<b>History:</> The Bulldog, as the name implies, was originally developed to bait bulls and was used for this grisly purpose in Britain for several hundred years. Britain outlawed bull- baiting in 1835, and interest in the breed declined until several fanciers decided to rescue the Bulldog from possible extinction. Although the breed was once used for fighting, careful breeding has selected for courage, loyalty and gentleness while eliminating any viciousness. The English Bulldog is now an esteemed companion.
<b>Description:</> A short, broad, compact, massive dog, with sturdy legs that appear bowed and a huge head with a sour expression created by a pronounced undershot jaw, hanging jowls and a flat, wrinkled face. The body is very broad and low with a deep, capacious chest and rounded ribcage. The abdomen is tucked up. The heavy shoulders are set far apart and slant outward for great stability. The circumference of the skull (measured in front of the ears) should be at least as great as the dog's height at the withers. The eyes are set low and wide apart. The ears are partially erect and partially folded (rose), and the large nose is wide and black. The upper lips completely cover the lower jaw. The tail either hangs down or can bend in kinks. The skin is soft and loose, covered with a smooth, short coat that comes in several colors including brindles, white, fawn, red or piebald. Bulldogs tend to run 5 to 10 pounds heavier than the average weight listed in the AKC standard. The Bulldog has a characteristic rolling gait.
<b>Notes:</> Prone to heat stroke, skin infections, eye and respiratory problems. Never leave this breed in a hot car. Bulldogs drool, especially when eating, due to their hanging jowls. Like many short-faced breeds, Bulldogs tend to snore. Tends to be very possessive of food. Learns best with rewards and love, and retains what he has learned. This breed needs regular walks, but not extensive hard exercise. Though the coat doesn't need much brushing, regular bathing of the Bulldog is a must. Wrinkles, ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly. Good with other family pets, but can be scrappy with strange dogs. The puppies are difficult to whelp because of their large heads, often necessitating Cesarean deliveries. Bitches are often infertile. Only lives about 10 years. Novice owners should seek guidance from those with more experience.
<b>Personality:</> Despite his fearsome visage, the Bulldog is very sweet, devoted and eager to please. Peaceful, placid and quiet. Gentle and patient with small children. Will defend his family valiantly, if necessary. Needs human companionship. Has been called "beautiful in his ugliness."
<b>Behavior:</>
<C>Children:</C> Excellent with children.
<C>Friendliness:</C> Loves everyone.
<C>Trainability:</C> somewhat difficult to train.
<C>Independence:</C> Moderately dependent on people.
<C>Dominance:</C> Moderate.
<C>Other Pets:</C> Generally good with other pets.
<C>Combativeness:</C> Tends to be fairly dog-aggressive.
<C>Noise:</C> Not a barker.
<b>Grooming and Physical Needs:</>
<C>Grooming:</C> Regular grooming needed.
<C>Trimming & Stripping:</C> No trimming or stripping needed.
<C>Coat:</C> Short coat.
<C>Shedding:</C> Average shedder.
<C>Exercise:</C> Moderate exercise needed.
<C>Jogging:</C> A poor jogging companion.
<C>Indoors:</C> Very inactive indoors.
<C>Apartments:</C> Good for apartment living.
<C>Outdoor Space:</C> Does all right without a yard.
<C>Climate:</C> Does well in most climates.
<C>Owner:</C> Good for novice owners.
<C>Longevity:</C> Average (10 to 12 years).
<b>Talents:</> guarding, and police work.
<b>For More Information:</>
Call the AKC Breeder Referral Hotline: 1-900-407-PUPS for the name of a breeder referral representative in your area. Cost is 99 cents per minute.
<b>Photo Caption:</> ENGLISH BULLDOG
Photo copyright: Cook PhoDOGraphy 1995. All rights reserved.
