Since then, the Bulldog has been used for anything from herding cattle to competing in a bloody sporting event known as bull baiting. These days, they're soft-spoken friends who like children.
Taking a short walk followed by a quick snooze on the couch is just what this breed needs. Bulldogs are well-suited to apartment living and can even serve as excellent pets for first-time owners. They get along well with everyone in the household and don't require a lot of attention. Just make sure to keep them out of the rain and snow, and make sure they get plenty of activity, as these dogs are prone to putting on weight when left alone all day. See the following for a complete list of Bulldog characteristics and facts!
Highlights
- This breed has a tendency to be stubborn and indolent. While it may be difficult to get your older Bulldog excited about going for a walk, he needs to be exercised every day to keep him healthy.
- When it comes to heat and humidity, bulldogs are a no-go. When your Bulldog is out in the sun, keep an eye out for any indications of heat exhaustion and bring him inside as soon as possible. When the weather is nice and everyone is outside, some people place kitty play pools filled with water in a shady location for their Bulldogs to relax in. They should not be allowed to spend their entire lives outside, as they are clearly house dogs.
- Bulldogs have a high threshold for cold.
- Snoring is common among Bulldogs. Sleep apnea is also a problem for them.
- Flatulence is a common problem in bulldogs. Talk to your veterinarian if you think your pet is suffering from this issue in an abnormally large amount.
- There are a multitude of respiratory diseases that can be caused by bulldogs' short noses.
- There are instances in which bulldogs may need surgery to repair pinched nostrils that make it difficult for the dog to breathe.
- Gluttonous eaters, bulldogs are likely to overindulge if given the chance. If you don't keep a close eye on their food intake, they'll soon pile on the pounds.
- Bulldogs have a difficult time giving birth because of their large heads and heads. Most puppies are delivered via caesarean section. Inexperienced breeders should avoid attempting to breed these animals because of the risk of genetic contamination.
- They have a high threshold for anaesthetic tolerance because of their small noses. Prior to any surgeries, be sure to consult your veterinarian about this.
- It's best not to buy an animal from an unlicensed backyard breeder, puppy mill, or pet store. For the best results, look for a reputable breeder that analyses her dogs for genetic health issues and temperament.
Characteristics
Social Appearance
Adaptability
It's a common misconception that a little dog is better suited to living in a limited space. Many tiny dogs have too much energy and are too yappy to live in an apartment building. An apartment dog's best attributes include being quiet, low energy, somewhat peaceful indoors, and respectful to the other inhabitants. Your dog's personal space in your apartment can be improved by purchasing one of these fantastic dog cages.
Sensitivity Level
Depending on the dog, a strong rebuke can be taken in stride by some, while others regard even the tiniest hint of disapproval as a personal attack. If you have a loud or pushy owner, a chaotic home, or a routine that is unpredictable or variable, your low-sensitivity dog, often known as "easy-going," "tolerant," "resilient," or even "thick-skinned," will be able to handle it better. Do you have young children, host a lot of parties, or have a hectic lifestyle? Choose a dog that isn't overly sensitive.
Intensity
You can't tell from looking at them whether or not they're hyperactive, but when they do anything, they do it vigorously. They tug at their leashes (unless you teach them not to), they push their way through barriers, and they down their meals in huge, gobbling gulps. A home with young children or an elderly or feeble person may not be the best place for these dynamos to learn proper etiquette. On the other side, a dog with poor vitality adopts a more reserved demeanor.
Potential for Playfulness
The playful nature of certain dogs never fades away, and they're always ready for a game, whereas the reserved and serious tendencies of other dogs develop through time. Think about how many times a day you want to play fetch or tag with your dog, and whether or not you have children or other dogs who can act as substitutes.
Personality Appearance
Intelligence
In the same way as working dogs, such as those that herd sheep, are bred for intelligence and decision-making, working dogs like those who run all day need to exercise their bodies. The two most common activities that a bored pet engages in are digging and chewing, both of which require mental stimulation. There are several ways to keep a dog's brain active, including obedience training, interactive dog toys like tug of war, and dog sports like agility and search and rescue.
