Bulldogs are an old breed and have been around since the 17th century. With so many things known about the right way to raise a dog, it is amazing that there are still many bulldogs that are in need of help and rescue.

If you are considering adding a member to your family, consider rescuing and adopting a bulldog. While many people choose to get newborn puppies, there are many dogs that are just as much, often times more, in need of love and care as newborn pups.

Bulldog breeds may look fierce, but the temperament of the breed has been known to harbor little aggression. While bulldogs are characterized for their large muscles, wrinkled face, and pushed in nose, they are often kind and passive. They make great companions because they are great to have as house dogs due to their quiet, dignified manner. There are several different types of bulldogs.

The English bulldog is the most common type of bulldog and often when people talk about bulldogs, they are referring to the English bulldog breed. Other Bulldog breeds are a bit less commonly seen. They are the American Bulldog, Old English Bulldog, and French Bulldog. While they may be different, all of the bulldog breeds have similar physical attributes and the breed temperament is mostly the same.

Though they may look sturdily built, bulldog breeds have relatively short lifespans for dogs. An average bulldog life expectancy is about 6 to 7 years. While heart problems and cancer are prominent killers of bulldogs, those who are healthy and live to pass away from old age, may live as long as 10 or 11 years. Hip dysplasia is a leading problem for bulldog breeds. This is most likely due to their stalky build. This can be somewhat controlled. Since bulldogs are more prone to hip and joint problems, it is vital that they receive exercise daily. A healthy amount of exercise can reduce a bulldog's chances of becoming overweight. An overweight animal has more weight to lug around. Excess weight has also been known to cause heart, lung, and joint problems in this gentle breed. Keep a bulldog healthy and living longer with attention during daily play time. Compared to other breeds, however, the time a bulldog requires of daily exercise, may be relatively less and thus will not require as much special care as other breeds.

Bulldogs are a relatively easy breed to care for. Their coats are short and they do not shed much. Since they have so much skin, they do not typically run or walk long distances since they may overheat. The time required to care for these dogs are relatively less than other dogs.