Bulldog

Origin: Under the reign of King John in 13^th century England, the sport of bullbaiting was incredibly popular, leading to a generalized desire for stronger fighting canines. Ancestors of the Bulldog and other breeds like it were utilized in this antiquated practice, preferred for their intimidating stature and immense strength. Centuries later in 1835, bullbaiting took the backseat as dogfighting became a widely practiced sport. Breeds including Pit Bulls, Bulldogs, and Mastiffs almost exclusively filled roles in sporting and fighting events, with the occasional farming or herding job on the side.  

It is believed the Bulldog was brought to America as early as the 16^th century, but more reliable evidence places these pups firmly in the 17^th century colonial era. They were utilized on farms and ranches guarding other animals and catching wild predators. For decades, breeding practices produced Bullies with more “favorable” qualities, some leaning into their strong stature for fighting purposes, and others tending towards their loyal and intelligent nature.

In the UK during the later 1800s, Bulldogs were almost eradicated after bullbaiting was no longer in vogue. Thanks to fortunate timing, the UK Kennel Club was founded in 1873 as the world’s first dog breeding club involved in registering purebred dogs. Once these selective breeders discovered the Bulldog, their efforts brought Bullies back into popularity. Instead of remaining a brawny brawler breed, Bulldogs became companion animals after decades of efforts to nurture their softer side.

The breed standard now includes a particular kindness towards children and other animals, with a sweet and mellow demeanor. In 1886, the American Kennel Club officially recognized the Bulldog as a breed, beginning their journey out of the shadows of human history and into loving homes where they belong.

History: While many other breeds were utilized in military efforts during World War I, the Bulldog skirted the draft by remaining necessary on farmsteads as more and more men were drafted. Bullies lent a helping paw guarding cattle and livestock, and they stayed largely out of the public eye for while some time.

During World War II, the Bulldog was compared to the jowled face of Winston Churchill, as well as to his steadfast attitude toward rising fascism in Europe. Because of this newfound fame, the breed gained popularity, notoriety, and best of all, a grounding edge that placed them at the forefront of minds all over the world. Unlike the negative association carried by German Shepherd dogs after the war, Bulldogs gained a positive light in their story that allowed them to become the face of sports teams, brands, and many things in between. The Yale University mascot is a Bulldog named Handsome Dan, and a wrinkly Bully is now known as the face of the United States Marine Corps.

Today, the Bulldog’s image retains significantly less stigma, but there are still battles to be won. According to a statement by the American Kennel Club, the state of New York has seen a 323% rise in Bulldog abandonment in an eleven-year span. Fortunately, there are helpful humans fighting the good fight. Countless studies (including a report from Colorado 9 News stating that English Bulldogs rank 12^th of 26 breeds documented for dog bites [lower on the list than Chihuahua, German Shepherd, and Labrador]), experts (including  Dr. E. Kathryn Meyer, an accomplished veterinary behaviorist at the Veterinary Behavior Clinic in Gaithersburg, Maryland), and numerous organizations (including the American Kennel Club) agree that the Bulldog is not inherently aggressive. Rather, they can be trained to fight or may exhibit an instinctual defensive response that humans perceive as malicious.

Bulldogs are loving, sweet canines with a loyal nature and a gentle touch, and they deserve a fair chance just like every other dog. Organizations like Rescue Bulldogs, Adoptabull, and No Borders Bulldog Rescue help rehome Bullies and spread the word about these sweet little canines.

Health

Common Issues: According to the Royal Veterinary College at the University of London, a 2022 study urges fast action regarding rampant English Bulldog health issues. These include breathing problems, hip dysplasia, and cherry eye, just to name a few painful conditions these dogs are genetically predisposed to.

Due to their shortened face and protruding lower jaw, Bulldogs have narrow nostrils, often malformed windpipes, and excessive soft nasal tissue. As you can imagine, this does not help these canines breathe and pant. Because of their hindered panting, an essential part of a dog’s temperature regulation, Bullies may experience heat sensitivity and therefore thrive in a temperate climate.

A scary-sounding condition these dogs may be prone to is called Cherry Eye, in which a gland near the eye becomes displaced. This must be evaluated by a veterinarian, so be sure to keep an eye on your pup’s eyes and look out for redness, irritation, or tearing.

Bulldog hip dysplasia is another common condition, in which joint tissue is deformed and can cause pain, discomfort, and loss of mobility. While this issue typically affects older canines, young pets can experience dysplasia as well, and the risk only increases with age. That's why many veterinarians recommend supplements with joint-supporting ingredients such as Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM, and Green Lipped Mussel. These compounds are naturally found in joint tissues and can more efficiently rebuild those tissues with supplementation. Check out our Z-Flex Max Hip and Joint Soft Chews for a simple option that provides joint support in a tasty chew.