English Bulldogs and American Bulldogs are two beloved breeds that require special care to thrive. They are both prone to skin fold dermatitis, a skin condition caused by moisture accumulation in their wrinkles.
Their short, easy-to-maintain coats are a plus for busy owners. However, regular grooming is still essential to prevent skin issues and matting.
Both breeds are known for their gentle nature, but they can be stubborn at times. Consistent training and positive reinforcement are key to developing good behavior.
English Bulldogs are generally more laid-back, while American Bulldogs are often more energetic and playful.
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Care and Maintenance
Bulldogs require more care than most breeds, so it's essential to be aware of their specific needs.
They are prone to overheating, especially in warm environments, and can overexert themselves easily.
To prevent overheating, provide air conditioning in the home and car, and travel with fans and ice packs in summer.
Bulldogs should be monitored near open water, as most can't swim and can drown easily.
Their coat requires occasional brushing and bathing, but the folds of skin within the wrinkles need extra care to prevent skin infections and bad odors.
A short daily walk or play session in the house or yard is sufficient exercise for a Bulldog.
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Care and Upkeep
Bulldogs require more care than most breeds due to their health issues.
They are prone to overheating, especially in warm environments and under circumstances where they can overexert themselves.
Bulldogs need air conditioning in the home and car to prevent overheating, and owners should travel with fans and ice packs in summer.
Their shortened muzzle makes them prone to brachycephalic syndrome, a condition that obstructs airflow.
To prevent skin infections, the wrinkles on a Bulldog's face should be kept clean and dry.
A short daily walk or a robust play session in the house or yard may be all that a Bulldog needs in terms of exercise.
In warm weather, owners should curtail outings or shift exercise sessions to cooler times of the day.
Bulldogs should be monitored near open water, as they can easily drown due to their inability to swim.
A high-quality dog food suitable for the breed's size and age is essential to prevent joint disorders.
Feeding a high-quality dog food results in a slower growth rate, which reduces the risk of hip dysplasia and other joint disorders.
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Exercise
English Bulldogs aren't very active, but they do need daily outings and walks to stay fit and healthy.
Moderate exercise is key, and they might enjoy a few throws of a ball or some playtime with a toy, but running is a challenge for them.
They have trouble with stairs, so it's best to avoid them altogether.
Bulldogs shouldn't be in water that's more than elbow deep without supervision and a life jacket.
Due to their short muzzles, they can't breathe well in hot weather, so limit their walks to short outings in the early morning and evening when it's cooler.
You should provide them with access to cool, air-conditioned space so they can breathe comfortably.
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Nutrition
Bulldogs need regular exercise to stay healthy, but they can also be prone to being overweight, so it's essential to monitor their calorie intake closely.
Work with your vet to determine the right amount of food for your Bulldog, and stick to it.
Table scraps and extra treats should be avoided, as they can easily add up and lead to weight gain.
Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily caloric intake, and are best used as training rewards.
Fresh water should always be available for your Bulldog.
Some Bulldogs can be very possessive of their food, which is known as resource guarding, so it's crucial to address this behavior with your vet or a professional dog trainer.
Don't let other people, especially children, or other pets approach your Bulldog while they're eating.
Maintaining Health
A bulldog is old at 8, so it's essential to prioritize their health from an early age. Properly bred bulldogs can avoid many health issues, but it's crucial to work with a reputable breeder who has performed health testing on their dogs.
Before bringing home a new pup, consider whether you're ready to offer a dog a good life with quality time, positive training, and exercise. This will help prevent obesity, a common issue in bulldog breeds.
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Bulldogs are brachycephalic, which means they have flattened faces with short muzzles. This can lead to overheating, especially in warm weather, so it's essential to keep them cool and limit exercise in hot temperatures.
To clean bulldog wrinkles, use plain, unscented baby wipes or pricier veterinary wipes that include chlorhexidine. Drying the wrinkles with cotton balls can also help prevent skin fold dermatitis.
Some common health issues in bulldogs include hip dysplasia, shoulder luxation, and stenotic nares. These issues can be costly to diagnose and treat, with costs ranging from $300 to $7,500.
