General Question Questions Before Getting a Bulldog

[bulldog123]

Hi,

I'm new here, but I thought it was essential to try and do as much reading and research before *hopefully* picking up an English Bulldog. Our Boston Terrier has recently passed away, and we think it's time for a new member to join our family, and we are really keen on the English Bulldog, which kind of has similar features to our beloved Boston terrier, just a lot more chunkier (i guess thats one way to describe it ).

We are aware of the breed health issues, and that's just one of the things that I'm kind of having doubts about. For example, there is a website I have been reading (http://www.bulldogbreed.info/the-history-of-the-british-bulldog/british-bulldog-health-issues) and it's listing quite a few health problems associated with the English Bulldog - in fact I'm totally aware if you enter any breed into Google, then it brings back a load of health problems for that breed. However, I would really appreciate any advice from Bulldog owners to how accurate these health issues are? I also understand that hot climates aren't too good for Bulldogs, that's good for us as we live in England, however we do annually visit Spain a few times a year and like to take our dogs - would this be suitable for a Bulldog?

Another quick question is, although the Bulldog looks like a meanie, how well do they get along with other dogs and cats?

If anyone in the UK can recommend a reputable breeder, that they have purchased from that would be great too!

Thanks in advance!

 

[dolphin]

Hi there, welcome to EBN. As long as the weather is right you can travel with your bulldog. They're extremely sensitive to the heat so that's a big concern. Bulldogs get along great with other dogs and cats as long as they are exposed to them early in life, puppy socialization is really important. This website will give you the most info on bulldogs and the members on here are super helpful. Take a look around and feel free to ask any questions you have. We can't give any breeder tips but anyone can respond back through a private message with help. Good luck in your search!

 

[Bella and Dozers Dad]

Welcome to EBN!!
I think it's great your taking the time to research the breed first before getting one, will just say there is no other breed of dog out there like a EBD they are one of a kind.

 

[Bulldozersma]

EBN will be a great resource for you in your quest for a new family member. It's true that every breed has health issues.
Good luck in your search!!!

 

[bulldog123]

Hi, thanks for the warm welcome. I'm trying not to sold on making this decision by just seeing your bulldog pictures haha! Thanks for the advice about the warm climate, I'll be sure to read more posts.

 

[Pati Robins]

Hi and welcome to the forum (waving from Cardiff uk ) i would look at kc reputable breeders in your area , contact them to see if they got any planned litters or pups, make sure both parents are tested for huu (and both clear) pup nostrils are wide etc , there are plenty of breeders and sadly many of them are not health tested , good pedigree will not guarantee you a healthy pup but good caring breeder that will support you is a start , make sure they make a puppy contract with you -as sone of them give you week to vet check pup yourself, or perhaps offer some kind of health guarantee
If you got any questions please let me know x

 

[schimpfy]

Health issues are always a problem but some issues can be lessened by proper food and proper breeder. In most cases you get what you pay for, look for an established breeder see the dogs in person and how they are being handled. Talk with the breeders vet be as informed as you can this is a member of your family that will be with you furever. Good luck Welcome and hope to see pics of your choice. I have a Frenglish half french half english will be about 30 - 40 lbs and have learned so much here but more than that a place to vent, learn , laugh and appreciate one another. See what you got yourself into - HUGS

 

[ddnene]

Health issues are always a problem but some issues can be lessened by proper food and proper breeder. In most cases you get what you pay for, look for an established breeder see the dogs in person and how they are being handled. Talk with the breeders vet be as informed as you can this is a member of your family that will be with you furever. Good luck Welcome and hope to see pics of your choice. I have a Frenglish half french half english will be about 30 - 40 lbs and have learned so much here but more than that a place to vent, learn , laugh and appreciate one another. See what you got yourself into - HUGS

Hmm speaking of which, we haven't seen a pic of that adorable baby Chance in awhile… I think it's time for an update!!! Eh [MENTION=2894]2BullyMama[/MENTION] Lol

 

[ddnene]

Welcome to the world of EB… First off I want to THANK YOU for asking questions BEFORE you get your baby, so many people don't do their research beforehand. I think you bully will do well in England, we have many members from there… As long as you make sure the parents have good breeding (and have your puppy checked by a vet) you shouldn't have too many issues. Phil is so right about puppy socialization, that helps to get them used to other animals early on. Good luck in your search!!!

 

[bulldog123]

Hey, this is some really good advice you guys are given me here. I didn't want to sound stupid, but thought it's best asking as a lot of information is contradicting when searching on the Internet. As well as a boston terrier, we have also owned a bull mastiff - so we're kind of familiar with the bull type breeds, but in terms of dog aggression, is that a trait of a english bulldog, because most I see seem quite laid back and kind of like a gentle giant? I understand all dogs should be socialised at an early age though, especially around other dogs and kids.

 

[Pati Robins]

Bullies are not really aggressive -i had a pleasure owning bull breeds for most of my life but bulldog is nothing like any bull breeds -they are something else ;-)
They can be stubborn , learn slowly (potty training) can get upset at you ,give you stink eye ,but on the other hand they are clowns, master beggars, know how to make you laugh ,and their bully kisses rock they are also very carrying breed and pretty much "people dog" they love human contact -and when we call them our babies they really are ;-)

 

[bulliemommi]

Depending on the tail, you may have to wipe it out often (poop gets collected in there) and it's not the funnest job. You need to keep wrinkles dry and moisture free. You may need to buy a lot of products for your baby - good food, wipes, powder, good shampoo, flea preventative, and eye wash/ear wash. They need a watchful eye and good care. Just make sure you have time for all of this and $$ for any issues that could come up, and you're good. I can't tell you how much we've spent on our guy with just mild issues, but he's worth it and my baby.

And please find a good breeder. I wish we had researched ours first. He has entropion but not bad enough for surgery.

Good luck!! (And always said, next dog, would love a Boston Terrier. So sor for your loss. Those doggies seem soo cool too.)

 

[tyree213]

Those health problems are pretty accurate for the breed. To try and avoid them is the hardest part. You have to really do your research on the breeders. From my experience with the breed the most common issues I have seen are Stenotic Nares, Issues with eyes, and skin problems. Look for a breeder that does genetic testing, will allow you to come view where their dogs are taken care of, and find out about any health guarantee they provide. They are a high maintenance breed, and feeding them a high quality food is a must.

Good luck!