| Breed
Group:
Non-Sporting |
| Weight:
male: 50, female: 40 lbs |
| Height:
12-15 inches |
| Color(s):
brindle, solid white, red, or fawn, or any of these on a white background |
| Coat:
The
coat of the Bulldog is close, straight, short, glossy, and smooth. It
is of fine texture and there is no feathering, fringe, or curl. The
color of the coat comes in red brindle, solid white, solid red, fawn,
or fallow, piebald, and various colors of brindle. This breed is an
average shedder. |
| Overview:
Descended
from the Asiatic mastiff, the Bulldog was developed in Great Britain.
Their primary function was that of a participant in the blood sport of
bull baiting. They were also used against bears, other vicious
carnivores, and lions. During the 19th century purebred Bulldogs were
very rare due to the enactment of the anti-baiting laws. Today the
Bulldog is a family companion and show dog. |
| Character:
The
Bulldog is moderate in size, heavy, and built low to the ground. They
are strong, kind, amiable, and courageous. This breed is not vicious or
aggressive and is quite dignified. They possess a passive demeanor and
have a quirky sense of humor. |
| Temperament:
This
breed is loyal, exceedingly affectionate, and deeply devoted to their
family. The Bulldog is dependable, gentle, and does well in a home with
children. They will get along with other pets they have been raised
with but may be rude and try to bully strange dogs. They thrive on
human attention and are dependent upon it for their happiness and
well-being. The Bulldog has excellent guarding abilities but will only
bark when absolutely necessary. This breed is very possessive of food
and should never be fed in the presence of children or pets. |
| Care:
The
Bulldog needs occasional brushing with a firm bristle brush. Bathing or
dry shampooing should only be done when necessary. This breed has a
tendency to slobber and drool so daily cleaning of the face is a must.
They are prone to such health issues as breathing problems, low
tolerance to anesthesia, poor eyesight, skin infections, and hip and
knee problems. Nearly all Bulldogs must be born by Caesarean section
due to their large heads. They are adverse to weather extremes and are
highly susceptible to heat stroke. This breed is also well known for
their active gastrointestinal system. |
| Training:
Early
socialization and obedience are a must for the Bulldog. They have a
tendency to be hardheaded and stubborn. It is important that they be
taught to know their owner is dominant. They do not respond to harsh or
heavy-handed methods. Training must be done with firmness, fairness,
patience, consistency, praise, and reward. |
| Activity:
The
Bulldog must have daily exercise to stay fit. A securely leashed walk
will suffice. They also benefit from and enjoy short family play
sessions. This breed is well suited for apartment, condominium, and
city dwelling. Bulldogs are very inactive indoors and do not need a
yard. |
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