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Breed: Bulldog Health Problems, Lifespan, Temperament & Maintenance

| Published on August 25, 2017

Avg Size of Male: Height: 12 – 15 inches, Weight: 50 pounds
Note: It is prone to skin fold dermatitis unless the wrinkles are kept clean and dry. It cannot tolerate heat. Special precautions must be taken when anesthetizing a bulldog. Caesarian deliveries are commonly needed. Hip radiographs show most bulldogs to be dysplastic but few show overt symptoms.
Occasionally seen: Urethral prolapse, vaginal hyperplasia
Avg Size of Female: Height: 12 – 15 inches, Weight: 40 pounds
Major concerns: CHD, KCS, stenotic nares, elongated soft palate, shoulder luxation, internalized tail
Life span: 8 – 10 years
Minor concerns: Entropion, ectropion, distichiasis, CHD, elbow, dysplasia, cherry eye, patellar luxation
Suggested tests: Hip, elbow, knee, eye

Brief History on Bulldog Origin

In 1209 bull-baiting was introduced by the Earl of Warren. While bull-baiting was outlawed in England in 1835, it is because of this cruel sport that the Bulldog originated. After it was outlawed in 1835, some tried to force the Bulldog in fights among its own kind, but the dogs were not cooperating. Without a cause, the bulldog may have easily become extinct. By the mid-1800s its reputation had dwindled. But the Bulldog had many enthusiasts, who recovered the breed from their extinction by breeding out the ferocity and maintaining the dog’s distinct physical qualities. These breeders were successful in creating the cordial, fun-loving breed we know today.

Bulldog Breed Appearance

The well-built, wide shape of the Bulldog features muscular shoulders and short, strong front legs. The longer back legs are toned and sturdy, while the medium-sized feet have compact toes and somewhat stubby nails. The head of this breed is massive, and it features wide-set, round eyes, which are normally some shade of brown or black in color. The ears are small and thin. The muzzle is relatively short and wide with a large, broad nose that is normally black in color. The big, square jaws of this breed contain large and very powerful teeth. The stubby neck is thick and muscular, arching nicely into the back. The breed’s chest is very wide and strong. The tail is either screwed or straight, carried down and is usually short in length. The gait of the breed is best described as being a loose-jointed, rolling motion. The skin is normally soft, causing loose wrinkles around the head, neck, and shoulders. The coat of this breed comes in many varieties of color including solid white, fawn, solid red, red brindle, other brindles, etc..

Bulldog Breed Temperament

Described as a generally docile and mellow dog, the Bulldog is friendly family dog. While it’s first impressions can very well be intimidating to those who are unfamiliar with them, the Bulldog is one of the most gentle breeds out there. Though it can at times have a stubborn streak, this dog aims to please its owner and responds well to positive yet firm training. It is very affectionate with children, and it is usually also quite approachable with strangers. This breed is normally good with other pets in the household, but it may become aggressive with unfamiliar or strange dogs. It should be noted that the bulldog usually snores very loudly, and most of these dogs have the tendency to drool or slobber frequently. This breed is a great addition to the family. It can serve well as a protector, and it craves human companionship and affection.

Bulldog Breed Maintenance

Caring for the coat of the Bulldog takes little time and effort. Although the wrinkles around their face, and any folds you can see around their tail need to be attended to and cleaned thoroughly on a daily basis to avoid bacteria growth or skin irritation. Grooming of their short-haired coat consists primarily of brushing with a firm bristle brush. Bathing should only be done when necessary, like many other breeds, bathing too often will strip the skin of natural oils. The Bulldog is not a particularly energetic or active breed, but a daily walk is recommended to keep them in shape and healthy. This dog should not run or walk long distances, and it is very sensitive to hot or humid weather so take care when the temperatures rise. The bulldog is considered to be appropriate for an apartment dwelling, since they are known to be indoor dogs that are relatively inactive. They often times snore, wheeze, and drool.

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