Australian Bulldogs living for 10-13 years and English Bulldogs living for 8-12 years.

Edmond Gibson

Lead Writer

Edmond Gibson is a seasoned writer with a passion for crafting informative and engaging content. With a keen interest in the human-animal bond, Edmond has honed his expertise in writing about pets and their well-being. His articles have appeared in various online publications, covering topics such as dog ear surgery and other veterinary-related issues.