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Border Terrier
Alert, active and agile, the Border Terrier is willing to squeeze through narrow holes and sprint across any terrain to capture his quarry: the fox. This persistence made him an excellent working terrier back in England, and allows him to succeed in Earthdog, Obedience and Agility trials today. Known for his “otter” head and game attitude, the Border is medium-sized with a wiry coat that may be red, grizzle and tan, blue and tan, or wheaten with a dark muzzle.
History
The Border originated in the border country between England and Scotland and may be one of the oldest kinds of terriers in Great Britain. Purely a working terrier, the Border was bred to protect the stock of their owners. They had sufficient length of leg to follow a horse but were small enough to follow a fox to ground. Borders on the farm in the 18th century also had to find their own food, so they had to be good hunters to survive.
Temperament
While he is as hard as nails in the field, the Border Terrier is good-tempered and affectionate in the home. He learns quickly and responds well to obedience training, but must be kept engaged and well-exercised, as he's an active dog. The Border's weather-resistant coat requires occasional brushing and hand stripping approximately twice per year.
- Terrier Group; AKC recognized in 1930.
- Ranging in size from 11 to 15 pounds.
- Fox hunter.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Low activity indoors.
- Small yard is fine.
Exercise
- Moderate to extended exercise.
- Love vigorous play.
Grooming
- Weekly brushing.
- Occasional grooming.
- Little to no shedding.
- Easy on people with allergies.
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Borzoi
A graceful, elegant hound, the Borzoi is a sight-hound, meaning he hunts by sight rather than scent. The breed's tall and rangy body allows him to chase quarry for long distances. Today, they are popular in the lure coursing field and are often seen in the show and companion event rings as well. Their long, silky coat can be flat, wavy, or curly and may be any color or combination of colors.
History
Developed by crossing Arabian greyhounds with a thick-coated, Russian breed, the Borzoi has been bred by the Russian aristocracy for hundreds of years. They were created to hunt wolves, fox, and hare over the open plains of Russia, often in hunting parties of more than 100 dogs. Until 1936, the Borzoi was known as the Russian Wolfhound in America.
Temperament
Even though the Borzoi is large, the breed makes a great house pet. Although affectionate with their owners, they are rather catlike and have independent and undemanding natures. They need daily exercise but will chase anything that moves, so they need to be kept on a leash or in a fenced area. Regular brushing and bathing is necessary to maintain their lustrous coats.
- Hound Group; AKC recognized in 1891.
- Height: At least 28 inches tall at the shoulder for males and 26 inches tall for females; Weight: 60 to 105 pounds, depending on sex.
- Wolfhunter.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Low activity indoors.
- Love large (secure) yards.
Exercise
- Long walks.
- Love (secure) running areas.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Regular brushing with bristle brush.
- Infrequent bathing.
- Moderate shedding.
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Bluetick Coonhound
Like many coonhounds, the Bluetick Coonhound gets its name from a coat pattern, which is dark blue in color and covered in a ticking or mottled pattern. Working ability is very important to owners who prize the sturdy and athletic Bluetick for its skill in trailing and treeing raccoons and other small animals. Blueticks are known for having the typical coonhound “bawling” bark. This steady and determined breed can stay on the most intricate of tracks, making it a prized companion for active sporting families.
History
The Bluetick Coonhound's color suggests that it descended from the Grand Bleu de Gascogne (French Staghound) as well as the English Foxhound. In America, Blueticks were referred to as English Coonhounds for many years. In 1945, however, Bluetick breeders broke away from the English breeders because they didn't want to follow the trend toward producing a hot-nosed, faster hunter. Proud of their larger, cold-nosed and resolute, if slower hounds, they re-named their breed and maintained their own hunting style.
Temperament
Athletic and hardy, Blueticks are working dogs that need a job such as hunting, obedience or agility to stay happy. Their short, glossy coat requires only occasional baths and brushing.
- Hound Group; AKC recognized in 2009.
- Ranging in size from 21 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder and 45 to 80 pounds.
- Raccoon hunter; small game hunter.
Environment
- Apartments? Not so much.
- Low activity indoors.
Exercise
- Moderate to extended daily exercise.
Grooming
- Occasional brushing.
- Keep ears clean.
