Wondering about the price of an English Bulldog? These cuddly pups are adorable and easy to recognize because of their squat frame and wrinkled faces. These pups are very popular as pets because they are charming. These cute canines even serve as the mascot for Yale University, the U.S. Marine Corps, and several professional and amateur sports teams. These jowly pups are sure to steal your heart, but how much do they cost?
English Bulldogs will require an investment from the very beginning. Along with adoption fees, owners will need to buy puppy supplies and cover veterinary costs. Additionally, some health concerns with this breed can add more to their veterinary expenses. Anyone thinking about adopting an English Bulldog will want to know what they are financially committing to before bringing one of these adorable puppies home.
How much does an English Bulldog puppy cost? We find out and discuss some factors that impact cost in this guide. Jump in and learn all about what goes into this flat-faced breed’s costs and care.
How Much Is An English Bulldog Puppy?
Many factors impact how much an English Bulldog puppy costs. These include whether a puppy is meant for companionship, competition, or breeding. Health, pedigree, size, and location al o impact the cost, as does where a dog comes from. On average, one can expect to pay about $1,500 for a high-quality puppy. Some may be purchased for less, around $500. There are a few places to look to understand what these dogs cost in your area. Look to breed-specific rescues, general animal rescue groups, and local shelters. Also, look at breeders in your area and around the country to see the English Bulldog price range. You can also get involved with breed groups on social media to connect with Bully owners and get breeder recommendations and an idea of what others spent on their puppies.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) describes prices ranging from $500 to $2,500 for a show-quality puppy. The English Bulldog Club of America estimates that a pedigreed puppy for breeding will run between $1,000 to $3,000, and a companion dog for $800 to $1,500. This means you can expect to pay an average of $1,500 for a high-quality pup.
| Average Cost Of English Bulldog | |
|---|---|
| Initial Puppy Price & Supplies | $4,500 |
| Yearly Costs | $2,400-3,000 |
The English Bulldog
This strapping bulldog breed hails from England, where he was a dog bred for bull baiting and fighting in the 13th Century. Of course, those dogs were larger, heavier, and more aggressive than today’s adorable, flat-faced pups.
By the early 1800s, bull baiting was banned in England, and the breed’s use dramatically diminished, and they almost went extinct at the end of the 1800s. The breed was rescued from oblivion by a few dedicated breeders. The English Bulldog was what the AKC calls “an American Beauty” and was recognized as a separate breed from England. The AKC recognized these Bullies in 1886.
There are several English Bulldog breeds today. These include the American Bulldog and the Olde English Bulldogge. English Bulldogs are also called British Bulldogs, as well as Bully dogs. These pups are quite popular as pets today due to their lovable nature and wrinkly yet charming faces. They have a stubborn streak and can be a handful, but the breed continues to be popular among families worldwide. Many Bullies exhibit a flat face and short-snouted, “smushed” appearance. It is not unusual for them to have pudgy pot bellies, even at a young age. It is common to see a Bully with an underbite and no teeth.
They reach 40 to 55 pounds at full growth. Males are slightly larger than females. Both are stocky and pack a whole lot of dog personality onto their compact, robust frames.
How To Calculate English Bulldog Costs
It is hard to know exactly how much a specific dog will cost. Every family and financial situation has unique circumstances. Our guide presents an average minimum price that potential owners can refer to. We cannot estimate the exact cost for every dog, and unexpected expenses can come up. Taking on the responsibility of caring for a pet is a big financial commitment, and owners need to be ready for it. Our guide should serve as a reference point for owners to look at to get an understanding of what their minimum financial commitment to a Bully will be.
Over a puppy’s first year, the cost will be much higher. Expenses will include the initial adoption fee, as well as startup supplies. These costs include food, bowls, beds, crates, toys, treats, harnesses, leashes, medical care, registration, and more. Owners who purchased dogs from breeders in different areas may also have travel costs that factor in. Puppy vaccinations require more veterinarian visits, and most dogs will go through a spay and neuter procedure within their first year. Owners can expect to invest between $500 and $1,500 to get their pups set up. Add on about $1,000 to $1,500 to adopt the puppy. Owners are looking at about $2,500 to $3,500 as an initial investment.
Along with that, puppies will need medical care, as well as spaying and neutering procedures. Expect to spend anywhere from $1,000 to $1,500 for medical care. That puts us at an estimated $4,000 to $4,500 minimum investment for the first year.
