Bullador
A laid-back, affectionate cross of the easygoing Bulldog and the family Labrador. Generally mellow and friendly, though some inherit the Bulldog's shorter muzzle and related breathing or heat sensitivity.
Bullador scorecard
Overview
The Bullador is a crossbreed produced by mating a Bulldog (the English Bulldog) with a Labrador Retriever. It is generally a medium-to-large, sturdy dog standing around 36–57 cm tall and weighing roughly 23–34 kg, with a broad head, muscular frame and short, low-maintenance coat. Because the two parents differ so markedly in build, individual Bulladors vary widely, ranging from more Labrador-like athletes to heavier, stockier dogs that take after the Bulldog.
The Bullador is not a recognised breed and has no formal standard, studbook or breed-specific health scheme. This variability is important to understand before buying, particularly because the Bulldog parent carries significant brachycephalic (flat-faced) health concerns. The most informative guide to a given puppy is the conformation and health testing of its parents, especially the degree to which the Bulldog parent has an exaggerated short muzzle.
Good to know — a Bullador is best with a garden and good for first-time owners. Every dog is an individual, so meet a few and chat to a good breeder or rescue before deciding.
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History & origins
The Bullador is a modern, informally bred cross with no documented heritage of its own and no recognised origin. It exists as part of the broader trend of crossing established pedigree breeds to combine traits, in this case the Bulldog's easygoing temperament with the Labrador's friendly, biddable nature.
The parent breeds have long histories. The Bulldog is an English breed whose ancestors were once used in the cruel sport of bull-baiting, later bred down into a gentle companion but, over time, developed an increasingly exaggerated flat face. The Labrador Retriever is a Newfoundland-derived gundog refined in Britain into a hugely popular family dog. The Bullador blends these two very different backgrounds.
Temperament & family fit
Bulladors are typically affectionate, easygoing and friendly, often combining the Bulldog's calm, mellow disposition with the Labrador's sociable, family-loving character. They are usually rated as good with children and well suited to family life, and many are relatively laid-back compared with more driven crosses.
The breed assessment puts energy and barking on the lower side, reflecting the Bulldog influence, though Labrador-leaning individuals can be livelier and keener to play and retrieve. As with any dog, temperament varies and depends on individual breeding and socialisation, so meeting the parents and choosing a confident, well-handled puppy is the best approach.
- Families with children of all ages
- Committed first-time owners
- Homes with a secure garden
Training & intelligence
This cross is generally biddable and reasonably easy to train, with the Labrador parent contributing intelligence and an eagerness to please, while the Bulldog can add a stubborn, independent streak. Positive, reward-based methods and short, motivating sessions work best, and food can be a strong motivator given both parents' love of eating, so care is needed not to over-treat.
Early socialisation and basic obedience help produce a well-mannered adult, and the cross is rated as fairly novice-friendly. Owners should be patient with any stubbornness and avoid harsh methods, which tend to be counterproductive with both parent breeds.
- Start socialisation & handling early
- Reward-based methods only — no harsh corrections
- Keep sessions short, calm and consistent
Exercise needs
A healthy adult Bullador typically needs around an hour a day (roughly 60–80 minutes), split across walks, play and a little training. A good sniffy walk, some play and a little training usually keeps them content. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need adjusted amounts — check with your vet.
Grooming & coat
Grooming is straightforward. The short coat needs only weekly brushing to remove loose hair, though it sheds moderately and more heavily during seasonal moults. If a Bullador inherits the Bulldog's facial wrinkles, these folds must be cleaned and dried regularly to prevent skin infections. Routine nail trimming, dental care and ear checks complete the regime.
- Brush occasionally to remove loose hair
- Bathe every few weeks or as needed
- Check ears, nails and teeth weekly
Feeding a Bullador
Feed a complete, balanced food appropriate to the dog's size and activity, divided into two meals a day. Both parent breeds are strongly food-motivated and prone to weight gain, so portion control and limited treats are essential to prevent obesity, which places extra strain on joints and, in flatter-faced individuals, worsens breathing. As with other large, deep-chested dogs, sensible feeding routines around exercise are advisable.
A medium breed
An adult Bullador typically weighs 23–34 kg, so a healthy Bullador eats a moderate amount compared with other breeds. Every feeding guide on a bag is written per kilo of body weight, not per breed — start there, then adjust to the dog in front of you.
