The Bulldog, a member of the Non-Sporting Dog Group. With origins (many years ago) in fighting, you would think this is a vicious tank of terror. Not hardly. The Bulldog is now a gentle, docile, family loving pet capable of protecting if needed. Needing less exercise than many other breeds, it makes the perfect dog for the home bound and couch potatoes. Could a Bulldog be the right dog breed for you? Choosing the right breed dog is very important for you and for your dog. Here are the dog breed standards and other important information you should read prior to buying a new dog or puppy for your home.

History: The Bulldog is thought to have descended from the ancient Asiatic mastiff but developed its characteristic traits in Great Britain. In ancient days when it was used to fight against bulls, the Bulldog’s job was to bury its tremendously strong jaws in the bull’s hide and just hang on. The British outlawed these contests early in the nineteenth century, resulting in one of the greatest turnabouts in dog history. The breed gets its name because of the uncanny resemblance of its build to that of a bull as well as its association with the sport of bullfighting.

The type of work the breed does: Though originally used in sports such as bull-baiting and dog fighting, Bulldogs are today bred primarily as companion dogs and family pets.

Physical Representation: The Bulldog is a medium-sized dog with a wide and compact build. The head is massive and the cheeks stretch to the side of the eyes. There are dense folds of skin in the forehead and the pug-shaped muzzle is short and the nose is black with visibly large nostrils. The lower jaw is undershot with the upper lip being pendent. The dark, round eyes are set far apart from each other. Though the Bulldog is not known for its beauty-pageant potential, it makes up for it with its superb character. It comes in a wide range of colors including brindles of all sorts, red, fawn or piebald. Anything but black!

Care: The short-haired, smooth coat calls for a minimum of grooming and just needs to be combed and brushed with a firm bristle brush. The face and cheeks require regular cleaning with a damp cloth to keep the wrinkles clean.

Personality and Temperament: Breeders very early on recognized the Bulldog’s inherent courage and strength and a few generations managed to breed out it ferocity. Today the breed makes a fine pet and is fun-loving, devoted, friendly and easy-going. It has acquired an enviable reputation as a guard dog and for displays of exceptional bravery. Their nature makes them excellent as pets for children. However, in certain cases they are known to become quite strong-willed and dominating for which firm and patient training is recommended. The Bulldog is generally accommodating to other pets within the family itself but can prove hostile towards other dogs. As puppies they seem to be full of energy and vitality which gradually tends to recede as they grow older.

Living environment: Bulldogs are known to be very good apartment dwellers as they are inactive indoors and do not require a yard. They are best suited to temperate climates as they have a low tolerance for extreme weather conditions. Short, brisk walks help keep them fit and healthy. Bulldogs cannot swim and you need to stay alert when taking your dog for a walk along the beach.

At a glance:

  • Breed Group: Non-Sporting Dog Group

  • Height: 12 to 16 inches

  • Weight: 40 to 55 pounds

  • Color: fawn, red, brindle, washed-out red, and white.

  • Life Expectancy: 8 – 12 years

  • Average litter size: 4