Last Updated on September 20, 2021 by Marco C.
Bulldogs really are one of the true characters of the canine world! With their chunky bodies, stumpy legs, and wrinkly faces, these adorable bundles of bulldog are one that any dog lover would appreciate. But when it comes to life span, what is the life expectancy of bulldogs?
Let’s find out more about the wonderful world of Bulldogs and see how long they could live for!
What Is A Bulldog?
Firstly, we need to get some things straight about Bulldog breeds. The world of Bulldogs is very confusing, with lots of different names for different types of Bulldogs. Just to make it even more complicated, the Bulldog itself is a breed in its own right!
Some Bulldog breeds, like the Old English Bulldog, have gone extinct. Others, like the Miniature English Bulldog, are actually a crossbreed and not recognized as a breed in their own right.
Bulldogs currently recognized by the American Kennel Club include the French Bulldog and the American Bulldog. Then of course we have the Bulldog itself, sometimes also referred to as the English Bulldog.
The now-extinct Old English Bulldog has been recreated by American dog breeders in the form of the Olde English Bulldogge – a mix of the English Bulldog, American Bulldog, American Pit Bull Terrier, and the Mastiff.
What Factors Affect The Life Expectancy Of Bulldogs?
Some health problems are common to all Bulldog breeds, and any of these could affect the life expectancy of your Bulldog. Many of these problems occur as a result of poor breeding, so it is vital to breed responsibly to prolong the healthy life of these dogs.
Here are some of the main health conditions which may affect the life expectancy of a Bulldog breed:
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Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is relatively common in Bulldog breeds due to their wide set hind limbs and broad pelvis. This is a hereditary condition that causes the hip joints to form improperly. This will cause weakness of the hindlimbs and arthritis of the hip joints.
Reputable dog breeders will screen potential Bulldog parents before breeding, to check for hip problems. This allows them to pick the healthiest dogs to breed from.
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Breathing Difficulties
Most Bulldog breeds are classed as brachycephalic dogs. This means that they have a short stubby nose and other obstructions in the respiratory tract, causing them to struggle to inhale enough air. This condition is called Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS).
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Heatstroke
Because of their large body mass and breathing problems, unfortunately, any type of Bulldog is a prime candidate for heatstroke.
Bulldog owners must know what to do if the dog becomes overheated. It is essential not to exercise a Bulldog breed in hot weather. Your dog must always have access to shade and water and must not be left out in the hot sun.
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Cardiovascular Problems
Bulldogs are much more likely to suffer from heart problems, such as pulmonary stenosis. This can cause Bulldogs to struggle to exercise properly, resulting in a lower level of fitness. Some heart conditions can also cause fainting, collapse, and even sudden death.
Unfortunately, there are no breeding programs aimed at reducing the genetic spread of this disease. This means that English Bulldogs are 19 times more likely than other breeds to suffer from pulmonary stenosis.
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Breeding Difficulties
One problem common to most Bulldog breeds is that they have huge difficulties when it comes to giving birth. It is now normal for many Bulldog puppies to have been born by Cesarean section. This is a high-risk procedure that may reduce the lifespan of the mother.
What Is The Life Expectancy Of An English Bulldog
So, let’s start with the original and best – the English Bulldog itself! How long do these dogs live for?
The Bulldog is classed as a medium breed of dog. The average lifespan of a medium breed dog is 10 to 13 years, however unfortunately Bulldogs are much lower than this range.
The average lifespan of an English Bulldog is 8 to 10 years, which is quite low for a medium-breed dog. This may be due to the many health problems suffered by this traditional breed. Also, the English Bulldog has a very large bodyweight for a dog of this height, which may reduce its lifespan.
Learn more about: What Is The Average Cost Of English Bulldog And Why?
American Bulldog Average Lifespan
The American Bulldog is classed as a large breed of dog, weighing in at up to 100 pounds! Large dog breeds have a shorter life expectancy than small or medium breeds, with an average life span of 8 to 12 years.
So, what is an American Bulldog average lifespan? Well, these dogs do pretty well for a large breed, living on average for 10 to 12 years! This is very likely due to fewer hereditary health problems, as well as a responsible breeding program.
The American Bulldog has a much longer nose than other Bulldog types, meaning it suffers from fewer respiratory problems. It is also more athletic and able to maintain a good level of overall fitness.
Life Expectancy Of A French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are the babies of the Bulldog world, normally weighing under 28 pounds. This means that they are classed as a medium breed of dog.
The average life expectancy of a French Bulldog is an impressive 10 to 12 years. This may come as a surprise to some, as they are renowned for suffering from different health problems. However, their smaller size possibly makes it easier for this little Bulldog to live to an older age.
Summary
So, as we’ve learned, English Bulldogs live on average for 8 to 10 years. The lifespan of different Bulldog breeds does vary, with French and American Bulldogs living on average for longer than English Bulldogs. However, the life expectancy of bulldogs is very dependent on their overall health and quality of life, as well as the type of Bulldog.
We’d love to hear your thoughts about the life expectancy of Bulldogs. Have you ever met a Bulldog who has lived to a very old age? Or maybe you have a question about the Bulldog average lifespan? Please add a comment below!
