Stellar Bulldogs
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English Bulldog
English bulldogs, with their charming wrinkled faces and relaxed demeanor, they are an ideal companion for city living. Their friendly disposition and easygoing nature makes them a wonderful choice for urban dwellers seeking a loyal pet. Plus, their moderate exercise needs mean they can thrive even in smaller living spaces.
Bulldogs are always up for a leisurely stroll around the block or a spirited game of tug-o-war in the backyard. Their calm, even-tempered personalities make them excellent playmates for children, and they're just as content lounging on the couch for an afternoon snooze as they are goofing around with their favorite humans. Bulldogs are also known for their wrinkled expressions and jaw dropping underbites that never fail to put a smile on your face.
Have you ever seen one of these adorable little tanks waddling around? They've absolutely mastered the art of doing nothing while still being entertaining!
The English Bulldog traces its origins back to the 13th century in England, where it was originally bred for bull-baiting, a cruel sport that involved dogs fighting bulls. The breed's muscular build, loose skin, and distinctive pushed-in nose were advantageous for this brutal activity.
However, as bull-baiting was banned in the early 19th century, the breed was refined into a companion animal. The English Bulldog underwent significant changes in temperament and appearance, leading to its current role as a gentle and affectionate pet, well-known for its loyalty and distinctive wrinkled face. Over time, the breed's popularity grew, and it became a symbol of British culture and tenacity.
Adult Female English Bulldog
History Of The English Bulldog
Bulldog fanciers bred out the breed's aggression and created the modern English Bulldog. The Bulldog Club of England was formed in 1878 to protect the breed and create a standard. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the breed in 1886.
Bulldogs were popular in the 17th and 18th centuries,they were often vicious and were also used in dog fighting. The Cruelty to Animals Act of 1835 outlawed bull baiting and dog fighting, almost causing the breed to go extinct. So the Old English Bulldog had outlived its usefulness in England as a sporting animal and its "working" days were numbered. However, emigrants did have a use for such dogs in the New World. In mid-17th century New York, Bulldogs were used as a part of a citywide roundup effort led by Governor Richard Nicolls from 1664-1668.
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Because cornering and leading wild bulls was dangerous, Bulldogs were trained to seize a bull by its nose long enough for a rope to be secured around its neck
English Bulldogs Motto: Keep The Snacks Coming
With their squished, wrinkly faces, sad puppy-dog eyes, and stocky tank like bodies, English Bulldogs are hard to resist. These lovable couch potatoes have a gentle, easygoing personality that makes them great family pets. Bulldogs are total interior & exterior softies - they love nothing more than snuggling up next to you for a nap or begging for snacks. And despite their somewhat intimidating appearance, they're real sweethearts that get along great with kids and other dogs. Just watch out - with their irresistible charms and persuasive puppy eyes, Bulldogs are master manipulators that will steal your heart and probably your spot on the couch too.
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Physical Characteristics
An English Bulldog stands 14 -15 inches high and is known for its distinctive wrinkled face, flat nose, and stocky build weighing 40 - 50 pounds, they are one of the most recognized dogs around. With their broad, muscular body, wide chest and short legs known as a rolling gait. Their skin is loose and saggy, which contributes to their characteristic wrinkles, particularly around the face. The breed typically has a short coat that can come in various colors, including brindle, white, fawn, or a combination of these. English Bulldogs are also recognized for their gentle demeanor and loyal nature. They have short tails that can either hang down straight or be tucked in a coiled "corkscrew" into a tail pocket.
English Bulldog: Sir Snorts-a-lot
Temperament
English bulldogs are the ultimate chill dogs, with a temperament that's about as laid back as it gets. These stocky dogs are totally content to just hang out with their humans. They're not the kind of dogs that need constant activity or stimulation - a nice leisurely walk around the block or a quick game of tug-of-war is usually enough to satisfy their exercise needs. But don't let that mellow vibe fool you, because when an English bulldog decides it's playtime, they can really turn up the energy! They love a good romp with their toys or a spirited game of fetch, even if it's just for a few minutes at a time. One of their favorite activities is heading out with their humans a local dog-friendly patio or outdoor cafe. With their easy-going attitude and adorable wrinkly faces, English bulldogs tend to make friends wherever they go. They're social butterflies that thrive on human attention and affection. So if you're looking for a loyal, loving companion who's always down to just kick back and enjoy the simple things in life, an English bulldog might be the perfect fit for you.
Health Issues
Adult Female & Male English Bulldog
- Skin fold dermatitis, also predisposed to atopic dermatitis, Skin fold dermatitis occurs when moisture, bacteria, and yeast accumulate in the folds of skin, causing irritation, inflammation, and potential infection.
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- Hiatal Hernia, Bulldogs, especially brachycephalic breeds like French and English Bulldogs, are predisposed to hiatal hernias, a condition where part of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity, leading to regurgitation, acid reflux, and other complications. Symptoms include: Regurgitation, Vomiting, Acid reflux, Difficulty breathing, Excessive salivation and coughing. In mild cases, medications to reduce stomach acid and promote stomach emptying may be used.
Unfortunately, the unique body structure of bulldogs means they're prone to some health issues like breathing problems, hip dyspepsia, and Skin Allergies, so they need an owner who's prepared to give them extra TLC.
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- Brachycephalia: Meaning a shortened head and face, is a characteristic of bulldogs, particularly English and French Bulldogs, and it leads to a condition called Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) due to anatomical issues affecting breathing.
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- Hip dysplasia, is a condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, resulting in a shallow socket that the ball (femoral head) doesn't fit into correctly. This loose joint can lead to subluxation (partial dislocation) and, over time, significant pain and osteoarthritis (arthritis). It's a hereditary condition, meaning it's passed down through genetics.
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- Bulldogs have nearly three times greater risk of patellar luxation. When the kneecap (patella) dislocates or "pops out" of its groove in the femur (thigh bone).
Summer afternoons are best spent in an air-conditioned room as a Bulldog's short snout can cause labored breathing in hot and humid weather, and may cause heat stroke. The shortened snout and pushed in face of the Bulldog results in deformation of the upper airway tract and leads to obstruction of breathing, a cool environment is essential.
Regular cleaning of their facial folds is vital, as trapped moisture may cause infection and irritation, we use a wrinkle cream to keep the skin folds in good condition, along with regular almost daily ear cleaning, with a vet approved ear wash solution.
Reputable - Ethical Breeders Are Key
Evolved into affectionate and gentle companions. English Bulldogs are known for their calm demeanor, making them great pets for families and individuals alike. They require moderate exercise, enjoying brisk walks and playtime with the kids, bulldogs are one of the most popular family pets around but are prone to certain health issues, including breathing problems and joint issues, so regular veterinary care is essential. Their unique appearance and loving personality make them a popular choice among dog lovers everywhere.
Only buy a bulldog from a reputable breeder, who prioritizes the health and well-fare of their dogs. Read our tips on 'puppy mill' puppies.