Full Grown Female English Bulldog: A Comprehensive Guide

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Posted Oct 8, 2024

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English Bulldog Lying on Floor
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Full-grown female English Bulldogs typically weigh between 40-50 pounds and stand about 14-16 inches tall. They have a sturdy, compact body with a short, easy-to-maintain coat.

Their short coats require minimal grooming, but regular nail trimming and ear cleaning are essential to prevent health issues. English Bulldogs are known for their affectionate nature and make great family pets.

Female English Bulldogs are prone to certain health issues, such as respiratory problems and skin infections, due to their brachycephalic skull structure. Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify these issues early on.

With proper care and attention, full-grown female English Bulldogs can live up to 10-12 years, providing loving companionship to their families.

Physical Characteristics

A full-grown female English Bulldog is a beautiful sight to behold. They typically weigh between 40 and 50 pounds.

Their sturdy build is supported by broad shoulders and a muscular low profile. Their short, smooth coat comes in a variety of colors, including white, fawn, red, and brindle.

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One of their most distinctive features is their short, wrinkled face with an underbite. This face shape is a result of their brachycephalic anatomy, which also gives them a short muzzle and a broad, black nose.

English Bulldogs are known for their slow movement due to their short, sturdy, and wide-set legs. They stand between 12 and 16 inches tall at the shoulders.

Their large heads are a notable characteristic, and they often have white markings, piebald markings, and black masks on their coats.

Personality and Behavior

A full-grown female English Bulldog is a wonderful companion, known for her gentle and sweet nature. She's a dependable friend who will always be by your side.

They're great with kids and love human attention, making them a fantastic addition to any family. With proper training and socialization, they can get along well with other pets too.

However, it's essential to remember that they were originally bred for bull-baiting, which means they can be courageous and make excellent watchdogs. This means they'll always be on the lookout for potential threats, keeping you and your family safe.

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Despite their tough exterior, they're not aggressive towards dogs they know, but it's still crucial to introduce them to new dogs slowly and carefully. With patience and practice, they'll learn to get along with other dogs in no time.

English Bulldogs need daily exercise, but it's not as much as you might think. A short, 10-15 minute walk in a cool environment is perfect for them, and they'll even enjoy a game of fetch or puzzle toy if it's too hot outside.

Here are some exercise guidelines to keep in mind:

It's also worth noting that Bulldogs can be prone to brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, which means they might not tolerate exercise without breathing issues. If you suspect your dog has this condition, it's essential to consult with a veterinarian for proper advice.

Overall, a full-grown female English Bulldog is a loving and loyal companion who will bring joy and happiness into your life. With proper care and attention, they'll thrive and become a beloved member of your family.

Health and Care

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English Bulldogs require regular care to prevent health issues. Their unique physical traits make them prone to respiratory problems, skin infections, and joint issues.

They need to be kept cool in hot climates, with access to shade, water, and AC at all times. This is especially important as their short snouts make them sensitive to heat.

Regular grooming is essential to prevent skin fold dermatitis and other skin issues. This includes keeping their facial and body wrinkles clean and dry.

Here are some common health issues that can affect English Bulldogs:

  • Hip dysplasia (a hip deformity that can occur before birth or during growth)
  • Shoulder luxation (when the shoulder bone is displaced or completely removed from the joint socket)
  • Ventricular septal defect
  • Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS or dry eye)
  • Stenotic nares (part of the brachycephalic syndrome, malformed nostrils that are narrow or collapse inward during inhalation)
  • Internalized tail (a heritable abnormality where fused tail causes excessive skin folds, an immobile tail, and/or anal obstruction)
  • Elongated soft palate (a soft palate that is too long for the length of the mouth)
  • Elbow dysplasia (a complex elbow joint that suffers from a structural defect)
  • Distichiasis (a condition where hairs grow in an unusual area on the eyelid)
  • Patellar luxation (occurs when the dog patella (kneecap) shifts out of alignment)
  • Ectropion (an abnormality affecting the eyelids in which the lower eyelid 'rolls' outward or is everted)
  • Entropion (an eye condition that causes the eyelids to roll inward)
  • Cherry eye (a disorder affecting the nictitating membrane (NM), known as the third eyelid)
  • Demodicosis (caused by Demodex canis, a parasitic mite that lives in the hair follicles of dogs)
  • Urethral prolapse (when a small part of the urethra, or the tip, comes out from the opening of the dog’s penis) or vaginal hyperplasia (proliferation of the vaginal mucosa)

