It’s the dogs we see on film and television, the ones that have distinctive and iconic looks to them, that we most often end up adopting. It’s kind of a self-sustaining loop: with everyone choosing those breeds, they become more ubiquitous, and thus more people see them and choose those breeds for themselves, and so on, forever and ever! Well, maybe not forever, but at the very least many breeds experience bouts of popularity that lead to quite a bit of exposure. Each breed experiences popularity for different reasons, however. Take the English Bulldog, for example; just what’s so appealing about that tubby, ugly little breed?

Why a Bulldog?

At first glance, the English Bulldog is a very intimidating breed. Its thick, muscular body, when combined with its naturally glowering face and often revealed teeth, can lead to some thinking that this is a dog that will pick fights and which is generally just grumpy all the time. Nothing could be further from the truth, however; the English Bulldog is one of the gentlest breeds around, in fact!

Of course, like many dogs, it will defend your household and your family against intruders, but when it comes to you, your family, and your friends, you will find in your English Bulldog a friend and companion who is brave, loyal, affectionate, and dependable. Of course, it isn’t all perfect with the English Bulldog; they have they quirks, the same as anyone else…

Things to Think About

Bulldogs do have their “downside,” so to speak. They can be considered “bullheaded” (how appropriate!) and persistent, which is sometimes a good thing, such as when they are being asked to perform a particular task. Of course, when they are instead being asked to stop doing something, they can persist because such persistence is in their nature. Not giving up easily is generally considered to be a virtue in our society, but sometimes it’s important to give up on the things that we shouldn’t be doing in the first place!

Bulldogs are also great at acting as guard dogs for you and your family, but this attitude can sometimes translate into a dominating attitude and a behavior towards strangers that is sometimes too aggressive. It is important that, as you raise and train your bulldog, you have a good understanding of what it means to be a strong leader to your dog. You have to communicate in ways that your dog will understand, respect, and appreciate. If you do that, you’ll have a best friend for life, one who will never let you down and always be down for a belly rub.