Do English Bulldogs Bark A Lot?

Are English Bulldogs Noisy Dogs?

If you are looking for a relatively quiet dog breed, English Bulldogs are actually one of the better choices out there. Compared to many other breeds, Bulldogs are not big barkers. They tend to be calm, laid back dogs who save their voice for when it really matters. That said, they are not completely silent, and they make plenty of other interesting sounds that first time Bulldog owners might not expect.

English Bulldog Barking Habits

English Bulldogs are considered a low to moderate barking breed. Most will bark to alert you when someone is at the door or when something unusual catches their attention, but they are not the type to bark nonstop at every passing car, squirrel, or leaf. Once they have alerted you and you acknowledge it, most Bulldogs are satisfied and quiet back down.

This makes them excellent apartment dogs from a noise perspective. Your neighbors are unlikely to file noise complaints about a Bulldog the way they might with a Beagle, a Jack Russell, or a small yappy breed. Bulldogs simply do not have the same vocal tendencies that many other breeds do.

When English Bulldogs Do Bark

Alert Barking

Despite their gentle nature, English Bulldogs can be surprisingly good watchdogs. Their deep, loud bark is intimidating, and they will use it to let you know when strangers approach. Their stocky, muscular appearance combined with that bark is usually enough to make anyone think twice about approaching uninvited.

Excitement

Some Bulldogs bark when they get excited, like when you come home, when they see their leash come out, or when it is feeding time. This is usually short lived and accompanied by wiggly body language that makes it clear they are happy, not aggressive.

Attention Seeking

Bulldogs who have learned that barking gets them what they want will use it strategically. If barking at the treat cupboard has worked before, they will try it again. This is more of a training issue than a breed tendency, and it is easily managed by not rewarding the barking behavior.

Pain or Discomfort

English Bulldogs are prone to several health issues, and unusual barking or vocalizing can sometimes be a sign that something hurts. If your normally quiet Bulldog starts barking more, especially if it is paired with other behavior changes, a vet visit is a good idea.

The Other Sounds Bulldogs Make

While Bulldogs may not bark much, they are far from silent dogs. English Bulldogs are famous for their wide variety of noises. Snoring is probably the most well known Bulldog sound. Their flat faces and shortened airways make them champion snorers, and some can be heard from across the house. Snorting, grunting, and wheezing are daily occurrences. Many Bulldogs also make a sort of grumbling sound that almost sounds like they are trying to talk to you. Gas is another reality of Bulldog ownership. Their sensitive digestive systems mean you will hear (and smell) plenty of flatulence.

These noises are part of the Bulldog charm, and most owners find them endearing. However, pay attention to breathing sounds. While some snoring and snorting is normal for the breed, heavy labored breathing, excessive panting, or any sign of breathing distress should be evaluated by a vet, as Bulldogs can have serious respiratory issues related to their brachycephalic (flat faced) structure.

Tips for Managing Bulldog Barking

If your English Bulldog barks more than you would like, start by figuring out the trigger. Most Bulldog barking can be managed with basic training. Acknowledge their alert bark (a calm “thank you, I see it” works for many dogs), then redirect their attention. Do not yell at them to stop since that can sound like you are barking back, which often makes things worse. Make sure their needs are being met since a Bulldog who is hungry, uncomfortable, or needs to go outside will bark to tell you. And if the barking is new or unusual for your dog, rule out pain or health issues with your vet.