The Australian Bulldog (also known as the Australasian Bosdog) isn’t just a companion — it’s a loyal, loving pup with a heart as strong as its build. With a playful spirit and an affectionate nature, the Australian Bulldog is happiest when they’re by your side.
Thinking about welcoming an Aussie Bulldog into your life? Or already sharing your days with one? This guide covers everything you need to help them thrive — inside and out.
From choosing the right diet to keeping their minds sharp, our holistic approach covers all the ins and outs of what it takes to care for an Australian Bulldog.
Top breed takeaways
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Breed history
Australian Bulldogs are moderately active and require 20–40 minutes of daily exercise to stay fit, healthy, and mentally stimulated. While they are not overly energetic, they still enjoy short walks, interactive play sessions, and enrichment activities like puzzle toys or scent work.
Training an Australian Bulldog is straightforward with the right approach. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, such as reward-based training using treats and praise. However, their stubborn streak means that training must be consistent, patient, and engaging.
To keep their minds active, consider incorporating short training sessions throughout the day. Socialisation from a young age is also crucial to ensure they grow into confident, well-mannered dogs.
Key characteristics
The Australian Bulldog is muscular, compact, and deeply affectionate. They form strong bonds with their humans and offer protective companionship without aggression. Their adaptable nature makes them well-suited to both city apartments and large homes with yards — as long as they get regular exercise.
Health considerations
While generally healthy, Australian Bulldogs can be prone to hip dysplasia, obesity, and dental disease. A gently cooked, high-protein diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids supports their joints and overall wellbeing.
As a brachycephalic breed, Australian Bulldogs can experience breathing difficulties due to their short snouts, especially in hot weather.
Appearance and size
The Australian Bulldog has a broad head, strong jaw, and signature wrinkled face. Their coat is short, smooth, and comes in various colours, including fawn, brindle, white, and red. Their muscular body is well-proportioned, with a deep chest and sturdy legs that give them a confident stance.
Australian Bulldog personality and temperament
The Australian Bulldog is a deeply affectionate and people-oriented dog that thrives in a family setting. Their friendly and adaptable nature makes them an excellent choice for households with children, as they tend to be gentle and patient. They form strong emotional bonds, often following their humans from room to room, always wanting to be part of the action.
Despite their stocky, muscular build, Australian Bulldogs have a sweet, easygoing temperament. They enjoy companionship and social interaction, making them ill-suited to long periods of solitude. If left alone for too long, they may develop separation anxiety or resort to destructive behaviours out of boredom.
While they are intelligent and eager to please, Australian Bulldogs can also be stubborn. Training requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. When properly socialised from an early age, they can get along well with other dogs and household pets. While they have a protective streak, they are not aggressive — instead, they will alert their owners to unusual activity while remaining generally friendly towards strangers.
Their moderate energy levels make them an excellent match for those who want a playful yet relaxed companion. They enjoy short bursts of activity but are also content to lounge around with their humans. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in both apartments and larger homes, as long as they receive adequate exercise and mental stimulation.
Size guide
A full-grown Australian Bulldog weighs between 23-35 kg and can grow between 43-52 cm tall, depending on their gender and genetics. They tend to stop growing in height by 12-18 months of age when they reach adulthood.
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How long do Australian Bulldogs live?
Australian Bulldogs typically live between 10-12 years.
As dog parents, we want our pups to live a happy and healthy life for as long as possible – and there’s a lot we can do to help them thrive. Every dog deserves a long, vibrant life, and it begins with a thoughtful, holistic approach to their wellbeing.
A nourishing real food diet (like Lyka), regular exercise, mental stimulation, training, grooming, and proactive vet care all work together to help your pup feel their very best.
Read more: The real cost of chronic illness in dogs and how you can prevent it →
What does an Australian Bulldog eat?
This strong and sturdy breed needs nutritious food to fuel their mind and body.
The best Australian Bulldog diet is made with real food ingredients, like high-quality protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables.
