Bulldog

He was originally a fighting dog, but now he's about as easygoing as a dog can be. The Bulldog is intelligent and trainable, but because of his face and body type, light exercise is enough to keep him healthy, and an air-conditioned house is his favorite place in the summer.

Bulldogs are devoted to their families and get along well with other pets. They especially like kids. They normally won't bark at visitors, but in an emergency, an intruder could discover just how powerful their massive jaws are.

The Bulldog was probably created by breeding Mastiffs and terriers together. He earned the name Bulldog from a cruel sport, "bullbaiting," that involved the dog pinning a bull by its nose. Bullbaiting was outlawed in 1778.

His short coat only needs once-a-week brushing, but his face feels better with daily cleaning, especially in the wrinkles. His short, fine coat should be red brindle; all other brindles; solid white; solid red, fawn, or fallow; or Piebald, in which the color patches are well defined.

Excerpts from the Standard

General Appearance: Medium-sized with a smooth coat and heavy, low-swung body, a massive short-faced head, wide shoulders, and sturdy limbs. Equally strong, courageous, and kind; peaceful and dignified.

Size, Proportion, and Substance: Weight--males, about 50 pounds; females, about 40 pounds.

Fun Facts

The formerly ferocious Bulldog serves as the mascot of England, of Yale University, and of the United States Marine Corps.

Excerpted from The Complete Dog Book For Kids © 1996, John Wiley & Sons, Inc.