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Bulldog
Other Names: English Bulldog Country of Origin: Great Britain Dog Group Kennel Club : Utility General Appearance: Bulldogs are smooth coated relatively short dogs with a compact and stocky body. They have sturdy limbs, a short muzzle and saggy skin on their faces which creates something that looks like a frown. They also have low energy levels and can not handle extreme temperatures. The overall look of the dog should be powerful and vigorous with a short, sturdy (not stout) body and a peculiar rolling gait. Colours: Generally Bulldogs come in whole colours such as red, brindle and fawn or have a black mask or muzzle. They also come in a combination of white and any solid colour although black and black and tan are not desirable. Size: Bitch 31cm - 36cm Weight: Min Max Temperament: Despite their almost fierce appearance, in general, Bulldogs are loyal and affectionate pets, but they are also courageous and protective of their family. This is a family dog that loves children and will even learn to get along with other pets if introduced to them at an early age. They can be peaceful, pensive, goofy and have a well developed sense of humour. They thrive on human attention and are dependent upon it for their happiness and well-being. This breed is very possessive of food and should never be fed in the presence of children or pets. Movement: Short steps that can look a bit like a waddle. They don't lift their feet particularly high when the walk. Care and training: Bulldogs do not need a lot of grooming. They will need the occassional brushing with a hard bristle brush. Bathing or dry shampooing should only be done when necessary. Daily cleaning of the face is a must as they drool alot. They are prone to such health issues as breathing problems, low tolerance to anesthesia, poor eyesight, skin infections, and hip and knee problems. Bulldogs have a tendency to be hardheaded and stubborn. It is important that they know who is boss from an early age as they can be difficult to train. They do not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. Training must be done with firmness, fairness, patience, consistency, praise, and reward. Overall Exercise : 20 - 40 minutes per day. Bulldogs should never be exercised in the heat of the day. Two relatively short walks at a steady pace should be adequate. Feeding requirements: Many bulldogs have skin problems and may need to be on special diets or take supplements. Be careful not to over feed this breed, feeding costs can be around £4-£5 a week. Exercise: Low Grooing: Low Noise: Low Personal Protection: Medium Suitability As Guard Dog: High Level of Aggression: Medium Compatibility With Other Animals: Medium Suitable For Children: Medium Often docked? No Average Litter size: 5 Life expectancy (yrs): 9 History: The term "Bulldog" was originally created to describe any dog that shared the same qualities of a dog who fought bulls in bull-baiting. As the story goes, bull-baiting began in the 13th century in England, when Lord Stamford of Lincolnshire saw a couple dogs "baiting" a butcher's bull. Lord Stamford was so entertained that he had a field reserved for bull-baiting in order that the butcher provide their own dogs. Bull meat was said to taste better if it had been baited before it was butchered. The dogs were also put into the fighting ring with other dogs, in the sport of dog-fighting. They would even take on other animals such as bulls, bears, badgers, lions and monkeys in the ring. After 1835 when bull-baiting was outlawed, the Bulldog had depleted its use. But thanks to their popularity already and the help of Bill George, an avid breeder, the Bulldog maintained its status. The only difference now was that they were bred for personality, not fighting ability. The Bulldog continued on and became more and more friendly and amiable, rather than fierce and aggressive. In 1891 the London Bulldog Society was formed, and still has meetings at the Crufts Dog Show. Bulldogs roots are firmly planted in British soil, being mentioned in many written works in English history as well as being a national icon for Britain. Shakespeare refers to the breed in King Henry, VI. The breed was bred down to become smaller than it originally was. Now breeders concentrate on developing their non-ferocious traits, which actually has led to a lot of health problems. Bulldogs can not swim, can not go on long walks, and can be in danger in the heat. They have been bred to have such wide collar bones and chests that they often cannot fit through the birth canal when being born, and therefore must have Caesarian sections performed. The Bulldog is now a popular show dog and pet around the world.
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