Health Issues

English Bulldogs are prone to a range of health issues due to their unique physical characteristics. Their short face and narrow airways can lead to breathing difficulties, especially in hot weather.

The average cost to diagnose and treat common English Bulldog health issues ranges between $300 and $7,500. This is a significant financial burden, but pet insurance can help cover up to 90% of these costs.

English bulldog
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Heatstroke is a major concern for English Bulldogs, as they are unable to cool themselves efficiently through panting. This is due to their short face and narrow airways, making them more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.

Some common health issues affecting English Bulldogs include hip dysplasia, shoulder luxation, ventricular septal defect, and keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye). These conditions can be painful and may require lifelong treatment or surgical correction.

Here are some of the most common health issues affecting English Bulldogs:

  • Hip dysplasia (a hip deformity that can occur before birth or during growth)
  • Shoulder luxation (when the shoulder bone is displaced or completely removed from the joint socket)
  • Ventricular septal defect
  • Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS or dry eye)
  • Stenotic nares (part of the brachycephalic syndrome, malformed nostrils that are narrow or collapse inward during inhalation)
  • Internalized tail (a heritable abnormality where fused tail causes excessive skin folds, an immobile tail, and/or anal obstruction)
  • Elongated soft palate (a soft palate that is too long for the length of the mouth)

In addition to these conditions, English Bulldogs may also be prone to elbow dysplasia, distichiasis, patellar luxation, ectropion, entropion, cherry eye, demodicosis, urethral prolapse, and vaginal hyperplasia.

Eye Care

Taking care of your English Bulldog's eyes is crucial.

You'll want to clean around their eyes regularly, especially if they're prone to eye issues or allergies that cause eye discharge.

Use pet-safe wipes to clean their eyes, but make sure to fully dry the skin afterwards.

If you notice any changes in your dog's eyes, such as unusual discharge or redness, talk to your vet right away.

Pet Care Considerations

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Bulldogs are prone to breathing difficulties due to their short snouts, which can cause them to snort, wheeze, and snore.

They're not well-suited for hot climates, and it's essential to provide them with shade, water, and air conditioning at all times.

As a brachycephalic breed, English Bulldogs are sensitive to heat and should only be taken for walks during cooler times of the day, such as morning and evening.

Their short snouts also mean they're not known for being quiet, so be prepared for lots of panting, snorting, and snoring.

Regular grooming is crucial to prevent skin infections in Bulldogs, who have wrinkly skin that requires frequent maintenance.

Bulldogs love to chew, so it's essential to provide them with durable toys and ropes to keep them occupied and safe.

They may require lifelong medical care and may need surgical intervention or a referral to a specialist veterinarian to alleviate medical issues, so it's crucial to be prepared for this.

Care and Nutrition

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Full-grown female English Bulldogs require careful attention to their nutrition and care to maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity. A high-quality kibble that provides a well-balanced diet is essential, including high-quality meats, fiber, carbohydrates, healthy omega fats, vitamins, and minerals.

It's crucial to monitor their calorie intake closely and avoid feeding table scraps or extra treats, which should make up no more than 10% of their daily caloric intake. Fresh water should be available at all times.

To ensure your English Bulldog is at a healthy weight, check in with your vet regularly, as their naturally thickset physique and loose-fitting skin can mask signs of obesity. A slow feeder bowl or puzzle toys can help prevent overeating and regurgitation.

Here's a rough guide to feeding your English Bulldog based on their age and size:

Remember to adjust the amount of food based on your vet's recommendations and your dog's individual needs.

