Valley Bulldogs

General Description

The Valley Bulldog is a happy looking breed. They do not have an exact standard so there are variations. For example, some Valley Bulldogs have a pressed in muzzle while others have a longer muzzle. Their neck, as well as their head, is broad. They have small ears that fold over and hang down slightly on the sides of their heads. Their legs are much longer than that of many other Bulldogs, but their tails are very short almost nonexistent. Their eyes are small and semi-oval shaped. The breed can often have an under bite. Their coat is short and sleek like a Boxer’s. Original Cross is American Bulldogs, Boxer and the English Bulldogs. Valley Bulldogs originated in Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia, Canada which is where the breed’s name came from. The fur comes in many colors, such as black, white, red, fawn, and any brindle mixture.

Character:

The Valley Bulldog loves to be around humans. They get a lot of joy out of playing with children and other dogs. The breed is playful, yet intelligent. With their high intelligence, they can learn quickly and do well with tricks but, on the other hand, it makes them independent and stubborn. They will protect their family and bark at odd noises but are mostly calm in the house. However, they will sometimes run crazily through the house, but those bouts do not last long. They need a firm trainer, because of their sometimes disobedient nature and extreme strength.

Size:

17 – 25 inches (31 – 64 cm)

Weight:

60 – 125 pounds (23 – 57 kg)

Health Problems:

A great deal of attention must be given to keeping the folds of the skin on the face very clean and dry, as well as the folds of skin in the tail area. These areas are highly prone to infection if they are not cleaned daily. They seem to have a tendency to get skin irritations and allergic reactions. An overweight Valley Bulldog can be a problem if its diet isn’t monitored properly. Some Valley Bulldogs may have a problem breathing, depending upon how pushed in the snout is. They sometimes snore and can be rather flatulent at times. Drool is not usually a problem unless the dog is subjected to excessive heat or if it is waiting for a special treat. The life expectancy is about 10 to 12 years of age.

Maintenance:

The Valley Bulldog is a fairly easy dog to groom. The breed needs to be brushed but not often and only requires a bath if they get filthy. The most important thing is to keep their tail, face, and belly clean and dry, so they should be dried off well after being in the bath or rain. Without proper drying, the breed can easily develop skin infections. Valley Bulldogs shed some, but not a lot. They need to be taken for long, fast-paced walks often and kept active mentally.

Grooming:

The soft, smooth coat has short fur that is easy to look after. The Valley Bulldog needs to be brushed or combed every once in a while, and perhaps wiped down with a wet cloth. They don’t require baths very often unless they get really dirty. The folds of skin on the face, tail, belly and genital area (on the female) should be kept extremely clean and dry on a daily basis. Make sure all of these areas are completely dried after a walk in the rain or a bath, otherwise they will get infected. The Valley Bulldog is an average shedder

Ideal Environment:

The Valley Bulldog is a friendly and gentle breed. They love being around people and do well with children. Plus they are friendly with other dogs and small animals. Valley Bulldogs need to be in an area with moderate climates because they do not do well with temperature extremes. Ideally, they will be an inside dog who receives lots of attention but who also receives regular strenuous exercise and training from a firm owner. Families who do not want to spend lots of time on grooming may find a good match with the Valley Bulldog as long as they remember to keep them dry. If well-exercised, the dog can be happy in an apartment or in a house.