ALL ABOUT THE ENGLISH BULLDOG
History of The Bulldog Breed
Bulldogs were originally created in 13th-century England for bullbaiting, a bloody sport in which a pack of dogs fought a bull while people bet on the outcome. In 1835, England banned blood sports, including bullbaiting, forcing gamblers to breed faster, more animated dogs for pit-dog fighting. This gave rise to early prototypes of the Bull Terrier and Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
Faced with extinction, Bulldog admirers refined the breed, making it more attractive and less ferocious. By 1886, the Bulldog was recognized by the AKC. Bulldogs have since become the national symbol of England and the mascot of numerous sports teams. Famous Bulldog mascots include Handsome Dan for Yale University and Uga for the University of Georgia. Bulldogs also represent the Mack Truck company and the U.S. Marine Corps.
Temperament
The English Bulldog has a significantly different temperament from its ancestors. Although they can appear intimidating, they are among the gentlest of dogs. Strangers may keep their distance because of their fierce appearance, but friends and family will fall in love with them. Bulldogs are a “people” breed and require a lot of human attention to remain happy. They are quiet, even-tempered pets that don’t bounce, dig, or bark very much. They are easy to care for, loyal, and love the entire family, though they may have a favorite. Bulldogs are energetic when they are young but tend to slow down as they get older. Exercise is essential, and walking your dog regularly and playing with them occasionally should be sufficient. Bulldogs are happy to lounge around all day, but exercise is crucial to ensure they remain healthy and happy.
Bulldogs are known for their good nature and gentle disposition. They never start a fight and are peaceful by nature. They assume that every man or dog is as friendly as they are and can be oblivious to the sobering effect their countenance has on both man and beast. However, let either start anything, and it is just too bad. Children will fling themselves upon them, hug them breathless, pull their ears, dress them in their play clothes, and bask in their toothy smile.
Size & Appearance
The Bulldog is a medium-sized, smooth-coated animal whose appearance and attitude should display stability, vigor, and strength. According to the Standard, the Bulldog’s disposition should be kind and courageous, never vicious nor aggressive, and his demeanor and expression should be dignified and peaceful. The size for adult males is about 50 pounds; for mature females, about 40 pounds.
The correct Bulldog should have a low and short-legged appearance. They have heavy, muscular shoulders, a short and strong back, and a comparatively narrow loin area. The chest should be broad and deep, and the sides full, with well-rounded ribs. The belly should be tucked up. The Bulldog’s forelegs should be short, stout, and straight, muscular, and with well-developed calves. The hind legs should also be short and strong, with the stifles turning outward slightly away from the body. Bulldog feet should be medium-sized and compact.
The Bulldog’s appearance is unique, and their face is extremely short, with a short and broad muzzle. The nose should be large, broad, and black, with its tip set back deeply between the eyes. The jaws are massive, broad, square, and undershot, with the lower jaw projecting considerably in front of the upper jaw and turning upward. The teeth should be large and strong, with the canines wide apart, and the six small teeth in front between the canines in an even row. The Bulldog coat should be straight, short, flat, and have a fine texture that is smooth and glossy. The coat color should be uniform and brilliant, with red brindle being the preferred color.
Overall, the Bulldog is a wonderful dog breed for children and families. They are kind, courageous, and dignified, with a gentle and peaceful disposition. They require lots of human attention and love to lounge around in the sun all day. Bulldogs are excellent companions and love to ride in anything, from trains to boats, and are rarely carsick.