English Bulldog

English Bulldog

Loving, loyal, gentle (when the situation requires it!), and often hard-headed or stubborn, the English Bulldog can be the ultimate canine family member. If socialized, the English Bulldog is excellent with children and tolerant of other pets. He is often more playful than expected, especially as a puppy, but tires easily and is prone to bouts of extreme laziness.

The English Bulldog is sensitive to climate extremes and will overheat easily. Indoor living is a must! And strenuous exercise is not recommended. He is prone to drooling, snoring, and moderate shedding. He does not bark much and cannot swim!

Appearance

(taken from the AKC standard)


The English Bulldog is a medium sized dog, low to the ground and sturdy. His shoulders are wide and his head is very large. A female should weigh around 40 lbs. and a male around 50 lbs.

His coat is smooth and short and can vary in color from brindle, white, red, fawn, piebald (large patches of two or more colors) but should not be solid black.

His tail is not cropped but straight or “screwed” and short.

His face is characterized by many rolls and wrinkles. His muzzle is short and broad with an undershot jaw (the lower jaw protrudes a considerable distance beyond the upper jaw).

His eyes should be very dark in color and set wide apart. His ears are set high on the head and are thin and small but never cropped. His nose should be black in color and set deeply between the eyes.

History


The Bulldog originated from ancient Mastiffs. These dogs were brought to Britain and eventually bred to fight bulls for entertainment. The Bulldog’s low-to-the-ground body, strong shoulders, and powerful, undershot jaw proved essential when fighting a bull. His tenacity and ability to endure pain was also helpful.

After bullbaiting was abolished in the 1835, the bulldog was developed into a show dog.

Care


English Bulldogs require extra care from their owners. They are prone to overheating and should only live indoors. They should not be expected to participate in strenuous exercise.

Careful consideration and research should be done by a prospective English Bulldog owner due to the many genetic health problems these dogs are prone to have. Be prepared to deal with any issues your dog may have or develop with age.

Most English Bulldogs must be artificially inseminated when bred and puppies must be delivered by Caesarian Section.

English Bulldogs tend to be stubborn and therefore more difficult to train. They have a mind of their own and require consistent but kind guidance from their owners.

Regular grooming is recommended and daily wiping of skin folds is helpful.

Life Expectancy

8-10 Years