Thinking Of Getting A Bulldog?

Sad of eye and droopy of jaw, the Bulldog instantly wins hearts everywhere it goes. Though this dog's appearance is the first reason for its popularity, its also loved for its sweet and gentle nature.

This breed was originally created to help butchers slaughter bulls. Some people took advantage of the tenacious nature of the Bulldog to turn their dogs into bull baiters. When this ugly sport was outlawed, people who loved Bulldogs began breeding only the sweetest dogs. Today, the Bulldog is about as easygoing as a dog can be. This dog is affectionate, uncomplicated, gentle, intelligent, sensitive, and fearless.

Butchers Assistant

The Bulldog is a medium sized dog, but is very powerful. These dogs weigh 40 to 50 pounds and stand 12 to 16 inches high. The Bulldog has a squat body, a flat forehead and large jaws. This breed has dark, gentle eyes. Some Bulldogs have corkscrew tails, but they can also have straight tails.

Bulldogs are short haired, and solid white, brindle, red, or fawn, or any of these colors on a white background. With their short coats, Bulldogs need very little grooming. However, the wrinkles on their faces do require careful cleaning. If you do not keep your Bulldog's wrinkles clean, he could develop skin infections, not to mention a nasty odor.

Couch Potato

The American Kennel Club classifies the Bulldog as a member of the Non-Sporting Group. These odd-looking dogs have 1 purpose in life -- to be devoted companions. Luckily, they are well suited to their role.

Bulldogs are ideal pets for apartment owners. They are very low energy and do not need to spend a lot of time exercising. Of course, they still enjoy a leisurely evening walk with their owners, but because of their body type, light exercise is enough to keep them healthy. An air-conditioned house is this dogs favorite place in the summer.

Frat House Manners

Bulldog owners need to be especially careful to keep their dogs out of the sun. These dogs overheat easily, which can sometimes prove fatal. Also, since this breed is prone to breathing problems, Bulldogs should never be walked using a choke collar. A harness will help prevent restriction of their already narrow tracheas.

Of course, like any breed, the Bulldog does have a few flaws. When you live with a Bulldog, you may feel as though you are living in a frat house, since this breed will snore, drool, and pass gas with abandon. Sometimes, one of these normally sweet natured dogs will bully another dog, especially if there is food involved.

Train Early

Despite their size, Bulldogs can be quite powerful. Because of this, it will be much easier for you to start training your dog as a puppy. Consistency is important, but the Bulldog's sensitivity to the tone of its handler's voice makes training it a fairly smooth process. These dogs are eager to please their owners, although they are not always quick learners. In fact, some Bulldogs cannot understand even the simplest commands until they are 6 months old.

Watch Diet

The Bulldog has a bit of a reputation as a chow hound. This breed likes to eat. However, you will need to be sure not to let your Bulldog overeat, since obesity can lead to serious health problems. Other health problems these charmers face are allergies, hip dysplasia, eye problems, and breathing problems.

If you want a loving and adorable family pet, and can ignore the fact that your little guy is a bit odoriferous, then a Bulldog may just be the right dog for you.

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