History/Origin ~

The English Bulldog descended from ancient Mastiffs that originated in Asia and were brought to Europe by nomads. Mastiffs were bred for ferocity in fighting, holding, or bringing down aggressive prey.

The Bulldog was bred in the early 13th Century for bull baiting. The short muzzle and wide lower jaw were needed for the dog to clamp itself to the bull's nose like a vise, and the nose had to be upturned so that the dog could still breathe while clinging to the bull. It is mentioned in many historical works, most notably, in Shakespeare's King Henry VI. When animal baiting contests were outlawed in England in 1835, these Bulldogs were increasingly exported to America and also to Germany, where they helped create the Boxer. The last of the working Bulldogs in England were crossed with Pug Dogs to create a stocky, docile, family pet-known today as the English Bulldog. The breed was first registered by the American Kennel Club in 1934 in the non-sporting group and today is a popular show dog throughout the world. (http://www.bulldogbreeds.com/englishbulldog.html)

Temperment ~

Bulldogs are intelligent sweet dogs with playful dispositions.  Gentle, friendly, and adoring, with a mischievous dose of stubbornness, the English Bulldog is incessantly loyal to its family. It usually gets along well with other animals, is particularly fond of children, and does best indoors. Highly spirited as a puppy, the English Bulldog grows up to be a calm adult. The breed prefers not to exercise, can easily overheat, and is prone to drooling and snoring. They can be stubborn and benefit from firm, but positive, obedience training and early socialization.

Socialization ~

Proper socialization is essential to a happy dog. As a puppy, after all required vaccinations have been given, the dog should be introduced to as many new people, dogs and locations as possible. Doing this helps the dog be less afraid of new situations when they occur later in life. A socialized dog is more likely to have a lower level of aggression towards strangers (both human and canine).

Ask your veterinarian when it is safe for your puppy to interact with other dogs. It is safe for him to play with humans and probably kittens before his vaccinations are complete.

Ask your veterinarian about puppy classes, where multiple clients bring puppies and children to play together, learn simple commands, and be exposed to strange objects.

Regularly handling your puppies paws, rubbing his belly, trimming his nails (have your vet show you how to do this safely), and looking in his mouth will help your puppy be less fearful when he goes to the vet for a check-up. This applies to adult dogs adopted from shelters as well.

Here is a great link () to suggested activities to give your puppy the best overall socialization.

Standard ~

The English Bulldog standard was written for the males. A feminine appearance on a bitch is acceptable but not desirable. A male bulldog should weigh approximately 50lbs and a female bulldog approximately 40lbs. The size of the dog is dependent on the point scale meaning that the dog must be in balance based on the points for each attribute. Here is a look at the point scale:

Scale of Points

Also, check out the Bulldog Club of America's Illustrated Standard .