Bulldog breed clubs place the average life span of English Bulldogs at eight to twelve years. However, a UK survey places the average life span at six and a half years. Twenty percent of the deaths in the survey were cardiac related, 18 percent because of cancer, and 9 percent were due to old age. The English Bulldogs that died of old age in the survey had an average lifespan of ten to eleven years.

In the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals Statistics report (1979-2009), 73.9% of English bulldog's were affected by hip dysplasia, a higher percentage than any other breed. The study lasted thirty six years and around 467 Bulldogs contributed to the statistics report. The English bulldog also recorded the worst score in the British Veterinary Association/Kennel Club Hip Dysplasia scoring scheme. Patellar luxation is another condition which can affect Bulldogs. Around 6.2% of Bulldogs are inflicted.

Some English bulldogs are prone to inter-digital cysts, which are cysts that form in between their toes. The cysts can cause the dog some discomfort, but can be treated by a vet or an experience pet owner. Other problems that may occur include cherry eye, a protrusion of the inner eyelid. Fortunately, this can be corrected by a veterinarian. Allergies and respiratory issues are also common in English bulldogs.

English bulldog puppies are delivered by Cesarean section quite frequently. The bulldogs' characteristically large heads are often too big to fit through the mother's birth canal; this occurs in over 80% of bulldog litters. However, plenty of bulldogs are birthed naturally with success.

Infections can also arise on a Bulldog's face inside their many folds of skin. The pet owner should clean inside the creases daily to prevent moisture accumulation. Some bulldogs' tails are naturally curled so tightly to the body that this area also requires regular cleaning and ointment application.

Daily exercise can help prevent your pet from becoming overweight. Obesity in English bulldogs can lead to heart and lung problems, as well as joint pains. Be sure your bulldog is eating a healthy diet; too much human food can lead to obesity along with excess flatulence.

Bulldogs are generally sensitive to extremes in temperature. Take extra caution with your pet during the warm summer months. Be sure your pet is given plenty of shade and water. Air condition or good ventilation is essential to keep your pet healthy. Bulldogs mostly sweat through the pads on their feet, which is why bulldogs generally prefer cool tile or cement floors. Like all brachycephalic or "short- faced" breeds, bulldogs can easily get overheated or die from hyperthermia. Slight airway obstruction is commonly found in bulldogs causing them to breathe heavy and snore loudly. Being aware of your pets' health and the climate outside can help ensure your bulldogs safety.

In order to address some of these health concerns, the Kennel Club revised breed standards for the British Bulldog (2009). Even though it was opposed by the British Bulldog Breed Council, the press speculated that the changes would lead to fewer skin folds, a smaller head, a taller posture and a longer muzzle in an attempt to eradicate the breeds' common respiratory problems.