The Bulldog, A Really Nice Dog
The Bulldog is one of the best known and most loved dog breeds in the world. Originally the Bulldog was used as a fighting dog against bulls and other dogs. Nowadays he is a lazy and an excellent companion animal. The English Bulldog (British Bulldog) is a native of Great Britain, descended from the Molossers and Mastiffs imported from the ancient Romans.
The Bulldog we know today has nothing to do with the specimens from which it descends. Years and years of selection have changed its morphology, and above all its character. Nothing remains of the ferocity that characterized this breed.
As a companion animal, the Bulldog is affectionate and extremely patient with children. He tends to laziness, but when it’s time to play he shows himself lively and energetic. The Bulldog loves rough games and shows great stamina.
Physical characteristics
The Bulldog’s appearance is unmistakable. It is a medium sized dog. Its limbs are short and it appears low. The body of the Bulldog is robust, the head large and wide, rather square. The jaw and mandible are strong, for grasping and holding.
The rib cage is broad, as are the shoulders, and the limbs are powerful. The tail is short, set low on the rump and close to the buttocks. However, what really characterizes this dog is his face.
The cheeks have a rounded shape and extend laterally beyond the eyes, the skin is slightly loose and has some wrinkles. The upper lip is thick, and descends to cover the lower jaw on the sides. The eyes are dark and round. The ears are small and folded. The shape of the ears is called “rose”: the ear is folded inwards at the back and the upper edge folds outwards.
The body is muscular and the limbs strong. The hind legs are solid and muscular, slightly longer than the front ones; for this reason the Bulldog has such an “extravagant” walk.
Character
Despite its past as a fighting dog, the Bulldog is now a gentle and affectionate animal. But don’t be fooled because, if necessary, the bulldog will defend you with all his might and bring out all his courage. He is an imperishable playful. However, as he gets older he becomes even more calm and easy-going.
The Bulldog is very sociable with people. With other animals it can show a certain territorial aggression. He loves being the center of attention and loves spending time in the company of his human family.
Health
Normally, it is thought that the bulldog does not have a very long life expectancy. In fact, due to his physical conformation, he is prone to suffer from numerous pathologies.
The characteristic flattened snout and the short nasal bridge cause various cardio-respiratory disorders (noisy breathing, poor resistance to physical exercise, etc.).
The Bulldog tends to be overweight, with consequent muscle and joint problems. It is very important to give the Bulldog a balanced diet, combined with adequate exercise.
Also beware of sudden changes in temperature and heat exhaustion. As in all brachycephalics, the short airways reduce the animal’s ability to cool the air. When the temperature exceeds 25 °, moisten the fur of the animal and, if you travel by car, do not forget to bring bottles of water and dry ice, to use in case of need.
As a pet
The Bulldog is an affectionate and balanced animal. However, he needs an owner who gives him the right physical activity, which is vital to his health. It is a sturdy and heavy dog; you will therefore have to be strong enough to be able to lift it.
At home he is an inactive dog and adapts perfectly to apartment life. Furthermore, the Bulldog is not a very noisy animal. He loves to play, but only for a short time, and can’t stand very long walks.
In general he is a balanced dog, except in cases of stress or behavioral problems. In short, if you want a nice and calm dog, the Bulldog is just the dog for you.