This breed lives between 8 to 10 years on average. Feeding them will be one of the highest expenses, and owners can expect to pay at least $100 monthly for food. Bulldogs will need treats, toys, and periodic replacement of beds, leashes, and crates. These supplies can run an additional $100 or more each month. With about $200 a month minimum for food and supplies, owners can expect to spend at least $2,400 yearly, usually more, on these pups. With an initial investment of $4,500, plus medical care, these dogs have a minimum lifetime cost of $30,000 to $40,000.
Please remember that this is an estimate, not a specific prediction. Each dog will have their unique health and nutritional needs. Owners should also not forget that as these dog’s age. They may require more veterinary care due to some medical conditions they are predisposed to. Some brachycephalic dogs who suffer from respiratory issues may require special care, like oxygen tanks that can cost thousands of dollars.
| Supplies | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Food (30lbs) | $100 |
| Medical Care & Medications | $50 |
| Emergency Care | $25 |
| Pet Insurance | $50 |
| Grooming | $50 |
| Grooming Supplies | $25 |
| Dental Care | $10 |
| Nail Clipping | $20 |
| Walking | $100 |
| Training | $150 |
| Daycare/Boarding | $50 |
| Toys | $15 |
| Treats | $10 |
| Cleaning Supplies | $10 |
| Total | $665 |
Factors That Affect The Price
Factors that impact the price include breeding, looks, health, age, location, and time of year. Litter size and breeder reputation also factor in.
Genetics
Genetics and breeding always impact the price. Dogs with a higher pedigree and bloodline will cost more. Bulldog mixes, those from rescues, or home breeders, may cost less. Remember that the quality of the bloodline, especially those pups that come from championship lines, will increase the price. If you choose a show-quality Bulldog puppy or one meant for breeding, you can expect to pay substantially more for the dog.
Appearance
Specific markings, such as blue eyes, will increase the price. Markings such as a black head and spots will also increase the price of a Bulldog puppy. Fawn and white is the most popular color combination. Some colors are very rare, like, merle which can cost anywhere from $4,500 to $10,000.
Health
The health of a puppy impacts the price. This breed is also prone to developing several health-related conditions and well-known respiratory issues. Obesity is a big concern. Overfeeding a Bully like this can make him overweight, putting strain on joints and shortening the expected lifespan. Overfeeding can cause other ailments, such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.
Some health conditions to look out for with this breed include:
- Asthma and allergies
- Intervertebral disk disease
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Exercise intolerance (due to spinal deformation and abnormally small chest cavity)
- A tendency towards bloat
- Eye conditions such as tearing, irritation, and corneal ulcers
- Skin conditions
- Sensitivity to anesthesia
- Cardiovascular disease
These health concerns can sometimes add to the expenses of medical care.
Age
Age is also a significant factor in the price. Younger puppies tend to be the most expensive. For companion dogs, people te d to want younger puppies, those less than six months old. There is a much higher demand for the younger age group. Older dogs generally cost less to adopt but may require more care if they have already developed medical issues. Remember that puppies and adult dogs also have different nutritional needs and food costs can vary greatly depending on age.
Demand
The breed’s popularity can also impact the price of a puppy. Prices may be higher if there is high demand for the breed or a specific breeder. In some cases, owners may need to place a deposit down for their puppy many months before a puppy is even born.
Location & Time Of Year
Living in a particular area may affect the p ice of a specific breed of puppy, including these Bullies. In general, puppies may cost more in urban areas compared to rural areas. Additionally, if a breeder is located far away, owners may need to cover travel expenses to ship their puppy to them or travel to pick him up. Time of year also plays a role. People tend to want more puppies in the summer and sometimes again around the winter holidays. Times of higher demand means higher prices.
Breeder Reputation & Health Screenings
Reputable breeders who invest in their puppies’ health and well-being may charge more than less trustworthy breeders. If a breeder is highly sought after, that may add to the price. The number of health screenings a breeder does on puppies will also impact the cost. The more screenings are done, the higher the price, but this also means that a dog is healthier.
Purpose
Companion animals intended to be family pets are less expensive than those that will be trained as competition show dogs or used as breeders. Those pups will require special training and come from higher pedigreed lines.
Purebred Or Mixed Breed
Pedigree and bloodline significantly impact the price of a puppy, regardless of breed. Purebred dogs are always more expensive and higher in demand. Mixed-breed Bulldogs are much less costly to adopt. In many cases, mixed breeds are healthier than their purebred parents because they have less chance of inheriting hereditary medical conditions.
