 Bulldog
Description:
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
an apt cattle driver as well as a 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. When all of these activities
were banned, 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.
The Bulldog 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.
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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