Victorian Bulldog Dog Breed

The Victorian Bulldog is, in some ways, like the English Bulldog re-imagined. They are larger, more athletic and have fewer health concerns than the traditional Bulldog but possess the same lovable looks and friendly personality. The breed isn't recognized by any major organizations just yet but it considered a companion breed. They will be perfectly happy indoors and are great for families and individuals that like low-maintenance pets. Consider the following advantages and problems that may arise from owning a Victorian Bulldog:

PROS

• Family friendly
• Can live in apartments and other small dwellings
• Exercise needs easily met
• Learns basic commands fairly easily
• Grooming requires little effort
• Friendly towards strangers
• Gets along well with other pets
• Has fewer health issues than the English Bulldog

CONS

• Rare to find a true Victorian Bulldog
• Not an exercise partner
• Not hypoallergenic
• Not a guard dog
• Drool cleanup necessary
• Short muzzle may still result in respiratory issues

There isn't too much information available about this breed-- you won't find a detailed Victorian Bulldog Wiki or an episode of Dogs 101 on them. This could be because they are relatively rare and there is debate about whether any individual other than one of the Mollett bloodline is a true VB. The breed is relatively recent when, during the 1980s, Ken Mollett determined to bring the Bulldog back to the larger, healthier specimen of the Victorian Era while retaining the friendly, loyal nature of the English Bulldog. He was successful, and although larger than the English, they are still muscular, sturdy and broad-chested with large heads and short muzzles.

1. Intelligence- Members of this breed are said to learn basic commands fairly easily. They are sensitive and need gentle, patient training.

2. Kids, Strangers, Pets- Victorian Bulldogs make excellent family pets as they are generally tolerant of children, playful, and desirous of attention. They are also notoriously friendly with strangers. Usually, these dogs will get along with other pets, especially if socialized young.

3. Exercise- Although certainly more athletic than its English Bulldog cousin, this breed doesn't require extensive exercise. A couple daily walks and some outdoor playtime in the yard or at the dog park will keep them fit.

Some say the Mollett Victorian Bulldog is one bloodline begun by the breed's creator, however, many contend this is the only line of Victorian Bulldogs making it very rare to actually own one. Ken Mollett began breeding Victorian Bulldogs in the 1980's by crossing Staffordshire Bull Terriers, Bullmastiffs, the Dogue De Bordeaux along with show Bulldogs. This is why many insist true members of this breed must carry the Mollett lineage.

The Victorian Bulldog temperament is much the same as the English Bulldog temperament. They are prized for being loyal but non aggressive, quiet yet playful, and with a friendly disposition. The breed standard describes their air as "proud with nothing to prove". Unlike its bull-baiting ancestors, this breed was created solely for companionship and most are friendly towards strangers. Victorian Bulldogs are known to get along well with children and other non canine pets-- dogs too, if they are trained and socialized properly. Experts say they pick up pretty well on basic obedience commands but are sensitive so patience is key. Also, this breed is capable of doing moderate exercise with the owner unlike the English Bulldog.

Authorities on the breed state that the Victorian Bulldog was formed to be more athletic and have fewer health issues than modern English bulldogs. Not much information exists that is specific to the breed's health issues but you can assume there may be some respiratory concerns due to the short muzzle--although not as much as the English Bulldog!

Most breeders contend that the Mollet line of Victorian Bulldogs are the only true specimens of the breed (which are rare). Finding a carefully bred puppy of the Mollet stock while attending all scheduled veterinary appointments is the best bet for a healthy dog. Victorian Bulldogs should have a lifespan somewhere around 12-14 years.