Energy Level
Energy-draining dogs are always on the lookout for a new activity. There are several jobs that require a lot of stamina from dogs, such as herding livestock or recovering prey for hunters. Children are more likely to engage in activities such as jumping, playing and exploring new sights and smells as a result of this change in their environment
A low-energy dog is more like a couch potato than a dog that needs a lot of exercise. Think about your level of physical activity and whether or not you find a hyperactive dog irritating before making your final choice.
Easy To Train
Easy to train dogs can more easily form associations between a cue (like "sit"), an action (like sitting), and a reward than dogs that are more difficult to train. Dogs that require more time, patience, and repetition are more difficult to train.
Getting your dog interested in training will require incentives and games because many breeds are intelligent but have a "What's in it for me?" mentality when it comes to learning new things.
Family Affection Level
Affectionate With Family
Since puppyhood, some breeds remain aloof and independent; others form deep bonds with one individual but are uninterested in the rest of the family; still other types shower their entire family with affection. Canines raised in homes with people tend to be more open to human interaction and develop stronger ties, regardless of their breed or upbringing.
Kid-Friendly
Kids-friendly dogs are calm, strong enough to bear the hefty hugs and pets kids can dish out, and have an unfazed attitude about rushing, scream-inducing children. There are several names you may not expect to see on the list: Fierce-looking Both Boxers and American Staffordshire Terriers are regarded as family dogs (which are considered Pit Bulls). Chihuahuas, which are small, sensitive, and potentially sharp, are not always family-friendly.
Dog Friendly
Dog friendship and human friendship are two entirely different things. The fact that a dog is friendly with humans doesn't mean it's immune to aggression or aggression from other dogs; some canines choose to play rather than fight; others will just run away. The type of animal isn't the only consideration. Dogs who have spent a lot of time playing with their littermates and their mother at the age of six to eight weeks are more likely to be socially competent.
Physical Appearance
Amount of Shedding
Having a dog in the house means that you'll have to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothing and in the home. It's worth noting, however, that shedding varies widely among breeds. Some dogs shed all year long, while others ``blow" just during specific times of the year, and still others don't shed at all. If you're a stickler for cleanliness, you'll need to choose a breed that sheds less or lower your expectations. You can use a deshedding tool to keep your house a little cleaner.
Drooling Potential
While greeting you, some dogs may cover their arms with ropes of drool and create large, wet patches on your clothing. If you don't mind a little drool, go for it; but if you're a stickler for cleanliness, you may want to look for a dog with a low drool rating.
Easy To Groom
Some breeds of dogs can simply be brushed and left alone, while others require frequent washing, trimming, and other grooming in order to maintain their health and appearance. If you don't have the time or money to take care of a dog that requires a lot of grooming, you may want to look into hiring a professional.
Exercise Needs
Evening walks around the neighbourhood are perfectly acceptable for some breeds. Others, particularly those trained for physically demanding vocations like herding or hunting, require regular, rigorous exercise.
They can gain weight and release their pent-up energy in ways you don't like, including barking, chewing, and digging, if not given enough exercise. Those looking to train their dog for an energetic canine activity, such as agility, should consider getting a dog that needs a lot of exercise.
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed
Weight
40 to 50 pounds
Lifespan
8 to 12 years
Height
12 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder
History
The Bulldog has a long and colourful history to go along with its iconic mug. The Bulldog's roots can be traced back to the 13th century violent pastime of bull baiting in England. The dog's job was to attack and frighten the bull by holding on to it and refusing to let go, generally by the nose. Not only was this practice considered amusing, but it was also held that baiting a bull before butchering resulted in better-tasting beef.
Bulldogs were also used in bear baiting for sheer entertainment purposes. It is not uncommon for bulldog owners to place considerable value on their dog's tenacity in the face of suffering, to the point where there are horror stories of owners showing off their dog's courage by torturing or mutilating the bull.