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Boggle
The Boggle, sometimes spelled Bogle, is a cross between the Boxer and the Beagle. Athletic and muscular, it is a great choice of pet if you want a companion that is both energetic and brave. As with designer crossbreed dogs, the Boggle can inherit any combination of traits from its purebred ancestors, but generally has better health than either of them. A Boggle that is well taken care of usually lives to about 10 to 15 years old.
History
The best means for understanding this breed is to profile its genetic parents. The Beagle, one of the Boggle's two ancestors, is a medium-sized breed that belongs to the hound family. Bred to hunt, it has a strong sense of smell and great instinct. The Boxer, which originated in Germany, is also a strong breed. Though kind-hearted, it is known to be rather distrustful of strangers. The Boggle combines the best of these traits.
Temperament
Because the Boggle is very active and athletic, it is important to train yours to behave from an early age. The Boggle is smart and not very hard to train, but consistent training is essential. The crossbreed responds poorly to negative reinforcement, so do not be heavy-handed or yell. Stick with positive reinforcement and treats, which should quickly get your pup into line.
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Black and Tan Coonhound
One of the few All-American breeds, the Black and Tan Coonhound is a persistent, determined, honest hunter who will stay on track no matter the terrain or conditions. His name developed from his color and purpose his coat is coal black with tan markings, and he is used to trail and tree raccoon.
History
The Black and Tan Coonhound is believed to have descended from the Talbot Hound, which was known in England as far back as the 11th century, and the Bloodhound. In America, the Black and Tan Coonhound evolved from the Foxhounds that possessed treeing instinct and the black and tan color pattern. Owned by scouts and Indian fighters during the late 1700s, the Black and Tan was the first coonhound to be considered a separate breed from the American Foxhound.
Temperament
Outgoing and friendly, the Black and Tan Coonhound likes to be with his family. Most are laid back in the house but require moderate daily exercise on leash or in a fenced area. Their instincts may lead them to chase and tree small animals and bark, so training is important. Their short coat requires minimal maintenance.
- Hound Group; AKC recognized in 1945.
- Ranging in size from 23 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Raccoon hunter.
Environment
- Apartment? Not so much.
- Low activity indoors.
- Love large yards.
Exercise
- Moderate to extended exercise.
- Love to learn and train.
Grooming
- Occasional Brushing.
- Keep ears clean.
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Bloodhound
Described as a “unique looking dog in a baggy suit,” the Bloodhound is one of the oldest breeds of dogs that hunt by scent. Although affectionate, they can possess shy natures, sensitive to kindness or correction by their master. Colors of the Bloodhound include black and tan, liver and tan, and red, sometimes flecked with white. The actual term “Bloodhound” refers not to what the Bloodhound trails but instead refers to its status as the “blooded hound,” meaning aristocratic, since such great lengths were taken early on to keep the strain clean.
History
The Bloodhound made its appearance in Europe long before the Crusades when the first specimens were brought from Constantinople in two strains, black and white. Established in America for over a century, it proved early on to be a tireless worker for law enforcement, being so accurate that evidence trailed by a Bloodhound has been accepted in a court of law.
Temperament
While Bloodhounds are extremely affectionate, they are take-charge dogs, so it is important to be kind, but be the undisputed boss in your household. Bloodhounds should be groomed weekly to eliminate dead hair and facilitate a routine that will help them look, feel, and smell better.
- Hound Group; AKC recognized in 1885.
- Ranging in size from 23 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Scent tracker.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Low activity indoors.
Exercise
- Moderate daily exercise.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Use hound glove regularly.
- Infrequent bathing.
- Keep ears clean.
- Average shedding.
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Bichon Frise
A cheerful, happy dog, the Bichon Frise is small and sturdy with a dark-eyed inquisitive expression and a plumed tail it carries merrily over the back. The breed is often compared to a cotton ball due to its curled double coat, which consists of a textured outer coat and a silky undercoat. The coat must be white but may have shadings of buff, cream, or apricot around the ears or on the body.
History
The Bichon Frise appeared in the 13th century as a descendent of the Water Spaniel. Traded by Spanish sailors and transported from continent to continent, the breed eventually became a favorite of those in the 16th-century French royal courts. The breed was also favored by the painters of the Spanish school, who often included them in their works. Although the breed's colorful past includes use as a circus dog, today the Bichon is enjoyed primarily as a companion animal.
