History & Overview

Bulldogs are known as the natural symbol of Great Britain and the mascot of the US Marines, Yale University and the University of Georgia. The Bulldog name is derived from the days when this dog was used in connection with bull-baiting in which trained bulldogs attacked and killed tied-up bulls for sport.

Character

The modern bulldog has had most of those aggressive tendencies bred out of him. At the same time, he is very courageous without being vicious. He is an excellent guard dog.

Appearance

Bulldog may be described as a big dog with a wrinkled face and short legs. Yet, surprisingly, this defiant and stubborn dog makes a very loyal, good-natured family pet that loves companionship. Contrary to classic cartoon parodies that depicted the bulldog as ferocious and wearing a spiked dog collar, the bulldog is not a vicious dog breed and gets along well with both humans (including children) and other dog breeds.

At A Glance:

Country of Origin:

Great Britain

Utilization:

Companion Dog

Classifications:

FCI Classification: Group 2 – Pinschers, Schnauzers, Molossoid breeds, Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs and other breeds; Section 2.1 – Molossoid breeds, Mastiff Type
AKC Classification: Non-Sporting Group

Size:

Medium (12 – 14 inches at shoulders)

Colors:

Brindle, red of various shades, fawn, fallow, white and pied (combination of white with any of the foregoing colors)

Litter Size:

5

Life Span:

8 – 10 years

Grooming Requirements:

Regular brushing with a rough cloth or curry brush. Clean wrinkles on face regularly.

Shedding:

Moderate

Personality:

Alert, bold, loyal, dependable, courageous, fierce in appearance, but of affectionate nature.

Social skills:

Bulldogs are generally good with other animals. Early socialization is recommended.

Suitability for Children:

Loving and patient with children, although they will not play with them for hours.

Exercise Needs:

Quite content as a couch potato; quite sensitive to hot weather.

Train Ability:

Can be very stubborn and sensitive to stern discipline. They will let you know when they are ready for obedience training.

Health & Behavioral Issues:

Bulldogs do poorly in hot weather, and if your house is not air-conditioned, your Bulldog will have breathing problems. He needs much less exercise than a Doberman Pinscher or an Afghan Hound, but will enjoy an off-lead run in a fenced-in yeard. Most puppies are delivered by caesarian section and males are often unable to mate. In addition to that, there are several health risks that all English Bulldog owners should be aware of:

• Elbow And Knee Dislocation
• Metabolic Liver Defect
• Skin Allergies