English Bulldog and General Dog Information

Hi everyone,
I'm a newbie to this board so please bare with me if what I ask seems to be somewhat ignorant!

My husband and I are looking into getting an English Bulldog, I was wondering if anyone here either has one or at least has had some kind of interaction with them.

We've read on the internet that they are very docile, easy-going, even tempered dogs who get along well with people. I haven't read anything specifically relating to how they are with kids. This is an important factor as we are planning to have children.

So if anyone here has any info they could share, I would REALLY appreciate it!

One last question...

Can anyone recommend where we could get one? I've heard of "puppymills" though honestly, I'm not very sure what constitutes one. Again, if anyone could shed some light for us, I would greatly appreciate it!

Thanks!
Jenn

Message edited 1/2/2008 11:45:45 PM.

Re: English Bulldog and General Dog Information

PrettyInPink has one and here is a link to her thread re: English Bulldogs.Thread

You also might want to try FMing her for more info. I know a friend of mne had one and he was very sweet.

Stay away from Pet Stores and try looking on the AKC website for reputable breeders or check out the Long Island Bulldog Rescue or Petfinders.

Good luck in your search!

Re: English Bulldog and General Dog Information

My DH and I are currently looking to adopt an English Bulldog and have been researching the breed for two years.

They are wonderful dogs, we have had a lot of interactions with them at dog shows, with bully owners, and at breeders.

They are still "puppies" in the sense that they will play and want to have fun. As they get older, they tend to like to sleep and are good with kids and other pets. They should not be in conditions too hot nor too cold and from what I've heard, they tend to not learn "tricks" like rolling over.

The cons of the breed is that they tend not to live as long as other breeds, slobber when they drink their water, snore, have bad gas, prone to cherry eye, and are prone to breathing problems. You have to clean their "folds" consistently to keep them clean.

I also suggest the LI Bulldog Rescue and there are a few in NJ as well. There are a handful of breeders around but I would be careful because they must be breed well - they have a difficult childbirth and can "go for" a lot of money so as with all dogs they are prone (even more so IMO) to the puppy mill-type industry.

FM me if you have anyother questions and good luck! :)

Re: English Bulldog and General Dog Information

Thank you for the feedback ladies, I will be sure to look into the websites mentioned and FM Pinky...

Is there anyone else out there who could share any info?

Re: English Bulldog and General Dog Information

They are a great dog!! My older brother just passed away this past Halloween!! RIP Emmett!! But he was a great dog! They do need alot of Vet care! He had problems with his ears and eyes. Infections and what not. But over all he was great and a great cousin to my dog who is a pug!!

Denise

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Re: English Bulldog and General Dog Information

Re: English Bulldog and General Dog Information

I bought my ex an English Bulldog. Her family had previously had two Bulldogs. I know that a big problem with them are hip dysplasia(sp?) and breathing issues. The bulldogs are great pets to have with children and from my experience play well with other dogs.

Re: English Bulldog and General Dog Information

They definitely are prone to illness and must be taken care of properly. From all the folks I've talked to at rescue organizations, people don't realize the work involved. We are still committed though.

Here is a listing of breeders - I received this from someone who does rescues.
Breeders

And from the same site is a good discussion... Is a Bulldog right for me?

Re: English Bulldog and General Dog Information

Re: English Bulldog and General Dog Information

Re: English Bulldog and General Dog Information

I don't know about bulldogs but I do want to say kudos to you for doing your research first and not just running out and getting a dog. The world needs more dog owners like you Keep us posted on your search