Bulldogs have earned their place as one of the top 10 dog breeds in the United States due to their kind personalities. They are beloved for their minimal exercise needs, gentle souls, and wrinkly folds that make anyone say, “Aww!” Keep reading to discover their grooming needs, the health concerns based on their skull shape, and their popularity as mascots.
Bulldogs Have Dark Origins
Bulldogs are a breed named after their initial purpose. Unlike Labrador Retrievers, who got their name for their ability to retrieve game and waterfowl, Bulldogs have a darker history. It is believed that they were developed in England during the 13th century for a cruel sport called “bull baiting.” Bulls were thrown in a ring with an aggressive, blood-thirsty dog whose goal was to bite the bull’s nose or neck, which sometimes led to death. For centuries, people from all social classes considered this a source of entertainment and betted on which animal they thought would win.
Fortunately, England outlawed bull baiting in 1835 and put an end to this immoral act. The decision saved countless animals but had an unexpected outcome where the Bulldogs “lost” their purpose and almost faced breed extinction. Thanks to loyal breeders who saw the breed’s potential, they developed the friendly, calm Bulldog we know and love.
Bulldogs Have a Stocky, Wrinkled Appearance
A Bulldog’s wrinkles and stocky body are two features that are synonymous with the breed. They also have short, smooth coats that come in several colors, including:
- Fawn
- Fawn and white
- Red
- Red brindle
- White
- Fallow
Additionally, it’s not uncommon for Bulldogs to have markings on the face, ears, or body. For their size, they stand 14 or 15 inches at the shoulder and reach an adult weight of 40 to 50 lbs, depending on the gender.
The breed standard calls for a flat, broad top of the head, turned shoulders, a deep chest, and rear legs that are visible from the front. In fact, the Bulldog Club of America (BCA) has a 12-page guide that details the Bulldog’s ideal physical appearance and potential faults. On the BCA’s rating, features such as the nose, wrinkle, and skull shape are some of the items worth the most points.
There Are Different Bulldog Breeds
So, what’s the difference between American, French, and English Bulldogs? The pup described in this article is the English Bulldog, which is also referred to as simply “Bulldog” because it is the breed from which all other varieties were developed.
In the 1800s, British immigrants came to the U.S. and brought their beloved Bulldogs with them. Here, they became popular with farmers and ranchers who wanted a working dog that could protect land and catch livestock. American Bulldogs are currently on their path to full American Kennel Club (AKC) recognition.
French Bulldogs and their adorable bat ears are recognized by major organizations, and they also got their start thanks to English immigrants. Lacemakers from Britain moved with their mini-Bulldogs to Northern France, and the French took notice. Breeders crossed these pups with other small breeds and created the standard French Bulldog appearance known today.
Bulldogs: A Brachycephalic Breed
Pups with flat, wrinkly faces are known as brachycephalic breeds. Their round, short skulls mean all facial features must fit into a more compact space compared to breeds with longer snouts, such as Afghan Hounds. Therefore, they have smaller and narrower nostrils and airways. Brachycephalic canines, such as Bulldogs, are more likely to have difficulty breathing because of the limited air that enters their lungs.
A myth about Bulldogs is that they are lazy. However, they have a much harder time controlling their breath during physical activity and will become tired more quickly than other athletic breeds. Because of this feature, flat-faced dogs need more supervision during playtime, exercise, and exploration to ensure they are not overworked.
Their breathing difficulties are another reason why swimming and pools are hazards. Unlike other dogs with longer snouts and webbed feet, such as the Golden Retriever, Bulldogs do not have lean, athletic bodies meant for aquatic abilities. They’re not natural swimmers by any means.
Bulldogs Have Special Grooming Needs
Thanks to their short coats, these pups don’t require the same careful brushing as other higher-maintenance dogs. Bulldogs will look their best with two to three brushings a week and monthly baths. The frequency will depend on how clean the dog is and whether they play in mud often. Dogs who get dirty quickly may need a bath every two weeks, whereas dogs with mild or moderate dust can go two months before being cleaned.