To increase the likelihood that your bulldog will be healthy, work with a reputable breeder who screens their genetic stock for conditions that can affect the breed. This can help prevent issues like brachycephalic airway syndrome, which affects almost all bulldogs due to their breed standard.
Here are some essential health checks to perform on your bulldog:
- Check their weight to ensure they're at a healthy weight
- Clean their wrinkles regularly to prevent skin fold dermatitis
- Monitor their temperature to prevent heatstroke
- Regularly inspect their eyes, nose, and teeth for signs of issues
- Keep their living area clean and dry to prevent skin issues
Physical Characteristics
English bulldogs are characterized by their large heads and broad shoulders.
Their small, thin ears are located at the back of the head, and they have deep folds of loose skin that start on the forehead and extend down to the jowl.
Bulldogs have a short, smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, including white, fawn, red, and brindle.
The average English Bulldog weight is between 40 and 50 pounds, and they stand between 12 and 16 inches tall at the shoulders.
Their short, sturdy, and wide-set legs make them move quite slow.
English bulldogs have a distinctive look, with a broad, black nose, hanging upper lips, and a strongly undershot lower jaw.
Their physical appearance is classified as brachycephalic, with eyes set wide above a short muzzle.
Personality and Behavior
English Bulldogs are known to be gentle and sweet, making them a great fit for families with kids. They're also dependable and relatively predictable, which is a big plus for many owners.
Despite their tough history as bull-baiting dogs, English Bulldogs are generally good with other pets, but can be aggressive to dogs they don't know without proper training and socialization. This means they need to be socialized from an early age to get along with other dogs.
Bulldogs are also known for their bravery and can make excellent watchdogs, thanks to their courageous nature. They'll often stand their ground and defend their family.
One thing to keep in mind is that English Bulldogs can be stubborn at times, which can make training a bit challenging. However, with patience and consistency, they can learn to perform tricks and even skateboard!
English Bulldogs are also not much of a retriever, so don't expect them to bring you your ball every time you throw it. But they do enjoy playing with toys and will often entertain themselves for hours on end.
Overall, English Bulldogs are a unique and loving breed that make great companions for the right owner.
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Living with an English Bulldog/American Bulldog
Living with an English Bulldog/American Bulldog can be a wonderful experience, but it's essential to understand their unique needs and characteristics. Being low-endurance dogs, they make fine indoor pets and don't require a yard, making them great for city dwellers.
They thrive best in temperate climates as high temperatures cause them to overheat and have breathing difficulties. Bulldogs are also sensitive to cold weather because of their short snouts.
Bulldogs aren't known to be barkers, but they can make lots of noises, especially when they're sleeping. They will snort, wheeze, and snore due to their short muzzle and breathing difficulties. Many members of this breed also drool.
Intriguing read: English Bulldog Breathing Problems
Living With Them
Living with an English Bulldog or American Bulldog requires some special considerations. They make fine indoor pets and don't require a yard, making them great for city dwellers.
Their short snouts make them sensitive to extreme temperatures, so they thrive best in temperate climates. High temperatures cause them to overheat and have breathing difficulties.
Bulldogs aren't the best fit for people who want an active lifestyle, as they can tire easily. However, they're perfect for single, retired, or young families who have time to relax at home with them.
These dogs aren't known for barking, but they can make lots of noises, especially when they're sleeping. You can expect snorting, wheezing, and snoring due to their short muzzle.
Bulldogs also love to chew, so be sure to have plenty of durable toys and ropes available. They need to learn what's acceptable to chew on and what's not during training.
Adopt or Buy
Many adult Bulldogs are available for adoption through various adoption and rescue groups.
If you're thinking about adopting a Bulldog, start by contacting the Bulldog Club of America.
Bulldog puppies can be quite pricey due to the fact that they deliver via Caesarean sections.
Before you decide to adopt or buy a bulldog, make sure to do plenty of research.
If you're interested in similar breeds, consider looking into Pugs, American Bulldogs, and Bull Terriers.
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General Information
English bulldogs and American bulldogs are both popular breeds that originated in the United States and England.
The English bulldog is known for its distinctive appearance, with a flat face and wrinkled skin, while the American bulldog has a more athletic build and a shorter, easier-to-maintain coat.
