Choosing a bulldog is a special experience for a family. Previous bulldog owners have mentioned that these dogs don’t act like a typical dog when they are with their family. They seem to become an additional sibling, creating a unique bond with human children in the family. Bulldogs love to play with children and their patience and tolerance for human play provide endless fun for children of all ages. They are intuitive and sensitive to the emotions of family members and use their intuition to provide cuddles and comfort when needed. Bulldogs are calm and docile animals, very respectful playmates. They often like to lounge around and have a “couch potato” reputation when not playing. Although a little stubborn these dogs are also loving, loyal and nurturing. Bulldogs thrive in families with children and other pets, because they love to be social.
Bulldogs require some exercise but cannot handle too much. Their energy levels are well suited for busy families with children, but not fit for professional athletes. Bull dogs will enjoy picking the children up from school and accompanying you on a few errands and watching television with you or sitting with you while you read in the evenings. They will not enjoy long hours being left alone. They will not tolerate rigorous daily exercise or stamina challenges. They prefer a brisk walk and other types of moderate low output exercises.
In the hotter months they are not good with heat regulation. They have a short snout which does not allow them to tolerate hot temperatures well. You must ensure that you can maintain a cool, shaded comfortable space when temperatures heat up. Also be very careful with them in the car in warmer climates as well. They do not tolerate any hot temperatures as well as other breeds and are at risk of overheating easily which can quickly become an medical emergency for this breed. However, caring families are committed to the well-being of their Bull Dog and are easily able to monitor environmental temperatures to keep their furry companions cool.
Another consideration is grooming. Lucky Bulldog owners have very low grooming maintenance needs as their hair is short and requires occasional bathing and brushing. Perfect for the demands of busy family life. What the Bull dog does need is frequent skin care and a little extra rinsing between the skin folds on their face and around their bodies. Usually these will not be problematic but if you never asses the skin beneath the folds there is a chance of fungal infection, and skin irritation which can be avoided with mindfulness and easily treated when they occur.
Types of Bulldogs
There are many types of Bulldogs. American, English and French Bulldogs are the most commonly recognized. There are numerous other types of Bulldogs but they all share some similar, distinct characteristics. Bulldogs are typically recognized for their rounded heads with a short, wide snout and small, floppy triangular ears. Generally, each type of bull dog makes a great family dog.
American Bulldogs are tall and lean with the typically distinct face.
English Bulldogs are short and stocky with many skin folds and typically distinct face.
French Bulldogs are short and lean with many skin folds, perky ears and typically distinct face.
Bulldogs make a great addition to any family who wants to open their hearts to more joy and laughter!