The English Bulldog, also known as the British Bulldog, is the fourteenth most popular breed in the United States. He is 108 years old, and although canine historians regularly debate his origins, many believe that his ancestor, the Bulldogs, is a cross between the Havanese and the Pug.

One of the sweetest breeds, it is also one of the most misunderstood dogs. This can be due to a couple of reasons. His appearance, with his very broad shoulders, short stature, thick head, and a short muzzle with a protruding lower jaw, could make someone unfamiliar with the breed believe him fierce. In fact, those familiar with their lineage could be mistakenly associating today’s English Bulldog with 16th century bulldogs, which were bred for dogfighting and for fattening bulls in the ring. Fortunately, England banned both in the mid-1800s. However, this put the bulldog out of a job.

Loving his tenacity and looks, but not necessarily his temperament, breeders sought to create a softer version of his old self. And so, in 1902, the first English Bulldog was officially recognized.

Physical characteristics
* English Bulldogs come in various colors including:
* White
* Brindle
* Red
* Fawn
* A mixture of the above colors, often with irregular waves or stripes.

Their eyes tend to droop, which makes them look rather sullen, and their thick, flat fur is often wrinkled, especially around the face and shoulders.

For both men and women, the ideal weight is 45 pounds. They are approximately 14 inches tall. Their tails are short and have a penchant for curling up and inward.

What to watch out for
English Bulldogs are very popular show dogs and make excellent family pets. You should be on the lookout for hip dysplasia with this breed, although it is generally taller dogs that are affected. Although difficult to avoid, if you own one or are considering one, you will want to discuss treatment options with your vet. You will also want to do as much research as possible to make sure you are as informed as you should on the subject.

Although not as serious as hip dysplasia, many English Bulldogs develop something known as cherry eye. It presents as an extension of the inner eyelid. This is easily treatable by your vet.

Due to their short muzzles, English Bulldogs tend to suffer from allergies and even asthma. Veterinarians treat upper respiratory and sinus conditions in dogs and cats very differently than physicians treat humans. As such, if yours develops one or both, you’ll want to agree on the best method to minimize her frequently stuffy nose and swollen soft tissues in her nasal cavities. They have a reputation for being able to rival the loudest snorer in your home. In fact, the subject of many jokes, it’s not really a laughing matter. This can lead to airway obstruction, which can be quite serious if left untreated for a long period of time.

English bulldogs have a high propensity to overheat. If you live in a warm climate, it is recommended to forgo your long pile carpet in favor of tile; if not in your whole house, at least a room or two. Air conditioning is also a great idea during especially hot months. This breed tends to overheat, even to the point of hypothermia, so you need to be careful when it comes to extreme heat.

For all of the above conditions, your English bulldog needs regular exercise. This helps keep your weight down, which will be less stressful on your heart and joints. Due to his short legs, his stride is not as long as yours. The exercise should not be strenuous, but rather pleasant walks, at a slow pace, so that you can keep up.

Temperament
You will discover that the English Bulldog is one of the most docile breeds. Sweet, loyal, protective and original defender of the rights of the child. They have been known to get a bit angry at their owners yelling at their own children. This is not manifested as aggression, just a little push in your direction to say, “Please stop. This little thing, who is not much bigger than me, does not like to be yelled at.”

Expect to have your English Bulldog for up to 14 years. In that moment, with regular exercise and a careful look at the things that can affect him, he will be extremely content in that moment and totally adorable!