Continental Bulldog (Pickwick)

The Continental Bulldog, also known as the Pickwick Bulldog, is a relatively new breed, developed to be a healthier and more agile version of the traditional English Bulldog. Despite its modern origins, this breed quickly gained popularity for its friendly nature and charming appearance.

The Continental Bulldog, which is distinguished from its English counterpart by having a slightly less pronounced build, is known for being robust, muscular, and compact. This helps the breed avoid some of the common health problems that come with being a Bulldog, especially joint and breathing problems.

In terms of temperament, Pickwicks are devoted, loving, and well-known for their close relationships with family members. It enjoys playing and relaxing, making it a great family companion. They may have a rough exterior, but they are kind and gentle around kids and other animals.

Characteristics of the breed Continental Bulldog

Another name for the Swiss Continental Bulldog is Pickwick, or simply Pickwick. It was intentionally bred to be a companion. The outcome is a happy, obedient, and loving dog that goes everywhere with its owner. She gets along well with other pets and adores kids.

Pickwicks can protect the home because they have a strong sense of territorial instinct. However, this is not an aggressive dog for home ownership; it is not one for a chain or an aviary. She is healthy, athletic, and agile in contrast to other bulldogs.

Pros

Any owner can benefit greatly from having a continental bulldog as a family dog or friend. It offers the following benefits:

• balanced temperament;
• people-oriented;
• no aggression;
• loyalty;
• docile nature;
• unpretentiousness, easy care;
• good health;
• ability to adapt to any conditions;
• no conflicts with other animals;
• no need for serious physical activity.

Cons

In other nations, the continental bulldog breed is still relatively uncommon and little known. As a result, getting a puppy is challenging and costly. However, these dogs do not have many drawbacks.

• they can be stubborn and difficult to train;
• sheds heavily, short hair is difficult to remove from furniture and carpets;
• do not tolerate loneliness;
• They freeze strongly in winter.

History of the origin of the Pickwick breed

Due to their numerous health issues, English bulldogs and other similar dog breeds were not allowed to be bred in Switzerland at the end of the 20th century, according to advocates for the zoo. This served as the foundation for the adoption of the animal protection law.

However, enthusiasts aimed to preserve the English bulldog breed. Imelda Angern, a Swiss breeder, started combining them with other breeds, including the resurrected Old English bulldogs. Her goal was to obtain a robust, healthy dog that adheres to traditional values and does not break any laws regarding animal protection.

A new breed known as the Pickwick Boldog of the Old Type (Pickwick Bulldogs Old Type) was introduced in 2001. The breeder was able to enhance the positive traits of the English bulldog while avoiding its negative traits. The dog proved to be robust, calm, energetic, and healthy. She was non-aggressive and focused on people.

The breed was officially recognized by the Swiss Kennel Club in 2004 and given the name Continental Bulldog. A breed club was established and a standard was developed. The FCI formally recognized the breed in 2022, and it was placed in the Molossus group.

Description of the appearance of Continental Bulldogs

The Continental Bulldog is a molossoid dog of medium size with a wide muzzle and short hair. The body is nearly square in shape, well-proportioned, and muscular. Expressive sexual dimorphism occurs. Bitches are typically 40–44 cm tall, while males can reach up to 46–50 cm. They are between 25 and 27 kg on average.

Head

The head appears large and nearly square, yet it still looks harmonious. The head’s back is convex, the stop is clearly defined, and the skull is flat. The muzzle is not flattened, but it is broad and relatively short. There are no issues when breathing. Shallow folds are formed by the skin on the cheeks and forehead.

The lower jaw is broad and may slightly project, but the teeth shouldn’t be seen. Large earlobes and broad nostrils necessitate blackness. The lips are plump and droop in little flutters, and the cheekbones are prominent. Pickwick Bulldogs, however, hardly ever drool.

The eyes are dark, round, and widely spaced. The eyelids close tightly, hiding the whites. The triangular, small ears are positioned high and closely together. They are rose-shaped, slender, and somewhat drooping.

Body

The neck lacks a dewlap but is thick, short, and has tiny folds. smoothly transitions into a withers that are obvious. The belly is somewhat tucked in, and the chest is deep and roomy with rounded ribs. The croup is rounded, and the back is short and broad with a slight narrowing at the loin. The tail has a thick base and is positioned low. Usually raised when in motion and freely lowered, but not twisted.

