The bulldog likely originated from the British Isles.
There are actually two breeds of bulldog that are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC): the bulldog, and the French bulldog. The term "English bulldog" probably comes from the breed's country of origin. Both bulldogs of today are most likely very different from the breed's ancestor, as some of the breed's original, undesirable traits were bred out.
History
It is thought, according to the Bulldog Information Library, that the bulldog originated in the British Isles. The dog was bred for the once popular sport of "bull-baiting," which involved the dog's seizing of the bull by the nose and holding on. Some historians also believe that bulldogs were used in dog fighting. These original bulldogs were bred to have a very fierce temperament in order to fulfill their purpose. Once the two sports were made illegal, breeders had to modify the temperament of the breed.
French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is the smallest of the two breeds.
The AKC weight standard for French bulldogs is 28 lbs. or less. Unlike the bulldog, the French bulldog has a "curious and interested" demeanor. This is the more active and alert of the two breeds. When placed side by side, the French will appear to be leaner than the bulldog. Aside from a more compact build, the other feature that distinguishes the French from the bulldog is the "bat ears," that stand erect and wide.
Bulldog
Bulldog sits with its pet duck.
The Bulldog has a stockier appearance than the French variation. AKC defines the demeanor to be one of "great stability, vigor, and strength." This breed's weight can range from 40 to 50 lbs. to meet AKC standards. The ears of the bulldog are different from the "bat ears" of the French, in that they have a folded appearance. The bulldog's bottom teeth may also be visible when its mouth is closed.
Bulldogs Today
Today both breeds are classified as "non-working" dogs by AKC. Both are considered to be wonderful family pets, due to their fierce loyalty. Today's bulldogs are not typically vicious or temperamental. This is a sharp contrast to the original "English bulldog" that was vicious and even quoted by AKC to be "intolerant to pain."
Related posts
Bulldogs are popular for their distinct physical features and gentle disposition.There is no difference between the British bulldog and the English bulldog, because these are two names for the sam...
Before getting an English bulldog, take health concerns into consideration.The English bulldog, over the last decade, has climbed up the American Kennel Club's popularity polls from being ranked N...
English Bulldogs are a registered breed with the American Kennel Club.According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the breed known as English Bulldog gets its name from the dog's use as bait in do...
About English BulldogsEnglish Bulldogs are one of the most recognizable of all the breeds. They have a long and storied history and, with the right family, adjust very well. They are not for every...
Breeding English bulldogs presents some unique challenges. If you have the time, resources and dedication, breeding can be tremendously rewarding and allow you to make a contribution to the dog br...