These breeds are generally friendly and outgoing, making them great companions for families.
Official and Unofficial Types
The world of bulldogs is a bit more complex than you might think. The American Kennel Club (AKC) currently recognizes only two official breeds: bulldogs and French bulldogs.
The AKC has a process for recognizing new breeds, and the American bulldog is currently in the Foundation Stock Service after being accepted in 2019.
There are other types of bulldogs out there, often referred to as bully breeds. These can be offshoots or hybrids of the recognized breeds.
These unofficial breeds can be just as loving and loyal as their official counterparts, but it's essential to do your research before bringing one home.
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History
The English Bulldog has a rich history that dates back to its origins in England as a cross between the Mastiff and the Pug.
Originally bred for bull-baiting, the Bulldog's mission was to attack and bite the bull, not releasing it from its grip until the bull was brought down.
The breed's popularity decreased after bull-baiting was banned in the 1830s, but devoted breeders refined the breed, selectively breeding to replace its original ferociousness with a more gentle disposition.
In 1880, the Bulldog was brought to the US, and ten years later, the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the breed.
Popular Pet Breeds
English bulldogs have long been an American favorite, serving as the mascot for the United States Marine Corps since 1922 and nearly 50 universities.
They're sweet, devoted, and easygoing, and they want to please their owner. According to the AKC, bulldogs are a great choice for families.
Bulldogs have a reputation as couch potatoes, but well-bred bulldogs can be active and athletic. They're even capable of performing advanced tricks.
The French bulldog, also known as the Frenchie, has supplanted the Labrador retriever as the most registered dog of 2022, ending the Lab's 31-year run as America's top dog.
Key Takeaways
English Bulldogs are known for their medium stature and distinct muscular appearance. Their relaxed and easy-going temperament makes them excellent family pets.
They can have short bursts of energy, but in general, they enjoy relaxing on the couch in a nice cool home.
Originally bred for bull-baiting, Bulldogs are courageous and loyal, and will protect their family no matter what.
Some common health issues that can affect English Bulldogs include hip dysplasia and shoulder luxation.
If you're considering bringing an English Bulldog into your family, make sure to do plenty of research and talk to reputable breeders or rescue groups to learn more.
For more insights, see: Are Pit Bulls Good Family Dogs
Frequently Asked Questions
Are American Bulldog and English Bulldog the same?
American Bulldogs and English Bulldogs are related breeds, but they have distinct differences in size and health. While they share a common ancestry, the American Bulldog is generally taller and larger, with fewer brachycephalic health issues.
What is an English Bulldog and American Bulldog mix called?
An English Bulldog and American Bulldog mix is commonly referred to as an EngAm. This hybrid breed combines the loving and gentle nature of both parent breeds.
How much is an American English Bulldog?
The initial cost of an American Bulldog is around $1200-$1500, with a total estimated lifetime cost of $15,000-$18,000. Learn more about the costs and considerations of owning a Bulldog.
What breeds make up American Bulldog?
The American Bulldog breed is a mix of Asiatic mastiffs and pugs, with English Bulldog ancestry. This unique blend of breeds gives the American Bulldog its distinct characteristics.
Which is more expensive, an English or American Bulldog?
English Bulldogs are generally more expensive than American Bulldogs, with prices typically ranging from $2,000 to $3,000. The higher price is due to their distinct looks and personality.
Sources
- Vetstreet - Bulldog (vetstreet.com)
- World Animal Foundation - English Bulldog – History, Facts, and Personality Traits (worldanimalfoundation.org)
- PetMD - English Bulldog (petmd.com)
- The Kennel Club - Bulldog (thekennelclub.org.uk)
- AdoptAPet.com (adoptapet.com)
- Reuters (reuters.com)
- American Veterinary Medical Association (avma.org)
- over 50 types of bulldogs (dogbreedinfo.com)
- also known as the Otto or Otto bulldog (ckcusa.com)
- Aussie Bulldog Club of Australia (ABCA) (aussiebulldogclub.com)
- American Bulldog - Dog Breed Information (akc.org)
- Bulldog Club of America (bulldogclubofamerica.org)
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