White English Bulldog: Dog Breed Information & Pictures (Owner’s Guide)

white english bulldog

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This content was reviewed and fact-checked by veterinarian Meri Halvari, DVM Candidate.

I published this article with the purpose of this article is to provide comprehensive and detailed information about White English Bulldogs (WEB), covering various aspects of the breed to help current and prospective owners make informed decisions about this breed. The article is structured to guide readers through the history, physical characteristics, temperament, health, and care requirements of White English Bulldogs. By the end of the article, readers will have a thorough understanding of what it takes to own and care for these unique dogs. This knowledge should help your White English Bulldog receive the appropriate care, training, and environment they need to thrive. Additionally, recognizing the unique aspects of the breed can help potential owners determine if a White English Bulldog is the right fit for their family and lifestyle.

History & Breed Origin

White English Bulldogs were initially bred in

1835s

The English Bulldog, often called the Bulldog, has a storied history that traces back to England in the 13th century. Originally bred for bull-baiting, a cruel and now illegal sport, these dogs were known for their strength, tenacity, and courage. The breed’s name, “Bulldog,” is derived from their historic role in this sport. Over time, as bull-baiting was outlawed in 1835, the breed transitioned from a working dog to a companion animal.

The White English Bulldog is a distinct variation of the traditional English Bulldog, characterized primarily by its white coat. This variety emerged as breeders selectively bred Bulldogs to enhance certain aesthetic qualities while maintaining the breed’s characteristic physical traits and temperament. The white coat in English Bulldogs is primarily influenced by genetics. Researchers from Uppsala University, SLU, and the Broad Institute published a study that shows the white coat color in dogs is caused by mutations in the MITF gene, which is crucial for the normal development of pigment cells.[1] As a result of the change in MITF gene regulation, not all pigment cells find their way to the dog’s skin during embryonic and fetal development, which is why some Bulldogs have white coats.

The unique appearance of White English Bulldogs has contributed to their popularity. Dog enthusiasts and breeders have continued to select the white coat because it is visually striking and distinguishes these Bulldogs from others. This demand has further solidified the presence of the white coat in the gene pool of English Bulldogs. Today, the English Bulldog is recognized by the American Kennel Club and the Bulldog Club of America.

AKC Breed Category

The English Bulldog, including all color variations like the White English Bulldog, falls under the Non-Sporting Group.

Breed Overview

HEIGHT

12 – 16 inches (Male)
12 – 16 inches (Female)

weight

50 – 55 pounds (Male)
40 – 45 pounds (Female)

life expectancy

8 to 10 years

COAT colors

White or black with white

Suitable for:

Great family dog with the right
training and environment

Temperament:

Gentle, affectionate, playful, loyal
and protective nature

Breed Traits & Characteristics

Family Bonding

Independent

Loves all family members

Maintenance Level

Low maintenance

High maintenance

Child Friendliness

Not recommended

Great with children

Good With Other Pets

Not recommended

Loves them

Drooling Level

Unlikely to drool

Always drooling

Grooming Frequency

Monthly

Daily

Shedding Level

No shedding

Sheds all the time

Breed Health

Several health problems

Healthy

Interaction With Strangers

Reserved

Loves new people

Playfulness Behavior

Plays only when engaged

Non-stop

Adaptability to Change

Prefers routine

Highly adaptable

Protectiveness Level

Doesn't react to threats

Vigilant

Energy Level

Lazy

High energy

Mental Stimulation Needs

Happy to chill

Job or activity required

Barking Level

Only to alert

Barks for everything

Trainability Difficulty

Slow learner

Fast learner

Temperament

Easily irritable

Calm, cool & collected

Appearance

White English Bulldogs are medium-sized dogs known for their stocky, muscular build, with massive shoulders and broad chests. They possess a sturdy, low-slung body that gives them a distinctive and recognizable silhouette. Their overall appearance is both powerful and compact, exuding strength and stability. They also have short, sturdy legs, which give them a unique way of walking and a sturdy, base-wide stance. Despite their relatively short stature, they have a solid and muscular frame that adds to their weight.

