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MoreWhen you’re looking for the perfect addition to the family, it’s always good to find out about breeds in advance. As far as dogs go, there’s almost none better than an English bulldog. These lazy, loving pooches are perfect apartment dogs and also perfect family dogs. They just love their owners almost, if not more, than you’ll end up loving them. Spoiler: That’s a lot. Their unique personalities are just one of many reasons to own a bulldog. However, like all pedigree breeds, they do come with their own set of issues you should also know.
English Bulldog 101
There’s no mistaking a bulldog. Their appearance is so unique that they stand out from the mastiffs they originated from and the other types of bulldog out there like Frenchies. Bulldogs are medium in size with short legs and a lot of skin and wrinkles. For the most part, they’re tan and white but can, of course, be other colors. Either way, there’s no way on earth you’d see a bulldog and think it any other breed. These guys are broad, strong, and love their wrinkles to be cleaned – which is something you’re gonna have to do, a lot.
History
We’re all used to seeing bulldogs stand as stalwart creatures of strength and toughness. To those who love and have bulldogs and know their personalities, that seems like quite the paradox. However, its history has a lot to offer in an explanation. Once upon a time, bulldogs were used in a ‘sport’ called bull-baiting. Bull-baiting was a bloody battle between certain breeds of dog and bigger animals like bulls or bears and is likely where their image originated. Hardly a mark on the squishy, flabby lovebugs they are today.
Personality
As companion dogs, your bulldog is hard-wired to be sociable, sweet, and a real people pleaser. There’s nobody they won’t want to get along with, perhaps even going out of their way to ensure that they’re liked by all. Particularly if they’ve been socialized well as a puppy. You’ll also never have any issues with them having too much energy. In fact, bulldogs are more inclined to spend their days on the couch being stroked than setting their paws outdoors.
Temperament
Your bulldog is more stubborn than grumpy. If they were an astrological sign, they’d be a Taurus. If they don’t want to do something, you’re going to have to be the one to make them do it. Even without training, though, bulldogs aren’t too temperamental. However, you should still enroll your pup in classes just to ensure they grow up to be a well-rounded Bully and not, well, a bully.
Size
Like all dog breeds, bulldogs can differ in size. However, not particularly as much as some more active breeds. In general, fully grown male bulldogs weigh up to around 50 lbs with females around 40 lbs. The exception to this fact is with show dogs which can occasionally be up to 10 lbs heavier. Height-wise, they come roughly 12-15 inches off the ground, with another few added on if they’re jumping up on their hind legs for a kiss.
Feeding and Exercise
Bulldogs are easily overfed. In fact, it isn’t rare to see overweight bulldogs on the street. For the most part, this simply comes down to their genetics, metabolism, and activity level. They just really like their food, which is why it’s a good idea to learn how much is adequate for your pooch and then adjust their food accordingly. The recommended daily amount to feed your bully is between 1/2 to 2 cups of healthy, additive-free dog food divided into two meals. Being overweight is bad for them, as obesity can add pressure to their joints, which will bring a host of problems for them as they get older. Therefore, it’s good to get this under control as soon as possible.
Health Problems
Every breed of dog has its own problems and issues to contend with, particularly pedigree breeds such as the bulldog. These can happen at any point during your pup’s life and should be taken into account when you’re looking at breeds. Buying your puppy from a responsible breeder tends to put you a head above the rest, though even if you’re adopting a pooch with no background, you’ll do well to learn about the possible conditions they will have to deal with. Some of the most common health problems for bulldogs, besides obesity, include cherry eye, dry eye, and reverse sneezing. Other conditions that can come with age include hip dysplasia, mange, and head-shaking.
Caring for Your Bulldog
Although bulldogs don’t need to be walked a lot, they do need to be walked. After playing for 15 minutes, your bulldog will likely decide they want to take a nap. And to be honest, who can blame them? Bulldogs also need their wrinkles cleaned. Thankfully, for the most part, they enjoy it. Cleaning your bully’s skin folds with a soft cloth dipped in tepid water once daily will get all of the nastiness out of their wrinkles. They’ll appreciate it as much as you will! You can also use baby wipes for this, but make sure they’re ones that lack fragrances, oils, and Propylene Glycol.
Types of Bulldog
As well as the English or British Bulldog, there are other breeds that fall under the bulldog moniker. Others include the Frenchie, the Australian bulldog, Valley bulldogs, and American bulldogs. Each breed looks different from one another and has a different temperament from your future pooch. For example, French Bulldogs have more energy than English bulldogs as well as ears that resemble bats, and American Bulldogs resemble more of the original form that was made to tackle bulls. Each bully has its own pros and cons, but in each of them, you’ll find a really great pet.
Bulldog Facts
Despite every individual bully being different, there are certain aspects that are seen throughout the breed as a whole.
- They cannot, under any circumstances, tolerate heat or humidity. In fact, they can easily heat so during the warmer months; it’s more than necessary to keep an eye out for them.
- They have a hard time giving birth. Because of how they’ve been bread, the size of their heads sometimes means a cesarean is required to deliver puppies.
- They took – a lot. It’s lucky we love them.
