Bulldogs Are Beautiful Day!

All dogs are beautiful, but in honor of Bulldogs are Beautiful Day, we are highlighting this very special breed and all its traits.

The Bulldog originated in the British Isles and the breed was first recognized by the American Kennel Association in 1886. Bulldogs come in ten different colors, with four different markings. The Bulldog is known as calm and friendly, with a medium build and medium temperament.

But what is it about a Bulldog that gives it that special appearance? Here are 6 basic things to look for in a pure bred Bulldog:

1. General Appearance. The perfect Bulldog has a smooth coat, with a heavy, thickset, low-swung body, a massive short-faced head, wide shoulders and sturdy limbs.
2. Head. The skull should be very large. The circumference in front of the ears should measure at least the height of the dog at the shoulders. The forehead should be flat, not rounded or domed. It should also not be too prominent or overhang on the face.
3. Body. The breast and body should be very large, with full sides, well-rounded ribs and very deep from the shoulders down to the lowest part, where it joins the chest. The back should be short and strong, very broad at the shoulders and comparatively narrow at the loins. The chest should be very broad, deep and full.
4. Forequarters. The shoulders should be muscular, very heavy, widespread and slanting outward, giving stability and great power. The front legs should be short, straight and muscular, set wide apart, with well-developed calves, presenting a bowed outline. But, the bones of the legs should not be curved and the feet shouldn’t be too close together.
5. Coat. The coat should be straight, short, flat, close, of fine texture, smooth and glossy. No fringe, feather or curl. The skin should be soft and loose, especially at the head, neck and shoulders. The head and face should be covered with heavy wrinkles, and at the throat, from jaw to chest, there should be two loose pendulous folds, forming the dewlap.
6. Hindquarters. The hind legs should be strong and muscular and longer than the forelegs, so as to elevate the loins above the shoulders. The lower leg should be short, straight and strong.

Despite their strength and charisma, Bulldogs can come with any number of health issues that are inherent to the breed, such as facial acne, hot spots and cherry eye. They are also prone to skin infections, especially in the deeper folds, so pet parents of bulldogs have to be sure to keep the skin folds clean and dry.

Breathing problems, especially because their compressed nose often compromises their airway, often cause Bulldogs to snore and get out of breath more easily than most other dogs. Some can barely make it up a flight of stairs, or run across a field.

Despite these known health issues, Bulldogs are rated #4 in the AKC, possibly due to their kind, resolute and courageous disposition.

If you are considering bringing a Bulldog into your family, epetsure recommends checking out the local bulldog adoption agencies in your area. However, if you are already the proud parent of a beautiful Bulldog, we encourage you to post a photo of your fur baby in the comments section below, or visit our Facebook page for more information on Bulldogs, dogs in general, and all things pets.

Happy Bulldogs Are Beautiful Day!