Learn about the Bulldog’s history, diet, and health by reading this Bulldog guide – discover what makes this breed unique!
The English Bulldog’s Origin
The English Bulldog is perhaps the most iconic of the British native breeds, with one of the oldest breed clubs.
Their ancestors may have been bred for an era when bull baiting was the most popular entertainment for all classes, but the modern Bulldog pedigree is both smaller and more compact. It is also more gentle and affectionate, making it an ideal family dog.
Interesting Bulldog facts:
- Sometimes called The Churchill Dog, not just due to the physical similarity and the “Bulldog spirit” they share, but Sir Winston Churchill also had a beloved Bulldog called Dodo.
- The Bulldog, due to the multiple Bulldog breeds within the dog community, is also known as The English Bulldog.
The Bulldog’s Weight, Size and Appearance
- Adult bodyweight – up to 23 – 25kg
- Breed Group – Utility
Bulldogs have a low set, compact, broad and powerful physique, with fairly short stout limbs. They have large heads in comparison to their body size, but this usually isn’t to excess.
They are a brachycephalic breed, meaning that they are “short faced” with a broad muzzle that may be slightly upturned, with characteristic wrinkling also present (but often not to excess).
The Bulldog has a very short, fine coat that comes in white, reds or brindles, pied or smut markings. Its coat is generally low maintenance, meaning Bulldog grooming on a thorough basis only needs to take place twice annually.
English Bulldog Character Traits
Although fierce in appearance and originally bred for their fighting skills, the Bulldog breed is typically gentle and affectionate – the Bulldog’s energy has remained intact though! They are dependable, loyal and steadfast.
The Bulldog Puppy
The Bulldog puppy takes a full 12 months to fulfil their adult potential – their skeleton and muscles take time to fully form to be able to support this heavy set dog.
When it comes to Bulldog puppy food, they will benefit from a diet which not only supports their developing natural defences, but that also take into consideration the Bulldog’s sensitive skin and delicate digestion.
Ideal Bulldog Puppy food: ROYAL CANIN® Bulldog Puppy.
Sensitivities and Nutritional Support
A Bulldog adult is heavy in comparison to their size, but this should primarily be muscle and not fat.
Care should be taken not to allow this breed to become overweight, as this can place additional strain on their joints as well as lead to other health concerns.
The short, fine coat of this breed provides little in terms of protection and can leave the Bulldogs skin at risk of sensitivity, particularly where there are skin folds. That’s why, when you’re wondering what the best food for Bulldogs is, you should consider a diet that contains a combination of specific vitamins, minerals and omega fats – as these are beneficial to help maintain skin health.
A common characteristic of the Bulldog is their predisposition to flatulence! Therefore, a highly digestible diet which contains very high quality proteins is recommended; only selected fibres can contribute to reducing intestinal fermentation.
Ideal Bulldog adult dog food: ROYAL CANIN® Bulldog Adult.