So you want an English bulldog, huh? I don’t blame you. Who can resist the squishy face? The wrinkles? The swine-like snort? The bulldog waddle? It comes as no surprise that English bulldogs are one of the top ten most popular dog breeds in the United States, as measured by the AKC top ten list–and their popularity is growing! (See here) However, there are some things you should know about before rushing out and purchasing a bulldog. Oftentimes, these aspects are ignored when a new owner really wants a bulldog and convinces herself that everything will be fine. Do not do this! Consider the points made below before purchasing an English bulldog. Otherwise, you may find yourself in a very undesirable situation.
1. EXPENSE: Bulldogs are expensive. Very expensive. And I am not just referring to the initial cost of a puppy, which ranges anywhere from $1,800-4,000 from reputable breeders (purchasing a bulldog from a pet store is a bad idea. Your dog will likely be plagued with health issues, and this will cost you a fortune in the long run).
Bulldogs have notoriously bad health because they are bred for a “look”. Reputable breeders do their best to breed strains with good genetics, but the breed as a whole has a myriad of health issues that you must be prepared to face should you encounter them.
Bulldogs have eye problems and often require corrective surgery. Their are prone to allergies. The inside of their folds can become infected if they are not regularly cleaned. Their soft palate can be elongated, causing breathing difficulties and requiring surgery. They are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. They get hot spots. They puke a lot. Their tail is sometimes too short and screwed too tightly, requiring cleaning around the tail and anus area.
Certainly, every dog breed has its set of breed-specific issues. But the English bulldog breed has a much larger set of issues.
2. HEAT SENSITIVITY: Bulldogs are very sensitive to heat. And by sensitive I do not mean that your bulldog will just be very uncomfortable in the heat–I mean that it can be fatal. Bulldogs overheat, their throat closes, and they stop breathing. So if you live in Miami and are looking for a dog to stroll to stroll down Ocean Drive with, you’re considering the wrong breed. Of course, bulldogs can go outside in 80 degree weather, but not for an extended period of time. You must monitor your bulldog when it is hot out.
In a similar vein: Does your home get hot in the summertime? If you do not own an AC unit, a bulldog may be the wrong choice. True, with shade and ventilation your dog will probably be okay, but you’re going to put up with incessant panting and an uncomfortable dog.
3. EXERCISE: Do you want your dog to run with you? You’re looking at the wrong breed. Bulldogs enjoy–and require–exercise, but in moderate amounts. A 20 minute run with your bulldog is out of the question . A better exercise choice for bulldogs is a 20 minute walk in temperate weather.
On the other hand, if you’re more of a couch potato, you’re in luck. Bulldogs love to lounge and are very affectionate, so get ready for a snoring bulldog on your lap.
4. INTERACTION: Bulldogs enjoy being with people. Although they may act standoffish at points, they are still comforted by your presence and attention. If you’re going to be away during the day and busy at night, a bulldog may not be the right choice for your family. Bulldogs like to play–and expect you to play back with them. Sending your bulldog to doggy daycare during the day is a great way to entertain your dog, but it is not a replacement for your lack of attention.
5. STUBBORNNESS. Bulldogs are stubborn! Once they get an idea in their head, it can be difficult to dissuade them. This can make training a bit more challenging, and requires a strong personality during walks (if, for example, your bully has decided that he absolutely must cross the street).
QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF BEFORE PURCHASING A BULLDOG
Can I afford to purchase a dog from a reputable breeder and not a pet store? Furthermore, can I afford medical bills beyond regular check ups, such as a surgery bill and/or medicine? If you can, you’ve tackled one of the major hurdles of owning a bully. Remember to never purchase a dog, especially a bulldog, from a pet store. These dogs often come from puppy mills, which breed dogs in quantity (not for quality) and under horrendous conditions. Minimize your dog’s negative health and temperament risks by purchasing from a reputable breeder! If you cannot afford to purchase a bulldog from a reputable breeder, you probably cannot afford to own a bulldog.
Am I planning on leaving my bulldog outside in the yard during the summertime for extended periods of time? If so, you’ve chosen the wrong breed.
Am I planning on having my bulldog exercise with me? Unless you’re walking, a bulldog is out.
Does background noise drive me crazy? Your bulldog will often be wheezing, snorting, and snoring. If you plan on having your dog sleep in your bedroom, but need absolute silence to fall asleep, you’re choosing the wrong breed. On the plus side, bulldogs bark very rarely.
Do I want a dog that will leave me alone most of the time? Your bulldog may very well crawl on your lap if you’re on the couch, and no amount of pleading will get him off.
Do I want to engage in play, such as tug-o-war? Get ready for some sore arms!
Do I have the right personality to be stern with my dog? If you’re a pushover, your bulldog will walk all over you.
If you’ve established yourself as a good bulldog owner then get ready to own one of the most charismatic, amusing and loving breeds around. They are truly unique, wonderful pets that thrive under the right owners. Bulldogs are excellent with children, require little grooming of the fur, are low-energy, are rarely “in your face”, and love being with people. Enjoy your bully!
