Bulldog history originates in England. The term Bulldog generally refers to the English version of the breed though there are also French and American Bulldogs. The original Bulldog, the Old English bulldog, was a large dog used to drive cattle. The English later bred these dogs to be aggressive and used them in gambling sports like bull baiting and dog fighting. When England passed the Cruelty to Animals Act of1849, bull baiting and dog fighting were banned and much of the population lost interest in the Bulldog.
In the 1800's, English Bulldog breeders began to breed toy versions of the Bulldog. These smaller versions were not popular in England and were subsequently exported to France. The French version of the Bulldog became so popular that French breeders renamed it the French Bulldog, or Frenchie. Many English people were offended due to the Bulldog being a traditionally English symbol. The French Bulldog remains a distinct breed today. It is smaller than the English Bulldog with bat-ears rather than rose-ears seen in English Bulldogs.
The American Bulldog is another breed that is larger in size and resembles its cousin, the Pit Bull, more than the English or French Bulldog. Buyers of Bulldogs should thoroughly research this breed before committing to ownership. All three versions of Bulldog require extensive care and may have exorbitant veterinary bills due to inherent medical conditions.
These small Bulldogs can have skin allergies, eye disorders and a tendency to become obese. Bulldog females often need assistance giving birth and may require Caesarian sections to deliver puppies. American Bulldogs are much larger in size but need to be screened for genetic disorders common to Bulldogs and medium to large sized dogs.
European bulldogs are also prone to respiratory problems due to their Pug noses and small windpipe. There are a multitude of other potential health problems as in any pure dog breed. American Bulldogs have a longer life expectancy and fewer health problems but are prone to the hip dysplasia common in medium to large dogs.
A good Bulldog breeder has many traits. Whether specializing in American, French or English Bulldogs, breeders can provide extensive information on all breeds. Traits of a good Bulldog breeder are as follows: Breeders never sell puppies to pet stores, Breeders do not broker, ship, or barter puppies, breeders maintain adequate kennels in their homes, breeders allow buyers to visit the kennel, breeders give puppies house privileges.
Puppies are well socialized, parents are often kept on-site. Buyers can meet puppy parents if available, puppies and parents have been screened for common genetic disorders, breeders provide pertinent medical and immunization records, breeders discontinue breeding Bulldogs with known health or behavioral problems, breeders only have one litter available at a time, breeders offer warranties against health conditions, breeders either run or are affiliated with breed-specific rescue centers, breeders interview buyers to ensure a good match with a puppy, breeders are prepared to answer buyer questions, breeders are experts on Bulldog information.
If you use this list when interviewing potential Bulldog breeders you will surely find a reputable, experienced breeder from which to purchase your next pet.
