It’s probably safe to say that English bulldogs are quite popular here in Georgia. Who doesn’t love Uga, the adorable mascot of the University of Georgia? This lovable pooch has some pretty devoted fans, and it isn’t hard to see why. A Marietta, GA vet discusses bulldogs below.
History
Bulldogs have a long history. They go back as far as 13th-century England, when they were first used in bullbaiting, a sport which, thankfully, has long been outlawed. In the 19th century, breeders turned their attention into making Fido into a pet. They certainly scored a touchdown on that one!
Basics
Bulldogs are known for being lovable, friendly, and laid back. They usually get to be about 15 inches high, and can weigh up to 50 pounds. They do have a shorter life expectancy than many breeds, living about 8 to 10 years on average. The AKC lists them as the fifth most popular breed.
Care
Bulldogs, do have some specific care tips. They can get lazy sometimes. Walk Fido every day, so he doesn’t get out of shape. As for food, your canine buddy will need a high-quality dog food. Some of these pups are prone to allergies. Be careful not to go overboard with treats, as bulldogs can get rather portly.
Heat
Bulldogs have very short snouts, which makes it easy for them to lose their breath. Take care not to overexert your canine buddy! When it gets hot, make sure Fido stays cool and comfortable. Keep your pet indoors, in rooms cooled by AC, on sweltering days. Swimming isn’t a great option for these guys, but your pooch can wade a bit, or splash around in a kiddie pool or the spray from a hose.
Uga
We can’t close this post without talking a bit more about Uga. Uga’s cute face and spiked collar has been a Georgia favorite for decades! In fact, Uga is officially the most popular college football mascot. (We’re actually on Uga 10, in case you were wondering.) The line of beloved mascots has been winning hearts on campus since 1956. Each Uga gets a plaque with a varsity letter on it, their own jersey, an air-conditioned doghouse, and, after crossing the Rainbow Bridge, a spot in the on-campus memorial plot.
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