Bouledogue

Fossils that could locate the origin of this type of dog are rare. On the other hand, there is ancient evidence of their existence: the Assyrians left bas-reliefs dated to the fifth century BC, where appear dogs of this type, close to Tibetan dogs. Their natural aptitudes for combat made them valued auxiliaries of groups of barbarian warriors from eastern regions. The original breed, present for approximately 5,000 years in the Tibet region and used mainly as a weapon and as an assistant for hunting large game, evolved considerably on its course to Europe, due to the constraints of nomadic life and crosses with local breeds. The breed may have been introduced to Great Britain by Phoenician navigators under the name 'Pugnace of Brittany', its origin probably comes from the 'Molossus of Epirus'. Their use as fighting animals, against other dogs, large animals or against wild beasts (bears, lions, bulls, etc.) is also attested, arousing admiration for their courage. These practices only began to decline in the United Kingdom in 1835, when a law prohibited them: however, they persisted clandestinely for at least half a century afterwards. It is these practices that gave it its name: bull-dog (bull, in English, means bull), later Gallicized into Bulldog. The average size decreased regularly between their introduction to Europe and the end of the nineteenth century, at the same time as other morphological variations, by selection of the least imposing individuals. Their use then evolved toward hunting rodents and buffalo in England, by crossing with terrier-type dogs, which helped improve their tenacity. These successive crosses probably produced individuals with erect ears.

The Bulldog is a faithful and friendly dog. He loves his master. In general, cohabitation with other animals goes well. The Bulldog is playful and facetious, his education is easy as much as he wants to please his master. However, due to his morphology, it is important to respect the animal and give him enough exercise to maintain his muscles, while being careful not to demand too much from him while his growth is not complete. A known fact of Bulldogs is that he hates taking a bath. However, it can be difficult to teach them cleanliness.