Lyka’s human-grade meals are gently cooked to retain the tastes, textures, and nutrients of each carefully selected ingredient. They’re easy to digest, help keep your pup hydrated, and delicious – perfect for even the fussiest eaters.
Maintaining the right weight and body shape is crucial for an Australian Bulldog’s health and wellbeing. Excess weight or obesity can lead to other diseases and affect a dog’s joints, mobility, quality of life, and lifespan.
That’s why Lyka meals are custom portioned to meet your dog’s specific needs, helping you keep them at their healthiest and happiest.
Read more: The life changing benefits of real food for dogs →
Do Australian Bulldog puppies need special food?
Contrary to popular belief, puppies don’t need special puppy food if they’re getting the right portion of nutrient-dense real food.
Australian Bulldog puppies need a diet containing high-quality protein for tissue growth, essential vitamins and minerals for bone development and brain function, and low GI carbohydrates for slow-release energy, like Lyka.
Read more: What should puppies eat? Expert nutrition tips for optimal development →
Read more: Puppy vs adult food: what our experts want you to know →
Australian Bulldog health issues
Australian Bulldogs from reputable breeders are generally known to be healthy, but like all dogs, they can develop health issues or inherit conditions from their parents.
As a brachycephalic breed, Australian Bulldogs can experience health issues like brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), which affects their breathing. Avoid over-exercising and over-heating (especially in the summer) to prevent respiratory distress.
Before planning a litter, respectable breeders will consider the health, temperament, and genetic history of their breeding pairs to select good characteristics. Always check the health of the parents before choosing your new pup.
1. Joint conditions
Australian Bulldogs can be prone to inherited developmental conditions like hip dysplasia. Rapid growth as a puppy (caused by too much dietary calcium or protein) can also be a factor. Some dogs can develop arthritis because their joints have tried to compensate for the unstable movement.
You can support your Australian Bulldog’s joints with a diet containing ingredients with anti-inflammatory properties, like omega fatty acids at the optimal ratio.
Lyka meals are rich in omega-3 from fish oil and sardines. We also use fresh Aussie produce like vegetables and plant superfoods (full of phytochemicals and antioxidant properties) to help maintain strong and supple joints.
Look for these other joint-loving ingredients in Lyka meals:
🥥 Coconut: full of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties to support supple joints
🌱 Fennel Seeds: a superfood that’s great for swollen joints and arthritis
Read more: Hip dysplasia: how can your dog's diet help →
2. Gum disease
Gum disease in dogs (periodontal disease) is a bacterial infection along the gum line that can cause swollen gums and loose teeth. In severe, untreated cases, the infection can enter the bloodstream leading to other health problems.
All dogs benefit from a dental care routine, including regular brushing, to keep their teeth and gums clean, strong, and healthy.
Your dog’s diet can help too.
💚 Kelp (Ascophyllum nodosum): shown to reduce plaque and tartar build-up.
🦷 Dental treats: chews like Lyka’s Busy Beefies and Pig Twigs, are designed for repeated chewing which can also support your pup’s oral health.
Read more: Gum disease in dogs: how to spot, treat, and prevent it (with pictures) →
3. Obesity
It can be easy for Australian Bulldogs to gain unnecessary weight, if they’re not given adequate exercise or a portion-controlled diet, putting additional strain on their backs, joints, and ability to breathe easily.
Maintain your pup's optimal weight with a custom portioned, complete and balanced diet that keeps them nourished and in excellent shape. Pair this with regular walks and playtime to keep them active and healthy, along with regular veterinary check-ups.
Include real ingredients in their diet like quality proteins and low GI carbohydrates to maintain steady energy levels and support a healthy weight and body shape, like:
🍠 Purple sweet potato: a low-GI carbohydrate option that gradually releases energy to satisfy your pup.
🦘 Kangaroo and Chicken: low-fat, high-quality protein options for healthy weight management.
