How long do Bulldogs live?

The median lifespan of the Bulldog is 9.8 years, based on the 2024 McMillan et al. study of 584,734 UK dogs.

What health problems do Bulldogs have?

Commonly reported conditions in the Bulldog include BOAS, Skin fold dermatitis, Hip dysplasia, Cherry eye, Dystocia.

Is the Bulldog a healthy breed?

On the Breed Health Score the Bulldog scores 38 out of 100 (grade D), compared with an average of 71 across 155 breeds.

38/ 100

Bulldog Grade D

Median lifespani 9.8 yr · medium · 18-25 kg · flat-facedi

⇆ Compare Bulldog

The Bulldog is a medium breed with a median lifespan of 9.8 years, which places it among the shortest-lived third of the 155 breeds we rank for longevity. Commonly reported health conditions include BOAS, Skin fold dermatitis, Hip dysplasia, Cherry eye. As a flat-faced (brachycephalic) breed it is predisposed to breathing, eye and skin problems. Its overall Breed Health Score is 38/100 (grade D), against an average of 71/100 across all breeds.

Score breakdown

Longevityi 65%

Conformationi 20%

Hereditary burdeni 15%

Higher is healthier. See methodology.

Common & hereditary conditions

BOAS Skin fold dermatitis Hip dysplasia Cherry eye Dystocia

Red marks a life-threatening or major-welfare condition. Click a condition to see which breeds it affects. This list reflects commonly reported conditions, so better-studied breeds may show more; hereditary burden is the lightest-weighted part of the score. Source: RVC VetCompass / AKC / PDSA (indicative).

Thinking of a Bulldog? A breed's health profile affects insurance cost. Comparing pet insurance early, before any conditions become pre-existing, usually gets the best cover.

Compare with similar-size breeds

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Data & citation. Median lifespan: McMillan, K.M. et al. (2024) "Longevity of companion dog breeds", Scientific Reports (584,734 UK dogs). Data CC-BY 4.0. Source. Machine-readable: developer API. These are independent estimates for comparing breeds, not veterinary advice. Photo: Mladen Šćekić via Pexels.