The defining feature of White English Bulldogs is their pure white coat. This coat is short, smooth, and fine-textured, lying close to the body. The white color can vary in shade but generally appears clean and bright white. Occasionally, some dogs may have small patches of another color, but a predominantly white coat is the hallmark of this variety.

White English Bulldogs have broad heads and shoulders with distinctive underbites that expose the lower incisors. They typically have thick skin folds on the forehead, head, and body. Their eyes are round and dark, adding to their expressive appearance. A short muzzle with a prominent "rope" of skin over the nose is characteristic, along with hanging skin under the neck. Their teeth are strong and well-spaced, often with noticeable drooling and fleshy lips due to their undershot jaw. White English Bulldogs naturally have a short tail that can be straight, thin, or screwed. For this reason, breeders do not cut or dock the tail like they do with other dogs. Based on the standard set by the Bulldog Club of America, a straight tail is the best, especially if facing down.[2] 

The coat of White English Bulldogs is short and fine-textured, contributing to their sleek appearance.

Personality & Temperament

White English Bulldogs have a calm temperament, making them sweet, dependable, gentle, and predictable. Their personality reflects stability, vigor, friendliness, and strength. Bulldogs are kind and courageous dogs with no tendencies toward aggression.

These dogs are typically calm and well-mannered, making them excellent companions for various living situations. Their temperament is often described as friendly and loyal, with a strong desire to be close to their family members. Despite their sometimes stern appearance, they are generally very sweet-natured. Their sweet, social, and gentle disposition makes them excellent family pets, especially around children. Bulldogs are courageous, a trait inherited from their ancestors who were used for bullfighting, making them great watchdogs.

Over the decades, breeding and domestication have removed aggression from their temperament. They are not frequent barkers, and their temperament is influenced by heredity, training, and socialization. Most White English Bulldogs are friendly, patient, and somewhat stubborn.

They can coexist peacefully with other dogs and even cats, provided they are introduced correctly and given time to adjust. Bulldogs are not known for being overly aggressive or territorial, but early socialization is key to developing good manners around other animals.

Health

White English Bulldogs are generally healthy. However, some can develop genetic health problems due to poor breeding practices.

  • Brachycephalic airway syndrome
  • Major respiratory problems
  • Overheating
  • Skin problems
  • Degenerative spine disease
  • Eye problems
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Head shakes
  • Thyroid and heart disease
  • CancerJoint and ligament injuries

Recommended Health Tests For White English Bulldogs

  • Conducting a dog DNA test like Wisdom Panel can help you identify genetic markers or mutations that could affect your pet's health
  • Dog allergy tests like the 5Strands kit may help determine food or environmental allergies or intolerance
  • Regular BAER testing, especially in puppies, is done to detect any early hearing issues
  • Radiographic evaluation
  • Dog microbiome test
  • Patella evaluation
  • Tracheal hypoplasia
  • Cardiac exam

This breed tends to overheat fast and has breathing difficulties, especially in hot, humid weather, so never leave a Bulldog out in the hot sun unsupervised or without access to shade and water. If your Bulldog is breathing too hard or overexcited, his tongue will stick out and have a bluish color, not a normal pink. If this happens, soaking the dog in cool water and giving it ice can help cool it.

Proper nutrition, exercise, and care are vital to keeping these issues at bay. CBD oil for dogs has shown promising results in relieving many of these health issues if your White English Bulldog has developed one or more of these health problems (or you want to prevent them).

White English Bulldog Food & Nutrition

The nutritional requirements of White English Bulldogs depend on various factors, including weight, health conditions, size, age, and activity level. A White English Bulldog diet should contain the six essential nutrients The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) outlined. Given their size range and energetic disposition, a diet suited for mid-sized dogs is typically appropriate for White English Bulldogs. On average, most White English Bulldogs will require about 1165 calories per day. If you're giving treats to your White English Bulldogs, adhere to the 10% rule: 1049 calories (90%) from food and 116 calories (10%) from treats. For precise calorie calculations, estimate your dog’s weight and use a dog calorie calculator.

