It's not surprising you want a bulldog. They are amazing dogs and immediately steal your heart. But do you really know what it means to take on having a bulldog in the family and all that comes with it? Here's what you need to know to make sure a bulldog is your perfect match.
Bulldogs are teddy bears with funny personalities. A bulldog is not aggressive and can be awesome with kids and families when well socialized. While their origin comes from aggressive violence, bulldogs are centuries past being the mean sporting dogs they were in the 17th and 18th centuries.
Be prepared to chill out. Bulldogs do not need a lot of exercise. In fact, they generally prefer none. They love the comfort of air conditioned air and a cushy bed in what they will consider to be their home that they permit you to live in. Of course they need brief potty break "walks" and will occasionally get the zoomies. Most of the time they want a piece of the couch, a chew toy to knawl on, and some love. Bulldogs do well as riders, enjoying a covered pet stroller or a ride on a golf cart. There are bulldogs who do like action and adventure. If you introduce your puppy to more activity and being outdoors you can condition them to hike or swim with you. Keep in mind, bulldogs are not good at regulating their internal temperatures and are sensitive to overheating. Be vigilant of their breathing and avoid hot days. (Side note about swimming - because of their stocky build, most bulldogs swim like a brick. Introduce them to water carefully, never leave them unattended near water, and try a good life jacket for their safety.)
That squishy face you love so much needs a lot of care. You will need to clean your pup's face daily with a soft wet, soapy cloth or even just a cotton ball or swab. They are prone to red tear stains from yeast and bacteria building up. If left unchecked too long, it can lead to infection. Don't forget the ears, the tail pocket, and between the toes. All of these spots need monitoring and regular cleaning.
If you're a light sleeper or love for your home to be a serene, quiet space for you to relax you might want a different dog. Bulldogs have their own symphony of sound. Farts, belches, snores, snorts, and even a Chewbacca like language, sounds abound from a bulldog.
Consider investing in a good pet insurance policy. Bulldogs are not only expensive to breed and to buy, bulldogs are expensive to maintain and care for. It's critical you select a quality, respectable breeder who selects their breeding animals based on the health and temperament they will pass on to the pups. The higher the quality the dam and sire, the better the quality of the pups and generally the better health. Bulldogs can be prone to many diseases.
There's a lot of responsibility in keeping a bulldog. Make sure you've considered all the aspects of a bulldog in your family before investing in one. You owe it to the dog to make sure you're the right fit.
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