Bullwhip -- English Bulldog X Whippet

		Bullwhip
		He is not recognized by the F.C.I.


Origin			Great Britain -> U.S.A.
Translation			Francis Vandersteen

A brief presentation of the Bullwhip

The Bullwhip is a specific crossbreed, as they are a mixture between two pure breeds. The English Bulldog and Whippet are the parents of this dog, which makes them calm, gentle and friendly. However, it's important to socialize your dog well, especially this breed, as it can be aggressive if not well trained. These dogs are intelligent but independent and can be difficult to train, so keep this in mind if you're considering the breed but are a new dog owner. When raised correctly, these dogs are gentle, happy, healthy animals that can get along well with children.

History of the Bullwhip

Since these dogs are not purebreds, there's not much documented information about their origins. They were recently bred by crossing a English Bulldog with a Whippet. Eventually, these two wonderful breeds gave birth to the Bullwhip. Although these two dogs are very different, they form a unique and sympathetic dog when mixed.

	A little of the English Bulldog
	In 16th century England, this is where and when the English Bulldog was born. They were used as bull-baiting dogs, which was a spectator sport in those days. It was thought that it would wait for the meat and required strong, brave and aggressive dogs. However, after bull-baiting was banned, the breed was modified into a gentle, non-aggressive dog, while retaining its courage.

	Standard of the English Bulldog
	A little of the Whippet
	The Whippet has a different history, only existing for around 200 years so far, as they were only bred in the 1700s. They are closely related to the Greyhound and Italian Greyhound, and share physical characteristics almost identical to these breeds apart from their smaller size. The name Whippet comes from the expression "to whip", meaning to move very quickly. These dogs originated in northern England and worked with poachers to hunt and flush out small prey, such as rabbits. They are very fast little dogs, also appreciated for their participation in rag races.

	Standard of the Whippet

Appearance of the Bullwhip

These dogs can be medium to large in size and will take on certain physical characteristics of the English Bulldog and Whippet. They will have floppy ears, but a body type that may vary. Depending on the dog's dominant parent, they can be either thin and lean, resembling the Whippet, or more muscular and stocky like the English Bulldog. Other characteristics that can be taken from the English Bulldog are short legs, loose skin and huge heads. They have short, broad muzzles with deep, wide stops. Their noses are black with large nostrils, deep dark eyes and small, high pink ears. They have massive, square, wide jaws, hanging upper lips and an underbite. Their tails are carried low, straight or screwed. Whippets are medium-sized, with long, lean skulls and large spaces between the ears. Their muzzles have almost no stop and taper down to their dark noses. The teeth of this breed will meet in a scissor bite, and the small, pink, folded ears will be held back, pricking slightly when alert. They have straight legs and thick feet. Tails are long and tapered, curving upward near the end but kept low.

Temperament of the Bullwhip

In general, these dogs are happy and cheerful and can be wonderful pets that are very good with children. However, if not trained properly, they can become aggressive. Therefore, it's important that they undergo proper obedience and socialization as puppies. As long as they are thoroughly socialized when young, Bullwhip can also be good with dogs and other pets. They can be suitable pets for new owners, but are sometimes difficult to train and, therefore, someone with former dog experience may have an easier time. This hybrid breed is quite social and generally very calm. They are intelligent but independent, which is why they can sometimes be difficult to train. Consistency will be necessary, and the use of treats or other forms of positive reinforcement will help motivate them to learn. English Bulldog are good guard dogs, but Whippets are not. Therefore, the presence of the guard dog instinct will depend on the personality the dog develops individually. Remember, too, that the Whippet was a hunter of small prey. For this reason, the Bullwhip may enjoy hunting small pets.

Needs and activities of the Bullwhip

The Bullwhip is a very active breed that will do well with an owner who likes to keep busy and exercise, and can take them for walks, hikes and runs. This breed can adapt to apartment living if need be, but will do best in a home with a yard, or at least access to a large space in which to run and explore. It's important to give your dog mental stimulation. as well as physical. They are talented in many dog sports and activities, such as agility, obedience and figure training.

Maintenance of the Bullwhip

The general coat care and grooming needs of this breed are average, as they shed moderately. To keep their coat in perfect condition, brush them promptly every other day. Their heat tolerance depends mainly on their coat type, but these dogs generally don't do well in cold weather. So bear in mind that they may be sensitive to extremely hot or cold temperatures. As with all dogs, the Bullwhip should let its teeth be brushed at least two or three times a week, although daily is preferable. Ear infections can develop in any breed of dog, but are even more common in dogs with floppy ears, so it's important to check and wipe your pet's ears once a week. Your dog should also have his nails trimmed regularly. Depending on your pet's activity level and natural rate of wear, he should have his nails trimmed once or twice a month.