Hello all. I am considering an English Bulldog as a possible dog for me in the near future, however I come to you with questions/concerns in hopes that you guys, with personal experience can help clear it up.
I LOVE Bulldogs. Perfect dog for me. Moderate exercise, couch potatoes, funny, friendly guys. Only things that worry me are the short life spans, and vet bills.
Are these things exaggerated? I would be happy if my dog passed at 11,12+ years.. that's a pretty good life, but I heard Bulldogs on average only live till about 8? Is there any way this short life span can be extended, other than the obvious keeping up on it's health and regular vet visits?
Which brings me to my next point, are the vet bills also exaggerated, or is the over-expensiveness of them a reality? This isn't as big of a deal, but just curious.
Also one last question; how are bulldogs with strangers? I am looking for a dog that is friendly, but that is aloof with strangers, in that they won't just go with anyone that gives them a rub. How are EBs in this department? good, bad, so-so?
I LOVE Bulldogs. Perfect dog for me. Moderate exercise, couch potatoes, funny, friendly guys. Only things that worry me are the short life spans, and vet bills.
Are these things exaggerated? I would be happy if my dog passed at 11,12+ years.. that's a pretty good life, but I heard Bulldogs on average only live till about 8? Is there any way this short life span can be extended, other than the obvious keeping up on it's health and regular vet visits?
Which brings me to my next point, are the vet bills also exaggerated, or is the over-expensiveness of them a reality? This isn't as big of a deal, but just curious.
Also one last question; how are bulldogs with strangers? I am looking for a dog that is friendly, but that is aloof with strangers, in that they won't just go with anyone that gives them a rub. How are EBs in this department? good, bad, so-so?