🥬 Kale: fresh, non-starchy produce with bioavailable nutrients and dietary fibre for healthy digestion and satiety.
Read more: Lyka's vet guide to healthy dog weight →
Australian Bulldog coat, grooming, and hygiene tips
Keeping your Australian Bulldog well-groomed is about more than just a sleek and shiny coat – it’s essential for their overall health.
A consistent grooming routine helps maintain healthy skin, trim nails, and clean teeth. By investing a little time in their hygiene, you ensure your dog stays healthy and happy.
Coat types and shedding
The Australian Bulldog has a short, smooth coat that sheds moderately year-round.
Grooming
Due to their short coat, Australian Bulldogs require minimal grooming. Regular brushing with a soft-bristle brush or grooming mitt can help minimise shedding and keep their coat healthy.
They only need a bath every 6-8 weeks unless they’ve rolled in something dirty or smelly. Remember to use mild, dog-friendly shampoo, as human products can irritate their skin.
Hygiene tips
A dog's nails can grow surprisingly fast, and if they're not trimmed regularly, they can become uncomfortable and even affect how they walk.
Introduce your Australian Bulldog to nail trims from an early age so they’re used to the sensation and the tools. Don’t forget to reward them with a high-value treat at the end, so they develop a positive association with the process.
Brushing your dog's teeth a few times a week helps reduce tartar buildup and supports healthy gums. Dental chews can also contribute to oral hygiene.
Routine ear checks are important to spot signs of an ear infection, wax buildup, or irritation. You can give them a gentle wipe with a clean, damp cloth, but be careful not to reach too far into their ear, as this can cause damage.
And don’t forget to inspect your dog’s paws frequently, checking for cuts, debris, or redness between their pads.
Australian Bulldog exercise requirements
Australian Bulldogs need 20-40 minutes of moderate exercise to stay fit and happy. Daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation activities like puzzle toys or basic obedience training will help keep them engaged.
They love interactive play but aren’t overly energetic, making them well-suited for families or individuals looking for a relaxed yet playful companion.
A high-protein, low-glycaemic index diet, like Lyka’s real food meals, provides steady, nutritious energy to complement their active lifestyle.
Training an Australian Bulldog
Australian Bulldogs are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. They respond best to positive reinforcement techniques such as praise, treats, and play rewards. However, they can have a stubborn streak, so patience and consistency are key when working with them.
Early socialisation is crucial to help Australian Bulldogs develop into well-mannered, confident dogs. Exposing them to various people, environments, and other animals from a young age will help prevent any potential anxiety or fear-based behaviours. Puppy training classes or structured obedience training can be highly beneficial in shaping their social skills.
Basic commands such as "sit," "stay," and "come" should be introduced early, as this breed thrives on structure and routine. Training sessions should be kept short and engaging, as they can lose interest if sessions are too repetitive or long.
Leash training is important, as Australian Bulldogs are strong dogs that may pull if not properly trained. Teaching them to walk calmly on a lead using positive reinforcement will make outings more enjoyable for both you and your pup.
For puppies, toilet training requires frequent breaks (expect one hour of bladder control per month of age), while crate training offers a safe space and helps with house-training. Controlled socialisation through puppy school or meet-ups is essential for building confidence and social skills.
Your pup’s receptivity to training can be improved with the right nutrition that helps support consistent moods, steady energy levels, and cognitive development.
Read more: Fuelling your dog’s focus: how nutrition impacts your dog’s training →
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How to choose a reputable Australian Bulldog breeder
So, you’ve decided that an Australian Bulldog is the perfect companion. How exciting! The next step is to find a reputable breeder.
What do we mean by ‘reputable breeder’?
Reputable, ethical breeders establish breeding programs, planning a limited number of litters using breeding pairs carefully selected for their health and temperament. They believe the health and wellbeing of their dogs and puppies are paramount.
Ethical breeders often have an application and selection process and may even have a waitlist. They should be receptive to scheduled visits so you can see their facilities, meet their dogs, and ask them questions about their program.
