The characteristics of a perfect Bulldog are medium size, smooth coat, heavy, thick-set, low-swung body, massive short-faced head, wide shoulders and sturdy limbs. The Bulldog is a medium sized dog that weighs about 55 pounds and stands about 15 inches at the shoulder. Not your typical lap dog, though they would love to be. They are affectionate and loyal and they thrive  best when treated as members of the family.

The coat is short, smooth and glossy. Shedding occurs with changes in the seasons and is quite common during the spring and fall. Frequent bathing is unnecessary if the coat is brushed frequently to remove dead hair. The color may be brindle, fawn, red, a piebald of one of these colors  or white. Predominately black is considered very undesirable for breeding and/or showing.

The proper ears  are called rose ears; i.e., folded back exposing the inside of the burr. They are near trimmed or surgically altered. The tail may be either straight or screwed. Screwed tails that fit tightly to the body of adults often become irritated  and can become infected when not cleaned regularly. The tail is never to be docked.

Toenails should be trimmed at regular intervals to prevent foot problems. Bulldogs often resist nail clipping unless exposed to it gently, carefully and frequently at a very early age. Dewclaws are not removed. A mild shampoo is recommended for both puppies and adults. Facial wrinkles require frequent cleaning. Heavy wrinkles should always be kept clean and dry to prevent irritation and infection. A Bulldog should never be picked up by its front legs and shoulder. Serious injuries can result. Pick the Bulldog up by placing one hand behind its front legs and one hand in front of its hind legs.

A regular adult diet consisting of a good, commercial dry kibble mixed occasionally with canned dog food is recommended for dogs older than six months of  age. A high protein diet normally fed to hunting and herding breeds is not recommended for Bulldogs. Puppies under the age of six months should be fed three times daily, generally all they want. Ask your veterinarian about vitamins, etc...

After six months of age feeding twice daily is usually sufficient. Moderate daily exercise on a leash is recommended except in very warm climates and hot summer months. Bulldogs are easily overheated and subject to heat exhaustion. An air-conditioned environment is highly recommended.

Extreme caution and close supervision around swimming pools, lakes, ponds and rivers is very important. Bulldogs have great difficulty keeping their heads above water since most of their weight is concentrated forward. Enclosed pools that can be locked are recommended. A fenced yard is essential since a Bulldog should never be allowed to roam unsupervised by an adult. They are very inquisitive and can be easily lured away and abducted. They are also convinced that they are indestructible and do not watch out for cars.

Because of his/her great strength and tenacity the Bulldog must  have the correct Bulldog disposition: "Equable, kind, resolute and courageous (not vicious or aggressive)." This Bulldog disposition is the main reason they have had a part in producing so many other breeds-from the Boston Terrier to the Bull-Mastiff.