Bulldogs

Appearance:

Body:Short, stocky, low-swung body with a very muscular back, broad shoulders and a strong, broad chest

Coat: Short, flat, and close with a smooth texture

Color: Red brindle (and all other brindles), solid white, solid red, fawn

Ears: Small, rose-shaped, and set high towards the back of the head

Eyes: Round, dark, wide set and low

Feet: Round and compact

Head: Large with a short, broad muzzle, thick flews that hang over the lower jaw and a black nose. The lower jaw sets out from the upper jaw and may show the teeth.

Legs: Forelegs are straight, well-boned and powerful. Hind legs are longer than forelegs and also well-muscled. Both are set wide apart.

Neck: Short and thick, the neck is as wide as the head and well-arched

Size:
Weight: 40 - 50 pounds (18 - 23kg)
Height: 12 - 16 inches (30 - 40cm)

Tail: Short, set low, carried downwards and straight or screw-shaped

Behavior

Recommended for Novice handlers
Recommended for families with children

The English Bulldog is a friendly dog, good with children, and considered to be a gentle and loyal family dog, though in some cases, may show signs of aggression. He is usually a quiet sweet-natured dog and not easily disturbed to the point of being provoked.

He has a large, sturdy, stocky build with an abundance of self importance but non-the-less very affectionate and generally well-behaved. If provoked, he will let it be known that he is capable of standing his ground. He can be possessive of his food and should be fed alone and away from other unsuspecting family pets.

Bulldogs can be stubborn and may not respond to your commands as you would like. They are likely to hesitate while considering the command before responding in order to preserve their high self esteem.

Breed Type

AKC Group: Non-Sporting Group

Originally bred and used for bullbaiting and for fighting with bears, badgers, and other animals, including other dogs.

Currently bred for companionship.

Care and Grooming

Exercise: Frequent moderate exercise including long daily walks.

Grooming: Daily grooming with a brush having hard bristles. Bath monthly or as needed.

Health

Life Expectancy: 7 - 9 Years

A generally healthy dog

Possible Problems:
Allergies - insect bites from fleas, mosquitoes, and mites may result in a breakout of hives, a rash, and itching.
Allergies
Cataracts
Cherry Eye
Entropion
Heart defects
Hip problems (mostly in older dogs)
Low Thyroid

Breathing problems due to their flat face. This can be more problematic in hot weather, possibly leading to Heat Stroke.

Infections due to the build up of moisture under their folds and tail can be avoided by applying powder regularly.

Country of Origin

Originated in England - 1800s