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Bulldog History: This breed has surely come a long way!

bulldog, dogs, English Bulldog, pets

Bulldog History 101

From bulldog history, the Bulldog breed is believed to have originated in the British Isles, where it was developed through selective breeding to participate in the popular seventeenth century sport of bull baiting, in which dogs attacked a tethered bull.

These origins help account for the English Bulldog’s two most distinctive features – the short muzzle and upturned nose.

The muzzle is what allowed the Bulldog to clamp onto the bull, while the upturned nose helped the animal breathe even while clinging to the thrashing bull.

Although the exact origins of the English Bulldog breed are clouded by the mists of time, it is believed that the breed started from mastiffs imported to England over 200 years ago.

These animals, which would scarcely be recognizable as a modern bulldog, were originally created by English aristocrats, reportedly on a bet, to develop a dog so courageous and anatomically designed to bring down a bull.

These “gentlemen farmers” were looking for an easier way to subdue a large bull. Through intense inbreeding and experimentation the muzzle/palate was bred back into the dog’s head (causing all the bulldog breathing problems).

The reason for this was so the dog could hold onto the bull. A normal dog cannot clamp down and hold on because it is not able to breathe at the same time.

The bulldog’s nose was recessed and the teeth were angled back like fish hooks, allowing him to hang on and breathe through the nose at the same time. Quite a breeding accomplishment.

bulldog history
I do look handsome, don’t I?

An 80-pound English Bulldog was said to have the ability of bringing down a bull weighing almost two tons, by clamping itself onto the sensitive flesh around the bull’s nose. And refusing to let go no matter how the bull tossed him around.

If the bull would not submit because of the pain, it was said that the Bulldog would thrash itself about. This thrashing would upset the bull’s balance, causing it to topple to the ground.

While this early purpose of the English Bulldog was relatively useful, the next English Bulldog use was simply for sport. English Bulldogs were used to “bait” bulls, bears, and other large animals. This practice usually involved tethering the larger animal in a pit or pen, and then releasing the dog to topple it to the ground.

When bull baiting was banned in 1835, English Bulldogs became breeding stock for fighting dogs used in the pits of dogfights all over England.

Despite these violent origins, the English Bulldog has developed into a very friendly and docile animal. Throughout their history, English Bulldogs have been famed for being slow to anger, regal, and stubborn. This reputation has also been applied to the English people themselves, particularly during the darkest days of World War II.

english bulldog
My breed has come a long way.

Additionally, English Bulldogs have become popular mascots and emblems for sports teams including The University of Georgia and Yale University. Although they were initially bred for violence, today’s English Bulldog is one of the friendliest dogs you will find. English Bulldogs simply love people, and are known for getting along well with children as well as adults.

In fact, many experts regard English Bulldogs as the best breed in its dealings with children. This breed has a very playful nature and loyalty, making it an excellent companion.

Additionally, the English Bulldog is virtually tireless when playing – just like your children! If you have a multi-dog household, the English Bulldog will fit right in. This breed is usually very affable when it comes to dealing with other dogs.

In addition, while English Bulldogs can be regarded as a gentle breed, they sometimes can seem to have hearing problem – however, this hearing trouble only appears when their owner is issuing commands.

Many famous people have owned English Bulldogs as pets, including a few U.S. Presidents: Calvin Coolidge had a Bulldog named Boston Beans, while Warren Harding also had a bulldog named Old Boy. Truman Capote had a bulldog named Maggie.

Brad Pitt, Hugh Jackman, and Adam Sandler all have Bulldogs and there are even famous skateboarding and performing Bulldogs named Tyson and Tillman.

bulldog
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The US Marine Corps mascot is a Bulldog named Chesty. English Bulldogs are somewhat more expensive than other canines, but they enjoy a loyal and enthusiastic following of owners and breed devotees. There has also been a culture developed around English Bulldogs.

For example, this breed has become a universal symbol for tenacity, strength, and resilience. One look at the history of the English Bulldog shows that they have always enjoyed a good reputation, without some of the violent or wild connotations sometimes associated with dogs originally bred for fighting.

As their owners can testify, the bulldog is now the most lovable of creatures, known for their gentle demeanor.

Originally posted 2021-07-28 12:00:36.

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