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Bulldog Facts Life Expectancy: 9 years Size: 19in Noise: Fairly Quiet Common Health Problems: Upper respiratory disease, skin problems, natural birth usually impossible Breed Recognized By: AKC, CKC, FCI, KC Alternate Names: British Bulldog, English Bulldog Friendliness | Usually friendly to everyone, tolerates children, strangers, and small animals well | Grooming | Moderate | Energy | Moderate, 30mins of exercise a day | Trainability | Somewhat difficult to train, food motivated | Bulldogs began as a breed with a dark history. Bulldogs were originally used for bull baiting (and bear baiting), a barbaric sport in which a bull was lashed to a post and trained Bulldogs attacked it, hence the name, “Bulldog.” Once the sport was outlawed in 1835, the breed nearly disappeared, but the Bulldogs tenacity, stubbornness, and loyalty as well as its unique looks won it a place in the hearts of breeders. Today’s Bulldogs are bred to be gentle and accepting and are often found as family pets. Bulldogs are genial and laid back. A Bulldog will accept just about anyone as a friend, and Bulldogs tend to tolerate children without complaint. Bulldogs may look fierce, but they are rarely aggressive and are more likely to greet a stranger with friendly overtures than barking. Surprisingly, Bulldogs get along well with other animals, even small ones. Bulldogs have short, smooth coats that require little grooming. However, Bulldogs’ eyes and ears must be cleaned regularly to prevent infection. Bulldogs enjoy exercise, but because the breed can have difficulty breathing, strenuous exercise should be avoided. A leisurely walk around the neighborhood is all a Bulldog requires to remain healthy and happy. Bulldogs can be stubborn and while never mean spirited, a Bulldog simply won’t do something it doesn’t want to do. Bulldogs are very food motivated and respond best to positive reinforcement. Particularly stubborn dogs may need help from a professional trainer.
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