The Bulldog is known for its fierce and intimidating stature and appearance. But did you know there’s an even cuter version of this breed? It’s famously known as the miniature Bulldog!
If you love all the adorable traits of a Bulldog but just want a more compact dog, then the miniature Bulldog might be the right one for you.
This guide will discuss the appearance, genetics, and cost of owning miniature Bulldogs. Read on to find everything you need to know about mini Bulldogs and how to take care of one.
What Is a Miniature Bulldog? Is There Such Thing as a Mini Bulldog?
The miniature Bulldog, also known as Bull Pug, is a crossbreed between a purebred English Bulldog and a purebred Pug. Despite its smaller size, this mixed breed has a stocky and muscular build, traits that are common for Bulldog breeds.
This little companion combines the charm and mischief of a Pug with the friendly and dignified personality of an English Bulldog, making them the perfect pets for families and novice owners.
Currently, the mini Bulldog is not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) since it is not a purebred dog.
However, it is acknowledged by other canine clubs or registries, such as the American Canine Hybrid Club, the Designer Breed Registry, and The American Canine Association (ACA).
Other Names of Miniature Bulldog
Miniature Bulldogs are also called Bull Pugs or English Bulldog Pug mixes — owing to their parent breeds.
Nonetheless, these mixed dogs are oftentimes confused with toy or teacup Bulldogs and miniature English Bulldogs. However, these are different breeds.
Toy or teacup Bulldogs and miniature English Bulldogs are downsized versions of the English Bulldog breed, while the mini Bulldog is a crossbreed between a Pug and an English Bulldog.
These terms are used interchangeably nowadays, and it might be a little confusing. So when looking for a miniature Bulldog pup, one of the first things you have to inquire about is the breed of its parents.
Miniature Bulldog Size and Weight
A fully-grown miniature Bulldog stands at 10 to 14 inches and weighs around 25 to 40 pounds. Like most dog breeds, the male mini Bulldogs are slightly taller than the females.
Although they are crossbred dogs, their height and weight are fairly easy to estimate since their parent breeds have close size ranges.
The height of a standard Bulldog is around 14 to 15 inches, and it weighs around 40 to 50 pounds. Pugs, on the other hand, stand at 10 to 13 inches and weigh an average of 14 to 18 pounds.
Hence, you can assume miniature Bulldogs to be about as tall as Pugs but with around one and a half or twice their bulk.
Miniature Bulldog Appearance
As mentioned before, miniature Bulldog mostly looks like your standard English Bulldog but smaller. There are no breed standards for them yet, but the ACA provides a general description.
They should have a muscular body and short legs. They would still have flat faces and squished noses, with two rose-shaped ears close to their face.
The coat of a mini Bulldog is smooth, short, and fine, and they come in a few colors, such as black, fawn, brindle, red, and white. They will also have prominent skin folds and wrinkles on their face, like English Bulldogs.
Mini Bulldogs have single coats that are tight to the skin and shed moderately.
Miniature Bulldog Temperament and Personality
A dog’s temperament is affected by inherited and environmental factors. To predict the temperament of a Pug Bulldog mix, let’s take a look at the parents’ temperaments.
The Pug is one of the oldest dog breeds and has been enjoyed by so many because of their affectionate, friendly, and docile temperament.
They are sociable and love being with their humans. They are also energetic and great with children.
Bulldogs, on the other hand, are also gentle and loving dogs. They like being with their family and can be the perfect dog to laze around on the couch with.
However, they are also strong and brave and can be great guard dogs. Needless to say, these two make a great combination.
Mini Bulldogs are said to be great family dogs. They would love being around their families and getting a lot of attention. They are friendly and are great with kids.
Mini Bulldogs are also generally thought to get along well with other dogs and cats.
Miniature Bulldog Lifespan and Health Issues
Miniature Bulldogs live an average of 9 to 13 years, which is a little longer than standard Bulldogs.
The average lifespan of a Bulldog is 8 to 10 years. Pugs, on the other hand, have a life expectancy of 13 to 15 years. Of course, there are always some exceptions, and some mini Bulldogs live longer than 13 years.
Although miniature Bulldogs are generally healthy, they are still susceptible to common canine illnesses. Since this dog is a combination of two breeds, it is possible that it will inherit diseases from either parent.
Here are some common diseases in mini Bulldogs that you should look out for:
- Hip Dysplasia: A 2016 study by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals shows that this condition is very common for both Bulldogs and Pugs. For both breeds, over 70% of the dogs tested suffered from abnormal development of their hip joints.
- Luxating Patella: This condition happens when the dog’s kneecap moves out of its normal position. As mentioned before, Bulldogs are already prone to orthopedic conditions because of their build.
- Respiratory Issues: The anatomy of their faces makes mini Bulldogs prone to respiratory diseases. Both parent breeds are susceptible to brachycephalic airway syndrome, which may cause snoring, difficulty in breathing, frequent panting, and even difficulty in doing physical activities.