Life stage
A medium breed is usually done growing at ~12 months, which is roughly when a puppy food has finished its job. With a typical lifespan of 10–12 years, there is a long adult stretch in the middle; switch to a senior food when your vet thinks it is worth it rather than on a birthday.
How much should a Bullador weigh?
Adult 23–34 kgfully grown at ~12 months
| Age | Stage | Typical weight | Of adult size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 weeks | Just home | 3.5–5.2 kg | 15% |
| 3 months | Young puppy | 5.8–8.5 kg | 25% |
| 6 months | Growing fast | 11.5–17 kg | 50% |
| ~12 months | Fully grown | 23–34 kg | 100% |
A guide, from the same rule of thumb our puppy growth predictor uses — each age is that share of the way to maturity for a medium breed. Puppies grow fastest early, so a real puppy usually sits a little above the middle rows. Weigh yours and ask your vet if the number worries you.
Complete dog foods that suit a Bullador
Complete foods from our range, matched to a Bullador's size band and what the breed typically needs. Stock levels and delivery dates are live on each product.
Forthglade Cold Pressed Natural Turkey
Cold-pressed turkey kibble for dogs from 2 months, soft enough to mix with water for young pups
£45.99
Forthglade Cold Pressed Grain Free Salmon
Cold-pressed grain-free dry food for dogs, built on fresh and dried salmon
From£16.99
Forthglade Cold Pressed Grain Free Duck
Cold-pressed grain-free duck food with fruit and botanicals, in two bag sizes
From£16.99
Forthglade Cold Pressed Grain Free Chicken
Cold-pressed grain-free chicken food with fruit and botanicals, in three bag sizes
From£16.99
Forthglade Complete Meal Lightly Baked Turkey
A lightly baked complete dry food, 50% turkey, for adult dogs of any breed
From£12.49
Forthglade Complete Meal Lightly Baked Chicken
A grain-free complete dry food for adult dogs, lightly baked and built on 50% chicken
From£12.49
Forthglade Cold Pressed Grain Free Turkey
Grain-free cold-pressed turkey kibble for dogs, gentle on sensitive stomachs
£69.69
Forthglade British Classics Chicken Family Lunch
Complete Forthglade wet dog food with 75% chicken in a 395G tray
£2.45
Harringtons Puppy Turkey & Rice
Complete turkey puppy food with 30% protein and feeding bands by adult weight
£6.49
Harringtons Just 6 Dry Dog Food Lamb
Grain-free lamb dry dog food in 2KG and 12KG sizes, with size-specific formulas
From£13.99
Burns Puppy Original Lamb & Rice
Complete Burns lamb and rice puppy food in a 2KG bag for up to 12 months
£14.99
Burns Puppy Junior Original Chicken Rice
A complete puppy and junior food with dried chicken 31% and controlled fat at 15%
From£14.99
Bullador health & costs
Before bringing a Bullador home it pays to budget for the whole picture — food, insurance, grooming and routine vet care all add up. The figures below are typical UK estimates for a healthy adult; your real costs vary with where you live, your dog's health and the cover you choose.
Food
£400–600 / year
Complete food sized to weight & life stage
Insurance
£25–45 / month
Lifetime cover — varies by age, breed & area
Grooming
£0–60 / year
Mostly DIY at home
Routine vet care
£200–450 / year
Vaccines, flea/worm, annual check
As an unregistered crossbreed, the Bullador has no health-screening scheme and no breed-specific health data, so outcomes depend on the parents. The single most important factor is the Bulldog parent: Bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed with well-documented, serious health problems, and these can pass to the cross. Buyers should strongly favour litters where the Bulldog parent has a more moderate muzzle and where both parents have been health-tested.
The key concerns derive from the parents. Bulldogs are predisposed to brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, skin-fold problems, eye conditions and heat intolerance, while Labradors are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia and obesity. The degree to which any Bullador is affected depends heavily on which traits it inherits, which is why responsible breeding and honest assessment of the parents matter so much.
Common health conditions to be aware of
- Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) — breathing difficulty inherited from a flat-faced Bulldog parent; risk is far lower in pups with longer muzzles.
- Hip and elbow dysplasia — joint conditions common in Labradors; parents should be hip- and elbow-scored.
