How to Understand Why Bulldogs are Expensive

Bulldogs are such goofy, wonderful dogs, but that's not the reason they are so expensive. Read on for the reasons bulldogs cost more than most dogs.

Instructions

1. Realize that before breeding of bulldogs takes place, ethical, responsible breeders will have the parents undergo health screenings that can average several hundred dollars. The screenings are to detect the variety of genetic disorders that are inherited in bulldogs.

2. Know that many bulldogs are bred at a veterinarian's office through artificial insemination, which can average from about $300 to $500. Bulldogs that breed naturally run the risk of heat stroke.

3. Understand that bulldog mothers generally give birth through cesarean section; natural birth is too risky for their health due to various reasons including their smaller hips and birth canal and the large heads of the puppies. Bulldogs can die while whelping puppies naturally.

   Bulldogs also tend to have smaller litters than other dogs, therefore breeders tend to choose a cesarean delivery in order to cut the risk of losing puppies.

4. Figure that the average cost of breeding and whelping bulldog puppies can run as high as a couple of thousand dollars. If complications arise, costs can exceed over $5,000.

5. Understand that after bulldog puppies are born they are usually kept in an incubator for as long as 2 to 4 weeks. The equipment and supplies required can add up.

6. Be aware that once the puppies are ready to join their mother, the mother can only stay with them during nursing time. It is too risky to leave the mother with her pups because bulldogs tend to be clumsy and might accidentally step on, lie down on or injure their puppies.

Tips & Warnings

• There is no way around it; breeding a bulldog ethically and responsibly is costly.

• If you have trouble with the purchase price of a bulldog from a breeder, strongly consider adopting a bulldog or other breed instead. The money you would spend at a breeder doesn't end with the purchase price. Since bulldogs tend to have genetic deficiencies and run a higher risk of health disorders, you will also likely be spending more money on vet bills than you would for the average dog.

• Never buy a bulldog from a pet store. That is an automatic red flag. Pet stores purchase dogs from irresponsible and inhumane puppy mills and backyard breeders and then sell them for large sums of money. Responsible breeders would never sell their puppies to a pet store.