How to Raise Bulldog Puppies
Bulldog puppies are just about the cutest puppies there are. Those big heads and chubby bodies are so teddy bear-like that you just have to pick them up and give them a big hug--and take them home. However, because of some physical characteristics and personality quirks inherent in the breed, bulldog puppies need a bit more "raising," i.e. time, attention and effort, by their owners than other breeds. One look from those adorable big eyes, though, will make all the extra work worthwhile.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
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1
Keep the bulldog puppy cool. Because bulldogs are brachycephalic (have a pushed-in face), they have a hard time bringing in enough air by panting to keep cool in hot weather. Make sure your puppy is inside in air conditioning when the temperature rises above 80 degrees F and/or on very humid days. Monitor your pup's outdoor play in hot weather, and don't let it overheat. Heat exhaustion is a real possibility.
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2
Make the puppy part of the family. All dogs prefer to be with their pack, i.e. indoors with the family, but bulldogs in particular thrive on all the love and affection they can get from their owners. A happy bulldog puppy is a much-petted bulldog puppy.
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3
Start training early. Because of their independent natures, bulldogs are notoriously difficult to train. Start with the basics as soon as you bring your puppy home. Enroll it in a puppy kindergarten class as soon as its old enough, and make a commitment to lifelong bulldog training.
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4
Use positive training methods. Again, because of their independent natures, bulldogs have a "what's in it for me?" attitude when it comes to getting them to do what you want (as opposed to what they want). Because of this, training that relies on physical correction or other negatives just won't work on a bulldog--it will shut down and refuse to do what you ask. Be liberal with the treats and praise if you want a well-trained pup.
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5
Discourage your baby lap dog. Bulldogs like to be on your lap. When your puppy is young, this is not a big deal, and is actually quite cute. Consider how "cute" you'll think it is when a 60-lb. adult bulldog wants to sleep on your lap. If you don't cringe at the idea, continue to let your puppy cuddle on top of you. Otherwise, establish the "no-lap" rule early on. Your legs will thank you.
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