The Bulldog is a powerful and friendly breed that is a devoted companion. He requires minimal grooming and does well in cooler temperatures.

Physical Characteristics

• Medium build
• Large, wide head
• Short face, black nose and dark eyes
• Loose skin is covered with short, rough hair that comes in red brindle, solid white, solid red to fawn, or piebald or fawn
• Height: 12-16 inches
• Weight: 40-50 pounds
• Average lifespan: 8 years

Temperament

• Gentle, affectionate, even-tempered, friendly, persistent, dependable, brave
• Interaction with people: Good with children
• Interaction with animals: May not be friendly toward unfamiliar dogs; good with noncanine pets
• Level of attention needed: Needs significant human companionship and affection
• Protection: Excellent guard dog; will chase intruders

At Home

• OK for apartments
• Prefers to be indoors
• Prefers mild climates; take caution in extreme heat
• Some need lots of exercise, while others are fairly inactive

Grooming

• Easy to groom
• Average shedder
• Comb and brush with firm-bristle brush
• Wipe face with a damp cloth to clean inside wrinkles

Brief History

• Native to England's British Isles
• Descended from the ancient Asiatic mastiff
• Used by butchers to hold bulls

Fido's Facts

• The breed was featured as Bull in the "Lady and the Tramp"
• Calvin Coolidge owned one named "Boston Beans"
• Yale had a bulldog mascot named Handsome Dan; some claim he is America's original mascot
• Originally a ferocious fighting dog, this breed has been a gentle companion dog for hundreds of years
• The name "bulldog" refers to its original use baiting bulls as sport