Bulldog Breed Info & Background

Although the origin of the Bulldog breed is not known for certain, many believe they came from the British Isles. The “bull” in their name was because they were victims of the cruel sport of bull baiting.

Since the sport has been banned in 1835, they have since become a favorite as household pets, and are loved for their sincere companionship and calm personality. Within the past ten years, the Bulldog breed has significantly increased in popularity. A wide face with a short and stocky body are signature Bulldog characteristics. Known for being one of the happiest dog breeds in America, it’s no wonder why they are so popular today.

Bulldog Temperament & Personality

Despite their aggressive appearance, the Bulldog personality is one of the most friendly in all the breeds. Their happy-go-lucky attitude and easy-going temperament makes them easy going and approachable. Even with strangers and other dogs, this breed seems to get along with just about everyone. Make sure to housetrain and begin socialization during puppyhood. The Bulldog breed is very intelligent, however, may become stubborn when it comes time for training.

Training a Bulldog

As said before, Bulldogs are very smart. When it comes to training, they need to start as soon as possible. Even crate training and leash training can be a challenging task with an independent Bulldog.

In order to see success, use positive reinforcement to reward good Bulldog behavior. Keep in mind that persistence and patience are key. When trained properly, these dogs have even been known to compete in competitions.

Exercise Requirements for Bulldogs

Bulldogs need moderate exercise daily to keep them happy and help prevent any health issues. Their personalities are a lot calmer than most other breeds. Even though they are likely to have a more mellow personality, it is important to still keep up with daily physical activity. Bulldogs are can easily become obese, so monitoring food intake and exercise is very important.

Keep in mind that these dogs do not do well in warmer weather. Their shorter snout makes it difficult to breath in heat or humidity so try and avoid activity during hot periods of the day.

Lifespan of a Bulldog

A Bulldog lifespan ranges from 8-12 years. Unfortunately, due to their long list of health problems, Bulldog life expectancy is shorter compared to other dogs of similar size.

Bulldog Popularity

Bulldogs have seen a huge increase in popularity within the past ten years. According to the American Kennel Club, the Bulldog ranks 4th most popular breed in the U.S. today.

Feeding Requirements for Bulldogs

Feeding is a very important factor for overall Bulldog health. This breed has a shorter built and a lower energy activity compared to most breeds, which makes them prone to weight issues.

A Bulldog should be fed twice a day and the amount given depends on their age and activity level. Always make sure to have fresh water available at all times.

How to Groom a Bulldog

For Bulldogs, their skin folds should be cleaned regularly to avoid infection. Brushing should also be done weekly to keep their coat in good condition. Every couple of weeks their nails should also be trimmed to prevent cracking and breakage. For the most part, the Bulldog is a fairly easy dog to groom and sheds at a low level.

Are Bulldogs Good With Children?

One of the best Bulldog characteristics is that they are great with children. Patient and calm, Bulldogs love attention from any human. Even though this breed is fine with most people, it is still important to socialize them as early on as possible.

Bulldog Health Issues

• When giving birth, most bulldog’s need caesarean sections. This is because a puppy’s head is too large for traditional birthing methods. Caesarean sections are highly recommended to reduce the risk of death while giving birth.
• Brachycephalic complex: Bulldogs have the highest risk of Brachycephalic complex compared to any other breed. This can cause severe breathing difficulties due to their overly long soft palate, overly small nostrils, laryngeal collapse, and other respiratory blockages. Hot weather and exercise can lessen the condition. In severe cases, it can be treated through surgical procedures.
• Hip dysplasia: Bulldog hip dysplasia occurs at a higher rate than any other breed, affecting 72%. This genetic disorder occurs when there is a deformation within the hip socket which can lead to arthritis, lameness, or pain.
• Elbow dysplasia: Bulldogs have the fourth highest rate of elbow dysplasia, with a high level of 35%. Patellar luxation: This occurs when the knee cap slips in and out of its groove and causes pain, arthritis, or immobility. About 4% of Bulldogs are diagnosed with patellar luxation.
• Osteochondritis dissecans of the stifle joint: This condition is a skeletal maturation problem that causes pain and lameness in growing puppies.
• Spina bifida: This is reported in Bulldogs more than in any other breed. Spina bifida occurs when the vertebrae grows around the spinal cord. The spinal cord is then left exposed causing difficulty in walking or moving.
• pulmonic stenosis: This is a congenital heart defect that affects Bulldogs more than any other dog breed. This restriction of blood flow in the heart can even cause heart failure in severe cases.
• A hiatal hernia: Bulldogs are seen to have the highest rate of a hiatal hernia compared to any other breed. This occurs when one part of the body protrudes into another part of the body. Symptoms include coughing, nasal discharge, hypersalivation, shortness of breath, or anorexia.
• Eyelid problems: One of the eye problems Bulldogs are prone to is Entropion. This is characterized by eyelids rolling inward toward the eye, and is reported in 14% of Bulldogs. Ectropion is also common and this occurs when the eyelids roll outward. Another common Bulldog eye problem is distichiasis. This occurs in 16% of Bulldogs and happens when the eyelashes are oriented toward the eye, which can cause serious discomfort.
• Cherry eye: This eye condition is most common in younger dogs. Cherry eye occurs when a gland in the eye protrudes as a red and fleshy mass. This can lead to swelling or inflammation. hereditary urate bladder stones
• (hyperuricosuria): This is order causes an increase in kidney or bladder stones due to low levels of urate in the urine.

Other Resources

National Breed Website: Bulldog Club of America

Rescues: Bulldog Rescue Network