Brazilian Bulldog (Bulldog Compeiro)

The Brazilian Bulldog (Bulldog Compeiro) is a large, stocky dog bred in Brazil from European bulldogs. It was used to guard and herd cattle. Hardy, strong, and heavy for its size, the Brazilian Bulldog is courageous, reserved, and reliable, and very devoted to its owner. It requires good socialization and proper training.

Content

1 History of origin
2 Appearance
3 Character and behavior
4 Content Features
- 4.1 Care
5 Health and life expectancy
6 Where to buy a Brazilian Bulldog puppy
- 6.1 Price
7 Photos and videos

History of origin

Beginning in the 16th century, many bulldogs were brought to South America from Europe. They became widespread among farmers. Strong and agile, these dogs were used to guard and herd cattle. They were expected to accompany the shepherd, finding and returning stray animals, which often turned out to be enraged bulls. Five to six bulldogs were typically needed to manage a herd. Crossbreeding with local dogs made them better adapted to the Brazilian climate, and strict selection retained only the most hardy, healthy, and fit for work. This is how a new breed emerged, called the Bulldog Campeiro (Portuguese: buldogue campeiro). In some areas, it was known as the bordoga or bordogue. Bordogas were especially popular in the south of the country until the mid-20th century.

Over time, increasingly calm and peaceful animals began to be used in livestock farming; many switched from pasture to stall housing, and the services of herding dogs became unnecessary. For some time, Compeiro bulldogs were used in slaughterhouses to restrain and herd cattle, until a sanitary law banned them from working there in the 1970s. The Compeiro bulldog was on the verge of extinction.

In the late 1970s, efforts to restore the breed began, led by Ralph Bender Schein. In 2001, the breed was recognized by the Brazilian Cynological Confederation (CBKC), which contributed to the popularization and spread of the Compeiro. In 2001, 100 dogs were registered, in 2005, 500, and in 2010, over 2,000. About 800 of these belonged to the largest Brazilian Bulldog kennel, Canil Molosso di Jerivá.

Appearance

The Brazilian Bulldog is a stocky, medium-sized dog with a nearly square build, muscular, and fairly heavy, with strong bones, a large head, and a broad chest. Viewed from above, the dog should be relatively broad at the shoulders and narrow at the loin. Sexual dimorphism is well-defined.

Height at withers: 48-58 cm;
Weight ― 35-45 kg.

The head is powerful, with prominent cheeks, wide jaws, and loose skin, but without unnecessary wrinkles. The skull is fairly broad, flat between the ears, and the stop is well defined. The muzzle is short, wide, and square. The nose is well developed and black. The ears are medium-sized, triangular, and drooping. The eyes are oval, medium in size, and as dark as possible in color. The bite is undershot (no more than 3 cm). The jaws are massive, wide, and square. The neck is of medium length, with folds of skin on the neck.

The back is moderately short. The chest is very broad and deep. The belly is slightly tucked up. The croup is rounded. The tail is set low, medium length, and thick at the base. The limbs are relatively short or medium length, with strong bone and well-developed muscles. The paws are slightly turned outward, and the toes are arched. The pads are firm and thick.

The coat is smooth, short, and medium in texture. Any color is acceptable.

Character and behavior

The Brazilian Bulldog is a courageous, loyal, strong, and quiet dog. Calm and balanced, very persistent, and possessing a strong fighting spirit. It obeys hierarchies and adapts easily to a variety of living conditions. With proper training, it is quite manageable and obedient. It can be stubborn. It requires persistent training without the use of force. Early socialization is essential.

The Brazilian Bulldog is well-developed territorial. It is wary of strangers, but not overly aggressive. It does not bark unnecessarily. Its personality is very similar to that of the boxerHe is also devoted to his owner. Reliable, he forms strong bonds with all family members and gets along well with children. He gets along with both small and large pets. He is able to live and work with other dogs. Conflicts between males are possible.

Content Features

The Brazilian Bulldog is adapted to year-round outdoor living in Brazil. In colder climates, it is better suited to indoor living. Like other similar breeds, the Compeiro is a moderate drooler and often snores and wheezes when sleeping.

Moderate exercise is required. Unless the dog works on a farm, it should be walked at least an hour daily. Most Brazilian Bulldogs enjoy active play and swimming, and can be companions for jogging and cycling. They are suitable for sports. Bulldogs are most often used for weight pulling. Some dogs are more lazy and calm, depending not only on their personality but also on their training. Exercise should be limited to daytime activities during hot weather.

Care

The Compeiro doesn't require any special grooming. Its short coat only requires occasional brushing to minimize shedding. Bathing is required every two months or less frequently. Owners should also keep its ears, skin, and nails clean. Regular teeth brushing is recommended.

Health and life expectancy

Most Brazilian Bulldogs are generally healthy. Breeding dogs are routinely screened for hip dysplasia. Some are prone to skin conditions and allergies. There is a risk of developing tumors. Respiratory problems and cardiovascular disease are rare. Life expectancy is 10-12 years.

Where to buy a Brazilian Bulldog puppy

In Brazil, there are about 200 kennels breeding compeiro. Bulldogs from different lines often differ greatly from each other. Some breeders prefer short dogs, similar to English bulldog, while others breed taller and slimmer ones in the type American BulldogIt's best to look for a breeder and a puppy for sale through the Brazilian Bulldog Club (Clube do Buldogue Camoeiro). Outside of Brazil, the breed is very rare. There are a few kennels in other South American countries and the United States. There is no information on kennels or representatives of the breed in Russia.