When bull baiting was declared illegal in 1835, the Bulldog entered a new era. There were attempts to get the dogs to fight, but the Bulldog was clearly not up to the task. The popularity of the breed fell precipitously as a result of its transformation into a dog with no purpose. The Bulldog should have gone extinct, but it had garnered so many enthusiastic supporters that they set out to save it by selecting against ferocity while maintaining and often accentuating its distinctive physical qualities. They were successful. They were so successful that the Bulldog became a really pleasant figure, with a demeanour that was much the opposite of its "sourmug." Because of its resolute and unwavering demeanour, it has come to be seen as an emblem of England. The Bulldog is a well-liked pet due to its friendly, clownish demeanour.
Personality and Temperament
In general, English bulldogs are known for their kind nature. The bulldog is a good family pet because of its dependability and predictability, as well as its affection for most youngsters. As a breed, they eagerly seek out human contact and interaction.
However, because they were originally bred for bull baiting, they have kept the fearlessness that makes them excellent watchdogs. While English bulldogs are normally friendly with other pets in the household, the breed is known for its aggression toward strangers.
Although it has a "sour mug," the Bulldog is one of the most amicable and gentle dogs. Although he has a stubborn tendency, he is more than prepared to comply. With children, he is excellent. The vast majority of people are at least amiable to strangers. Even though some of the dogs might be aggressive toward strangers, the breed is generally friendly toward other animals.
Care
Consider these things when exercising and training your bulldog. It is exceedingly dangerous for a bulldog to overheat. On hot days, take particular care with your bulldog to prevent overheating: Avoid exercising a bulldog in the heat, and if feasible, keep it inside with air conditioning. Cooling pads, fans, and shady areas should all be utilised, as should easy access to cold water for drinking.
Health
Bulldogs, like any other breed, are susceptible to a variety of illnesses and ailments. All of these diseases are not common in Bulldogs, but it's good to be aware of them so you can ask questions of breeders with confidence and know what to look for as your Bulldog ages.
For the healthiest Bulldog possible, you should buy from a responsible breeder. Vaccinations and deworming will be done on a puppy from a reputable breeder. Only physically healthy, mature dogs (at least two years old) are used for breeding purposes by responsible breeders.
Bulldogs are prone to a wide range of health issues. Their health and well-being should be regularly monitored and you should have the funds available in the event that they require medical attention. Bulldogs can be affected by the following conditions:
Cherry Eye
Basically, it looks like a cherry on top of your eye because the gland under the third eyelid is protruding from underneath. The gland may have to be removed by your doctor.
Dry Eye
When a person's natural tear production is insufficient, they get this ailment. A dry appearance or a blue haze in the eyes are symptoms to watch for. To establish if your Bulldog suffers from dry eye, your veterinarian can conduct a test and recommend medication that you can provide to alleviate your pet's discomfort.
Entropion
The eyelashes curl inward and irritate the eye as a result of this disorder. Surgery may be necessary to fix it.
Inverted Or Reverse Sneezing
The Bulldog's soft palate closes due to nasal fluids dripping down on it, which isn't a health issue. When your Bulldog has something lodged in his nose, it might also lead to a sneezing fit. It sounds far worse than it actually is. When your Bulldog is agitated, try caressing his throat to calm him down.
Brachycephalic Syndrome
Dogs with short heads, narrower noses, or elongated soft palates are more likely to suffer from this condition. Various degrees of obstruction of their airways generate a range of symptoms, from laborious breathing to complete obstruction of the airway. Dogs with brachycephalic condition frequently snort and snuffle. Oxygen therapy and surgery to broaden or shorten the palate are among the treatment options, albeit the severity of the problem must be taken into consideration.
Hip Dysplasia
The thigh bone does not fit securely into the hip joint in this hereditary disease. It is common for Bulldogs to show signs of hip dysplasia based on their hip x-rays, but it is rare for them to experience lameness as a result of this condition unless they are overweight or overworked during their rapid growth stage. A second opinion and alternative therapeutic options, including as supplements, should be explored before consenting to do surgery on your Bulldog if it is diagnosed with hip dysplasia.
