Bulldogs - Overview of the Bulldog Breed

The Bulldog is a small, compact and muscular dog with strong legs and a short muzzle. The Bulldog was originally bred as a fighting dog and would take on opponents like bears, bulls, badgers and other dogs in the ring. Since these bloodsports have become unpopular, breeders have focused more on developing the more non- ferocious traits of the Bulldog. The Bulldog is known throughout all historical periods for it's courage and as such is mixed with other breeds such as Pointers and Greyhounds that require tenacity, steadfastness and endurance. The bulldog is know widely recognised as the British national breed.

Description and Temperament

The Bulldog has a huge amount of strength contained in a broad, low frame. With it's short, stocky legs set square at each corner of it's body , the Bulldog has a gait all of it's own. The Bulldog has a large, heavy square head with wrinkles on the skull. The muzzle is very broad whilst the is quite short and set back to the lower jaw which protrudes to the front. The Bulldog's coat may come in reds, fawn, brindle or white pied with any of these colours. Whilst the Bulldog can look intimidating and often has an unsociable, morose expression they are an extremely reliable, gentle and kind dog whilst still making excellent watchdogs.

Grooming, exercise and health problems

With such a smooth, short-haired coat the Bulldog is very easy to groom and only requires occasional brushing with a firm bristle brush.

Bulldogs can be very lazy dogs but need to be kept fit with regular, not overly strenuous exercise such as short walks. Whilst the Bulldog has no special feeding requirements, care should be taken not to over feed the dog as due to it's lazy nature it can often become obese. The Bulldog can also become possessive of it's food.

Due to their short muzzles and sometimes small windpipes, Bulldogs can be prone to breathing difficulties. They are also stressed by very hot or cold weather and over exertion.

Dan Fletcher writes for PuppiesSale.org, a site with lots of puppy articles,
puppies for sale,(http://www.puppiessale.org/)Boxer puppies for sale and more

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