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First Impressions
I always expect to see a Bulldog wearing a sailors cap, draped in a Union Flag and smoking a cigar. This is because the Bulldog lends itself so well to characterization and these images stick. The Bulldog is a squat, bow legged, barrel chested dog with a big head and a dramatically undershot lower jaw.
The History Of The Bulldog
The Bulldog is also known as English Bulldog. They originated in Great Britain during the 1800's.
A member of the Mastiff family, the original Bulldog was bred as a butchers dog to control cattle. Later these skills were used in the sporting arenas of of bull and bear baiting and dog fighting, where their qualities of courage, tenacity and aggression were used to devastating effect
The dogs' bravery and tenacity remain, but their aggression has been bred out. The attributes of the breed were used to give courage and endurance to breeds like the Boxers, Bullmastiffs and Bull Terriers. It has always been popular as a show dog and the pressures of competition have resulted in the exaggerated image of the breed today.
Description Of The Bulldog
The short, straight tail is not altered and a screw tail is also acceptable.
The small rose ears are set wide and are held tightly against the neck. They are not altered. This type of ear is less susceptible to damage in the fighting arena.
The breed averages 12 - 14 inches tall at the shoulder, with dogs weighing 53 - 55 pounds and bitches 49 - 51 pounds.
Coat & Grooming
The smooth, short-haired coat is easy to groom. Comb and brush with a firm bristle brush and bathe only when necessary. Wipe the face daily with a damp cloth to clean inside the wrinkles. This breed is an average shedder.
The Bulldog is wide and compact. Its massive head should be broad with cheeks that extend to the eyes. The skin on the head should fall in heavy folds. The muzzle is short and blunt. Eyes are round set far apart and dark. Coat colors are red, fawn, brindle, pale yellow, washed-out red, white or mixtures of these.
Temperament and Bulldog Training
The Bulldogs fearsome countenance belies it’s gentle nature. They are affectionate, dependable and gentle with children. They make good guard dogs and splendid companions. They can attempt to dominate and should be trained with a confident and assertive owner. Bulldog Training is a matter of house training and good manners... they are never going to win in an agility trial.
Life Expectancy and Health
The average life span for a Bulldog is 8 years.
Reported health problems are: breathing problems - some have small windpipes. Poor eyesight. Susceptible to heat stroke in warm weather or in over hot rooms and cars. They are also very sensitive to the cold. Puppies are often delivered by caesarian section. Buy only healthy strains from reputable Breeders
Please read our page on health problems by clicking here.
Preferred Environment and Exercise Requirements
The Bulldog is well sited to apartment life. They are very inactive indoors and a yard is not necessary. This breed is an indoor dog. Bulldogs do best in temperate climates as they are not able to cope with extremes of temperature.
Bulldogs will stay fitter if given some regular exercise.
For More Information on the Bulldog
To get more information, check out the Bulldog web site:
www.thebca.org
There may also be rescue dogs available. Check for details on:
www.rescuebulldogs.org
Summary
Require a temperate climate. A favorite mascot amongst businesses and even Nations.
:: Bulldog Training ::
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