Bulldog

The Bulldog, also known as the English Bulldog or British Bulldog, is a member of the Non-Sporting Group and is a dignified dog with a pushed in nose. They were originally used to guard and bait bulls for butchers before the slaughter of the bulls, but despite this history, the Bulldog is generally friendly with everyone it meets and is the fourth most popular dog breed in the United States.

History

The Bulldog could have been mentioned in ancient texts as far back as during the time of the Romans, where they wrote about "broad-mouth" fighting dogs used in Britain. In any case, most historians believe that the dog mentioned in these texts would be the ancestor of today's Bulldog. The breed was specifically referred to in 1631 by an Englishman named Prestwich Eaton, where he clearly distinguished between the Bulldog and the Mastiff.

Bulldogs were thought to originally be bred for butchers, who used them to subdue bulls before slaughter. The Bulldog began being used for the sport of bull baiting, where the dogs were set loose on a tethered bull as those who watched placed bets on which dog would be able to pin the bull down. Over time, bulldogs developed stockier builds and more aggressive temperaments as a result of bull baiting. Many dogs lost their lives during this time, until the sport became illegal in 1835 with the passing of the Cruelty to Animals Act 1835.

After being brought over to America in the 17th century, they were still used to help corner wild bulls by grabbing onto the nose of the bull for enough time that a rope could be put around the bull's neck. At this time, the Bulldog resembled the Old English Bulldog, but it would soon be crossed with a pug to create a more pushed in nose. This variation would be referred to as the American Bulldog. Today, bulldogs would be no use in helping to wrangle a bull, due to the shortness of their nose and shorter endurance. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the Bulldog in 1886.

Description

The Bulldog does not have precise measuring standards. Rather, the breed is judged based on its proportions. The following is based off the AKC standard for the English Bulldog:

• Coat: Their coats are short and come in colors such as piebald, fawn, brindle, white, red, and fallow. The skin should be wrinkled.
• Head: The head should be large and bigger in proportion to the rest of its body. The face should be short. The muzzle is broad and turned upwards. The eyes are set low into the skull and should be dark.
• Body: A stocky, compact body that gives off a powerful stance. The hindquarters should be slightly smaller than the forelegs, but still muscular. The tail should be set low. They are a medium sized breed, weighing from 40-50 lbs.

Defects:

• Any signs of respiratory problems.
• Eye colors other than black/dark brown.
• Teeth that can be seen when the mouth is closed.
• Low-set ears.
• Any excess weight.

Temperament

The Bulldog is both a courageous guard dog and a gentle companion. They are determined and can be stubborn. For this reason, they should have firm training from a young age. They are natural pack animals and crave human attention. Bulldogs are affectionate towards their owners and children, but may be wary towards strange dogs. This is an even-tempered and intelligent breed that does well with a patient owner, due to its willful nature. They enjoy being indoors and are loyal to the family.

Care

• Grooming: Bulldogs only need to be brushed and bathed when necessary.
• Living Situation: This does well in apartments and houses.
• Exercise: A 30-minute walk daily will be sufficient.
• Approximate Lifespan: 8-10 years
• Common Health Problems: The Bulldog is prone to hip dysplasia and heart problems. They can become overweight if food is not regulated.

The Rundown: The Bulldog is a great choice for both singles and families looking for a gentle, affectionate pet that needs little grooming. They can be stubborn, so patience is required during training.