English Bulldog Health Issues, Grooming, History and Living Conditions

Description: The English bulldog is of medium size, a compact but wide dog with short legs. The body and head are well built, with extra skin on both the skull and forehead. Their cheek extends to the side of the eyes. It has a short but wide muzzle with a broad and deep stop. The nose is broad with large nostrils and is black in colour. This breed has dark eyes that are setback. They have ears that are small, thin, and set high on the head. With large jaws, that are also broad and square with hanging upper lips, this breed should have an under bite. The tail is screwed, but can be straight. This is carried low. Their coat is short smooth, flat and glossy. Others include red brindle, and other shades of brindle, solid red, solid white, piebald, pale yellow, fawn, Fallow or washed out and read the white and the combination of these colours is acceptable.

History: This breed originated in the British Isles. This breed descended from the ancient Asiatic mastiff. The name bull came from a popular sport, of the time, that used dogs to fight bulls. This breed was ferocious, courageous and extremely aggressive, with a muscular body built with the power to attack a fully grown bull. This practice was banned in the 19th century, and we see today, the bulldog with a different temperament, to the one needed in the ring to fight the balls. However, it is wise to remember, this dog still retains a strong strength of mind.

Temperament: While this dog still looks intimidating, it is one of the gentlest dogs available today. It, however, still will see off any intruder, that would dare to encounter this dog. This breed is affectionate and gentle with children. However, it can be very persistent and determined, when it wishes. Combined with the gift, not to give up easily. This breed is very much a people dog and loves getting attention and affection. With all dogs, leadership needs to firmly but fairly rest with the owner. And this will make a good all-round dog that is well balanced. This breed is good with other family pets. More full of energy when younger, but this tapers down as the dog gets older. They snore loudly, and most have drooling and slobbering tendencies, and are messy eaters, due to their small snout. Without good leadership, and the human being, the Alpha, the bulldog can display strange, guarding tendencies; this can be to furniture or their toys or other rooms in the home.

Health issues: This breed is prone to breathing problems, poor eyesight, and hip and knee problems and can be prone to flatulence. They are also able to have heatstroke in warm weather or hot rooms, and are very sensitive to cold. Grooming: The English bulldog does not need much grooming; but everyday needs to have their face, wiped with a damp cloth and be cleaned inside the wrinkles, to prevent sores or infections. Their coat needs brushing or combing with a firm brush twice weekly. Bath this dog only when necessary.

Living conditions: This breed is surprisingly an indoor dog, and is exceptionally good for apartment life. Providing they have adequate exercise and their needs around temperature control are met.