Temperament
The Bichon is a naturally gentle, playful dog. He loves activity and requires regular exercise. His hair grows continually and does not shed, so extensive grooming is a must to prevent mats. Bichons also tend to be a good breed for allergy sufferers. They do very well with families and also with other dogs in the household. The Bichon Frise also trains very well with a firm hand!
- Non-Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1972.
- Ideal size between 9 and 11 inches tall at the shoulder.
Environment
- Apartment is fine.
- Fairly active indoors.
Exercise
- moderate daily exercise.
Grooming
- Frequent professional grooming recommended.
- Little or no shedding.
- Easy on allergy sufferers.
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Bichon Poo
The Bichon poo puppy, also known as a Bichpoo or a Poochon, is a designer dog that's aimed at melding the best characteristics of the Poodle with those of the Bichon Frise. The Bichon poo (Poochon) is typically about a foot high, weighing around 8 to 16 pounds (4-8 Kgs). Its lifespan is approximately 12 to 15 years. Like any hybrid dogs like Poodle Mixes, Bichon poo temperament and physical characteristics are not as predictable as a purebred, as it may inherit more or fewer traits from each of its parents' breed. Further, if one or both of the parents are not purebred themselves for example, if they both are Bichon poos the variability in the characteristics of the offspring increases significantly.
Bichon poo puppies are highly intelligent and this trait makes them easy to train. Bichon poos are dependent on their owners and are very loyal. They are considered a “lapdog” which means that while they will readily play and interact with children, they also welcome laying on the couch as well. This breed knows what “downtime” means. They are perfect for kids as well as adults. Both the Poodle and the Bichon Frise are active dogs, so your Bichon poo will have a lot of energy. The Bichon poo does very well in a number of environments. But you need to cater for a daily exercise of at least half an hour. Consider a bit more exercise if she does not have access to a backyard.
Bichapoo puppies come in a multitude of colors (not limited to) cream, apricot, black, white, tan. parti-colors, chocolate.
The bichapoo is a mixed breed and because of this, the coat can be either straight, wavy or curly. A larger percent of bichapoo puppies have curly coats but other coats are possible as well. Bichapoos are considered hypoallergenic as they are mixed with two hypoallergenic breeds – the bichon frise and the poodle. Look for the bichapoo to become a purebred in the years to follow.
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Bearded Collie
With an aura of strength and agility, the Bearded Collie was bred for centuries as a companion and servant of man. “Collie” is the generic Scottish word for dogs that herd sheep and the Beardie's long, lean body and agile movement make him well-suited to that task. The breed still herds today, but they are also popular in the conformation, obedience and agility rings. Their medium-length coat is flat, harsh and shaggy. Beardies are born black, blue, brown or fawn, with or without white markings. With maturity, the coat color may lighten.
History
One of Britain's; oldest breeds, Beardies (as they are often called), are believed to have originated with the Komondor in Central Europe but were used to herd animals in Scotland for so long they became known as the Highland Collie. Later the name was changed to Bearded Collie since they have long facial hair, unlike other collies.
Temperament
Active, outgoing and affectionate, the Beardie makes a wonderful family pet. Like most long-haired breeds, Bearded Collies require a commitment to grooming. They need a few minutes of brushing or combing every day. This breed also needs exercise, but will make a wonderful addition to many homes.
- Herding Group; AKC recognized in 1976.
- Ranging in size from 20 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Herding dog; drover.
Environment
- Apartments? Not so much.
- Fairly active indoors.
- Love average to large yards.
- Thrive in all weather.
Exercise
- Moderate to extended daily exercise.
- Vigorous play activities.
Grooming
- Daily brushing.
- Moderate shedding.
- Regular trimming and grooming recommended.
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Bernese Mountain Dog
One of four varieties of Swiss Mountain Dog, the Bernese Mountain Dog is the only variety that possesses a long, silky coat. A hardy dog that thrives in cold weather, the “Berner's” intelligence, strength and agility helped him perform the drafting and droving work in the mountainous region where he originated. Today, this versatile breed participates in conformation, obedience, carting, agility, tracking, herding and therapy work. Like the other Swiss breeds, they are tri-colored, with patches of black, rust and white.
History
The Bernese Mountain Dog (Berner Sennenhund) originated in Switzerland and is named for the Canton of Bern. Historically, Berners were used as general-purpose farm dogs. Their large, sturdy frames and calm, confident temperaments made them ideal for pulling carts to market, driving dairy cattle, watching the farm and acting as companions to farmers.
