About the English Bulldog
Originally bred for bull-baiting in England, Bulldogs were first referenced in works of literature dating back to the 1500s. The breed developed their stocky frame, large head, and notorious jowls due in part to the strenuous activities they participated in. The breed’s frame remained much the same until the passage of the Cruelty to Animals Act 1835, which outlawed bull-baiting and other forms of cruelty to animals.
As the English Bulldog transitioned from a working dog into a show dog, the breed eventually found their way to the United States in the 1800s. Once in the States, their popularity grew. Outside of finding major success in the show ring, the English Bulldog found celebrity status, too! The original Yale mascot was an English Bulldog named Handsome Dan – the name gets passed down to each successor. During WWI, the U.S. Marines became associated with the breed and made them their mascot, as well. Each Marine bulldog takes the name Chesty. The University of Georgia Bulldogs are represented on the sideline by an English Bulldog named Uga and, you guessed it, each mascot proudly takes the name Uga. In addition to being issued a student ID, Uga watches the university’s football games from an air-conditioned doghouse on the sideline.
But for now they are snack potatoes that occasionally pass gas here and there, but hey you gotta love them because those wrinkles and squishy face is just a layer hiding that huge heart that will love you unconditionally no matter what.
But is the English Bulldog right for your family?
The English Bulldog is an amazing pet and even though a lot of people will try to scare you into not getting a bulldog because they can be prone to some health issues. However, this is one of the reasons it’s so important to get your puppy from a reputable breeder.
English Bulldogs can be prone to hip dysplasia, allergies, skin conditions due to yeast, wrinkles must be cleaned almost daily and they do not do well in extreme climates like cold or hot. But don’t let those things scare you because most dogs that are well bred and cared for do just fine and live a normal life. Having a healthy diet and a premium food is very important because this will help maintain a healthy skin and coat. Bulldogs are often passed on because people assume that they are a lot more work. But in reality all dogs require maintenance, some require grooming while the bulldog takes 15 minutes to bathe and moisturize. Some dogs require lots of brushing to avoid mats, bulldogs take 5 minutes to brush to get some of the loose hair off, plus this is the perfect bonding time because they deserve a snack after this chore. This is not a very active dog either so if you are looking for a pup that will hike the Grand Canyon with you this is not the dog for you, the only thing they climb is the couch to Netflix and chill. Bulldogs are loving and will take a car ride to the nearest Starbucks with you for a pup cup anytime. All breeds have their pros and cons but don’t let the bad stigma scare you! Do your research and get you a bulldog or two because these little potatoes are healing hearts one squishy paw at a time.