Care

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English Bulldogs require regular grooming to stay healthy and happy. They should be bathed once a week to every other week, with special attention given to their skin wrinkles/folds.

Their short coats require little grooming, but a soft brush two to three times a week is recommended. This will help maintain a healthy coat and prevent matting.

Their wrinkly skin requires frequent maintenance to prevent skin infections. Regular wiping with a moist wipe or clean cloth is necessary, especially around the face and nose.

To help control shedding, it's a good idea to brush your English Bulldog once a week to shift excess hair. This will also help prevent hair from getting stuck in their skin folds.

Here are some key areas to focus on during grooming:

  • Face wrinkles: wipe clean daily with a moist wipe or clean cloth
  • Nose skin folds: wipe clean daily with a moist wipe or clean cloth
  • Tail pocket: wipe clean regularly to prevent skin infections
  • Ears and nails: clean and trim regularly

Regular grooming will help prevent skin infections and keep your English Bulldog healthy and happy. It's also a great opportunity to check for skin irritation, parasites, lumps and bumps, and signs of ear infections.

Nutrition

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English Bulldogs are notorious for their love of food, which can lead to weight gain and obesity if not managed properly. This means it's essential to work with your vet to determine the right amount of food for your dog.

Bulldogs can be quite possessive of their food, so it's crucial to talk to your vet or a professional dog trainer about how to reduce or prevent resource guarding behavior. This can be a serious issue if left unchecked.

Feeding your Bulldog at scheduled times and only measured meals can help prevent overeating. It's also essential to avoid feeding table scraps or extra treats, as they can quickly add up and contribute to weight gain.

Treats should be given sparingly and mainly as training rewards, but they should never make up more than 10% of your dog's daily caloric intake. This is especially important for English Bulldogs, who can be greedy eaters.

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To ensure your Bulldog is at a healthy weight, check in with your vet regularly to monitor their weight and adjust their diet as needed. Their naturally thickset physique and loose-fitting skin can make it difficult to detect signs of obesity.

Here's a rough guide to feeding your English Bulldog:

Remember, feeding your Bulldog is not just about providing sustenance; it's also about maintaining their overall health and well-being.

Training and Exercise

Training your full-grown female English Bulldog requires patience and consistency. Establish a routine that includes a feeding schedule, outdoor time, and training sessions to help her learn quickly what is expected of her.

Consistent training sessions will make the process much easier and prevent unwanted behaviors from developing. Positive reinforcement training is the best approach, but be mindful of the treats you give her, as they can lead to unwanted weight gain.

Daily exercise is important, but avoid getting your English Bulldog overexcited or overheated. Limit her time spent outdoors during warmer months, and make sure she has access to plenty of water and shady spots to escape the heat.

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Here are some tips for exercising your English Bulldog:

  • Limit exercise to around 30 minutes a day, split into two 15-minute sessions to prevent overexertion.
  • Avoid taking her out in hot weather, and limit walks to short outings in the early morning and evening.
  • Provide her with access to cool, air-conditioned space to breathe comfortably.
  • English Bulldogs are not natural swimmers, so keep them away from water.
  • A game of tug-of-war with a dog-safe rope toy is a great way to exercise her without too much running around.

Training

Training your English Bulldog requires patience and consistency. Establishing a consistent routine, including a feeding schedule, outdoor time, and training routine, will help your Bulldog learn quickly what is expected of them in your home.

This consistent routine will make the rest of the training much easier. English Bulldogs respond best to positive reinforcement training, so be sure to use plenty of praise and rewards during training sessions.

However, be mindful of the treats you give your dog during training sessions, as they can lead to unwanted weight gain. Treats should never make up more than 10% of your dog's daily calorie intake.

Training sessions should be fun, but kept short, with plenty of positive reinforcement. It's best to limit their time spent outdoors during the warmer months, as English Bulldogs can get overheated easily.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when training your English Bulldog:

  • English Bulldogs are not a breed known for their intelligence and may only pick up basic obedience commands.
  • Training your English Bulldog will take patience – the breed is known for its stubborn streak.
  • English Bulldogs prefer training sessions to be fun and kept short.

