Bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds you can keep at home. They are only medium-sized dogs, ideal for typical household dwellings, such as apartments and houses with only small backyards.
Since it originated there, this breed is often referred to as either an English or a British Bulldog. It also became popular in the United States.
If you are interested in keeping a bulldog as a pet, you can learn more about this little canine in this article.
You may not even think about it, but bulldogs have a bloody history. During the 16th century in England, these dogs were trained as pit fighters. People also used them as bait for bears and bulls, hence its name.
Fortunately, England banned dog fighting, and many other animal cruelties acted in 1835. But still, another dark history engulfed when bulldogs almost faced extinction. Thus, breeders trained them to be more of a pet than a fighter.
After all the dark past bulldogs faced, they still became the kind and lovable pets you know today. According to the American Kennel Club, they even became the second most popular pet dog breed last 2020.
There are lots of misconceptions about bulldogs. As a bulldog owner, here are some of the typical personalities and habits they possess to learn how you can better take care of them.
Despite their stubborn and aggressive appearance, bulldogs possess a loving and gentle nature. They are also easygoing and can get along with humans and other pets, such as cats.
Bulldogs love to spend quality time with their owners. Thus, you can make a lot of memories with them. To deepen your bond with your bulldog pet, take them out for a walk in a nearby park, play or give them some treats, capture their photos, or even make a furryroyal bulldog painting for remembrance. A furryroyal bulldog painting on canvas captures your bulldogs in an artistic way.
Bulldogs are also more laidback and chill. They will prefer to spend the day lying around your home than play and run around. They are also not enthusiastic and will always choose to mind their own business.
The problem is that they also need to stay active. It is advisable that as you adopt a bulldog puppy, engage them right away in different activities you can do at home.
Bulldogs love to socialize. Hence, if you want to keep a family dog, bulldogs are a great choice because they can also get along well with children.
You can build a deeper bond with your pet bulldog if you know how to care for them well. Here are essential tips you can follow, especially for beginners.
Bulldogs cannot stay long under the hot sun. If you are primarily living in a place where it is warm, ensure your dog is kept indoors or with a shade and access to water. Avoid leaving them inside your vehicle, especially when it is too hot outside.
If you notice your bulldog breathing too hard or if their tongue is sticking out and bluish, soak them in cool water immediately as they may be dehydrated.
Unlike other dogs with long and thick fur, bulldogs have shorter and smoother hair which is easier to maintain. You do not need to brush them always, only when needed.
The most important thing you should focus on when grooming bulldogs is cleaning in between their facial wrinkles. You can do it by using a damp cloth and wiping their face regularly. Failing to do so can lead to a skin infection.
Bulldogs are lazy dogs, but you can still encourage them to move around and maintain a healthy body.
They only need around 20 to 40 minutes of exercise daily. You can simply just take them on short walks around your neighborhood early in the morning or during the sunset, so it is not too hot. Do not forget to bring them water as well to prevent dehydration.
If your bulldog does not get enough exercise in a day, it can lead to changes in their behavior, or they may be prone to sickness.
If you want to teach your bulldog specific skills, you can start training them while they are still young. Bulldogs are devoted pets. Hence, if you train them to do certain activities, they will get used to it. It will also help them develop good behaviors necessary for their well-being.
For example, since bulldogs love chewing, you can also give them toys they can chew to exercise their jaws. You can also try teaching them tricks, such as catching a ball or a toy or training them to behave well if visitors are in your home.
Bulldogs have at least a 30% shorter lifespan than other dog breeds. They can only manage to last an average of 8.25 years.
If you want to make the most of your time with your pet bulldog, ensure you monitor their health condition at all times.
Providing them with a healthy diet or high-quality dog food is essential. You should also schedule their eating time and control how much you will feed them.
Overweight or obesity is one of the most common health concerns among dogs. Thus, you should maintain the ideal weight for your bulldog. Male bulldogs should only weigh around 50 to 55 pounds, while 40 to 50 pounds for females.
To help you keep up with their health, scheduling a regular visit with your local vet is also essential. In this way, you can prevent possible conditions from getting worse. Your vet can also recommend excellent food to give your pet and other crucial ways to take care of your beloved bulldog.
