Is an English Bulldog Right for You?
English Bulldogs, also known as “British Bulldogs,” are a beloved and charming breed of dog known for their friendly and affectionate nature, as well as their distinctive wrinkled faces and stocky builds. These lovable pups have a rich history and have been cherished by pet owners for generations. In this article, we will share 13 interesting facts about English Bulldogs, including their origins, physical characteristics, and unique personality traits. Whether you’re an English Bulldog owner or simply a fan of this adorable breed, these facts will give you a deeper understanding and appreciation for the English Bulldog and its special place in the world of dogs.
The English Bulldog can be Traced
back to 5th century England with a now extinct breed named the Alaunt. They were originally used on farms to control farm animals. Eventually, they were used in the “sport” of Bull Baiting where the dog would bring a bull to the ground and kill it. These dogs were bred for aggression and an 85 pound dog could take down a full grown bull by the nose.
The Bulldog was Used to Create
many other breeds. In England, both the Staffordshire Bull terrier and Bull terrier owe their lineage to the Bulldog. In Germany, the Boxer shares a relationship and in America, the American Bulldog is a descendent. There are many other breeds that share a Bulldog connection.
The Modern Bulldog has Come
a long way from the breed that was used to take down bulls in the early 1800’s. That breed was built to fight, had a very high tolerance for pain and was very aggressive. Firstly, the breed looks much different than the early dogs. In addition, they have a completely different personality, showing an affectionate, loving side that the earlier breed did not possess.
According to AKC and FCI Breed Standard
the Bulldog can reach a weight up to 50 pounds and attain a height of up to 15 inches. Their accepted colors are:
“red, white, fawn, fallow, or any combination of the foregoing. Patterns and markings may include brindle, piebald, ticking, black masks and black tipping. Black and black with tan is undesirable and the merle pattern is a disqualification.”
Most English Bulldogs are Bred
through artificial insemination. Their body structure prevents proper mounting for reproduction (although it is possible). Almost 90% of Bulldog puppies are born via c-section for the same reason.
Growing Up English Bulldog
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In this Same Research
the English Bulldog ranks 123rd out of 124 breeds in prey drive. Essentially, the likelihood that your Bulldog will go chasing after a cat or squirrel is VERY low. The only breed lower than the Bulldog is their little cousin-the Pug!
Bulldog Humor!
In the Landmark Book
entitled, “The Intelligence of Dogs”, professor Stanley Coren researched and documented the intelligence of over 130 different dog breeds. In his book, the English Bulldog ranks 77th out of 130 breeds in working/obedience intelligence. This puts them in the “Lowest Degree of Working/Obedience Intelligence” category. They tend to require 80-100 repetitions to learn a new command. In contrast, the brightest breeds will require 5 or fewer commands to learn the same task!
Don’t Blame the Bulldog.
They are GASSY and the wretched stench that comes from their bowels can clear out a room in no time! They also snore, snort and drool but those of some of the unique things that make the English Bulldog so loveable.
Don’t Go in the Water.
Bulldogs are not built for swimming. Because of their Brachycephaly, short legs and dense body structure, the water is not the best place for them. While there are some bulldogs that can swim, most will sink immediately or paddle to exhaustion quickly. They should NEVER be left near the water unsupervised.
Take a Fun English Bulldog Quiz!
English Bulldog Infographic