By following these tips and being consistent, you can help your English Bulldog become a well-adjusted and well-behaved member of your family.

Exercise

Adorable English Bulldog Walking on Grass
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English Bulldogs may not be the most energetic dogs, but they still need regular exercise to stay fit and healthy. A daily walk is a great place to start, and they might even enjoy chasing a ball or wrestling with a toy.

Bulldogs have some limitations, though - stairs can be tough for them, and they should never be left unattended in water that's more than elbow deep. If you do take them swimming, make sure they're wearing a life jacket.

Heat can be a major issue for Bulldogs, too. Their short muzzles make breathing difficult, so it's essential to avoid taking them out in temperatures over 75 degrees Fahrenheit. If you do need to take them for a walk, try to do it early in the morning or evening when it's cooler.

Here are some fun exercise ideas for your Bulldog:

  • Walks
  • Backyard and indoor play
  • Tug-of-war
  • Cuddling and snoozing

Remember to provide your Bulldog with access to cool, air-conditioned space to help them breathe comfortably, especially during hot weather.

Lifespan and History

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The lifespan of a full-grown female English Bulldog is relatively short, typically ranging from six to eight years old. Genetics play a significant role in determining their lifespan, as they have several heritable health conditions.

Unfortunately, this means that English Bulldogs don't live as long as some other breeds of comparable size. However, proper care and attention can help ensure they live a happy and healthy life.

Their history is just as fascinating as it is complex. Originally bred in England as a cross between the Mastiff and the Pug, English Bulldogs were once used for the brutal sport of bull-baiting.

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Lifespan

English Bulldogs have a relatively short lifespan, typically living between six to eight years old. Their life expectancy is influenced by factors such as diet, exercise, and genetics.

Size is also a factor, with small breed dogs generally living longer than large breed dogs. English Bulldogs, though medium-sized, have genetically heritable health conditions that contribute to their shorter lifespan.

History

Cute English Bulldog Puppy Walking on a Sunny Day
Credit: pexels.com, Cute English Bulldog Puppy Walking on a Sunny Day

The English Bulldog has a rich and fascinating history. Originally bred in England as a cross between the Mastiff and the Pug, the main purpose of Bulldogs was to participate in a sport called bull-baiting.

Bull-baiting was a brutal sport that involved the Bulldog attacking and biting the bull, refusing to release it even when suffering pain. After bull-baiting was banned in the 1830s, the Bulldog's popularity decreased.

The breed was almost extinct, but devoted breeders refined the Bulldog, selectively breeding to replace its original ferocity with a more gentle disposition. Bulldogs were brought to the US in 1880.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the breed ten years later, giving the English Bulldog its official status as a recognized breed.

Frequently Asked Questions

At what age do female Bulldogs stop growing?

English bulldogs typically stop growing by 1 year of age, but may continue to fill out until 2 years old. Female bulldogs, like their male counterparts, experience most growth in the first 6 months of life.

At what age are Bulldogs full grown?

Bulldogs reach full physical maturity around 3 years old, with most of their growth occurring between 1-2 years. By 3, they'll be fully grown and emotionally mature as well.

Sources

  1. Bulldog Club of America (bulldogclubofamerica.org)
  2. Bulldog Club of America (bulldogclubofamerica.org)
  3. PennHIP screening (upenn.edu)
  4. specifically formulated for Bulldogs (chewy.com)
  5. official breed standard (bulldogclubofamerica.org)
  6. English Bulldog: Temperament, Training, Grooming, Nutrition (petplan.co.uk)
  7. English Bulldog (akc.org)
  8. separation anxiety (pawsgeek.com)
  9. greatest incidence of hip dysplasia (ofa.org)
  10. bulldogtoday (bulldogtoday.blogspot.com)

Dipesh Jha

Senior Writer

Dipesh Jha is a skilled writer with a passion for storytelling. He has a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of human emotions, which he brings to life through his words. With a background in creative writing, Dipesh has honed his craft over the years, producing a body of work that is both poignant and thought-provoking.

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