50-55 lbs
15-18"
United States, United Kingdom
The name English Bulldog Terrier is a combination of the parent breeds, the English Bulldog and Bull Terrier, also known as the English Bull Terrier, Bully, or Gladiator. The Bull Terrier was originally a white-coated cross between Bulldogs and various terriers, first known as “Bull-and-Terriers”. Eventually, they were mixed with Spanish Pointers to increase their size. These dogs gained popularity during the early 1800s when they were used for sporting and dog fighting in Europe. After dog fighting was banned, the Bull Terrier became a trendy companion for members of high society because of their impressive white coat. In 1885, Bull Terriers were recognized by the American Kennel Club. Later, they were bred with Stafford Bull Terriers to develop more color variations. Today, the white Bull Terrier remains the most popular and well-known Bull Terrier. The origin of the other parent breed, the Bulldog, is widely debated. The American Kennel Club, however, contends that the Bulldog originated in the British Isles and was initially bred for “bull-baiting” – a “sport” in which Bulldogs attacked bulls, or in some cases bears, by the nose. This cruel “game” was eventually outlawed, and the Bulldog was taken in by admirers as a companion dog in the mid to late-1800s. They were recognized by the AKC in 1886. The English Bulldog Terrier is likely to have been bred for decades, given the parent's long history in the same geographical regions; however, they are not a popular hybrid today and haven’t stabilized in form or personality.
English Bulldog Terriers have the build of a Bull Terrier with several Bulldog features. Most notably, English Bulldog Terriers have a relatively flat forehead, deep jaw, and short and broad muzzle with a prominent under bite, just like a Bulldog’s. They also have high-set pendant ears and half-moon eyes. These dogs are large and muscular with a thick neck and wide chest. The average weight is between 50 and 60 pounds and the average height is between 15 and 19 inches tall. Their short coat is straight, fine, and coarse to the touch. They can come in multicolor combinations of fallow, fawn, tan, black, white, red with brindle, piebald, or ticked pattern and black and white markings. Their feet are moderately sized and compact and their tail is typically short and well-coated.
The English Bulldog Terrier is a relatively low maintenance breed. Their short coat, which is not hypoallergenic, does not typically require cutting or styling. Occasional brushing can help reduce the breed’s moderate shedding and keep their coat in great shape – though this is not always necessary. Owners should aim to bathe their sturdy companion once a month or as needed. As with all breeds, they should have their teeth brushed daily and nails clipped once or twice a month. Note that this dog may be prone to drooling and having wrinkles around the facial area. If this is the case, owners should take extra care to clean their pet’s face to avoid bacteria accumulation and subsequent infection.
English Bulldog Terriers are known to be friendly, aggressive, and loyal, especially to their owners. Because this dog is large and muscular, they can be intimidating to some; however, English Bulldog Terriers are extremely sweet – though sometimes overly exuberant when they are meeting new friends – furry or otherwise. They are relatively active, having inherited a nice mix of their Bulldog parent’s calm demeanor and their Bull Terrier parent’s liveliness. As such, this breed enjoys a healthy mix of exercise and downtime. In fact, they can adapt to any type of living environment as long as they receive enough attention and exercise. Their eagerness to please makes them skilled at learning commands and overall obedience training – early and consistent training will solidify this desirable trait. Beyond this, these dogs have a moderate to high hunting impulse, so it’s best to monitor them when they are off leash or around small animals and younger children.
These strong canines have a moderate amount of energy, love to play, and are at high risk of gaining weight. As a result, this breed must get consistent daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. They will enjoy a walk about the neighborhood, play sessions indoors, or a romp in the dog park. Note, however, that this breed is highly sensitive to heat and is prone to respiratory conditions. As such, they should be monitored closely whenever engaged in vigorous exercise. Additionally, English Bulldog Terriers relish in snuggling with their owners and need affection from their family as much as they need exercise.
Written by Kathleen Egger
Published: 11/20/2017, edited: 10/14/2021
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