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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