The Bulldog is one of the United States鈥� most popular dog breeds. They鈥檙e laid back, lovable, and family-friendly., and their wrinkled skin and slobber makes them even more endearing. But Bulldogs weren鈥檛 always a breed that came to mind when you thought of sweet, cuddly dogs. They actually started out being used for a vicious sport, and there is more to this breed that meets the eye.
They Get Their Name From the Sport of Bullbaiting
The Bulldog got its name because this type of dog was preferred for the English sport of bullbaiting, which involved tethering a bull to a stake in the ground and encouraging dogs to try to bite the bull鈥檚 nose. Bulldogs were well-suited for this sport because of their strong, fearless nature. Breeders bred the dogs to have large, powerful heads and loose skin, so that they could recover from an attack and keep fighting.
The Breed Almost Became Extinct
The English Parliament outlawed bullbaiting in 1835, leaving the Bulldog with no immediate purpose. Bulldog numbers rapidly declined, but Bulldog lovers didn鈥檛 want to see the breed die out. Bulldog breeders eliminated the breed鈥檚 viciousness, breeding them into the Bulldog pets we know and love today.
They Aren鈥檛 Great Swimmers
Of course, not all dog breeds are made to be Olympic-level swimmers, but if you put a Bulldog in the water without a doggie life jacket, they鈥檒l be in some trouble. Even though they鈥檙e only 16 inches tall, they can weigh 50 pounds. Their short legs and small hindquarters aren鈥檛 equipped to keep their dense body afloat and their large head above the water.
They Were Known As 鈥淭he Churchill Dog鈥�
During World War II, the British referred to the Bulldog as 鈥淭he Churchill Dog.鈥� Apparently, Prime Minister Winston Churchill and the English Bulldog both symbolized the courage and strength of England. Churchill himself actually didn鈥檛 own any Bulldogs, though 鈥� he preferred Poodles.
Two Presidents Have Owned Bulldogs
Winston Churchill may not have been partial to Bulldogs, but Presidents Warren Harding and Calvin Coolidge each owned one. Harding鈥檚 Bulldog, 鈥淥h Boy鈥�, had the official title of First Dog while he was in office, and Coolidge鈥檚 was named 鈥淏oston Beans.鈥�
Many Celebrities Have Owned Bulldogs
The Bulldog is one of the most popular dogs in America, so it鈥檚 no surprise that many celebrities have them. To name a few, the Beckham family, Michael Phelps, and Criminal Minds actor Shemar Moore have all owned the breed.
The Bulldog Is the Most Popular Dog Mascot
You probably already know at least one sports team that uses a Bulldog as its mascot. Over 40 universities in the United States , including Georgetown and Yale. This is a testament to the Bulldog鈥檚 well-known toughness and courage.
Most Bulldog Moms Have C-sections
Because Bulldogs have such large heads, the safest way for a Bulldog to give birth is actually via C-section. About 80% of Bulldog litters are delivered this way, to avoid the risk of a puppy getting stuck in the birth canal.
Bulldogs Have Broken Guinness World Records
In 2015, a Bulldog named 鈥淥tto鈥� set the . Otto rolled through the legs of 30 people, a delight of the crowd that had gathered to watch him. Otto鈥檚 owners were actually inspired to get a Bulldog after they saw videos of another Bulldog world-record holder, 鈥�,鈥� who was at one time the world鈥檚 fastest dog skateboarder.
They鈥檙e Good With Kids
Known for their kind and friendly nature, Bulldogs make great family pets. As with all breeds, early socialization is key. These loyal dogs can adapt to most homes and make wonderful companions to children.
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