Continental Bulldog (Pickwick Bulldog, Pickwick)
The Continental Bulldog (Pickwick Bulldog, Pickwick) is a relatively new breed developed in Switzerland by crossing English and Old English Bulldogs. The result is a medium-sized, Molossian-type dog that is athletic and agile, but sometimes a bit lazy, and very friendly and affectionate. It is considered a family dog and companion. The breed is not recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI).
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History of origin
The Continental Bulldog breed was developed by breeder Imilda Angern. Her goal was to create a medium-sized bulldog that would meet animal welfare legislation requirements: a respectable character, a unique appearance, and robust health. In the spring of 2001, Angern began a breeding program, crossing Old English And English bulldog, with the support of the Swiss Kennel Club. At first, the breed was called the Pickwick Bulldog of the Old Type, or simply the Pickwick.
The results obtained over several years were promising. It became clear that they would lead to the restoration of the Old English Bulldog. To avoid confusion, on September 15, 2004, a new name was chosen for the breed: Continental Bulldog (German: Continental Bulldog). Continental Bulldog).
Appearance
The Continental Bulldog (Pickwick) is a medium-sized, short-haired, Molossian-type dog with a powerful, square muzzle, strong bone structure, and well-developed muscles. Sexual dimorphism is pronounced.
- Height at the withers of males is 42-46 cm, weight is 25-30 kg;
- The height at the withers of bitches is 40-44 cm, weight is 22-27 kg.
The muzzle is broad, almost square. The bridge of the nose is straight. The skin on both sides of the muzzle forms folds, but not too deep. The nose is wide, with a distinct vertical furrow in the middle. The nostrils are well open. The tip of the nose is black. The lower jaw is broad and strong. The lips are fleshy, well pigmented at the edges. The teeth are strong, firmly set in the jaws, and vertical. The cheeks are slightly convex. The eyes are rounded, directed forward. The color is dark brown. The eyelids fit tightly. The ears are set high, thin, small, and the tips are almost level with the outer corners of the eyes.
The neck is strong, short, and arched. The withers are well defined. The back is straight and short. The chest is deep, reaching to the elbows. The belly is slightly tucked up. The legs are strong, straight, and powerful. The paws are arched, the toes are well-knit, with short nails. The hindquarters are very strong, with well-developed muscles. The loin is slightly sloping. The tail is set low, thick at the base, and tapers to a point.
The skin is tight-fitting and should not form wrinkles on the limbs or body, except on the muzzle. The coat consists of a guard hair and an undercoat. The guard hair is short, dense, smooth, glossy, and slightly bristly. The undercoat is fine and dense. Any color that matches the black pigmentation of the nose is acceptable: solid or brindle, with white markings, with or without a black mask. Brown and blue are undesirable.
Character and behavior
The Continental Bulldog is a reliable family dog, a versatile companion suitable for owners of any lifestyle and personality. The Pickwick Bulldog is moderately energetic, even-tempered, easily trained, alert and friendly, self-assured, and shows no signs of shyness or aggression. Among family members, he is very sociable and people-oriented. He gets along well with children, especially older ones, with whom he can play. He is a vigilant watchdog, but is not suitable for guarding or protecting.
The Continental Bulldog has incorporated the best traits of the English Bulldog, but is healthier and more athletic.
The Pickwick is always ready to accompany its owner anywhere, making it a perfect companion for leisurely walks, hikes, or jogs. It gets along well with other pets. Conflicts between males are rare. Bulldogs are highly territorial, so you can't expect them to calmly watch the neighbor's cats roam their property.
Continental Bulldog owners claim that these dogs are comfortable anywhere. They are calm and obedient, perfect for city apartments, non-aggressive toward people and other animals, and responsive and affectionate.
The Continental Bulldog requires early socialization and proper training. Only then will this playful little puppy grow into a calm and obedient adult.
Content Features
The Continental Bulldog is a companion dog that should live with its family, whether in a house or apartment. It is not suitable for outdoor living, requiring a lot of attention and constant companionship, and does not tolerate extreme cold well. The Pickwick should never be kept chained or confined in a crate. At home, moderate drooling and shedding may cause some discomfort. A well-groomed dog does not emit a strong odor.
Bulldogs require moderate exercise. However, much of this depends on the owner's lifestyle and the dog's temperament. On average, they need about 40 minutes of daily walks and playtime. Some bulldogs can be trained to be athletes, and therefore require more exercise. With proper training, a Continental Bulldog can become a jogging companion. They are always a great companion on long hikes and love outdoor excursions.
Care
The Continental Bulldog does not require complex grooming.
- Short hair simply needs to be brushed periodically with a natural bristle brush or a special mitt for short-haired breeds. During the shedding season, brushing will be required somewhat more frequently.
- Bathe as needed, usually once every 1-2 months.
- The ears are examined regularly and cleaned as needed.
- Owners also need to monitor the condition of their nails and trim them to the optimal length as they grow.
Health and life expectancy
The Continental Bulldog is a healthy dog with virtually no hereditary diseases. This is achieved through careful selection. Every dog used for breeding must be screened for hip and elbow dysplasia, undergo genetic testing for common ophthalmological diseases, and be free of heart disease and respiratory problems. Character and temperament are also assessed.
Where to buy a Continental Bulldog puppy
The best way to find breeders of this rare breed is through the Continental Bulldog Club Schweiz or similar organizations in other countries.
There are national clubs for the Continental Bulldog breed in Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and France.
In Russia, representatives of this breed can be counted on one hand. These are mostly dogs imported from Germany or Switzerland. In Ukraine, there is one Continental Bulldog kennel in Kyiv.
Price
The Swiss Continental Bulldog Club has set a recommended price of 2,500 Swiss pounds, which is approximately 167,000 rubles.
Photos and videos
The gallery features photos of continental bulldogs of different sexes, ages, and colors. In the photo, it's sometimes difficult to distinguish a Pickwickian from the newly created Old English Bulldog, but it's at least smaller than the latter.
Continental Bulldog (Pickwick) dogs on video
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