Common Costs For An English Bulldog’s Care
However, owning any dog is associated with certain expenses and financial commitments.
Initial Purchase Price
The initial purchase price of a purebred English Bully puppy can vary greatly, but on average, you can expect to pay between $1,500 and $5,000.
Spay & Neuter Procedure
Having your puppy spayed or neutered is essential to help control the pet population and reduce the risk of specific health problems. The cost of spaying or neutering can range from $100 to $500 or more. Discuss this with your breeder early so you know what to expect regarding care and costs.
Microchipping & Registration
Microchipping is a quick and simple procedure that involves inserting a small tracking microchip under your dog’s skin. This chip contains identification information that can help reunite you with your bark baby if he becomes lost. The cost of microchipping ranges from $25 to $50. Along with microchipping, most municipal areas require canines to be registered. These fees vary by locality and generally cost between $10 and $100 or more every year.
Vaccinations
Your bark baby will need to be vaccinated to protect against certain diseases. The cost of vaccinations will vary depending on the specific vaccines your Bully needs and where you live. You will spend more on vaccinations during the first year of life, as puppies require more. However, it is essential not to skip regular vaccinations as your pet ages. This preventative care help keeps him healthy throughout life, along with heartworm, flea, and tick prevention.
Dental Care & Nail Clipping
Dental care and nail clipping are other areas of a dog’s health maintenance that can get expensive. Dogs will need professional dental cleaning at least once a year, which can cost anywhere from $100 to over $700. Additionally, some Bullies may require anesthesia for this procedure, adding additional costs, approximately $75 to $200. Nail clipping can cost about $10 to $20 a month if done at a groomer or the vet.
Food
The cost of feeding one of these guys will depend on the quality of food you choose and the size of your pup. On average, you may spend around $30 to $100 per month on dog food. Depending on the kind of food you purchase, this expense can be much more. For example, owners who choose to feed their fur babies fresh food and freeze-dried diets will spend significantly more. Owners should purchase the best quality food they can. Always look for foods that list named meat products as the first ingredients. Avoid brands that use a lot of fillers, artificial flavors, and food colorings. this is not an area to try and cut expenses or save a few bucks. Nutrition is a crucial element in your pup’s overall health. He needs the best you can buy from day one.
Supplies
You will need to purchase many supplies for your pup, such as a collar, leash, bed, and toys. The cost of these supplies will depend on your preferences and the quality of the products you choose. Remember that these are medium to large canines, so toys and supplies will cost more.
Grooming
This Bully breed has short, thick coats that require regular grooming to keep clean and healthy. You can groom your dog yourself or take him to a professional groomer. Grooming costs can range from $30 to $100 per session. This tends to be a very stinky breed due to all their wrinkles. These wrinkles hold moisture, dirt, and bacteria, leading to a smelly and sometimes costly situation.
Medical Care
All dogs need regular medical care, and this breed is prone to specific health problems that can be costly to treat. This includes things like regular check-ups, dental cleanings, and medications. The cost of medical care will depend on your dog’s age, size, and overall health. Because this breed is prone to a few medical conditions, including serious breathing issues, the expense of medical care can sometimes increase significantly. Expect to spend about $50 a month.
Emergency Care
Unfortunately, unexpected emergencies can happen, and the price of emergency care can be pretty high. It is wise to set aside money for emergencies or consider getting pet insurance to help cover unexpected veterinary expenses.
Pet insurance can sometimes help offset the price of emergency care for accidents and unexpected ailments. Some companies also offer wellness plans to assist with the cost of routine preventive care. Of course, you must be an established customer with no related preexisting conditions, so look for this coverage early. Seeking a new policy during an emergency will be of no benefit.
Other Supplies & Saving
Pet owners will need to purchase some other supplies regularly. These include poop bags, puppy pads, pooper scoopers, cleaning supplies, replacement things like beds, treats, toys, harnesses, and more. Owners should expect to spend about $25 or so each month on these things. Additionally, it is a good idea to save for a rainy day. If owners can, they should save a little, even just $10 or $20 a month, towards unexpected pet care expenses. Doing this can be very helpful when an emergency or special occasion arises.
In total, the average lifetime expense of an English Bulldog can range from $30,000 to $40,000 or more, depending on a dog’s unique situation and health. It is essential to carefully consider the financial responsibility of owning a dog before bringing one into your home.