This is when you should enquire about how they have addressed common health conditions, like hip dysplasia scoring.
A puppy farm (factory, or mill) often operates in poor conditions and on a large scale to maximise their profit. Health and wellbeing are of secondary importance, if at all, leading to puppies that often have long-term health and behavioural issues.
How do I find a reputable Australian Bulldog breeder?
Often each state has a recognised breed club that can provide a list of reputable breeders that will usually have a website, social media channels, and direct contact details.
RightPaw is a website dedicated to promoting responsible breeders and ethical programs. Not all breeders use this site, but it’s a helpful tool to support you on your puppy journey.
Speak to other dog parents – it’s a great way to gain invaluable insight into their first-hand experience and give you even more of a taste of what to expect from the breed.
How much is an Australian Bulldog puppy?
You can expect to pay around $3,000 to $5,000 for an Australian Bulldog puppy from an ethical breeder in Australia. But remember — the real cost of dog parenting isn’t just the purchase price. It’s the ongoing commitment of time, love, and care.
Veterinary bills can be expensive and unexpected, so it’s worth considering pet insurance too.
If you want to adopt a pup from a rescue shelter, we’re right behind you. Try to find out as much information about them as you can but recognise that a lot of their history will be unknown.
When you bring them home, show them love, patience, and consistency to help them settle into a new and secure life with you.
Read more: How much does a dog cost? The real price of dog ownership →
FAQs
Still got some unanswered questions about the Australian Bulldog? Check out the facts in our FAQs below:
Are Australian Bulldogs hypoallergenic?
No, Australian Bulldogs are not considered hypoallergenic. They have a short, smooth coat that sheds moderately year-round, which can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals.
When should I desex my Australian Bulldog?
Most dogs are desexed when they reach maturity. Your vet will consider your dog’s age, size, health, and behaviour to determine the right time for the procedure.
For how long is an Australian Bulldog pregnant?
The Australian Bulldog gestation period is around 63 days or nine weeks from conception.
Do Australian Bulldogs drool a lot?
Compared to some other bulldog breeds, Australian Bulldogs drool moderately. However, they may drool more after eating, drinking, or during hot weather.
Are Australian Bulldogs good with children?
Yes! Australian Bulldogs are known for their affectionate and patient nature, making them excellent companions for families with children. However, as with all dogs, interactions should be supervised, especially with young kids.
Can Australian Bulldogs be left alone for long periods?
Australian Bulldogs are social dogs that thrive on companionship. They can tolerate being left alone for short periods, but extended time alone may lead to separation anxiety or destructive behaviours. Providing interactive toys and a comfortable space can help ease their time alone.
Do Australian Bulldogs bark a lot?
No, Australian Bulldogs are not excessive barkers. They tend to be calm and only bark when necessary, such as alerting their owners to visitors.
Can Australian Bulldogs swim?
Due to their muscular build and short snout, Australian Bulldogs are not natural swimmers. If introduced to water, they should always be supervised and provided with a life vest for safety.
What’s the difference between an English Bulldog and an Australian Bulldog?
While both breeds share a similar stocky build and temperament, the Australian Bulldog was specifically developed to be healthier, more athletic, and better suited to the Australian climate. Unlike the English Bulldog, which has a more compact body and a flatter face, the Australian Bulldog has a slightly longer snout, making it less prone to breathing difficulties. They are also generally more active and require more exercise compared to their English counterparts. Additionally, Australian Bulldogs have been bred to have fewer genetic health issues, making them a more robust breed overall.
New to Lyka? Let’s rethink dog food together
Parenting your Australian Bulldog comes with many decisions, like choosing the best diet for your new best friend.
Designed by board-certified veterinary nutritionists and made with real, human-grade ingredients, our meals are custom-portioned to match your dog’s needs.
Lyka nourishes hundreds of Australian Bulldogs across Australia – from energetic pups to seniors in their golden years – they’re all thriving on Lyka.
