British Bulldog
Thinking about a
British Bulldog as a companion?
Height: 30-38cm (12-15 inches) at the
shoulder Group Lifespan: 8-10 years Who is the Bulldog?A dignified, resolute dog, the British Bulldog has a lovable and gentle disposition. Breed historyThe name 'bulldog' can refer to several different puppy breeds but the one most people would recognise is often called the English, or British, Bulldog. There several other breeds, such as the American bulldog, the Australian bulldog and the French bulldog. Not all these different breeds are yet officially recognised, however. Bulldogs are believed to have originated in England several hundred years ago and were used for the sport of bull baiting, in which a dog hung on to a bull to subdue it. When the sport was outlawed in the mid-19th century, fanciers continued to develop the breed, concentrating on breeding out the more aggressive characteristics. It is believed that the original bulldogs were taller and more athletic than today's British Bulldog and breeders around the world have since attempted to breed a dog that they believe is closer to the original and that is healthier or has other desirable characteristics. Personality
Good with children?Yes. Bulldogs make an excellent family pet and will be gentle and protective towards children. Bulldogs should be introduced to other pets (particularly cats) when very young, as some do not share space with other animals well.Exercise needsThe British Bulldog is one of the small dog breeds and needs only minimal exercise and a gentle walk around the block will be enough. They should not be exercised in hot weather because their short nose makes it hard for them to breathe. HealthThe Bulldog's stocky build means it is not suited to strenuous exercise, yet care must be taken not to allow it become overfed and obese. Due to its short nose, the breed can suffer from breathing trouble and is well known for snoring. Because the head is large in proportion to body size, puppies are frequently delivered by Caesarean section. However, many bulldogs will whelp naturally without trouble. The dog's face folds should be regularly cleaned to prevent infections caused by moisture accumulation. In some dogs, the area under the tail can be prone to infection. The area should be cleaned regularly.Possible health problemsBreathing problems Interstitial cysts (cysts that form between the toes – these can cause the dog some discomfort but they are treatable) Hip problems in older dogs Cherry eye (canine nictitans gland prolapse – an eye condition where the gland of the third eyelid, known as the nictitating membrane, prolapses and becomes visible) Allergies Good breeders should x-ray or test their dogs for
as many of these
conditions as possible before
breeding, or should avoid breeding from dogs that display the
conditions. GroomingThe Bulldog requires minimal grooming, except for cleaning around the folds of the face and under the tail, and making sure the teeth are kept clean. When grooming, remember to check the paws, ears and coat for grass seeds. Also check for any minor injuries and check the teeth to see if they need cleaning. More information for new puppy owners:Want to know more about buying, raising and caring for a puppy? Check out these PuppyPrimer.com pages: Ideal ownerThe ideal bulldog owner will avoid exercising their dog in hot weather and will make sure it has access to shade and water. The dog is probably not suited to the very young or elderly as it can be quite strong and can pull a frail person off their feet! The British Bulldog will repay kindness and attention with loving devotion and it likes nothing better than to spend all its time with its owner. Return to the top of British Bulldog Go back to Puppy Breeds |
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