Temperament
Farm dogs by heritage, Berners need a moderate amount of exercise as well as consistent obedience training. As a double-coated breed, they also tend to shed, and so require regular brushing. Their gentle, easygoing manner and the need to be close to their people make them a good fit for families. Despite their large size, they do great with children!
- Working Group; AKC recognized in 1937.
- Ranging in size from 23 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Draft dog; drover; watchdog.
Environment
- Apartments? Not so much.
- Low activity indoors.
- Thrive in cold climates.
Exercise
- Short to moderate daily exercise.
Grooming
- Brush 2-3X/week.
- Seasonal shedding.
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Miniature Poodle
Highly intelligent and one of the most trainable breeds. Pleasant, happy, and sensitive. Perky and lively. Demanding and delightful. Very amusing and clever. Likes to be with his people. Tends to be reserved with strangers; should be well socialized as a puppy. Any effort the owner puts into training and socialization will be well rewarded. Some bloodlines may be high-strung and timid. May snap if teased or surprised.
History
The Poodle is most likely descended from early German water retrievers, but may also be related to spaniels from the Iberian Peninsula. The name probably derives from the German word “Pudel” (one who plays in the water). Hunters originally clipped the dog's thick coat to help it swim, leaving hair on the leg joints to protect them from extreme cold and sharp reeds. The French capitalized on the breed's high intelligence, trainability, and innate showmanship, using the Poodle as a circus performer. The breed's great popularity in that country led to the common name, French Poodle. In France, however, the Poodle is called the “Caniche,” or duck dog. The Poodle has also been used to sniff out truffles lying underground in the woods. Poodles are depicted in 15th-century paintings and in bas-reliefs from the 16th century. Toy Poodles became royal favorites, particularly in the 18th century. The Toy and Miniature Poodle varieties were bred down from the original larger dogs, now known as Standard Poodles. The three sizes are considered as one breed, and are judged by the same standard. Today, the Poodle is primarily a companion and show dog, though he can learn almost anything.
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Bea-Bull
The Bea-Bull is a cross between the Beagle and the Bulldog. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. Not all designer hybrid dogs are 50% purebred to 50% purebred. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses.
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Weimaramer
Often referred to as the “grey ghost” because of the distinctive color of its short, sleek coat, the Weimaraner is a graceful dog with aristocratic features. Bred for speed, good scenting ability, courage and intelligence, he remains an excellent game hunter and active participant in other dog sports.
History
Originally known as the Weimer Pointer (derived from the court that sponsored the breed), the Weimaraner is a product of selective German breeding and comes from the same general stock as other German hunting breeds. It is believed to be a descendant of the Bloodhound and was originally used to hunt wolves, deer and bear. Over the years because of the rarity of bigger game in his surroundings, the Weimaraner adapted to become a bird dog and personal hunting companion.
Temperament
Lauded for his ability to work with great speed, fearlessness and endurance when on the hunt, the Weimaraner is also known for being an easily trainable, friendly and obedient member of the family. This is a breed that loves children and enjoys being part of his family's “pack.” Grooming maintenance is low due to his short coat.
- Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1943.
- Average size: 23 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Hunting dog, family companion.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Low activity indoors.
Exercise
- Daily extended and vigorous exercise.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Average shedding.
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Jack Russel Terrier
The Russell Terrier is a strong, hardy, earth-working Terrier. He is full of life and moves with confidence that matches his keen expression. The breed's handy size, small flexible chest, nose, strong voice, and fearless nature make it an excellent specimen to work vermin below ground. Its weatherproof coat may be smooth, broken, or rough and is predominantly white with tan and/or black markings.
History
The Russell Terrier originated in England but developed in Australia. The small size of the breed made it ideal to be carried on horseback in terrier bags, a requisite for certain terrain. The breed derived from the Reverend Parson's fox working terrier strains, sharing many common characteristics of the Parson Russell Terrier. However, it must be noted the two breeds are distinctly different in body structure and height and have been maintained as separate breeds in the US and Europe.
Temperament
The Russell Terrier is confident, highly intelligent and faithful, and views life as a great adventure. The breed possesses a vast amount of energy, so it does best with an active family that spends a lot of time outdoors. It will remain devoted and loving to its 'people' for its lifetime. The Russell Terrier coat requires minimal upkeep beyond brushing and occasional bathing.
- Miscellaneous class.
