Bulldogs – The English Bulldog, A True Family Dog

There are many different types of bulldogs, although they all have the same basic personalities and traits. The English Bulldog, the most easily recognized of the Bulldogs, is known as a loyal companion and gentle family dog. The original Bulldogs descended from the Mastiff breeds and were used for hunting and bringing down large animals. In the 13th centuries Bulldogs were exclusively bred to participate in the horrific sport of bull baiting. The jaws were designed to be very strong and the nose shortened to allow breathing while the dog was biting the bull’s nose. The sport was outlawed in Europe in 1835 and the fighting Bulldogs were then crossed with Pugs to develop a calmer, friendlier dog that was used by farmers and city people to protect their property and livestock. The resulting heavy and stocky breed became a wonderful family dog and soon was valued as a companion dog. The Bulldog breed was also used in the development of the Boxer and many people attribute the excellent temperament of the Boxer to the influence of the Bulldog.

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Is a Bulldog Right For Me?

As with any breed, there are positive and more challenging aspects to owning a Bulldog. Depending on your lifestyle and living arrangement, some of the issues may be more important to consider than others. The following are some points that prospective Bulldog owners should consider before making a final decision:

• Bulldogs require a lot of attention. They are very loving dogs that don’t do well when left alone for long periods of time. They often engage in destructive behaviors, such as chewing, when the owner is away for long periods of time. Since they are a large breed, chewing can result in destroyed furniture and demolished areas in the house. With attention and consistent training this is not usually a problem or issue.
• Slobbering. This is not a problem with all Bulldogs and it is hard to predict in very young puppies, but most Bulldogs will slobber a bit. Some will slobber rather excessively, especially after drinking. Usually if the mother and father are heavy droolers, the puppies are more likely to be. If the family is concerned about drool on the furniture or on clothing, a Bulldog will not be a good breed.
• Snoring. Bulldogs are known for their snoring while sleeping. As they age, the snoring will increase, especially if they gain weight or tend to sleep on their backs with their bellies upwards. Some people find the snoring soothing and even relaxing, whereas other people become unable to sleep with a Bulldog in the bedroom. Teaching your Bulldog to sleep in another room is an easy way to manage this issue.
• Training. Bulldogs are excellent family dogs but are a bit stubborn and tend to be rather independent. They do not do well in obedience type events but are still generally a very obedient breed; they just take a bit of time to complete the request.
• Exercise. As puppies, Bulldogs are very energetic and love to run and play. As they age, they tend to become more interested in watching than actually playing. It is important to keep a Bulldog exercising and walking, as they do tend to put on weight and then become even less active.
• Diet. A Bulldog loves to eat and will literally consume almost anything. Unfortunately, they often have very sensitive stomachs and lots of treats and new foods can lead to excessive gas. Needless to say this is not a pleasant situation. Keeping the dog on a balanced diet and restricting treats and human food can easily control this problem.

Bulldogs have wonderful personalities that are unique to the breed. The love and loyalty that is expressed by the Bulldog more than makes up for the few issues they have once you get used to living with them. If you're considering a Bulldog, be sure to think about the reality of living with one and talk with breeders to determine if this breed is right for you and your family.