About English Bull Dogs
A medium-sized dog that looks intimidating but acts gently, the English Bulldog is a popular choice for pet owners of all varieties. Sometimes also called British Bulldogs, English Bulldogs are mild mannered, easily trained and intensely loyal companions for anyone considering adding a canine companion to their life.
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General Info
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English Bulldogs are known for the underbite of their jaws. English Bulldogs are stocky, medium-sized dogs with short legs. They are easily trained and are intensely loyal to their owners and families. An affectionate breed, English Bulldogs can also sometimes have a stubborn streak. English Bulldogs need regular exercise, but they are not an active breed, which makes them a good choice for apartment living.
History
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English Bulldogs' personalities originally fit their aggressive appearances. As their name implies, English Bulldogs originated in the British Isles and are descendants of the larger Mastiff. Bulldogs were named because they were bred for bull baiting--a practice of antagonizing bulls for fighting--as early as the 13th century. Because of this, English Bulldogs were ferocious fighting dogs. In 1835, when animal baiting was outlawed in England, fans of the breed sought to protect it by eliminating its ferocity. It was bred with Pugs, which mellowed its personality over time, and today, the breed has few of the fighting characteristics of its ancestors. In 1934, English Bulldogs entered the American Kennel Club's registry.
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Physical Characteristics
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A brindled coat has streaks of gray or brown in an irregular pattern. English Bulldogs have a sturdy appearance with wide shoulders and narrow hips. They have thick, short necks, and English Bulldogs have short legs as well. The tail is either straight or screwed and carried low. They generally range in size from about 12 to 14 inches tall and weigh about 40 to 50 lbs. They have a short, flat coat in colors of red brindle (a patterned coat streaked with gray or brown), solid white, solid red, fawn or a combination of these. English Bulldogs have massive heads with loose skin that falls in folds. The American Kennel Club classifies the breed in the non-sporting group.
Temperment
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English Bulldogs are easily trained. As their later history suggests, English Bulldogs were bred to be mild-mannered dogs. They are gentle around children. English Bulldogs like attention from their owners and humans in general.
Considerations
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Bulldogs' short noses can cause respiratory problems. English Bulldogs have small airways, which can make them prone to breathing problems. The breed has a tendency to snore when sleeping. English Bulldogs need a temperate environment as they are sensitive to heat and cold. Use extra caution during the summer months because they are susceptible to heat stroke.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Bulldog image by Benjamin Huseman from Fotolia.com Bulldog de profil image by Olivier from Fotolia.com Bulldog anglais image by Olivier from Fotolia.com chien de race : bulldog francais image by margouillat photo from Fotolia.com bulldog beach. image by JulianMay.co.uk from Fotolia.com