While those factors vary, their wrinkles need regular inspection. Their facial folds contribute to their charm, but the extra skin can easily trap food and dirt and lead to inflammation and irritation if left untreated. Bulldogs need their faces wiped down on a weekly or daily basis depending on their eating and self-grooming habits. A cotton ball dipped in warm water is enough to remove any lingering debris and keep the furry friend clean until the next bath.
Bulldogs Are Known for Being Friendly
The AKC describes this breed as “friendly, courageous, and calm.” As friendly pups, they are affectionate and enjoy cuddles and playtime with their human companions. The breed can also get along with young children, but both parties must be socialized to treat the other appropriately. This applies to interacting with other dogs as well. It’s best to make introductions when Bulldogs are still young and build their manners for when they encounter other pups or animals outdoors.
When it comes to meeting strangers, these canines are solid watchdogs and usually bark only to warn about dangers. Bulldogs can get along with new faces after they understand that said person does not pose a threat and is welcome by the family. Regardless of whether they are with children, other dogs or pets, or unfamiliar people, Bulldogs should always be supervised during all interactions, especially initial meetings.
Bulldogs Have Moderate Exercise Needs
Bulldogs have moderate exercise levels, and they are happy with a daily, 30-minute stroll around the neighborhood. Just like every other breed, these canines need physical activity to keep their minds engaged, prevent obesity, and explore the world. However, owners must manage their pets’ limits with extreme caution. As mentioned earlier, Bulldogs have flat faces with narrow nostrils. This can make it difficult for them to breathe if they become overexcited or they are winded after a long exercise session.
After a walk, they should have a shaded spot inside the home with cold water to cool down. During summer or in places with hot, humid weather, outdoor exercise should be kept at a minimum to decrease the chances of overheating. Playing indoors with the AC running will get similar results and ensure the furry friends are safe.
Bulldogs Have Some Health Concerns
One health concern for flat-faced dogs is Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). Due to their round skulls, parts of the upper respiratory system might not develop properly, leading to narrow windpipes or nostrils, an elongated soft palate, and nostrils that collapse during inhales. Some symptoms of this condition include:
- Loud, open-mouth breathing (or excessive panting)
- Sneezing, wheezing, and snorting
- Decreased ability or inability to exercise
- Choking while eating or drinking
- Gums with a blue tint
BOAS can be managed with lifestyle, exercise, and food changes. Keeping a pet at a healthy weight and using a harness instead of a collar can make breathing easier. More severe cases require medical procedures; however, BOAS also means Bulldogs are more sensitive to anesthesia. For surgery, the BCA recommends visiting a vet with extensive Bulldog experience who can monitor and administer appropriate levels of anesthesia.
These Stocky Dogs Are Popular Sports Mascots
Bulldogs are an incredibly popular sports mascot for schools, colleges, and professional teams. In the United States alone, there are over 450 high schools and 45+ universities that proudly rep the Bulldog mascot. Without a doubt, one of the most lovable Bulldogs in college sports history is Yale University’s Handsome Dan.
Since 1933, a lucky bulldog has been dubbed “Handsome Dan” every few years and serves as the school’s furry mascot. For nearly a decade, these Dan’s have attended football games, orientation sessions, and campus events to build the Bulldog momentum. Handsome Dan XIX is the current mascot. He’s been on school spirit duty since 2021 and earned the role when he was a few months old. Handsome Dan’s charming looks and friendly persona have earned him 45K followers on Instagram, where he shares his daily life updates and announces in-person appearances.
Bulldogs Are Part of Many Beer Marketing Campaigns
These dogs are no strangers to being advertising mascots and spokesdogs. However, they also appear as poster pups on bubbly beverages. In the United States, there are not one, but two, soda brands with Bulldogs on the packaging. Folks might remember Mug Root Beer’s introduction of their canine mascot named Dog in 1986. Today, the tan Bulldog smiles smugly on the soda can and extends a paw with a foamy glass of Mug to the consumer.
There is also Bulldog Root Beer, which started producing carbonated yumminess in 1997. On the logo, two bullies stand tall and pose for the camera with a golden arch around their image. These pups are from Fresno, California, and are affectionately named Hops and Barley. The company website also states that the pair “chew[s] on bones and rawhide treats, and can fetch and play dead on command.”
