50 Cute Pics Of Bulldogs Prove How Common Stereotypes About Them Are Wrong

To find out more about bulldogs and the misconceptions and controversy about this dog breed, we spoke with Ryan Neil, the Blue Cross head of animal behavior services and Roisin Bolger, Blue Cross veterinary research, standards and communications lead.

Ryan explained that the common misconception about bulldogs that they’re aggressive dogs is false. “Early socialization is key. Helping puppies of any breed get used to the world around them in a positive way will help them in later life,” he explained.

Moreover, “like many breeds, their original purpose has changed over the years and bulldogs are now bred and kept as family pets.” Ryan assured that “they are not inherently violent or aggressive.”

When it comes to their behavior, the animal behavior expert at Blue Cross said that they are often larger than life in character and love to play and be active. “However, their enjoyment of play is often hampered by their physical characteristics, which sees them struggle to breathe or overheat,” he added.

When asked about why bulldogs (both British and French) are often viewed as controversial dog breeds, Roisin Bolger, the veterinary research expert, said that it has to do with poor breeding and their many health issues. “Dogs who have been bred to have a flat face are known as brachycephalic and will all struggle to breathe due to shortened and narrowed airways. They can quickly overheat and some even need surgery to their nostrils, palate and larynx to help them survive.”

Their health issues don’t end there. “They also have oversized heads, which means they struggle to give birth naturally and many need an emergency cesarean because puppies become stuck. The folds in their skin and position of their eyes also cause them problems and they can develop uncomfortable skin and eye conditions which can involve extensive medical treatment,” Roisin told Bored Panda.

She also added that “in the UK, British bulldogs are famously associated with Winston Churchill and a spirit of defiance and pride.”

It was around the 1600s when Bulldogs were officially mentioned for the first time, though it is thought that this type of dog was bred starting in the 1200s by mixing Pugs and Mastiffs. The prefix 'bull' is in the name to describe the dog's use in the 'sport' of bull-baiting, on which we won't elaborate due to its violent nature. When the Cruelty to Animals Act was passed in 1835, the Bulldogs lost their purpose and popularity. However, thanks to one Bill George, a dog dealer in Victorian London, Bulldogs gained popularity as pet dogs.

Due to their tenacity and impressive figure, Bulldogs are often used as mascots for various causes, organizations, and people. But, without a doubt, the most famous Bulldog was the one representing England (and, cheekily, Winston Churchill himself) defeating Nazi Germany. A Bulldog is also the mascot of the United States Marine Corps, and no less than thirty-nine American universities use one as theirs.

The American Kennel Club states that Bulldog temperament should be kind and courageous with a pacifist and dignified demeanor. The owners of these dogs, though, describe them more as lazy, stubborn, and goofy. Nevertheless, bold or sluggish, a Bulldog is a great family pet that can easily be kept in an apartment without requiring copious exercise. One other thing - Bulldogs are patient enough to get along with kids, often forming strong bonds with them.

Now, some fun facts:

• One Bulldog can produce around a quarter of a gallon of saliva per day. So carrying a towel at all times might be a great idea! 
• No other dog breed can clear a room as fast as a Bulldog who farted. This breed is definitely a winner in the gassiest dogs contest. And though it might seem funny, the Bulldog's anatomy is to blame for this inconvenience - they have sensitive stomachs that make digesting food hard work. 
• A Bulldog's wrinkles once had a real purpose - as a participant of blood sports, the wrinkles guarded these dogs against bites and blood getting into their eyes.
• A Bulldog named Otto has a Guinness World Record under his belt (or should I say wrinkles?). In 2015, he broke the record of "Longest Human Tunnel Traveled Through by a Skateboarding Dog," which he managed to do in around 19 seconds!