How to Buy a Healthy English Bulldog Puppy
According to the Bulldog Club of America, bulldogs are among the 25 most popular breeds in the country. English Bulldogs make popular pets because they tend to be loyal and good-natured, making them ideal as family pets. However, they are prone to certain conditions and genetic defects, such as hip dysplasia, as well as the general health problems that can plague any dog. It's important to buy a healthy English Bulldog puppy to help avoid heartbreak.
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Instructions
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Do some research to make sure you really want to buy an English Bulldog puppy. You may love the breed, but do you know all about its traits and quirks? Will its personality and temperament fit into your lifestyle? For example, according to the Bulldog Information Library, because of their short snouts, English Bulldogs tend to drool and snore. You must be prepared to deal with these quirks.
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If you decide an English Bulldog is right for you, research private breeders. You may see cute English Bulldog puppies at the local pet store, but they are often overpriced and may come from questionable sources. You will have a better chance at getting a healthy puppy if you buy direct from a reputable dealer. The Bulldog Club of America offers a referral service, and you can also find breeders by visiting dog shows.
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Contact several likely breeders and ask them for references. Contact all of the references and ask about the health of their English Bulldogs, as well as their satisfaction with the breeder and the overall purchase experience. If a breeder is reluctant to give referrals, cross her off the list.
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Narrow down your breeder list based on feedback from the referrals, and make an appointment to see the English Bulldog puppies at the breeders on your short list. As difficult as it may be, resolve not to purchase a puppy on your first visit to any of the breeders. Your first visit will be for research purposes.
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As you visit each breeder, make note of the cleanliness of the facility and the general health of the breeding dogs and puppies. Insist on seeing where the dogs are kept and seeing the parents as well as the puppies. If the breeder refuses, cross him off your list, as he may be trying to hide puppy-mill conditions. You are much more likely to get a healthy English Bulldog from a clean, well-kept facility with healthy, well-cared-for dogs. Make sure all of the puppies have had basic health care, such as their first shots.
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Ask each breeder about her policy for returns and how she handles puppies that turn out to have health problems and genetic defects. English Bulldogs are prone to certain conditions that can range from mild skin conditions to crippling problems like hip dysplasia. If the breeder is evasive or won't stand behind her English Bulldog puppies, cross her off your list. Breeders who sell healthy puppies will be willing to stand behind them with a fair policy.
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When you have narrowed down your list and selected a breeder and puppy, ask the breeder if he will allow you to bring the puppy to your own veterinarian for a health checkup before you purchase it. Make sure you choose the veterinarian rather than using the breeder's doctor, as that can cause a conflict of interest. If the English Bulldog passes the exam, you can have reasonable confidence that it is healthy and safe to purchase.
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Tips & Warnings
If you would like to save some money, search local animal shelters or bulldog rescue groups for an adoptable English Bulldog. You may be able to find a puppy or young dog. If you find an adult English Bulldog, don't count it out. When a dog has reached adulthood, its personality is established, so you will know exactly what you are getting. Also, you will know that no health problems have shown up so far.
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- Photo Credit Photo: Wikimedia Commons (brykmantra)
