Also known simply as the Aussie Bulldog, the Australian Bulldog is an affectionate and loyal breed. But how do you know whether you are ready to purchase a pet and if this breed is right for you? This information is absolutely necessary in making the decision to purchase a pet.
History
The origin of the Australian Bulldog can be traced back to late 20th century Australia. The Australian Bulldog was created in the hopes of developing a breed similar in appearance to that of the English Bulldog, yet without its various health problems.
Credited for nurturing and promoting the breed are breeders and enthusiasts Noel and Tina Green, who have worked endlessly for nearly 20 years to establish a fame for the Australian Bulldog.
Today, while the Australian Bulldog has attained a regional popularity as both a companion and family pet, the breed remains rather rare outside of its native Australia.
The Australian Bulldog does not currently hold any formal kennel club recognition.
Personality Traits
Best known for its spunky and outgoing nature, the Australian Bulldog is full of character. These dogs thrive on strong and dependable relationships with humans. This breed is highly intelligent, obedient by nature, and generally easy to train. As a pet, the Australian Bulldog is obedient, loyal, loving, and affectionate. The Australian Bulldog is very active for its build, and enjoys spending time outdoors, taking long walks, and playing games such as tug-of-war.
Train-ability
Due to its need for human relationships and willingness to learn, the Australian Bulldog generally responds well to basic training and commands. These dogs are very bright, and have the ability to learn to perform most any task their trainer is willing to take the time to teach.
Establishing immediate dominance, trust, and respect is key to successfully training the Australian Bulldog. This breed responds best to a stern yet gentle approach to repetitive exercises and tasks, positive reinforcement, and reward-based training.
Benefits and Disadvantages of the Breed
There are many benefits to owning an Australian Bulldog, such as its no hassle, low maintenance coat. This intelligent breed is easy to train, naturally obedient, and capable of learning to perform many impressive tricks and tasks. When properly socialized from a young age, the Australian Bulldog gets along well with small children and non-dog pets. These dogs are always alert and aware of their surroundings, serving as an effective watch dog, announcing the arrival of guests and unwanted visitors. The Australian Bulldog is obedient, loyal, loving, and affectionate, making an excellent family pet and companion alike.
Unfortunately, there are also disadvantages to owning an Australian Bulldog. These energetic and active dogs require large amounts of daily exercise and room to run and play, especially when young. Anyone wishing to purchase this breed lacking the adequate amount of time and space to dedicate to the dog is strongly advised against doing so. An Australian Bulldog not receiving the proper amount of exercise and space will often act out by destroying property, chewing, barking, whining, and ignoring basic training such as housebreaking.
The Australian Bulldog is not recommended for households with other dogs. This breed is known to show excessive dominance and aggression towards other dogs, even when properly socialized from a young age.
As previously mentioned, the Australian Bulldog remains very rare outside of its native Australia and can prove quite difficult to obtain. Individuals seeking to purchase this breed often encounter such challenges as inability to locate a breeder, high prices, and being placed on long waiting lists.
Common Health Concerns
While the Australian Bulldog is typically known as a healthy and hearty breed, they do suffer from a few health problems, including: hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, various dental problems, cryptorchidism – failure of one or both testicles to fully descend, skin sensitivity and allergies, obesity, and bloat.
Now that you know all about the breed, do you think you are ready to own an Australian Bulldog? Remember, purchasing a pet is a big decision and should be discussed thoroughly and seriously with your entire family.
Sources:
http://www.heydogs.com/a/australian-bulldog.html
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/aussiebulldog.htm
