Dog Breed: BULLDOG
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The English Bulldog is an AKC and FCI recognized
dog breed, classified in the Molosser Group, or the Non-Sporting Group. The perfect
Bulldog must be of medium size and smooth coat; with heavy, thickset, low-swung body,
massive short-faced head, wide shoulders and sturdy limbs. The general appearance and
attitude should suggest great stability, vigor and strength. The disposition should be
equitable and kind, resolute and courageous (not vicious or aggressive), and demeanor
should be pacific and dignified. These attributes should be countenanced by the expression
and behavior.
The Bulldog's heritage lies in England where it descended from the Alaunt, which was a
Mastiff-type dog. The Bulldog got its name because it was a bull-runner as well as cattle
driver and valuable hunter of wild boar. From the 13th Century on, the breed's qualities
were specifically bred so that it was an able contestant in bull-running, bull-baiting and
pit fighting. Finally, these terrible practices were outlawed but the Bulldog's status
would have dwindled had it not been for the efforts of a few staunch Bulldog-loving
fanciers. The Bulldog Club held fast to the breed and it was among one of the first few
recognized by the English Kennel Club in 1873. The breed has been popular in North America
since the end of the 19th Century. Today's breed is minus the viciousness of the past and
fits in well just about anywhere. His lovable personality makes him a good family pet.
This athletic dog should be exercised regularly.
Height: 12 - 14" (30.5 -
35.6cm)
Weight: 55 lbs (24.6 kg) for
dogs, 45 lbs (20.1 kg) for bitches
Coat Type: The coat is short
all over, smooth, dense and shiny. Colors range from red brindle to white to red, and
sometimes black. A weekly rub-down is all that is needed in the grooming department.
Temperament: Although
originally bred as a fighting-type dog, the Bulldog should be neither aggressive nor
vicious. On the other hand, it is courageous and determined, friendly and easy to get
along with.
Health Problems: Special
precautions should be taken in areas of extreme heat or cold; respiratory infections;
whelping difficulties as well as arthritis.
Special Interest: The shape and
form of the dog may seem odd in appearance, but remember that all qualities of the Bulldog
were bred-in specifically to make it an able bull-baiter. For example, the nose is pushed
back so that once the dog was "locked" onto the bull, it would still be able to
breathe. You should also be aware that this breed is a noisy "snuffler."
Classifications:
AKC: Group 6 - Non-Sporting Dogs
CKC: Group 6 - Non-Sporting Dogs
KC: Non-Sporting - Utility Group
FCI: Group 2
ANKC: Group 7 - Non Sporting
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More information about the Bulldogs
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