- Ranging in size from 10 to 12 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Fox hunter.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Very active indoors.
Exercise
- Daily moderate to extended exercise.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Bathe only when necessary.
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Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog, or “Sheltie” as it is commonly called, is essentially a working Collie in miniature. A rough-coated, longhaired working dog, he is alert, intensely loyal and highly trainable and is known as a devoted, docile dog with a keen sense of intelligence and understanding. Agile and sturdy, the Sheltie is one of the most successful obedience breeds, but also excels in agility, herding and conformation. The coat can be black, blue merle or sable, marked with varying amounts of white and/or tan. The Sheltie is small and therefore easy to take on trips! And because of their small stature, they are accepted in many hotels.
History
Like the Collie, the Sheltie's history traces back to the Border Collie of Scotland, which, after being transported to the Shetland Islands and crossed with small, intelligent, longhaired breeds, was eventually reduced to miniature proportions. Over time, subsequent crosses were made with Collies. The breed worked as farm helpers and home protectors, watching over crofters' cottages, flocks and herds from invaders of all kinds. The Sheltie does great with children and other dogs. They are also easy to train!
Temperament
Shelties love their families, but may be reserved at first with strangers. As a herding dog, they can be inclined to bark at and herd people. Shelties thrive on the farm but adapt to many living situations if given proper exercise. The breed's dense double coat requires regular maintenance.
- Herding Group; AKC recognized in 1911.
- Ranging in size from 13 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Sheep herder, farm dog.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Fairly active indoors.
Exercise
- Daily moderate exercise.
Grooming
- Regular brushing.
- Bathe only when necessary.
- Heavy seasonal shedding.
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Vizsla
Originally from Hungary, the Vizsla is a medium-sized, short-coated hunting dog that is essentially Pointer in type, although he combines characteristics of both pointer and retriever. An attractive golden rust in color, this “dual” dog is popular in both the field and the show ring due to his power and drive while hunting and his trainability in the home.
History
The Vizsla's ancestors were hunters and companions for the Magyar hordes, a tribe that settled in what is now known as Hungary. A favorite of early barons, Vizslas are depicted in etchings as far back as the 10th century.
The agricultural terrain of Hungary created a dog of superior nose and high-class hunting ability well-suited to Hungarian climate and a variety of game, including upland game, rabbits and waterfowl. Nearly extinct by the end of the World Wars, the Vizsla gradually regained popularity and began to be imported into the United States in the 1950s.
Temperament
The Vizsla thrives as part of an active family that provides daily exercise. He is lively and affectionate to his people and possesses an above-average ability to take training. Although he sheds, his short coat requires low daily maintenance.
- Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1960.
- Average size: 21 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Hunting dog, family companion.
Environment
- Apartment? Not so much.
- Fairly active indoors.
Exercise
- Daily vigorous and extended exercise.
Grooming
- Easy care.
- Bathe only when necessary.
- Average shedding.
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Samoyed
A hardy and eager worker, the Samoyed is known for black lips that curl slightly at the corners into the “Samoyed smile.” Bright and alert, he likes to stay busy and enjoys participating in agility, herding, weight pulling, sledding, pack hiking, conformation shows and more! His heavy, weather-resistant coat is suitable for very cold climates and should be pure white, white and biscuit, cream or biscuit.
History
An ancient working breed, the Samoyed is very close to the primitive dog no mixture of wolf or fox runs through the breed's gene pool. He was developed by the Samoyed people of Siberia. They used the dogs for herding reindeer, hunting and hauling sleds as well as guard work. The breed was cherished by these people they even allowed them to sleep in their tents because they depended on the dogs for their survival.
Temperament
Intelligent, gentle and loyal, Samoyeds enjoy being with their families. Due to their working heritage, they may chase things, run and bark, so it's best to channel that energy into some kind of job or activity. Otherwise, these independent thinkers may invent ways to keep themselves entertained. At the very least, daily exercise is necessary. The Samoyed coat can also mat and needs to be brushed weekly, more often during shedding season.
- Working Group; AKC recognized in 1906.
- Ranging in size from 19 to 23 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Reindeer herder; Sled dog; Multi-purpose dog.
Environment
- Apartment is ok.
- Very active indoors.
- Thrive in cooler climates.
Exercise
- Daily moderate exercise.
Grooming
- Extensive brushing.
- Heavy seasonal shedding.
