The Males:
The Bulldog is one of the few breeds in which the males are often more
affectionate than the bitches. Generally, males are apt to be "lovable slobs"
and "good ol' boys." They tend to be more forcefully affectionate, more "in your
face." Males tend to be more stable and reliable in mood, less prone to
emotional swings. Though sometimes clumsy and silly, and prone to acting like
oversized puppies, they mean well and are easy to love.
On the negative side, males are more apt to test their owners and engage in
dominance struggles, especially during the hormonal adolescent months.
Males have obvious genitals, which can make for embarrassing moments if they
decide to lick themselves when Grandma is visiting. Some males are enthusiastic
humpers who will mount stuffed toys, other dogs, sometimes people's legs. If you
decide on a male puppy, make sure he has two testicles fully descended in the
scrotum. Some males will have both testicles descended at six weeks, although
for most it will occur between eight and ten weeks. Most males lift their leg to
urinate, a consideration if you have expensive shrubbery or lawn ornaments. Some
males are territorial markers who compulsively spray urine on every vertical
object (ranging from telephone poles to blades of grass) to mark it with their
scent.
The Females:
Generally, females are more subtle than males. They're affectionate on their own
terms. They'll ask for petting, then assert their independence by moving away
when they've had enough. Females are often quicker to learn and not as easily
distracted during training sessions. They are less likely to engage in open
dominance challenges, but they can be clever and manipulative about getting
their own way.
Remarkably, female dogs also resemble their human counterparts...they're
prone to mood swings and emotional theatrics. They can be sweet one day (or one
hour) and grumpy the next. They are masters (mistresses?) of The Dirty Look and
The Sulk.
A Bulldog bitch will have two seasons every year giving off a strong odour. She
may have to be confined. Bulldog bitches can be very sparky, especially to other
bitches. They may share a kennel in perfect harmony and then all of a sudden
make a fight about something trivial such as a toy, a noise they hear...