Information About British Bulldogs

The British or English bulldog is a wide, compact dog of medium size with short legs. Known for their underbite, English bulldogs are gentle, friendly dogs suited to living with children but also possessing excellent guarding abilities.

  1. Origins

    • The British bulldog is descended from ancient Asiatic mastiffs. Early working bulldogs in England were used for bull baiting, a sport outlawed in England in 1835. Working bulldogs were crossed with pug dogs to create the modern British bulldog.

    Vitals

    • British bulldogs are 12 to 14 inches in height and weigh between 50 and 55 pounds. The life expectancy is eight years. Their coats are short and smooth and come in a variety of colors, including red brindle, solid white, fawn, piebald, pale yellow, solid red and other brindles.

    Exercise

    • British bulldogs require regular exercise but cannot tolerate excessive exercise. British bulldogs are therefore well-suited to indoor living, including apartments.

    Care

    • Though their coats are short, British bulldogs require regular grooming. They have heavy wrinkles in the skin that require daily cleaning and a dusting of powder in the heat.

    Health Issues

    • British bulldogs may have breathing problems, poor eyesight, skin infections and hip and knee problems. They also are extremely sensitive to heat and cold. British bulldogs overheat easily and should not be left alone outdoors. They may also drool, slobber and snore loudly.