How to Select an English Bulldog

If you want a friendly and playful companion who will also protect you and your property, then an English Bulldog is the breed of dog for you. He may look tough, with that intimidating overbite, but he is a real sweetheart under all those wrinkles.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access
• Yellow pages
• Research notes

1. Research breeders of English Bulldogs on the Internet to find one in your area. Most locales have several due to the popularity of this breed. A personal visit to meet the breeder is recommended.

2. Be prepared to pay a considerable sum if buying a purebred English Bulldog of high quality directly from a breeder. English Bulldog pups are almost always born by Caesarean section, resulting in a high-priced dog.

3. Check shelters and English Bulldog rescue clubs in your area for dogs who need a forever home. You will be amazed at the number of purebred dogs who end up in shelters.

4. Consider adopting an adult, settled dog from a shelter or rescue, as they are often housebroken and past the puppy stage of chewing.

Tips & Warnings

• Apartment living suits the English Bulldog. They are compact, sturdy dogs who don't take a lot of space.
• The English Bulldog, as a breed, is gentle with and tolerant of children.
• Be prepared to spend time playing with your English Bulldog. These dogs do not require a lot of grooming maintenance but do insist on a lot of attention.
• English Bulldogs are prone to allergies that can result in high vet bills and the cost of special foods.
• Two characteristics of English Bulldogs are snoring and drooling. If these bother you, then you may want to choose another breed.
• Overheating is a problem for English Bulldogs. They should not spend much time outdoors when it is hot.

Resources

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