Bulldog Standard Explained

Bulldogs, one of the most popular show dogs of recent time, are loved by many people for their sweet-temperament and friendly behavior. They are also known as British or English bulldogs. Owing to their names, they reflect a true elegance and tenderness in their dealing with other animals including human. However, in earlier days, bulldogs were mostly known as guard dogs. They were much known for their aggression and fighting instinct. Although uncommon now, but bulldogs of today can even show their fighting instinct depending on the situations encountered.

In 1864, the first standard for bulldogs was drafted in England. It was adopted in the year 1875. The Bulldog Club of America was formed in the year 1890, following which a new standard had been drafted by the club in the year 1896. The standard was revised in the year 1914, while rejecting issues like Dudley nose. But in the year 1976, once again the standard was reevaluated and Dudley nose was redefined as 'brown colored nose'. Once again in the year 1990, the standard was restated, however, not changing any words or terminologies from the statements.

Typically bulldogs have a medium-sized feature with a smooth coat all over the body. Native to England, these dogs have been marked with their short muzzle positioned over short-faced head. The three primary characteristics of a bulldog are – dynamism, persistence and energy. While the weight of a male adult is around 50 pounds, the weight of a female counts as 40 pounds in average. While looking straight to the dog, it can be seen that the lower part of the skull area holds the eyes of the dog. The eyes are positioned far away from their ears.

Bulldogs, typically known for their friendliness, obedience and companionship, are best known for their loyalty to their master and an occasional stubbornness. They feel themselves as a member of the family so strongly that they usually never act as an exploratory manner, even for a shorter distance, without being accompanied by the family members. Bulldogs are very sociable in nature. They have a natural ability to mix well with children, dogs from other breeds as well as other household animals. Although their level of intelligence usually does not get much importance, their level of obedience simply does not have any other alternative.

Generally speaking, bulldogs go through several types of health issues throughout their lifetime. Of them, breathing difficulty is more common, during which they do snoring, similar to human, at the time of sleeping. A shortness of muzzle can lead to such complication. Interstitial cyst may also occur in the bulldogs. This is a specific type of infection that occurs in-between the toes. If this happens, the dog feels an extreme sense of discomfort. This condition is treatable with the proper guidance of experienced vet. Cherry eyes, allergies and hip-related problems are other health complications that may occur to a bulldog.
Like their masters, bulldogs need to undergo through regular cleaning in order to stay away from different sorts of infections that occurs mainly due to the moisturizer accumulation over time. In addition to daily cleaning, daily brushing is also necessary for bulldogs. They need to do exercises on a regular basis. Otherwise they may experience several other health problems like lung and heart diseases as a result of overweight or obesity.