- Heat intolerance — flatter-faced individuals overheat easily and must be protected in warm weather.
- Skin-fold dermatitis — infections in facial or body folds inherited from the Bulldog; affected folds need regular cleaning.
- Obesity — both parents gain weight readily, worsening joint and breathing problems.
- Cherry eye and other eye conditions — documented in Bulldogs and possible in the cross.
These reflect typical, size- and coat-related risks for dogs like the Bullador; individual breeds carry their own predispositions. Always buy from health-tested parents and speak to your vet — this isn't a diagnosis.
Protect against surprise bills
A single emergency can run into thousands. Lifetime insurance spreads the risk.
Estimate insurance →How pet insurance works →Puppy & senior care
Bringing home a Bullador puppy
Puppies need controlled exercise (a rough guide is five minutes per month of age, twice a day) to protect growing joints, little-and-often meals of a complete puppy food, early socialisation, and a calm routine for toilet training and sleep. Book first vaccinations, microchipping and a vet check early.
New puppy checklist →Caring for a senior Bullador
As they age, watch weight, joints and teeth, switch to a senior diet if your vet advises, keep exercise gentle but regular, and consider orthopaedic bedding and ramps. Twice-yearly vet checks help catch issues early.
Orthopaedic beds & mobility →Pros & cons
The good bits
- Affectionate, easygoing family companion
- Low-maintenance short coat
Things to consider
- May inherit Bulldog breathing or heat issues
- Build and exercise tolerance vary between pups
Compare the Bullador
See how the Bullador measures up against similar breeds before you decide:
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Cavapoo
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Cavapoochon
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Similar temperament
Continental Bulldog
A Swiss-developed bulldog bred to be healthier and more athletic than the English Bulldog, with a longer muzzle and freer movement. Friendly, calm and affectionate, making an easygoing companion.
French Bulldog
A compact, easy-going companion that suits flats and modest exercise — but with serious health considerations.
Whippet
A gentle, quiet "sofa sprinter" — happy to lounge at home between short bursts of explosive running.
Great Dane
A truly enormous yet gentle and affectionate "gentle giant" — surprisingly calm for its size.
Similar size, different type
Border Collie
The ultimate working brain — astonishingly clever and trainable, but needs hours of exercise and a job to do.
Cocker Spaniel
A merry, affectionate gundog that loves people and activity — happiest with a job and regular grooming.
English Springer Spaniel
A tireless, enthusiastic working gundog that needs serious daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Affectionately known as the "nanny dog" — devoted, people-loving and famously gentle with children.
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Frequently asked questions
What is a Bullador?
The Bullador is a crossbreed produced by mating an English Bulldog with a Labrador Retriever. It is generally a medium-to-large, sturdy dog, around 36–57 cm tall and roughly 23–34 kg, with a broad head and short coat. Because the parents differ so markedly, individuals vary widely in build and appearance.
What is a Bullador's temperament like?
Bulladors are typically affectionate, easygoing and friendly, often combining the Bulldog's calm, mellow nature with the Labrador's sociable, family-loving character. Many are relatively laid-back, with lower energy and barking, though Labrador-leaning individuals can be livelier and keener to play and retrieve. Temperament varies with breeding and socialisation.
Are Bulladors good with children?
Bulladors are usually rated as good with children and well suited to family life, reflecting the friendly nature of both parent breeds. As with any dog, individual temperament depends on breeding and socialisation, so meeting the parents and choosing a confident, well-handled puppy is the best approach, and young children should always be supervised.
How much exercise does a Bullador need?
It has moderate exercise needs and typically does well with daily walks, play and a garden. The amount depends on which parent it favours: a Labrador-type may want an hour or more of activity, while a heavier, Bulldog-type tires sooner and must not be over-exercised, especially in warm weather if it has a shorter muzzle.
What health problems can a Bullador have?
As an unregistered crossbreed it has no health-screening scheme, so outcomes depend on the parents. The Bulldog parent is the key concern, as Bulldogs are brachycephalic with serious airway, skin-fold, eye and heat-tolerance problems. Labradors are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia and obesity. Favour litters with a moderate-muzzled, health-tested Bulldog parent.
How much grooming does a Bullador need?
