A Bulldog!

You are the owner of a very special dog. The Bulldog today is bred to be a loyal and loving companion. He is unique in many ways and although he does require special attention he repays you in many wonderful ways. The Bulldog Club of America would like you to know some of the things which make a Bulldog so special.

Breed History

The Bulldog's origin is somewhat undocumented and unverifiable.

Authorities differ so completely about the origin of the Bulldog that

the name itself is in dispute. However, the Bulldog is one of the few

breeds that are emblematic of a nation, and there is little doubt that a

species resembling the Bulldog has existed for centuries in England.

The Bulldog is believed to have its origin in a long-extinct species

known variously as the ialaunt, alaune, or allani. Originally, the breed

was referred to as a bonddoggees or bolddogges.

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!loa Leon, whelped 189Z, by !loa Carlos ex Lad;y Dudley

Because oftheir courage and apparent capacity to endure pain,

Bulldogs were shamelessly exploited for many years in the sports of

bull-baiting, bear-baiting and dog fighting. Early Bulldogs were

powerful, ferocious animals, ideally suited for these cruel sports.

When bull fighting and bull-baiting were banned in 1835, Bulldogs

were in danger of extinction until a small group of Englishmen

dedicated themselves to preserving this exceptional breed. They set

about to perpetuate the breed and restore its tarnished reputation by

retaining all its fine characteristics, while breeding out any tendency

toward viciousness or aggressiveness. After decades of selective

breeding, the Bulldog's temperament has been thoroughly

transformed from that of a fighter to the lovable and gentle

companion we know today.

Breed Facts

The Bulldog is a medium-sized dog that weighs about 55 pounds and

stands about 15 inches at the shoulder. Not your typical lap dog,

though they would like to be. They are affectionate and loyal, and

they thrive best when treated as members of the family.

The coat is short, smooth and glossy. Shedding occurs with changes

in the seasons and is quite common during the spring and fall.

Frequent bathing is unnecessary if the coat is brushed frequently to

remove dead hair. The color may be brindle, fawn, red, a piebald of

one of these colors, or white. Predominately black is considered very

undesirable for breeding and showing.

The proper ears are called rose ears; i.e., folded back exposing the

inside of the burr. They are never trimmed or surgically altered.

The tail may be either straight or screwed. Screw tails that fit tightly

to the body of adults often become irritated and can become infected

when not cleaned regularly. The tail is never docked.

Toenails should be trimmed at regular intervals to prevent foot

problems. Bulldogs often resist nail clipping unless exposed to it

gently, carefully, and frequently at a very early age. Dewclaws are

not removed. A mild shampoo is recommended for both puppies and

adults. Facial wrinkles require frequent cleaning. Heavy wrinkles

should always be kept clean and dry to prevent irritation and

infection. A Bulldog should never be picked up by its front legs and

shoulders. Serious injuries can result. Pick the Bulldog up by

placing one hand behind its front legs and one hand in front of its

hind legs.

A regular adult diet consisting of a good, commercial dry kibble

mixed occasionally with canned dog food is recommended for dogs

older then six months of age. A high protein diet normally fed to

hunting and herding breeds is not recommended for Bulldogs.

Puppies under the age of six months should be fed three times daily,

generally all they want. Ask your veterinarian about vitamins, etc.

After six months of age, feeding twice daily is usually sufficient.

Moderate daily exercise on a leash is recommended, except in very

warm climates and hot summer months. Bulldogs are easily

overheated and subject to heat exhaustion. An air-conditioned

environment is highly recommended.

Extreme caution and close supervision around swimming pools,

lakes, ponds and rivers is very important. Bulldogs have great

difficulty keeping their heads above water since most of their weight

is concentrated forward. Enclosed pools that can be locked

are recommended. A fenced yard is essential since a Bulldog should

never be allowed to roam unsupervised by an adult. They are very

inquisitive and can be easily lured away and abducted. They are also

convinced they are indestructible and do not watch out for cars.

<0 2004 Bulldog Club of America