English Bulldog

Instantly recognizable, the English Bulldog has an unusual history. They were originally cruelly bred for bull baiting, a sport that began in the 13th century in England. Thankfully, that is no longer the case as bull baiting was outlawed in the mid-19th century. This began a new era for the English Bulldog, which became popular for its distinct looks and surprisingly docile and kind personality. They are a symbol of their native England and first came to America in the late 19th century where they became part of the fabric of American culture.

English Bulldog owners will need patience and enjoy a calm and quiet lifestyle. The dogs are gentle and seek out the same characteristics in their owners. Socialization and training should be a priority as well as English Bulldogs can be stubborn.

The English Bulldog doesn’t have a ton of exercise requirements; instead, they prefer short, gentle walks in cooler temperatures. They are prone to overheating. The breed rolls instead of running, giving them a unique waddling gait.

English Bulldogs can get by in the city but they prefer to have a yard for relaxing and walking.

The short coat of the English Bulldog breed is low maintenance, requiring regular brushing to remove loose hairs. Baths only need to occur every now and then. However, their skin folds need constant attention as they can be prone to infections if not cleaned regularly and properly. Owners will need to check, clean, and dry these areas as part of a regular grooming routine.

Clever and clownish but also obstinate, the English Bulldog responds best to positive reinforcement methods. They need socialization early and often to instill confidence and owners who are patient and kind in their training methods.

Gentle and loving, English Bulldogs make good family pets. They do best with older children who are aware of the dog’s size and heaviness but can live with small children harmoniously.