5 Things To Know About Bulldogs
March 17, 2020
Bulldogs are one of the most beloved pets in this part of the world, topping the list in the number four spot. Their compact size, affable nature, and companionship make them great dogs for city lovers.
The Bulldog of the Middle Ages
Bred for the Medieval sport of bull baiting, Bulldogs were bred short, stocky and wrinkly to make them better fighters. Thankfully that sport was banned in the mid-1800s, but Bulldogs continued to capture the hearts of people everywhere, especially in the UK.
Bulldog as Mascot
In fact, the British people love the Bulldog so much it is the nation’s mascot and is often seen in commercials and political cartoons. England is not the only country to adopt the Bulldog as a mascot. Several universities in the U.S., and even the United States Marine Corps. have adopted the handsome fellow as their official mascot.
How Many Types of Bulldogs?
Some argue there are only three types of Bulldog: English, American and French. However, As the breed evolved around the world, almost every country wanted their own type of Bulldog. As a result, several types of Bulldogs were introduced to the world, including:
- Alano Español
- Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog
- American Bulldog
- Amitola Bulldog
- Aussie Bulldog
- Banter Bulldogge
- Buldoque Campeiro
- Ca de Bou
- Campeiro Bulldog
- Catahoula Bulldog
- Catahoula Bulldog
- Colorado Bulldog
- Continental Bulldog
- Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldog
- English Bulldog
- French Bulldog
- Mallorquin Bulldog
- Mammut Bulldog
- Olde English Bulldogge
- Olde Boston Bulldogge
- Otto Bulldog
- Pakistani Bull Dog (Gull Dong)
- Red-Tiger Bulldog
- Spanish Bulldog (Alano Español)
- Titan Bull-Dogge
- Victorian Bulldog
- Valley Bulldog
Top Heavy Bulldogs
Originally, the Bulldog descended from the Mastiff which would explain the large head and droolie jowls. However, that beautiful big noggin comes with its challenges. The smallish stature of the Bulldog makes birth difficult for most expectant mothers and puppies must be delivered by C-section. Those large heads make swimming a challenge for Bulldogs, so make sure to outfit your pet with a doggie life jacket around water.
Common Health Ailments of Bulldogs
Unfortunately, those adorable wrinkles can create the perfect environment for various allergies and infections to develop, including hot spots. Those big, beautiful eyes are usually sensitive to dust and prone to infection. With all Bulldogs, daily grooming and maintenance is needed to keep these dogs healthy. As with all snub-nosed dogs, Bulldogs are prone to respiratory problems and special care is needed during hot weather to make sure they stay cool and hydrated, and don’t over-exercise.
That’s one of the reasons Bulldogs are so popular with many busy people in the city, because they don’t require a lot of exercise a day. Plus they’re great with kids and make the perfect couch mate when you’re having a Netflix marathon at home.