Patellar Luxation
A painful and uncomfortable condition in which the kneecap in the stifle of the back leg can become dislocated. The breed council health programme includes testing for this.
Tail Problems
If a Bulldog has a "tight" tail, such as a "screw tail," it can cause the dog to have skin issues. To avoid infection, you should keep your Bulldog's tail clean and dry.
Head Shakes
This is similar to having a fit, however it only affects the head. When the head is shaken from side-to-side or up-and-down, it's thought to be an uncontrollable reaction. This can be quite violent at times. There is a strong impression that this dog is aware of what is going on around it. It's possible that stress and low blood sugar are to blame for this. A common recommendation from breeders is to give your dog some honey to raise their blood sugar or divert them to stop trembling. As soon as the shaking doesn't appear to be caused by stress or over-excitement, you should take him to the vet to be sure he isn't hurting.
Recommended Health Test
- Cardiac
- Eye
- Hip
- Elbow
- Knee
- Skin Scraping
- Physical Examination
Nutrition
Bulldogs have a voracious appetite. Some people's love of food can lead them to overeat and gain weight, which puts additional strain on their joints. Determine how much your bulldog should eat each day with the help of your veterinarian, and feed it at regular intervals. Allowing your pet to eat at will (free feeding) or not using a measuring cup might lead to weight gain.
Grooming
The short hair of the bulldog makes grooming a breeze. Brushing the coat twice or three times a week can remove any loose hairs and keep it looking and feeling its best. Apply cornstarch to keep the deep wrinkles dry after cleaning them with hydrogen peroxide-soaked cotton swabs or cotton balls. Once a week, use a pet-safe ear cleanser to clean the ears, and trim the nails on a weekly basis. When your bulldog gets dirty, give it a bath.
Exercise
Despite the fact that bulldogs are one of the more placid breeds, some like more active pursuits than merely lounging around. Dog parks and off-leash fetch are popular options for more brisk exercise for bulldogs, who enjoy regular walks of no more than 20 to 30 minutes. Bulldogs may also thrive in canine sports such as obedience and agility.
Training
Despite their stubbornness, bulldogs can be trained, as seen by some of the most famous skating and surfing bulldogs in the world today. Motivation is all you need to succeed. A clicker or similar positive-reinforcement training device is ideal. To keep the bulldog's attention, reward him with pleasant food and keep the sessions brief.
Children and Other Pets
The Bulldog's affable disposition and weight make him an ideal friend for youngsters of all ages, even those who are very young. Even though he shouldn't, a Bulldog will tolerate a lot of abuse from a child, and he'll leave if it gets too much.
Constantly teach youngsters how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and small children to avoid any biting or ear or tail pulling on the side of either party.. Never approach any dog while it is sleeping or eating, and never try to take the dog's food away from it. A dog should never be left alone with a child, no matter how old they are.
Bulldogs also get along nicely with other pets, including dogs and cats, because of their pacific character. Strange dogs, on the other hand, may make them less friendly.
Puppies
With their wrinkly faces, bulldog puppies are adorable. They are small and stout, with a lot of excess skin covering their bodies. The puppies need to be fed much more frequently than the adult animals do. Puppies must, however, be carefully watched in terms of their nutrition and food intake in order to avoid putting on a significant amount of weight too quickly.
Bulldog puppies, in particular, tend to overheat more quickly than adult bulldogs, so it's important to keep a supply of cool, clean water readily available for them at all times.
Dogs Similar to Bulldogs
These dogs have many characteristics with other dogs, such as:
American Pitbull Terrier
These dogs, like bulldogs, are medium-sized, short-haired, strong, and intelligent in the same way they are. They're also kind and safe to be around.
American Staffordshire terrier
The medium stature and short hair of these dogs make them look like bulldogs. However, they are also distinct in that they tend to be abrasive and are frequently referred to as threatening.
Boston Terrier
Similar to bulldogs, Boston Terriers make excellent family pets. They are noted for their loyalty and affection towards their masters.