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American Bullnese
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The American Bullnese is a small, muscular dog that was developed in the United States primarily for the purpose of companionship. The Breed Founder, Robert "Bobby" Rice wanted a dog that would exhibit a happy and "clownish" temperament in conjunction with its small muscular build. It was first bred in 1989, primarily from the French Bulldog, Pekingese and Boston Terrier along with other breeds including the Pug, and Dachshund. Origin of the Breed The American Bullnese was created by a breeding program started by Robert Rice of Jacksonville, Florida, in 1989. The breeding program depended heavily upon pedigree research, as line breeding was a technique used to increase consistency in the litters. By selectively breeding dogs with outgoing, happy, and confident temperaments, combined with the desired physical features, Rice was successful in developing the American Bullnese. The American Bulldog was not used in the development of the American Bullnese and it is not just a simple cross of two breeds of dogs. The American Bullnese is actually a blend of five breeds of dogs. Robert Rice picked the French Bulldog and Pekingese to be the base for the breed. He later added the Pug, Boston Terrier, and Dachshund. Temperament The American Bullnese is a natural clown, known for its sense of humor and antics. Their size and laidback demeanor make them perfect for country or city living. These are true companion dogs who prefer cuddling to playing ball—they make excellent lap warmers. Because of their long backs and short legs, exercise them a few short times a day rather than taking them on long hikes. The American Bullnese rarely barks and if he does its often to draw attention, to point that he needs something or just because he is not happy. American Bullnese can easily live with other breeds when the proper introductions are done. Characteristics General Appearance The American Bullnese should look like an active muscular dog, of heavy bone, and should imply courage and boldness. They are heavy in front, with a deep broad chest with well sprung ribs and broad shoulders. In proportion, they should be built low to the ground with short forelegs that are slightly bowed with a lean muscular build. The hind legs should be firm, well shaped and long. The American Bullnese should have a long body, with a tail that is slightly curled and almost sickle-like. Males American Bullnese are commonly taller and heavier, standing between tall and weighting between , with females commonly between and averaging around . The head should be large and square, The stop should be well defined causing a hollow or groove between the eyes. The muscles of the cheeks should be well developed. The flews should be thick and broad, hanging over the lower jaw. The withers should be relaxed, with thick with loose skin at the dewlap. The eyes of the American Bullnese should be round in form, facing forward and quite large. The ears should be velvety with a soft fold. Coat The coat of an American Bullnese should be soft, dense and short. They can vary in color and coat pattern. Common colors and patterns are commonly black, tan, beige, buff, (including apricot), brown, , cream, white, silver, brindle and . Breed Faults Breed faults for the American Bullnese can be erect ears, a screw tail and/or a long coat. Health The American Bullnese are generally a very hardy and healthy breed. Their lifespan is usually from 9 to 15 years of age. They, like any other breed, have concerns to watch out for especially if you are planning breeding. * Major concerns: ** Stenotic Nares ** Elongated Soft Palate ** Intervertebral Disc Degeneration ** Hemivertebrae * Minor concerns: ** Canine Hip Dysplasia ** Patellar Luxation ** Entropion * Occasionally seen: ** Distichiasis ** Cataract ** Deafness Note: This breed does not tolerate heat as well as many longer-nosed breeds. American Bullnese, however, do well in hot climates like Florida and Texas as long as care is taken to not expose them to extreme conditions. Breed Clubs and Modern Recognition The American Bullnese is recognised by several registries such as the Continental Kennel Club and World Wide Kennel Club. The overwhelming majority of the stud records are maintained by the American Bullnese Association. The American Bullnese Association serves as a registry and is a keeper of the stud records for all American Bullnese that are registered with it. 
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