Grooming is straightforward. The short coat needs only weekly brushing to remove loose hair, though it sheds moderately and more heavily during seasonal moults. If the dog inherits the Bulldog's facial wrinkles, those folds must be cleaned and dried regularly to prevent skin infections, alongside routine nail, dental and ear care.
Why are Bulladors prone to weight gain?
Both parent breeds are strongly food-motivated and prone to putting on weight, so portion control and limited treats are essential. Obesity places extra strain on the joints and, in flatter-faced individuals, worsens breathing. Feed a complete, balanced diet split into two meals and monitor body condition closely to keep the dog lean.
Is the Bullador a recognised breed?
No. The Bullador is not a recognised breed and has no formal standard, studbook or breed-specific health scheme. This variability is important to understand before buying, and the most informative guide to a given puppy is the conformation and health testing of its parents, especially the degree of the Bulldog parent's muzzle exaggeration.
Are Bulladors good with children?
Good with children. As a general guide, Bulladors tend to be patient and tolerant. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.
How much exercise does a Bullador need?
As a healthy adult, a typical Bullador needs around an hour of exercise a day (60–80 minutes), split across walks plus play. A good sniffy walk plus some play and training usually keeps them happy. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need less — ask your vet.
Do Bulladors shed a lot?
Moderate shedding. Coat upkeep is wash-and-go — a quick brush now and then is usually enough.
Are Bulladors easy to train and good for first-time owners?
Good for first-time owners. Bulladors are generally a forgiving choice for first-time owners who put in early training and socialisation. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.
Do Bulladors bark a lot?
Quiet. They are usually fairly easy-going about barking, though any dog will bark if bored or under-exercised.
Are Bulladors good with other dogs?
Generally fine with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.
Do Bulladors suit flats or smaller homes?
Best with a garden. A Bullador is happiest with access to a secure garden and regular outdoor exercise.
Sources
- The Kennel Club — Labrador Retriever breed information: https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/breed-standards/gundog/retriever-labrador/
- The Kennel Club — Bulldog breed information and brachycephalic health: https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/breed-standards/utility/bulldog/
- PDSA — Flat-faced (brachycephalic) dogs and breathing problems: https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/puppies-dogs/flat-faced-dogs
- RSPCA — Brachycephalic dogs welfare advice: https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/health/brachycephalic
Recommended for your Bullador
Matched to a Bullador's size.
Reusable Washable Puppy Training Pad
A quilted, machine-washable training pad that absorbs accidents and locks in moisture with a leak-resistant base. Reusable for puppy toilet training and senior dogs, in several bone and paw prints.
From£7.99
Dog Calming Ear Muffs For Fireworks & Thunder
A soft stretchy snood that wraps snugly over your dog's head and ears to muffle fireworks, thunder and loud noises. Helps nervous dogs feel calmer during storms, travel and grooming.
£11.99
Leucillin Antiseptic Skincare Spray for Cats & Dogs
A versatile, alcohol-free antiseptic spray that cleans, soothes, and helps protect your pet's skin from bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
From£16.49
Pressure-Activated Pet Cooling Mat
Press down, feel the cool — this pressure-activated mat absorbs body heat and stays up to 10°C cooler than the room, with no freezing required.
From£34.99
Ice-Silk Cooling Dog Bed with Bolster Edge
A breathable ice-silk cooling bed with a soft bolster edge and a cool-touch centre panel that helps your dog stay comfortable through warm weather. No need to freeze or refrigerate, it cools naturally on contact.
From£12.99
Dog Front-Limb Mobility Wheelchair
An adjustable two-wheel walker that supports dogs with front-limb weakness or injury. The lightweight frame and padded supports restore mobility, helping your dog stay active, exercise and enjoy walks with confidence.
From£176.99
Plush Foam Pet Stairs
Soft foam steps with a plush, washable cover that help senior, small or short-legged pets reach the sofa or bed safely. The lightweight, sturdy build reduces jumping strain on ageing joints.
From£21.99
Real-Time GPS Pet Tracker
A compact GPS tracker that clips to most collars for real-time location, geofence alerts and find-me sound.
£29.99
Suggestions based on breed traits — always check sizing and suitability for your individual dog.
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Every dog is an individual — temperament and needs vary. Please research thoroughly, meet dogs in person, and consider adopting from a rescue. This is general guidance, not a substitute for advice from your vet or a qualified trainer.