Bulldog Breeds List

You might be surprised to learn that there are actually quite a few bulldog dog breeds. With their typically stocky appearance, short snouts, and jowls, these canines are some of the most beloved dogs on the planet. And with the help of the following bulldog breeds list, you’ll be able to tell these special breeds apart.

English Bulldog

This iconic British breed is also simply known as the Bulldog. Its unique features including its underbite, short snout, and wrinkly face, among others, are all a result of its past use in bull baiting and dog fighting, where these attributes helped it to be successful. While it was once a fierce combatant, today while still courageous it is more of an easy-going couch potato.

These proud dogs make excellent family companions, particularly for those with children as they are especially patient with them. In addition to the breed’s hilarious antics English Bulldogs are also well-known for their snoring, drooling, and gas.

American Bulldog

The American Bulldog is one of the biggest bulldog breeds and also one of the most athletic. These dogs are descendants of the Old English Bulldog that was brought to the United States by English immigrants.

They were used on plantations and ranches for protection as well as catching feral cattle and wild hogs. At home, these high-energy canines are known for their clownish behavior and loving personalities. However, they are natural protectors and when there is a threat will not hesitate to defend their families. This is a breed that does require early socialization and obedience training.

Olde English Bulldogge

This rare breed was created by David Leavitt who was dissatisfied with the modern English Bulldog. He preferred the appearance of the Bulldog from the 18^th century which was used in bull baiting. These Bulldogs of the past were less extreme in appearance and had fewer health problems.

However, while he liked their fierce appearance he didn’t want a dog with the same hyper-aggressive temperament. Leavitt decided to recreate the breed on his own and used breeds such as the American Bulldog, American Pitbull Terrier, Bullmastiff, and of course English Bulldog. The result was a new breed that was longer lived, healthier, more active, and with fewer breathing problems.

Originally named the Olde English Bulldogge the name was later changed to the Leavitt Bulldog. Leavitt Bulldogs are less aggressive than the Bulldog of the past yet more powerful. And while they do have the fierce and intimidating look of the gladiators of the past, these are outgoing and friendly dogs that make fabulous family pets.

French Bulldog

These popular companion dogs were actually also once used as ratters. They are the result of toy-sized  Bulldogs that were brought to France by English lacemakers and there they were crossed with local dogs to create the bat-eared Frenchie we know today.

Because of their low-energy needs and size, this small bulldog breed is a great choice for owners who are less active and also prefer a little dog. This clownish and friendly breed is ideally suited for apartments and smaller homes.

Continental Bulldog

This is not only one of the newest, but also one of the best bulldog breeds particularly for potential owners who want a medium-sized bulldog that’s more athletic and doesn’t have the many health issues associated with the English Bulldog. And that’s because these were the specific goals of the breed’s creator, Imelda Angehrn of Switzerland.

These adorable wrinkly-faced canines were created by crossing English Bulldogs with Olde English Bulldogges. They come very close to the original bulldog “type” yet maintain the lovable personality of the English Bulldog. While it may have the appearance of a guardian, the Continental Bulldog functions as a companion and family pet.

Ca De Bou

The Spanish island of Majorca in the Mediterranean Sea is home to the Ca de Bou. This a medium-sized yet highly muscular canine with a massive head and powerful jaws. It is also known as the Majorcan Bulldog and the Majorcan Mastiff as well. The Ca de Bou was originally used for hunting, along with fighting bulls and other dogs.

However today it functions as a companion, watchdog, and guard dog. And while typically laidback and quiet, when defending its home or loved ones it is exceptionally fierce and courageous. This is not a canine that is recommended for novice dog owners and requires a strong leader with experience.

Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog

The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog is one of the rare bulldog breeds. Known for being great with children, its primary function is as a guardian and companion, although it has been used as a catch dog for cattle and hunting as well. Because of the power of these large and protective dogs, they do best with an experienced owner who can provide firm leadership.

These dogs originated in the southern United States from the original bulldogs that were brought to North America. They got their name from the fact that they were the plantation dogs of the Alapaha River region in Southern Georgia.

AlapahaOtis/Wikimedia Commons/CC0 1.0

Alano Espanol

This a large bulldog breed from Spain. Alano Espanol are big and athletic dogs with extremely strong jaws. They are quick and agile and can run at high speeds for a long time. These unique physical attributes come from their working past. They were used for several jobs including hunting, guarding, and managing cattle.

The Alano Espanol was even used in the bullring to fight bulls. Today these loyal dogs are still used as a guardian. Unlike some other bulldog breeds, because they were traditionally hunted in packs, Alano Espanol are known for being friendly with other dogs.

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