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Siberian Husky
Bred in Northeast Asia as a sled dog, the Siberian Husky is known for its amazing endurance and willingness to work. Its agreeable and outgoing temperament makes it a great all-around dog, suitable for anything from sledding to therapy work. Because it originated in cold climates, Siberians have a thicker coat than most other breeds of dog, made up of a dense cashmere-like undercoat and a longer, coarse topcoat. All colors from black to pure white are allowed, but a variety of markings on the head is common.
History
The Siberian Husky is widely believed to have originated from within the Chukchi Tribe, off the eastern Siberian peninsula. These dogs were used in 1908 for the All-Alaskan Sweepstakes, which consisted of a 408-mile long dogsled race, and served in the Army's Arctic Search and Rescue Unit during World War II.
Temperament
Siberians are relatively easy keepers, but their thick coats require weekly brushing. New owners should be prepared to provide an outlet for exercise daily, whether through walks or an enclosed space in which to run. Predatory instincts are strong, so Siberians should be supervised around small animals in and around the home. Siberians do well around children, but tend to stay aloof. They want to protect their pack because that's what they were bred to do.
- Working Group; AKC recognized in 1930.
- Ranging in size from 20 to 23 inches tall at the shoulder and 35 to 60 pounds.
- Sled dog.
Environment
- Apartment? Not so much.
- Very active indoors.
Exercise
- Daily moderate to extended exercise.
- Loves a large yard.
Grooming
- Regular brushing.
- Heavy seasonal shedding.
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Dalmatian
The only spotted breed, the Dalmatian is alert and active, possessing great endurance, speed and intelligence. Their working and sporting heritage makes them suitable as both a family pet or performance animal, and they are often found in the show, obedience and agility rings, or galloping alongside a horse as a coach dog in “road trials.” Their short coat is white with black or liver (brown) spots.
History
Spotted dogs have appeared throughout history in Europe, Asia, and Africa, credited with a dozen nationalities and as many native names. The dog we know today as the Dalmatian has been a dog of war, a draft dog, shepherd, ratter, fire-apparatus follower, firehouse mascot, bird dog, trail hound and retriever. Most importantly, he is the original and only coaching dog. His affinity for horses remains a basic instinct to this day and the breed is a natural follower and guardian of the horse-drawn vehicle.
Temperament
The fun-loving, people-oriented Dalmatian thrives in a family environment. The breed's short coat sheds almost year-round, but regular brushing helps minimize the shedding. The Dalmatian is great with kids but needs a little work with other dogs. It's best to introduce the Dalmatian as a puppy to new environments.
- Non-Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1888.
- Ranging in size from 19 to 23 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Coach dog; guardian.
Environment
- Apartment? Not so much.
- High activity indoors.
Exercise
- Moderate to vigorous daily exercise.
Grooming
- Frequent brushing.
- Infrequent bathing.
- Seasonal and year round shedding.
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English Bulldog
Known for their loose-jointed, shuffling gait and massive, short-faced head, the English Bulldog is known to be equable, resolute and dignified. A medium-sized dog, they are not your typical lap dog, but would like to be! They are one of the most popular breeds according to AKC Registration Statistics due to their lovable and gentle dispositions and adorable wrinkles. The English Bulldog may be brindle, white, red, fawn, fallow or piebald.
History
Said to have originated in the British Isles, the name “bull” was applied because of the dog's connection with bull baiting. The original bulldog had to be ferocious and courageous, and almost insensitive to pain. When dog fighting became illegal in England, fanciers set to the task of preserving the breed by eliminating the fierce characteristics. Within a few generations, the Bulldog became one of the finest physical specimens with an agreeable temperament.
Temperament
English Bulldogs are recognized as excellent family pets because of their tendency to form strong bonds with children. They tend to be gentle and protective. The breed requires minimal grooming and exercise. Their short nose makes them prone to overheating in warm weather, so make sure to provide a shady place to rest. Generally, Bulldogs are known for getting along well with children, other dogs, and pets. They can become so attached to home and family, that they will not venture out of the yard without a human companion. Bulldogs do better with positive training. They love getting rewarded with treats!
- Non-Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1886.
- Ranging in size from 40 to 50 pounds.
- Family companion.
Environment
- Apartment is fine, also small condo
- Low activity indoors, due to their snouts
- thrive in moderate climates
Exercise
- Light daily exercise
Grooming
- Easy care
- Keep face clean
- Average shedding