Limbs

Strong, somewhat thick, and short legs. Front legs widely apart and parallel. The thighs are long, the hindquarters are muscular, and the joints are defined and powerful. The toes are arched, the paws are compact and rounded, and the black claws are short. The dog can run at a trot or a gallop and is extremely energetic.

Wool and color

Only on the head does the skin, which is elastic and thin, form folds. The coat is shiny, short, and fits close. The undercoat sheds a lot and is thick and soft. The hues vary, mostly consisting of reddish-brown tones mixed with white, black, and brindle. One could see a dark mask on the muzzle.

The description of the appearance is enhanced by photos:

Character and education

The purpose of breeding Continental Bulldogs was to create a family-oriented dog breed for the house. These dogs are peaceful and submissive, with a well-balanced temperament. They don’t need a lot of physical activity and readily fit into the owner’s lifestyle. They enjoy active games and jogging as well as leisurely walks.

At home, the Pickwick acts composed, bonds with all members of the family, and interacts with them gently but quietly. It tries to spend more time with its owner even though it is very sad when there is no communication. He is gregarious, accommodating, upbeat, and playful. He gets along well with kids, doesn’t annoy young ones, and enjoys playing with teenagers.

Though not aggressive, these dogs are cautious around strangers. Although they won’t be a good watchdog, he will constantly alert the owner to any strangers approaching the property. While he is calm around other pets, occasionally fights break out between the males.

Characteristics of Pickwick Bulldogs include the following:

• friendly;
• non-aggressive;
• attentive;
• affectionate;
• sociable;
• loyal;
• obedient;
• calm;
• vigilant;
• self-confident.

Pickwick Bulldogs are docile, obedient, and simple to train. However, they require appropriate education and early socialization. The puppy may be lively and stubborn. It is best to work with a dog trainer to deal with him. It is important to prioritize methods of encouragement when training independently; using harsh language or physical punishment is not an option.

The unassuming Continental Bulldog fits right in with an apartment in the city. This is not a dog that belongs in the yard; it can’t be kept in an aviary or on a chain. It has a low threshold for loneliness and cold. Walking with the Pickwick twice a day for 40–60 minutes suffices; it does not require strenuous physical activity.

Such a pet is easy to care for; the only issues are occasional salivation and twice a year shedding. Use a gentle brush once a week to comb the coat. Baths can be taken every one to two months. It is crucial to wipe the muzzle’s folds with a dry cloth on a regular basis. Additionally, you must keep an eye on how well your teeth, ears, and eyes are cleaned.

Several of the drawbacks of its predecessors are not present in the Continental Bulldog. Its health is generally good; it doesn’t have any issues with breathing, the heart, or the joints. However, these dogs may experience bloating, obesity, eye conditions, and ear infections.

Additional images of this breed of dog:

Pickwick Bulldog, another name for the friendly and adaptive Continental Bulldog, is renowned for its robust health and well-balanced temperament. This breed, which was created as a healthier and more energetic variation of the classic English Bulldog, is devoted and playful, making it a wonderful friend for both individuals and families. Despite having the charm of a typical Bulldog, they are less likely to experience health problems than their cousins because of careful breeding that prioritizes longevity and well-being.

How to buy a continental bulldog puppy

Being a new breed, it hasn’t yet succeeded in becoming well-known worldwide. The majority of kennels are in Switzerland, though some are also in Germany and France. Just individual breeders in Russia. A puppy costs between 150 and 200 thousand rubles.

Pickwick, also known as the Continental Bulldog, is a lovable and balanced breed distinguished by its amiable nature and strong physical attributes. This canine friend is ideal for active people and families due to its strong physique and self-assured demeanor.

The Pickwick is unique in that it has a calm disposition. Because it is neither overly aggressive nor overly timid, it can adapt to a variety of settings. With the correct amount of maintenance and exercise, this breed can flourish whether you live in a home with a yard or an apartment in the city.

All things considered, the Continental Bulldog is a low-maintenance, devoted, and loving breed. It is an excellent addition to any home because of its friendly disposition and strong companionship traits.

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