The Bulldog Standard
In recent decades, Bulldogs are receiving much popularity as great show dogs. Due to their sweet-temperament and friendly attitude, they are truly adorable to many. Bulldogs are also referred to as English or British Bulldogs, and as their name implies, they are the symbol of elegance and tenderness. In earlier times, Bulldogs were mostly known as guard dogs. However, compared to the aggressive instinct of their ancestors, current breeds are much more mild-mannered and temperate. But under certain circumstances their fighting instinct becomes highly apparent.
The first Bulldog standard was recorded in the year 1864 in England, following which it was adopted during 1875. In the year 1890, the Bulldog Club of America was established. Down the line, in the year 1896 this club adopted a Bulldog standard. In 1914, the standard was revised for rejecting the Dudley nose, while in the year 1976, this definition once again redefined and explained as brown colored nose. Once again in the year 1990, the standard was reformatted while keeping the same words and terminologies.
As defined in specification, the standard Bulldogs must be of medium-sized and their entire body will be covered by smooth coat. Originally from England, these dogs are known for their short muzzle over a short-faced head. Dynamism, persistence and energy are the essential three qualities of a Bulldog. The standard size of the male adult and female adult are fifty pounds and forty pounds respectively. When you look straight at the dog, you can see that the eyes are positioned in the lower part of the skull area, while keeping a wider distance from the 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.
In general, Bulldogs are highly vulnerable to different types of health issues throughout their lifespan. Breathing difficulty is much prevalent among many Bulldogs, leading them to snore like humans. This usually occurs as a result of the shortness of the muzzle. Interstitial cyst is another form of complication that may occur in some Bulldogs.
Although this condition is curable with the help of experienced veterinarian, the dog experiences an extensive level of discomfort. Other common health problems are allergies, cherry eyes and hip-related problems.
Like their masters, Bulldogs need to undergo thorough and regular cleaning in order to avoid different sorts of infections that occur mainly due to the moisturizer accumulation in the skin. In addition to daily cleaning, daily brushing is also necessary for Bulldogs.
Otherwise, they are at high risk for developing excessive weight, which may in turn lead to certain other complicated health problems, such as lung and heart disorders. Cleaning of their tail is also needed.