The English Bulldog is a medium size and smooth coat dog with heavy, thick-set, low-swung body, massive short-faced head, wide shoulders and sturdy limbs. The English Bulldog is neither vicious nor aggressive but is kind, resolute and courageous.
Here are the characteristics of the English Bulldog breed as determined by the American Kennel Club's published breed standard.
The English Bulldog's Behavior
Recommended for: Family pets, show dogs
The English Bulldog, originally bred to participate in the bloody bull baiting ring, is today, according to the American Kennel Club's breed standard, "equable and kind...not vicious or aggressive." Still, the breed's ancient history means that anyone who opts for a purebred should make absolutely sure the breeder has considered the dog's forbears' temperament. English Bulldogs usually get along well with other dogs and children, but care should be taken to make sure they are well trained.
Remember that breed only provides a general clue as to any individual dog's actual behavior. Make sure to get to know dogs well before bringing them into your home.
The English Bulldog's Physical Characteristics
Size: males about 50 pounds; females about 40 pounds.
Coat: straight, short, flat, close, fine-textured, smooth and glossy
Color: "red brindle, all other brindles, solid white, solid red, fawn or fallow, piebald," according to the American Kennel Club's published breed standard.
Eyes: round and dark brown
Ears: small and thin, "rose ear"
Skull: very large
Muzzle: very short, broad, upturned
Nose: large, broad and black
Tail: straight or "screwed".
English Bulldog's Origins and History
Below are some historical notes on the English Bulldog breed according to Wikipedia.
Country/Region of Origin: United Kingdom
Original purpose: bull baiting, later, dog shows
Historical notes: The English Bulldog was originally bred for the bull baiting ring. Generations of breeders tried to breed out the aggressive tendencies, and by the time of World War II they were largely successful. The appearance of the main English Bulldog also changed, as the heavier-set English Bulldog of today became more popular after bull baiting was banned in the nineteenth century. There are several varieties of the English Bulldog breed, some of which are recognized as distinct breed by some countries' breeding organizations. In particular, the American English Bulldog is bigger and more athletic, arguably closer to the original fighting English Bulldogs.
Cultural notes: The English Bulldog is one of the unofficial symbols of the UK. English Bulldogs are also popular images in the mass media, particularly in cartoons, and as US university sports team mascots.