The Stubborn, yet Amiable, Bulldogs

In recent times, the American Kennel Club, or the AKC as it is popularly known, has seen a persistence rise in the popularity of the bulldog. It is steadily becoming the preferred breed of dog lovers.

There are many factors that contribute to this. To begin with, it is kind, courageous, equable and resolute. Its calm demeanor gives it a royal and dignified appearance and keeps many naysayers at bay. Though it might be gloomy to look at, but the bulldog is one the most amiable and amicable breeds of dogs that are. 

Characteristics

A bulldog’s demeanor changes with age. As a puppy, it would be frisky and hyperactive, but tends to tone down as it ages. Grown up bulldogs are extremely quiet and quite phlegmatic, preferring to laze down the majority of the day snoring on a sofa. 

However, it is imperative to give them enough exercise so as to keep them healthy and fit. One of the best ways to do so is a long walk on a cool morning or evening. Their personality, on the walk, varies from one bulldog to another. Some can be friendly with the strangers while others would maintain their quietude, preferring to keep to themselves.

A bulldog does not make a very good watchdog, especially of the barking variety. It is so because the bulldog does not get excited easily. It takes an extreme amount of teasing and troubling so as to evince a reaction from it. However, once it is provoked, then it is sure to bring the heavens down. Also, it’s odd, rolling gait and bulky, heavy looking physique is enough to make many an intruder pause.

Another noteworthy trait of the bulldog is its tenacity. It is highly resolute and tenacious. Once it decides to do or accomplish something, it just won’t stop until it does so. It is almost impossible to get it to change its mind.

Health Issues

Coming to the health aspect, bulldogs too have a few health issues. They generally have to do with their short noses, narrow waists and the wide torso it has got. They are frequently afflicted with breathing problems. An elongated soft palate is the most common among the lot. The symptoms of the disease are frequent vomiting, an excitable dog and labored breathing. Generally, vets suggest laser therapy as a solution to the problem.

The next serious affliction in the list is the gastric torsion. Their broad torsos and narrow waists make the bulldogs especially susceptible to this problem. A twisted stomach results in the blood supply to the spleen and the stomach being cut off. This problem is extra serious as it requires quick and immediate professional intervention or death follows soon thereafter.

  

All in all, bulldogs are a nice companion especially in the hotter climates as they require lesser physical activity as compared to other breeds of same size. Although, training them requires patience and a lot of edible treats, they are quite intelligent and tend to remember whatever they learn.