- Skin Conditions: Mini Bulldogs have wrinkles or skin folds, making an environment for bacteria and fungi. It makes them susceptible to various skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis caused by allergies.
Aside from these, you must also be vigilant about your mini Bulldog’s nutrition and exercise, as they are prone to obesity.
They do not require a lot of exercise, but they should still get regular physical activity to avoid diseases associated with weight.
When buying from a breeder, you should be extra careful and make sure that the parents of your miniature Bulldog are in good health.
How to Take Care of Your Mini Bulldog
Since they are already prone to many diseases, you must ensure that you provide your mini Bulldog with all its maintenance needs to stay healthy. Like all dog breeds, they need proper nutrition, exercise, and good hygiene.
Food and Diet
Miniature Bulldogs need high-quality dog food designed for small breeds. Typically, for puppies, meals can be two to three times a day. Adult dogs can have two meals a day.
As they are prone to allergies, a limited-ingredient diet can help lessen the risk for allergies. It would be best to consult your vet about this, especially if you want to feed them food other than commercial dog food.
You should also be mindful of their portions as they can easily overeat. And as cute as they are when getting treats, you should be careful about the amount of treats they get as this contributes to their overall consumption.
If you suspect that your mini Bulldog is either under or overweight, take them to the vet as soon as you can. Weight problems in dogs can be caused by other health issues other than nutrition.
Training and Exercise
Your miniature Bulldog would typically need 30 minutes of moderate exercise every day. You can also split this into two shorter sessions because, as mentioned previously, they can have difficulty breathing.
Note that they have an intolerance for extreme temperatures, so take your dog out when it’s most comfortable to do physical activities.
Like the Pug and Bulldog, your mini Bulldog will happily spend time with you just lazing around your house. But remember that they are prone to obesity, and it is up to you to make sure that your dog gets the exercise it needs.
As for training, miniature Bulldogs are smart but can be a little stubborn. Use treats and lots of positive reinforcement. Dogs love routine, so start house training early.
Exercise sessions can also be an opportunity to socialize them. Mini Bulldogs can get along well with other pets, but of course, it depends on the exposure you give them.
Cleaning and Grooming
A mini Bulldog has a short coat that only needs brushing once or twice weekly. Note that they shed moderately and are not hypoallergenic.
Take special care to check your mini Bulldog’s face and skin folds. Make sure that they are clean and dry to avoid skin issues.
Since they are prone to allergies, you may also consult your vet about medicated shampoo that can help your mini Bulldog.
As with any other dog, regular cleaning of ears and teeth, as well as nail trimming, should be done.
How Much Does a Mini Bulldog Cost? Puppy Prices & Expenses
A mini Bulldog will cost you around $1,500 to $2,500. However, there are breeders who would charge higher than this because they are also considered designer dogs.
While price is not always an indication of quality, think twice if you see listings below $1,000. Aside from the usual breeding costs, it can be even more costly for this breed as most Bulldogs give birth via cesarean section.
Aside from that, there are initial expenses you would have when bringing a new puppy home.
Here is a breakdown of the initial expenses associated with owning a mini Bulldog:
| Type of Expense | Cost |
| Food and Treats | $30 – $80 |
| Bowls | $10 – $30 |
| Toys | $20 – $30 |
| Beds | $30 – $200 |
| Collars and Leashes | $15 – $50 |
| Crates and Carriers | $30 – $200 |
| Grooming Essentials | $50 – $150 |
| Initial Vet Visits | $100 – $500 |
| Initial Vaccine Shots | $50 – $300 |
| Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications | $40 – $300 |
| Neutering or Spaying | $50 – $500 |
| Microchipping | $40 – $60 |
| Dog License | $10 – $20 |
| Other Essentials | $20 – $50 |
| Total Initial Cost | $495 – $2,470 |
Some of the items listed in the table are only one-time purchases. However, you should note that expenses for food, treats, and vet visits are recurring costs that you should budget yearly.
As mentioned, mini Bulldogs are susceptible to multiple diseases, so it might also be a good idea to invest in pet insurance.
All in all, taking care of your miniature Bulldog’s health is not cheap, so keep that in mind if you’re considering buying one.
Miniature Bulldog Breeders and Rescues
It might be difficult to find mini Bulldog puppies that are available immediately, but with patience and resourcefulness, you can surely meet a breeder that produces healthy mini Bulldogs.
For your convenience, here are some of the places you can visit to find mini Bulldog puppies for sale:
- PuppyFinder – This is an online platform for all dog breeds where you are sure to find listings for miniature Bulldog puppies. You can filter your search by state, so it is easier to find one near your location.
- Lancaster Puppies – This website aims to connect breeders with prospective families. You can find more info on the puppy and the seller on the puppy’s page. They have a dedicated page for Pug Bulldog mixes, so you will surely find a mini Bulldog for sale.
- Greenfield Puppies – Greenfield Puppies ensures that all the breeders who advertise on their platform follow ethical breeding practices. All puppies in their listings are also vaccinated, vet-checked, and have a health guarantee.