Additional Expenses
Training
There are many kinds of classes and socialization techniques to try. Professional training classes can range from $50 to $200 per session. Bullies with specific obedience issues or owners who want more advanced or specialized training may spend even more. Remember that training is not a one-time expense. Though most training happens when they are puppies, dogs sometimes need refresher courses throughout their lives.
Doggy Daycare And Boarding
Doggy daycare and boarding are optional expenses but something many owners use. Owners who need to go out of town must find a reliable pet sitter or boarding facility. Some members of this breed can develop separation anxiety and become destructive and upset if left home, even for a short period. In this case, doggie daycare may be necessary, running anywhere from $15 to $100 or more daily. The specific amount depends on your dog, the individual facility, and the services needed.
Walking
Professional dog walking is only an affordable option for some, but this can benefit busy owners and help keep pups physically active. Employing a professional dog walker means that Fido gets his daily walks, regardless of how swamped with work his owner might be. This is an area where the price depends on the individual dog and dog walker, however, walks usually run about $30 for half an hour.
Insurance
Pet insurance is always optional but will add to an owner’s monthly expenses. Prices vary depending on your dog’s age, location, breed, insurance provider, and the plan picked.
Fencing
One expense that sometimes gets overlooked in pet care is ensuring that outdoor areas are always securely enclosed with high-quality fencing. Fencing will need regular upkeep and sometimes even a replacement. While this is not a typical part of care, it is something to remember and may need to be part of initial investment considerations.
Things To Consider
A reputable breeder will have screened their puppies for certain health problems that are common in the breed, such as hip dysplasia and respiratory issues. Quality breeders will ensure that their puppies are well-socialized and exposed to various people and environments. A reputable breeder will be able to provide information about the parentage of the puppies, including pedigree and any health screenings done on the parents.
Reputable breeders will run clean facilities and be happy to let you see them. Most highly regarded breeders will provide you with a written contract outlining the terms of the sale and any guarantees or warranties provided. In some cases, this even includes a clause that owners return the puppy to the breeder if the adoption does not work out. High-quality and reputable breeders are always happy to answer any questions that you may have and provide documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an English Bulldog from a shelter or rescue?
Yes, you can find these Bullies in a shelter. There may even be a purebred. Not all rescue pups are little puppies. Older dogs and even some younger ones may have health concerns or behavior issues requiring extra care.
Are English Bulldog puppies more expensive than adults?
Yes, Bully puppies are generally more expensive than adult dogs because they are in high demand and have yet to reach their full size or maturity. The younger they are, the higher the expense to adopt. Older Bullies may need more medical care and more specialized diets, which may raise care costs.
Why do English Bulldog puppies cost so much?
There are several reasons why these puppies may be more than other breeds. These include the breed’s popularity, the expense of breeding and raising the puppies, and the potential for certain health problems.
Can I find an English Bulldog for a lower price?
It is possible to find one for a lower price, but it is essential to be cautious when buying a puppy from a breeder with a lower price point. Do your research and ensure that the breeder is reputable and the puppy has been properly cared for and socialized.
Is it worth paying more for pedigreed English Bulldogs?
This depends on your personal preferences and goals. A pedigree may be more critical if you want to show your dog or breed them in the future. A pedigree may be less critical if you are looking for a companion.
Final Thoughts
Owning a dog of any kind is a significant financial commitment. Some dogs are more expensive than others, and the English Bulldog is a moderately to a higher-priced dog to adopt and maintain. These dogs cost more than some other breeds at adoption and may need increasing medical care as they age. Because they are prone to some health conditions, owners must research and consider this before welcoming one of these adorable pups home. Only some Bullies will be as expensive, but this breed is not cheap to take care of. It is possible to adopt them from shelters or rescues and pay less than purchasing from a breeder. Purebred puppies will have a higher price tag, much more than mixed breeds and rescue dogs.
Our guide focused on the average estimated expenses of raising an English Bulldog puppy. These dogs will range between $30,000 and $45,000 or more to care for throughout their lifetime. They are expected to live between 8 to 10 years, and puppies usually cost around $1,000 to $1,500 or more. Please remember that this is just an estimate and does not include special needs, training, boarding, or other specific things each individual dog will need. Before adopting any canine breed, it is essential to learn about the required care and associated expenses. One thing to remember is that the impact and love a dog brings into one’s life is invaluable, and one cannot put a monetary value on it. Our fur babies deserve the best we can give them, so it is vital to understand the financial commitment and big responsibility of being a pet parent.
