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Bulldog Dog Breed

A Bulldog, also known as the English Bulldog or British Bulldog, is a medium-size breed of dog that originated in England. The term “bulldog” was first used around 1568 and might have been applied to various ancestors of modern bulldog breeds.

Appearance

The bulldog is a stocky breed, with a compact body and short, sturdy limbs. Its shape results in a waddle-like gait. Bulldogs are known for their short muzzles and the saggy skin on their faces, creating the apparent “frown” that has become a trademark of the breed. Bulldogs come in a variety of colors and ideally have a smooth, short coat. The size for a mature male is about 50 pounds; that for mature females is about 40 pounds.

Temperamant

The temperament of the English Bulldog is generally docile, friendly and gregarious, but are known to be fiercely loyal and defensive and, because of their strength, could make good guard dogs. However most breeders have worked to breed aggression out of the breed. The English Bulldog is also very loyal and protective of its family and may exhibit aggression in a protective manner. Most bulldogs are so attached to home and family that they will not venture out of the yard without a human companion. Due to their friendly nature, bulldogs are known for getting along well with children, other breeds of dog, and any house-broken pet in general.

Due to their generally low energy levels, and their quiet nature (they rarely bark without cause) they make great apartment pets as well as household pets.

Health

The bulldog is prone to some health problems, such as hip dysplasia and breathing problems. A bulldog is great for houses as well as apartments, but puppies may be destructive until they reach maturity. They are notorious for snoring, and while some adult bulldogs are considered “dry-mouths” and do not drool, wet-mouths drool extensively. Unfortunately, it is not possible to determine which mouth-type they will grow to be when they are at puppy age.

Like all dogs, Bulldogs require daily exercise. If not properly exercised the bulldog will gain weight, which could cause health problems. A properly exercised bulldog will exhibit a better temperament and will refrain from destructive behavior that results from boredom; however, bulldogs are extremely sensitive to heat. Bulldogs’ sensitivity to extreme weather is a very important element to consider when purchasing a dog; They cannot handle extreme heat, humidity or cold.

Common health problems include cherry eye, allergies, and (among older bulldogs) hip problems such as hip dispalysia and cataracts. Because of the large heads in proportion to body size, baby bulldogs are usually delivered by Caesarean section as most pups get stuck in the birth canal during natural birth.

Bulldogs require daily cleaning of their face folds to avoid unwanted infections caused by moisture accumulation. Daily teeth brushing with a regular human soft toothbrush using a vet approved toothpaste is also recommended.

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