Personality and Temperament: Getting to Know Your Bulldog's Character
The bulldog's appearance is often associated with its personality, but it is actually not a valid indication of the breed's temperament. While all dogs are different, it is generally understood that bulldogs are loyal and protective, always showing a sense of devotion to the house in which they live.
A bulldog has an exceptional sense of companionship, and displays a loving attitude toward its family. This breed is good for all types of owners, ranging from families with children to the elderly. They can be aware of moods in the owners, playful when the owner is happy and comforting when things are quiet. They may look like aggressive dogs, but in fact the opposite is true. Despite their loving and loyal nature, they can also be protective to their family, and would defend their owners if needed. They do not attack without an unnecessary provocation or reason. The nature of the bulldog is especially apparent in the behavior they show toward smaller children and animals, as they often watch over and care for them.
The temperament of a bulldog is probably not the best option for a full on-guard dog, since each dog's temperament and personality are varied, just like people. While some dogs in this breed are quick to defend, others are calm and happy without being defensive to anyone, friend or foe. They generally mature slowly, and behave like a puppy well through their second year of age. They may be called lazy or stubborn, but their slow response time is due to the fact that they think everything over before they move. If you give them a command, they will decide when and how they should go about doing it. While it may be frustrating to an owner, it really shows the intelligence level of this particular breed, as well as a thoughtful demeanor. Not being a quick animal doesn't necessarily show a lack of physical aptitude, because they are constantly aware of their surroundings.
Bulldogs display a keen sense of observation, and usually notice when changes are taking place around them. If the home is set up in a certain way, the dog will remember it, so if something seems out of place it gets noticed.
The bulldog most likely got its "lazy" reputation from they way it walks and moves. Due to their build and weight, they tend to shuffle around a bit. They are also susceptible to genetic defects.
A bulldog has the personality of a loving dog when it is properly cared for. They are not ferocious like some may think, and are only that way because they have been trained to react in that manner. They are, for the most part, a wonderful addition to any home, and the family can enjoy a bulldog, knowing that it is a loyal and loving part of the family. As with any dog however, always be sure to see that children are supervised when playing around any dog, no matter the personality and temperament.
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ARTICLES
Bulldogs: Description of A Breed Apart
Buying a Bulldog Puppy? Tips on Finding the Perfect Dog
Finding a Responsible Bulldog Breeder
Personality and Temperament: Getting to Know Your Bulldog's Character