Bulldog

The Bulldog originated in England from a Mastiff-type dog of ancient Greece. First Bulldogs shared their ancestry with Pit Bull Terriers, Boxers, and Mastiffs. These large dogs were used to drive cattle and protect the property. A formidable appearance, muscular body and very strong jaws made Bulldogs ideal fighting dogs. When bull baiting and dog fights were banned in the 19th century, Bulldogs lost their popularity and were on the brink of extinction. Only efforts of several devoted breeders helped preserve these unique dogs up to nowadays.

The Bulldog of today is no longer a fierce fighter, but a friendly family pet. The American Bulldog is close to the old standards of the working dog. The original appearance and working abilities of the Bulldog were preserved by first American settlers who took these dogs to the New World and kept them as guards, herders, and protectors. Although this strain of the breed was separated in the 17th century, it was officially recognized only in 1999. The American variety is very agile and long-legged. Like all Bulldogs, these dogs are muscular, but graceful, without excessive heaviness. For three centuries, these dogs lived in isolation from other Bulldogs, which kept them pure from changes introduced to the European Bulldogs during that time.

The English Bulldog of today, that is considered the symbol of England, actually stands far from the original Bulldog. This variety of the breed can be called the acme of canine breeding for its exaggerated appearance. A number of physical traits of purebred English Bulldogs are detrimental to the dog’s health. For instance, short muzzle causes breathing difficulties and large head of a puppy makes natural labor impossible. In the 1980s, the miniature Bulldog was developed to improve the health and temperament of the English Bulldog and make it more suited to the apartment living.

The youngest variety of the Bulldog is the French Bulldog. Its origin is not known for sure. Probably, smaller English Bulldogs were crossed with Mops, Terriers and other breeds. These little creatures are stocky and muscular, like their larger cousins, but they lack the original dignity and fierce looks of the original Bulldog. French Bulldogs are indoor dogs; they are not intended to perform any task except playing and entertaining the owner. They are valued for their clownish appearance and easy-going personality. French Bulldogs make good pets for both children and adults. They are also suited for people with sedate lifestyle. This variety of the Bulldog has gone further from its origin compared to other varieties.