Exercise

White English Bulldogs have low energy levels and require moderate exercise to maintain their health, avoid behavior problems and muscle tone, and prevent obesity, which can exacerbate common health issues like hip dysplasia and heart problems. A daily 30 minutes of exercise (walking and playtime) is the key. This will also ensure your dog is burned out by nightfall and can sleep soundly. Playing dog sports like frisbee can also be enjoyable for you and your White English Bulldog. Swimming may be risky for White English Bulldogs because their bulky bodies and short limbs make swimming much more difficult. It is important to supervise them closely if you want them to swim.

Due to their brachycephalic nature, White English Bulldogs are highly susceptible to overheating and breathing difficulties. Exercise should be done during cooler parts of the day, and water should always be available. Watch for signs of heat exhaustion, such as heavy panting, drooling, or lethargy.

White English Bulldogs also require mental stimulation. Engage them in playtime with toys and puzzles that challenge their intellect, such as Nina Ottosson By Outward Hound or Pet Zone IQ Treat Ball, which provide mental engagement through play.

Training

Successful training of a White English Bulldog hinges on starting early, employing positive reinforcement, and maintaining consistency throughout the process. Bulldogs can be stubborn, so patience and a positive, reward-based approach are crucial.

Stanley Coren’s dog intelligence tests found that the Bulldog breed can obey a known command on the first try with a 25% or lower success rate and understand new commands after 80-100 tries, meaning this breed doesn’t catch onto things quickly. This is why consistency is key. Training can be difficult for someone who is not a pack leader, as these dogs can be stubborn. If your Bulldog is resistant, take a step back, reassess your approach, and try again later. Never respond with frustration or anger, as this can harm the bond between you and your dog.

Bulldogs have relatively short attention spans, so keep training sessions brief (5-10 minutes) to maintain their interest and enthusiasm. Short, engaging training sessions will keep them interested, focusing on essential commands like "sit," "stay," and "come" to ensure their safety and good manners. Incorporating play into these sessions makes learning more enjoyable and enhances the effectiveness of the training.

Intelligence

According to canine psychologist Stanley Coren’s dog intelligence trials, the Bulldog breed is not among the brightest dogs. They are ranked the 136th most intelligent dog (out of 138) for obedience & working intelligence, meaning they can obey a known command on the first try with a 25% or lower success rate and understand new commands after 80 repetitions 100. This puts Bulldogs under the “low intelligence” dog category. If we want to put this into perspective, a German Shepherd or Labrador takes fewer than 5 repetitions to learn a new command. That’s 16 times faster than the Bulldogs. But obedience isn’t everything, as Bulldogs show high adaptive and intuitive intelligence. We wouldn’t label Bulldogs as “dumb dogs.” We would label them slow learners. They can learn as much as your average dog with the proper training.

Breeding

Breeding White English Bulldogs requires a comprehensive understanding of genetics, health considerations, and ethical practices. The white coat in these Bulldogs typically results from specific genetic factors, such as the piebald gene or recessive genes that inhibit pigmentation. Breeders should prioritize the health and temperament of the dogs, selecting pairs that exhibit the breed’s gentle nature and conform to breed standards. Genetic testing is essential to identify and minimize hereditary health issues like hip dysplasia, brachycephalic syndrome, and skin conditions.

Working closely with an experienced veterinarian is crucial throughout the breeding process. Due to their physical structure, bulldogs often require artificial insemination and cesarean sections. Ethical breeding practices are paramount, including not overbreeding females, providing proper care and socialization for puppies, and ensuring potential buyers are well-prepared for Bulldog ownership. Early socialization, regular veterinary check-ups, and high-quality nutrition are vital for raising healthy, well-adjusted puppies.

Responsible breeders should screen potential buyers thoroughly and offer ongoing support and resources to new owners. Committing to ethical breeding practices helps preserve the integrity and positive traits of the White English Bulldog breed, avoiding the pitfalls of puppy mills and irresponsible breeding. By focusing on the dogs' well-being and adhering to high standards, breeders can contribute positively to the breed and ensure that White English Bulldogs remain healthy and cherished companions.

