English Bulldog Breed Standard according to the AKC (American Kennel Cult)
The English Bulldog is known as the national symbol of Great Britain, the characteristics of a perfect Bulldog are medium size, smooth coat, heavy, thick-set, low-swung body, massive short-faced head, wide shoulders and sturdy limbs. Bulldogs are an ideal pet as they love to be in the company of their family. They adore children and make an excellent companion to them because of their gentle, yet sometimes stubborn nature. Bulldogs are laid-back, loyal good natured and undemanding companion who would make a great companion for the elderly. Do not feel guilty for not walking them as they are known as the “couch potato”. Contrary to popular belief Bulldogs do not drool, but they may snore. Bulldogs can also be humorous, quirky and even comical which will add to their charm.
Other Names: English Bulldogs, Bulldog, British Bulldog
Height: 12 – 14 inches
Weight: 50 – 55 lbs.
Colors: Uniform color or with a black mask or muzzle; reds, red brindle, piebald. According to the AKC Black is undesirable. In fact many AKC breeders actually kill their black offspring so that noone knows they produced them. Sad huh. Imagine being killed for no other reason other than your hair color. I happen to love Black Bulldogs and have a huge client demand for them.
Coat: Short, smooth and close, finely textured.
Temperament: Bulldogs are affectionate, docile, reliable.
With Children: Bulldogs are wonderful with children, they love a low-key romp with the kids in the backyard.
With Pets: Yes, but may get aggressive towards other animals when food is present.
Watch-dog: Very low
Guard-dog: According to the AKC, Very high. I emphaticly disagree. A Bulldog in general will actually wag his tail while strangers pillage your home.
Care and Training: Regular brushing of the Bulldogs coat with a rough cloth and minimal exercise is needed. Care should be taken not to over feed the Bulldog. Bulldogs would also prefer not to take any exercise. Special care to powder their fold and wrinkles and
under their tail during hot weather. Bulldogs should not be over exerted in hot weather. Bulldogs do not make a good dog for the obedience enthusiast.
Learning Rate: Low, intelligent, but uncomplicated
Activity: Indoors very low, outdoor low.
Living Environment: Indoor – outdoor arrangement in a temperate climate. Does not do well in extreme weather conditions.
Health Issues: Overheating, itchy skin & difficulty breathing. You may research these conditions by doing a specific search on our website here BigBulldogs.com. Bulldogs, are generally artificially inseminated and born by cesarean section. Be sure to purchase your Bulldog from a highly committed experienced breeder that is VERY FAMILIAR with Bulldogs so that you can alleviate yourself much heart and wallet ache.
Life Span: 8 – 10 years
Litter Size: Average is 4 but I have had as many as 11.
Country of Origin: Great Britain
History: The Bulldogs roots are firmly planted in British soil being mentioned in many written works in history. Shakespeare refers to the breed in King Henry, VI. Bulldogs have been used as a butcher’s dog to help control oxen, as a guard, as a hunting dog and for the sport of baiting. They would take on opponents such as bulls, bears, badgers and even other dogs in the ring. Now breeders concentrate on developing their non-ferocious traits. The Bulldog is now a popular show dog around the world.
First Registered by the AKC: 1934
AKC Group: Non-Sporting
Class: Non-Sporting
Registries: AKC, CKC, FCI (Group 2), KC (GB )