Sweet, gentle and affectionate – here comes the English Bulldog (AKA the British Bulldog)
History of the English Bulldog
These dogs descend from fighting mastiffs that arrived in England during Roman times.
The term “bulldog” was used because of the dog’s association with the horribly cruel “sport” of bull-baiting. It involved setting dogs (by placing bets on each dog) onto bulls tethered by ropes.
It was common for bulls to injure or even kill several dogs at such events. Over the centuries, dog breeds used for baiting bulls evolved into the stocky bodies and large heads and jaws that typified the breed, as well as a fierce and vicious temperament. Thankfully, Bull baiting was made illegal in Britain by the Cruelty to Animal Act of 1835.
Over the years, dogs went through several reductions in their gene pools – known as “bottlenecks”. Breeders manipulated its appearance from that fierce, ferocious “Bull Baiter” in bull rings to the iconic household pets we know today. The breed was first recognised by the AKC in 1886.
Appearance
Bulldogs have large heads and broad shoulders with pronounced lower teeth that stick out farther than the top teeth.
They have thick folds of skin on the brow and hanging folds around their neck. Their coat is short and flat and comes in red, fawn, white, brindle and piebald.
Despite its somewhat fierce appearance, it would be difficult to find a dog who has a sweeter, more affectionate disposition.
Temperament
The English bulldog has a friendly personality. They are playful, affectionate, and intelligent. Bullys love people and enjoy human attention. They are good with kids and other familiar animals.
These dogs are reliable and dependable and do well with routine and structure.
English bulldogs usually breathe loudly, snore, and wheeze. And of course, there is a bit of drool involved. But that’s all part of what makes them so loveable.
Do you have an English Bulldog? What do you love most about them?
