Education

Bulldogs are a unique and wonderful breed that require special attention to health care, breeding and obedience training. This site is intended to provide some educational resources to the bulldog owner and to people who are thinking of getting into bulldogs. We plan to continue adding and updating information to this page – so please come back and visit.

— History of the Bulldog (from AKC) —

The Bulldog is one of the few breeds of dogs that are symbolic of a nation. It may perhaps be claimed, with some justice, that he represents more truly and aptly the English spirit, than does the traditional figure of John Bull.

Authorities differ so completely about the origin of the Bulldog that the name itself is in dispute. While some feel the breed may derive its name from the bull-like shape of the head, others maintain it came from the ancient English custom of using Bulldogs in the sport of bull baiting.

There appears to be little doubt, however, than an early canine species resembling the Bulldog came into existence in the 1500's. Because of their courage and apparent capacity to endure pain, Bulldogs were shamelessly exploited for many years in the sports of bull baiting, bear baiting and dog fighting. Bull baiting was made illegal in England in 1835 and eventually dog fighting of all kinds was prohibited, resulting in a steady decline in the breed.

Happily enough, the beginning of the dog-show era in 1859 saved this fine old breed. Because of the interest and untiring efforts of a small group of sincere experienced fanciers, this small number of bulldogs served as a nucleus for the dogs of today. Fortunately, this group of fanciers was determined to preserve the fine characteristics and just as determined to eliminate all fighting and viciousness.

— Bulldog Standard (from AKC) —

The perfect Bulldog must be of medium size and smooth coat; with heavy, thickset, low-swung body, massive short-faced head, wide shoulders and sturdy limbs. The general appearance and attitude should suggest great stability, vigor and strength. The disposition should be equitable and kind, resolute and courageous (not vicious or aggressive), and demeanor should be pacific and dignified. These attributes should be countenanced by the expression and behavior.

For an Illustrated Guide to the Bulldog Standard please click here.

— Buying a Bulldog —

Buy your bulldog puppy with care! Like many other breeds, Bulldogs are prone to a variety of health problems that can be passed along in a bloodline. Make sure you buy from a reputable breeder – NOT a pet store! Examine both parents of your puppy to make sure they are healthy and well-maintained. And remember even if both parents are healthy, a puppy can develop any one of the more common health problems from several generations back. So ask the breeder about their bloodlines and discuss potential health issues. Buying a puppy should not be done on the spur of the moment. Being patient and finding the right pup can save you in vet bills and heartache down the road.

The Bulldog Club of Greater San Diego does not sell dogs or advertise puppies for sale. If you are interested in purchasing a Bulldog, please first review the information contained on this page. For further assistance it is best to contact breeders at local dog shows. San Diego County shows will be listed on our web site on the News page. Shows in Southern California can be found at www.jbradshaw.com.

For puppy and breeder referrals please email our club contact.

— Bulldog Health —

For basic care of your bulldog please click here or for a downloadable PDF file of the same document click here.

Bulldogs can easily overheat! Like all short nosed breeds, a Bulldog requires that you watch him carefully in hot weather or in any stressful situation - making sure he has shade, clean water, even fans and ice. Exercise is important for a Bulldog to build stamina and prevent obesity, but don't overdo it - particularly when it’s hot. Calm and cool is the rule for bulldogs in summertime.

— Articles of Interest —

Grooming Your Bulldog

Bulldog Eye Problems — "Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca"

Heat!! Bulldog Enemy #1

Medical Emergency!

Kennel Cough

Feeding Your Bulldog

— Behavior and Obedience —

The bulldog is a very even-tempered dog, but it is important to teach him appropriate behavior and good habits at an early age. To read some questions and answers about common bulldog behavior problems and solutions, read our “Ask Fang” Articles published in the newsletter.

Bulldogs are quite intelligent and learn easily with firm but gentle training and positive methods. You can even train your bulldog in obedience, agility, carting and other dog sports!

Several of our members compete regularly in obedience, agility and carting . See the photos page for bulldogs in action.

Books

Longtime member Betty Fisher has also written two excellent books on training and having fun with hard-to-train dogs. Both are available from Amazon.

So Your Dog's Not Lassie : Tips for Training Difficult Dogs and Independent Breeds
by Betty Fisher
Caninestein : Unleashing the Genius in YOUR Dog
by Betty Fisher