Bulldogs, beautiful? Actually, absolutely! French, American, and English bulldogs each exemplify elegance in their own unique manner. Therefore, on April 21 we celebrate National Bulldogs Are Beautiful Day. (In case you were curious, the image depicts a very attractive French bulldog.)
Bulldogs make excessive drooling and wrinkling an art form, whereas humans cannot (in general) get away with it. Five centuries ago, they began to appear as canine companions in historical literature. Today, this adorable companion rates among the most popular dog breeds in the United States. French bulldogs are presently ranked number four by the American Kennel Club. (Bulldogs, which are technically their own breed, are sixth.)
Here are additional reasons why we adore them so much.
The background of NATIONAL BULLDOGS ARE BEAUTIFUL DAY
Similar to the pit bull, bulldogs were originally bred to help butchers control livestock. The history of bulldogs predates that of pit bulls, dating back to England in the 5th century to a breed known as the Alaunt. In addition to capturing cattle and horses on farms, bulldogs were used in the barbaric practise of bull-baiting in the 15th century, in which dogs were pitted against bulls and forced to fight until the bull was slain or the dog was killed by the bull. In 1835, bull-baiting was thankfully outlawed. Bulldogs were originally bred to be aggressive, and an 80-pound dog could easily throw a one-ton bull by corkscrewing its own body around the bull’s neck.
After bull-baiting was outlawed in the United Kingdom, it appeared that bulldogs would have no further use and would eventually become extinct. Thankfully, the exportation of the breed to Germany and the United States broadened the scope of bulldogs’ employment. They continued to herd cattle and pigs, particularly in regions where terrain was too rugged to construct fences. In Germany, Bulldogs were crossed to produce the boxer breed. It is unknown whether the diminution of the aggressive bulldog in England was the result of selective breeding of smaller canines or crossbreeding with pugs.
In terms of temperament and appearance, the contemporary bulldog is docile, affectionate, and stable. They may be small, but they are incredibly loyal and courageous when it comes to their human companions, particularly infants.
NATIONAL BULLDOGS ARE BEAUTIFUL DAY ACTIVITIES
Serve at an animal shelter
It’s tragic, but not every bulldog gets to spend National Bulldogs Are Beautiful Day in their forever home. Volunteer some of your time at your local animal shelter to assist bulldogs and all other dog breeds. Afterward, your heart will be full, and you’ll likely receive puppy kisses to sweeten the bargain.
Visit a restaurant or pub that allows pets
Pack up your bulldog and venture out in search of delicious food and beverages. Most pet-friendly restaurants provide water bowls for your dog to drink while dining with you, but if you do a little research, you may discover a restaurant with a menu designed specifically for dogs.
Indulge your companion
Every bulldog is lovely on National Bulldogs Are lovely Day. Today is the ideal day to pamper the bulldogs in your life, both large and small. Yes, this also implies that you should pamper yourself at the human bakery.
5 FACTS ABOUT BULLDOGS
Bulldogs were initially bred to entice bulls. This clarifies their moniker.
When bull-baiting was prevalent, the creases on a bulldog were crucial for preventing blood from entering its eyes during combat.
Whether it be the United States Marine Corps or Yale University, the breed is a mascot for numerous prestigious institutions.
Bulldogs have brachycephalic, a condition that causes them to wheeze and be gassy.
Bulldogs are couch potatoes and do not require a great deal of exercise, making them ideal for those who do not wish to engage in excessive strolling.
NATIONAL BULLDOGS ARE BEAUTIFUL DAY DATES
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2023 | April 21 | Friday |
2024 | April 21 | Sunday |
2025 | April 21 | Monday |
2026 | April 21 | Tuesday |
2027 | April 21 | Wednesday |