- Tenacious
- Loyal
- Loving
- Good with kids
- Dislikes rain
- Likes routine
- Thrives on attention
- Life span of 9 – 12 years
- Love the simple, easy life
Characteristics of the Bulldog
Is this the right pet for you?
The first thing that should be considered when looking at the Bulldog breed is what you will expect from your companion.
If you’re looking for an active dog that will hike with you, swim across the lake, stay long periods of time in 99 degree weather, or locate and retrieve game, a Bulldog is not the best choice for you. Bulldogs should not be left alone near water. They are not natural swimmers and will drown easily.
Bulldogs, for the most part, are laid back, smooth and easy going. The heat is the Bulldog’s worst enemy. An air-conditioned home is required if you live anywhere that summer temperatures get above the mid 80′s. They tolerate cold weather well, within reason of course. Bulldogs love going for rides in the car, and sleeping at the foot of your bed, on the couch or in the easy-chair. They must have plenty of love and socialization, and will offer you the same in return.
Bulldogs are very alert. Even when sleeping, they can rise quickly if all is not well! They enjoy being part of the family. They are by no means considered a guard dog. They will, however, protect the people they love and will offer some security.
The Bulldog is a medium-sized breed and belongs to the Non-Sporting group of dog breeds. They do well in a home or apartment setting. Bulldogs have a short-haired coat and do shed some, but the shedding will be less of a nuisance with regular brushing. The folds and wrinkles of the face should receive daily care. It is strongly recommended that you locate a veterinarian with plenty of Bulldog experience so that your dog is assured the best care for his unique anatomy. Bulldogs often require c-sections for delivery of their puppies.
Bulldogs are an expensive breed to acquire, the price ranging from $2000-$3000 for a good pet quality dog in most of the USA. Show quality dogs could be priced several hundred dollars higher.
There is the cost to maintain the dog, an expense that will continue for the life of the dog.
History of the Bulldog
The bulldog is believed to have an origin in the extinct breed knows as the “alaunt” or “alaune” or “allan”. The allan (1340-1400) was a dog described as having great courage and strength and used for chasing the lion and the bear. The 1632 English-French dictionary described the Allan De Bouchere, which was used to bring in the oxen as being similar in appearance to the modern Mastiff.
In the description of the alans, there are 3 distinct Bulldog characteristics which remain to this day. The alaunts (allans) were said to have large, thick heads and short muzzles. There were extremely courageous and when attached, they hung on to their opponents. Early Bulldogs were quite powerful, ferociuos animals. They were not the soft-hearted, friendly companions of the modern era.
Selective breeding brought into being the Bulldog of today who is as loving and loyal as his predecessors were vicious and mean. The inhuman practice of bull-baiting was outlawed in Great Britain in 1835 which almost resulted in the extinction of the Bulldog. A handful of Englishmen saw virtue in preserving this breed. They produced several amazing dogs. The first class for Bulldogs at a dog show was at Birmingham, England in 1860.
