Bulldog breed guide

Sweet, devoted and easygoing, Bulldogs want to please their owners and adapt well to town or country. They weigh up to 50 pounds but will still try to curl up in your lap.

Early socialization is vital for a good start in life, AKC says and training classes let an owner learn to curb undesirable behaviors.

Bulldogs live 8 to 10 years.

Owners must be vigilant about overheating: never leave a Bulldog in the hot sun unsupervised or without shade and water. A tongue that hangs out unusually far with a bluish cast instead of pink signals trouble and immediate soaking with cool water helps.

An all-over brushing with a soft brush for 10 minutes two or three times a week keeps the Bulldog looking its best and a rubber curry brush first helps during heavier shedding. The facial wrinkles need regular checks to make sure the skin is clean and dry.

Bulldogs enjoy an occasional romp and walks and moderate exercise keeps them trim. Very warm days are best spent in front of an air-conditioner because the short muzzle makes breathing difficult in heat and humidity.

Evidence suggests Bulldogs were created in 13th-century England, in the reign of King John, for bullbaiting, in which a staked bull fought a pack of dogs while spectators bet on the outcome. The dogs were ferocious brutes with huge jaws, unbelievably brave and seemingly impervious to pain.

England banned blood sports with animals in 1835 and bullbaiting gave way to pit-dog fighting in cellars, an illicit activity that required quick dogs.