Bulldog Dog Breed

With a wide stance and stubborn, resolute expression these dogs can look quite mean. They have a thick, heavy-set body that is low to the ground. Their head is square and short with wrinkles on their foreheads and strong jaws. Bulldogs have a waddling gait because their legs are at the corners of their body. With heavy bodies relative to their size, they can be quite a weight if you need to pick them up for any reason. Their flat faces mean that they have a tendency to snore, snort and wheeze.

Adaptability

Bulldogs should not live outside, as they are sensitive to the cold, and overheat easily in hot or humid weather. If you’re going to be outside for the day in hot weather, it can be a good idea to fill a small pool with water so that they can get in and soak if it gets too hot for them. They are not able to cool themselves by panting like other dogs. Apartment living is OK for Bulldogs since they are relatively inactive when they’re indoors, and they don’t need a yard like some breeds. However they will need a commitment to exercise. They are not the best breed for a novice owner since they can be stubborn when it comes to training.

Friendliness

The Bulldog should be kept away from cats as they will chase them, and doesn’t get on too well with other dogs that aren’t familiar to them. As good watchdogs they will bark at new people or visitors, but are generally friendly towards strangers. With children they are playful, patient and affectionate, and form strong bonds. Because of their history of fighting, and the fact that some lines may be more aggressive than others, it is best not to let them off the leash in public.

Grooming

Year round shedding is the norm with this breed, but it is moderate and can be kept under control with regular brushing. You should wipe their facial wrinkles regularly and dry them after bathing, so they don’t get infected. Daily or weekly brushing of their teeth is important and will help to keep their breath smelling nice. If you handle their feet as puppies this will help them to get used to the idea of their nails being trimmed later, which should also be done regularly.

Trainability

Bulldogs should be trained while they are young to release whatever is in their mouth when you give the command, to prevent problems later on. They also should be taught to be comfortable with people being around them when they’re eating and even taking food from their bowl so that they don’t get too protective of it.

Generally they are sweet and eager to please. However they have a strong-willed stubborn streak, so need a firm consistent approach. Puppy training classes can be very helpful to show you how to deal with behavior issues. You should always make sure that you are the dominant one, so they don’t start thinking that they are the leader of the pack.

Exercise Needs

Exercise is very important for Bulldogs, as they can quickly become overweight if they’re not active enough. However they are indoor dogs as a general rule, and don’t need a great deal of exercise. A daily walk is usually fine.