Known for their loose-jointed, shuffling gait and massive, short-faced head, the Bulldog is known to be equable, resolute and dignified. A medium-sized dog, they are not your typical lap dog, but would like to be! They are one of the most popular breeds according to AKC® Registration Statistics due to their lovable and gentle dispositions and adorable wrinkles. The Bulldog may be brindle, white, red, fawn, fallow or piebald.
A Look Back
Said to have originated in the British Isles, the name "bull" was applied because of the dog’s connection with bull baiting. The original bulldog had to be ferocious and courageous, and almost insensitive to pain. When dog fighting became illegal in England, fanciers set to the task of preserving the breed by eliminating the fierce characteristics. Within a few generations, the Bulldog became one of the finest physical specimens with an agreeable temperament.
Said to have originated in the British Isles, the name "bull" was applied because of the dog’s connection with bull baiting. The original bulldog had to be ferocious and courageous, and almost insensitive to pain. When dog fighting became illegal in England, fanciers set to the task of preserving the breed by eliminating the fierce characteristics. Within a few generations, the Bulldog became one of the finest physical specimens with an agreeable temperament.
Right Breed for You?
Bulldogs are recognized as excellent family pets because of their tendency to form strong bonds with children. They tend to be gentle and protective. The breed requires minimal grooming and exercise. Their short nose makes them prone to overheating in warm weather, so make sure to provide a shady place to rest.
Bulldogs are recognized as excellent family pets because of their tendency to form strong bonds with children. They tend to be gentle and protective. The breed requires minimal grooming and exercise. Their short nose makes them prone to overheating in warm weather, so make sure to provide a shady place to rest.
Source: American Kennel Club - www.akc.org
Grooming
General: Bulldogs have a unique look about them. Unfortunately they are prone to allergies as well as need a lot of grooming care to keep their skin and coat at its best and smelling good. Because of the skull type of the bulldog and recessed nose special attention needs to be used when bathing this breed to keep water out of the nose.
Eyes: Because of the large flaps and folds around the eye and nose area, bulldogs need daily to weekly care of the area. The flaps and folds are very moist and prone to growing red yeast and cause a foul odor in this area. Moisture makes the area red and raw. Keeping these areas dry and clean is a necessity. Oatmeal Baking Soda facial cleaners are a great way to manage the facial odors and keep your dog comfortable.
Ears: Due to the shape of the ear a bulldog has it tends to collect and hold dirt and debris. Weekly ear cleaning with Ear Care is a must.
Bathing: Bulldogs require 2 baths when you bathe them. The first bath should be a general bath, if your bulldog has allergies or sensitive skin we would suggest a Hypo-Allergenic Coconut Shampoo and follow it with a Oatmeal Baking Soda Shampoo to control the odor and remoisturizing agents.
Paws: The bulldog is very short and compact and weighs a lot for their body size. The paw pads tend to get dry and cracked under the weight. Paw Balm should be used weekly as well, paw pads that are soft and pliable are less likely to dry and crack
Coat Care: Between baths, bulldogs may get a little smelly. Extreme Odor Eliminator can be used as often as needed to control odor and has aloe in it to help keep the coat hydrated.
Show Dog Tips: Show Style’s Silky Show Shampoo and Conditioner in conjunction with Bright White will add shine and make the whites pop. Show Style High Sheen Spray right before entering the show ring will add the little extra shine without any oily residue.
Tools: Shedding blade can be used to pull out the dead coat. Short coated breeds shed all year around and so they constantly need to be brushed.