Grooming & Care

White English Bulldog Grooming & Care

Owning a White English Bulldog is more than a privilege; it's a responsibility. Dogs rely on their owners for necessities like food and shelter, but they deserve more than just the basics. If you decide to bring a White English Bulldog into your life, it's essential to recognize and embrace the full extent of commitment required for responsible dog ownership.

Although they have a short coat, White English Bulldogs are moderate shedders. Regular brushing, at least once a week with a bristle brush, can help maintain a clean and tidy coat by removing dead hair.

The White English Bulldog sheds heavily twice a year, typically in Spring and Fall. Use a de-shedding brush to manage their undercoat and minimize shedding.

A White English Bulldog's short hair means they are less likely to pick up as much dirt and unpleasant odors compared to long-haired dogs. Bathe your White English Bulldog monthly or when they're dirty or smelly. Opt for shedding-preventive shampoo to control hair loss. Use waterless dog shampoo for quick cleaning or if your dog dislikes water. Avoid over-bathing to prevent dry skin and coat damage. Our guide on when to bathe dogs has excellent advice on bathing dogs.

Trim their nails every 2 to 3 months. Clean their ears weekly to prevent infections, excess moisture, or wax build-up using products like Zymox Cleanser With Bio-Active Enzymes or Zymox Otic Enzymatic Solution. Alternatively, you can take your White English Bulldog to the dog groomer every three months; they will take care of all that.


White English Bulldogs may be prone to dental issues. Brushing three times a week is the minimum recommended to help remove plaque and prevent tartar accumulation. For optimal oral health, include a dog dental treat. We recommend Bark Bright’s dental kit.

Is The White English Bulldog A Good Family Dog?

Bulldogs are generally known for being friendly with nearly everyone they meet, including children and other pets. However, they may not always get along with unfamiliar dogs. Early socialization is necessary, as with any dog.

They adapt well to most situations, making them great companions for first-time dog parents. Bulldogs are considered loyal pets and often form strong bonds with children. They are protective without being aggressive, often acting as gentle guardians within the home. Their calm demeanor makes them reliable and loving companions for children, who can benefit from the Bulldog’s steady presence and affectionate behavior.

English Bulldogs are relatively low-maintenance and are happy to spend most of the day on the couch, making them an excellent choice for people who prefer moderate exercise. However, they still need a proper amount of activity to stay healthy. Their appearance and courageous nature alone are usually enough to deter intruders, making them effective watchdogs. White English Bulldogs are certainly a great option if you’re looking for a new addition to your family.

To better understand if a White English Bulldog is the right fit for you, watch this video featuring experienced White English Bulldog owners. They provide insights and share their experiences with the breed, offering valuable perspectives to help you make an informed decision about welcoming a White English Bulldog into your home.

How Much Do White English Bulldogs Cost?

The average White English Bulldog price ranges between $1,500 and $3,500. The high cost is due to the specialized breeding process, popularity, high demand, and the limited number of puppies available. Prices are higher for White English Bulldog puppies with sought-after traits, like blue eyes or unique color patterns.

In addition to the purchase price, the annual cost of caring for a White English Bulldog is around $1,500, which is more than many other breeds. Be cautious of unusually cheap offers, often below $1,000, as they may indicate backyard breeders who lack proper breeding knowledge and care. It's best to buy from reputable, recognized breeders.

Where to Buy A White English Bulldog?

Finding a reputable White English Bulldog breeder can be challenging. A good starting point is local animal shelters or dog rescue organizations. While finding a White English Bulldog for free is rare, opportunities can occasionally arise. Exploring options with local breeders in your area is also advisable. For those interested in pre-screened, healthy teacup puppies, Pawrade and PuppySpot are recommended resources that offer puppies from reputable U.S. breeders. It’s crucial to request medical records and certifications for both the parents and the White English Bulldog puppy to verify health screenings, ensuring a higher likelihood of your puppy being healthy.

White English Bulldog Coat & Colors Pictures

Here is a visual list of some of the different hues you can expect to see in White English Bulldogs.

