Bulldog Breed Magazine - Showsight

THE VERSATILE BULLDOG by ANNETTE NOBLES, ELIZABETH HUGO-MILAM, CHERYL KNAPP & JUDY CLAYTOR

T he Bulldog is considered to be a classic symbol of cour- age and tenacity. They are a breed of dog universally recognized as one of gentle devotion and endless fascination. This breed undeniably has a long and fascinating history; believed to have been a part of Britain’s canine population for well over 1500 years. Historians agree the Bulldog owes its name to the fact they were once used to guard, control and bait bulls. The sport of bull baiting con- tinued for centuries until declared to be illegal in 1835. With no “job” left to do the Bulldog nearly became extinct in the years following the ban. Fortu- nately, true fanciers focused on breed- ing the Bulldog for its worthwhile vir- tues and qualities which we see and appreciate in the modern Bulldog of today. After a few starts and stops an official Bulldog Club was formed in England in 1875 and an official Standard finalized. The Standard used in the Unit- ed States and Canada today is the clos- est to the original Standard approved by the Bulldog Club Inc. (England).

The Bulldog Club of America (BCA) is adamantly opposed to any changes. Today the Bulldog is frequently seen in movies, commercials, television shows and on social media, often with their famous owners. Known for their congenial and people pleasing person- alities Bulldogs have become one of the super stars of the dog world and their popularity reflects this status. Bulldogs are a breed that cannot be easily defined as fitting into one mold. They come in many sizes and a variety of colors and color patterns. They can be bold and outgoing or shy and reserved. The Bull- dog can be as active as is required of a normal family pet or be made into a lazy couch potato. One thing is certain; no matter where you go the Bulldog always draws public attention with their wrin- kled clownish face. The Bulldog is not a breed for some- one who needs a long distance jogging companion or someone who wants a dog to go hunting or swimming. Even though the Bulldog may be notorious for shedding, chewing and exhibit- ing excess flatulence, they are actually

“KNOWN FOR THEIR CONGENIAL AND PEOPLE PLEASING PERSONALITIES, BULLDOGS HAVE BECOME ONE OF THE SUPER STARS OF THE DOG WORLD

AND THEIR POPULARITY REFLECTS THIS STATUS.”

S HOW S IGHT M AGAZINE , J UNE 2017 • 271

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