Another option would be for you to adopt one from a shelter or a rescue. There are so many dogs in need of new homes. The mini Bulldog for you might just be waiting at a foster home or a local shelter.
You can check these places to find miniature Bulldog rescues:
- Bulldog Rescue Network – This is a network of Bulldog rescue organizations and shelters throughout the United States and Canada. They have a directory of dogs available for adoption from the organizations and shelters they are affiliated with.
- Petfinder – Petfinder is another online platform for adoptions where you can find Bulldogs and Bulldog mixes that are available for adoption. Their site provides detailed backgrounds and profiles for each adoptable dog.
- Petcurious – This site lists different types of rescue animals for adoption. You will find the dog’s breed or breed mix in the listings, so it’s possible to find a mini Bulldog for adoption here. They have over 80,000 adoptable pets and are affiliated with over 8,000 organizations.
Regardless of whether you adopt or buy, you should ensure that you are financially and emotionally ready to take on the responsibility of owning a mini Bulldog.
Should You Adopt or Buy Your Mini Bulldog? Tips on Getting a Healthy Puppy
There is no right answer to whether you should adopt or buy a mini Bulldog puppy. There are pros and cons to each, and it is really a matter of preference or what suits your lifestyle and capabilities as a dog owner.
You should consider buying a puppy if:
- You want to train and shape your dog’s personality. Again, temperament is both inherited and shaped by the puppy’s environment. If you want to shape your dog’s personality, you should consider buying one since it will allow you to train it early on.
- You have the time and patience for training. Your puppy is a blank slate, and you must be prepared to spend lots of time training. Mini Bulldogs are smart but can be stubborn, so you should have extra patience.
- You are willing to spend more money. The cost of purchasing a puppy is twice or thrice what you would spend if you were adopting. Puppies are also way more expensive than adults and seniors.
However, you may consider adopting if:
- You don’t have lots of time for training. Since most rescues are adult dogs, they are already house-trained and can do basic commands like sit, stay, etc. However, this does not mean that rescue dogs will need less time and attention from you.
- You are prepared to put in extra effort to bond with your dog. A lot of rescues come from difficult situations, and you need to be able to put in the work to bond with them.
- You are willing to un-train the dog. This is not always the case, but there might be some unwanted behaviors or habits a rescue dog will have that you need to work on.
Note that if you are considering adopting, it might not be easy to find a miniature Bulldog since they are not as common as the standard Bulldog.
But whether you purchase or adopt a mini Bulldog, you must ensure that you are getting a healthy puppy.
Here are some things you should do to find a sound and healthy mini Bulldog:
- Take the time to visit the dog. There is no substitute for seeing the dog with your own eyes before purchasing or adopting. Observe how the puppy moves and interacts with other animals and people. In some cases, you can also get to see the puppy’s parents.
- Educate yourself. Learn as much as you can about the mini Bulldog, so you know what issues you should be concerned about and prepare for.
- Ask lots of questions. Do not hesitate to ask questions. If they are trustworthy breeders and rescue organizations, they would be fully transparent about any health issue the parents or the puppy might have. Records of vaccinations and worming treatments should also be available.
Ultimately, you should put ample amount of time and research about the breeder you are transacting with to avoid getting scammed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Mini Bulldogs Be Left Alone?
Mini Bulldogs love attention and being with their family. However, it may be possible for them to learn to be left alone for a few hours if you start training them at an early age.
Are Mini Bulldogs High Maintenance?
It is relatively easy to live with a mini Bulldog. Grooming and exercise would not take a lot of time and money. You would probably only start spending a lot if your mini Bulldog has health issues.
Do Mini Bulldogs Bark a Lot?
Like its parent breeds, mini Bulldogs do not bark a lot and can actually make for great apartment dogs. You won’t have to worry about your neighbors being disturbed since they remain quiet most of the time.
Are Miniature Bulldogs Good Guard Dogs?
Mini Bulldogs are sociable dogs but can also show little aggression toward strangers if untrained. Although they can still be loyal and protective, their compact size does not make them the ideal guard dogs.
Do Miniature Bulldogs Drool?
Yes, mini Bulldogs drool. This is normal for all types of Bulldogs due to the shape of their skull. However, if you think that your miniature Bulldog is drooling excessively, you can ask your vet if there are other issues that may be causing this.
Final Thoughts
With all the adorable traits of both the Bulldog and the Pug, it is not surprising that their mix is also a dog worth owning. It is low-maintenance, affectionate, and easy to train.
If you want to raise a dog in an apartment or condo or if you have a passive lifestyle, then this dog might be perfect for you.
Mini Bulldogs can also be good for new dog owners since they are pretty low maintenance. They are also good for families with kids because of their temperament.
With all the mini Bulldog’s lovable traits, their health might just be your biggest concern. If you truly want to raise a mini Bulldog, then be prepared to handle health issues that come with both breeds.
What are your thoughts about the mini Bulldog hybrid? Let us know in the comments!