White English Bulldog Insurance Consideration

White English Bulldogs can be predisposed to certain genetic disorders, including hip dysplasia, which can lead to arthritis and other mobility issues. Given these conditions are lifelong, it's crucial when selecting dog insurance for Bulldogs to examine any coverage limits and fully understand the duration for which conditions are covered. This foresight ensures your White English Bulldog receives the necessary care throughout life without unforeseen financial burdens.

White English Bulldog Puppies

Proper care is essential to ensure White English Bulldog puppies grow into healthy adults. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial to monitor their health and address potential issues early. It's important to keep an eye on their weight, as Bulldogs are prone to obesity. Providing a balanced diet and moderate exercise will help maintain their health. Grooming is relatively straightforward, with their short, fine coat requiring regular brushing to remove loose hair. Particular attention should be given to cleaning their facial folds to prevent infections. Regular bathing, nail trimming, and dental care are also important aspects of their grooming routine.

FAQs

White English Bulldogs are relatively rare compared to other color variations of the English Bulldog breed. Their white coat results from specific genetic factors, such as the piebald gene or recessive genes that inhibit pigmentation. While these genes are present in the Bulldog population, entirely white Bulldogs are less common due to the complexities of coat color inheritance.

Selective breeding practices have increased the number of white Bulldogs, but ethical breeders prioritize health and temperament alongside coat color. As a result, while white English Bulldogs are not exceedingly rare, they are less frequently seen than other color variations like brindle, fawn, or red. Their unique appearance and the careful breeding required to maintain their health contribute to their relative rarity and desirability among Bulldog enthusiasts.

Yes, White English Bulldogs generally get along well with other pets, especially if they are properly socialized from a young age. They can coexist peacefully with other dogs and even cats, provided they are introduced correctly and given time to adjust. Early socialization is key to ensuring they develop good manners around other animals, making them a harmonious addition to multi-pet households.

No, White English Bulldogs are not known for excessive barking. They are generally quiet dogs, preferring a calm and laid-back environment. While they may bark to alert their owners of something unusual or when they are excited, they are not typically noisy. This makes them well-suited for living in apartments or close quarters where excessive barking could be an issue.

A White English Bulldog can be a good choice for first-time dog owners. They are friendly, loyal, and adaptable, making them excellent companions for those new to dog ownership. Their relatively low-maintenance grooming needs and moderate exercise requirements make them manageable for beginners. However, their somewhat stubborn nature means that training requires patience and consistency. With proper care, training, and socialization, White English Bulldogs can be wonderful pets for first-time dog owners.

The Bottom Line

Much of what we can do to keep our dogs happy and healthy is common sense, but owning an English Bulldog requires you to be ready for the high cost associated with their health issues and veterinary care. For instance, this breed overheats fast if you live in a hot, weathered city. They need extra cleaning care for the skin folds and tail pockets. They have trouble breathing and are susceptible to many health problems. White English bulldogs are as loving as they come and are adorable. They are great family pets and the best sidekicks who are just as happy lying beside you as they walk by your side.


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Sources

Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process and product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

  1. Uppsala University
  2. Bulldog Club of America

Meri Halvari, Veterinarian Student, DVM Candidate at Canine Bible | + posts

Meri Halvari is a dedicated and passionate veterinary student and a proud contributing author at Canine Bible. Her lifelong journey with animals began in her childhood, evolving into a steadfast commitment to animal care and wellness.

In terms of experience, Meri served as an Interim Veterinarian in Finland in 2023 and worked as a Veterinary Assistant in the same country from 2019 to 2023. Her hands-on experience in these roles has further fueled her passion and knowledge in the field of veterinary medicine.

Regarding her educational background, Meri is currently a Veterinary Student at the Estonian University of Life Sciences, where she has been studying from 2018 and is expected to graduate in 2024 with a DVM degree. Additionally, she undertook traineeships at the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna, Austria in 2023, and at the University of Perugia, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Italy in 2022. These international experiences have broadened her perspective and enhanced her skills in veterinary medicine.

To complement her education and experience, Meri is working on her final thesis on the field of Anesthesia, showcasing her comprehensive and diverse expertise in animal care and treatment.

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