The English Bulldog
The Bulldog has been around for centuries, dating back as far as the 1200s, and was originally bred as a sporting dog. As history explains, "in 1210, an English nobleman saw the butcher's dogs harry a bull at bay on the village green and commanded a repeat performance for sport. . . . and thereafter, mention of the 'Bull Dogge' appears in letters and historical accounts" (Forbush 8). With this event, 'Bullbaiting' was born.
It was the task of these early bulldogs to capture a bull by the nose and hold it down. Since money was often involved in these events, the dogs were many times tortured and abused to instill a volatile attitude and furocious tenacity. Owners would throw one dog after another into the ring with the bull only to see them be killed.
Breeding was extremely selective in order to achieve the desired countenance of the early Bulldog. Among his ancestors are Mastiffs (for courage, determination, power, and activity), Pugnaces (for size, strength, and wide mouths), and the Pug (for more compact physique, broader chest, and shortened legs).
Bullbaiting continued for more than six centuries before finally being abolished in 1835. Shortly thereafter, a man by the name of William George established a kennel he called 'Canine Castle.' It was his goal to improve the breed and enhance its public appeal.He was widely successful in this endeavor, and in 1874, the Bull Dog Club was formed in London. Following closely behind were the American Kennel Club and the Bull Dog Club of America.
Throughout the course of the last 175 years, the Bulldog breed has evolved into a gentle, mild-mannered, extremely loyal 'pet'. (I use the term loosely, since my own little bullies think they're just other members of the family!) The Bulldogs of today rarely fight. In fact, they are extremely friendly with both their humans and their canine counterparts. They are naturally curious about the world around them, and in 'pup'hood they are very playful indeed. While they are cordial and amiable in nature, there is still a trace of their ancestors lurking just underneath the surface, for if they sense danger, especially for their humans, they will attack and defend unto the death. They are VERY loyal to their humans.
If you are thinking of adopting a Bully, there are several things you need to be aware of. They LOVE attention and will go to great lengths to get it. For instance, my male Bully, Dudley, will bite at your heels, bark with all his might, and charge at you with a running leap if he feels that he is being ignored. And, the lovin' don't stop until Dudley decides it stops! Your Bully will provide you with on-the-job training.
Bullys are low-maintenance and high-yeilding. They require very little grooming - just an occassional bath here and there. Too many bathes, and their skin dries out and they get rashes and sores. Their wrinkles do need to be cleaned every few days to avoid the spread of bacteria, and their toenails have to be clipped on a regular basis to avoid problems with their feet. On the plus side, Bullys love water, but be careful with them. There body style does not allow them to swim. They sink like a stone. Also, when bathing avoid getting water in their eyes and nostrils. Believe it or not, they could drown.
Some of the most common health issues with the breed are:
* Cherry Eye - a condition in which the third eyelid becomes detached and swells out. Corrective
surgery is most often required for this condition.
* Breathing Problems - sometimes their nostrils are too constricted for a Bully to breath normally.
Snoring is a common anomoly with this breed. Corrective surgery may be required.
* Feet and Toe Problems - careful attention to toenail trimming and general care can help with this
* Breeding and Birthing Problems - most female bullys must have a C-section to deliver pups, and
artificial insimination is often called for
* Heat and Exercize Intolerance - most bullys cannot withstand temparatures over 80 degrees, and
all exertive exercize should be stenuously avoided.
Establishing and maintaining a close relationship with your veterenarian is extremely important in keeping your Bully healthy and happy.
As they mature, Bullys become the canine version of a 'couch potato.' They love nothing better than to 'veg' out with their humans, most oftentimes stretched out on their backs with a leg thrown over into your lap. One word of caution, make sure their backside is pointed away from you. They tend to be rather open about their bodily functions, and it is most unpleasant!
Bullys are great companions for both young and old alike, and they keep you laughing. Both of my Bullys, Dudley and Daisy, are big hams, and just watching them brings a smile to my face. I can never have a bad day when they're around. If you're looking for a low-maintenance, high-yeild partner, then the Bully is for you. I can guarantee you will never regret it.
Additional Links
General Bulldog Information
Bulldogz.com
The Bulldogs Homepage