Bulldog owners help!?

Question

I am seriously considering getting an AKC reg., full blooded, English Bulldog puppy, I've done lots of research on them and other dogs. I'm a little worried about the health problems that Bullies have, but I'm also finding that other breeds have health problems too, so should that deter me away from this breed?

Also, in my research I found that Bulldogs need lots of attention, which is fine because I spoil my animals (I already have 1 cat) like children and give them lots of attention, but I also work and go to school (I'll be done in may '08) part-time, are they good dogs to crate? My days off I always spend at home and by b/f will be here on his days off so at the most 3 days (I mean during the day) will it need to be crated, is this bad?

I love bulldogs, I love there temperment, looks, everything do you think this is the right breed for me?

Thanks.

PS> please don't give me links to websites, I've done enough research I'm looking for personal advice here! :)

Answer 1

Hi, i don't personally have a bulldog, but i come into contact with them almost daily as i work in a vets (in UK) where we deal with a lot of bulldog breeders.

Bulldogs are not my cup of tea BUT i have to say i think they're lovely. I haven't yet met a nasty one.
Health problems tend to be respiratory because of the way they are bred now, although this may be different in USA.
We seem them for Caesars as they can never seem to self whelp these days, and something called a cherry eye (hardarian gland).
This gland pops up in the corner of their eye, looking like a small cherry, hence the name. It's nothing to worry about and is easily resolved with minor surgery.
I personally think there is nothing wrong with caging a dog, mine are caged at night as they can't be trusted not to destroy the house!!
It's the usual things, make sure there is enough room, cool/or warm enough, access to fresh water at all times.
All dogs need lots of attention not just bulldogs, but i think on the whole it sounds like it would be a nice breed for you.

Answer 2

I think you should get whatever kind of dog you're really drawn to. If you go with a 2nd choice (some people might try to steer you toward a pug as an alternative), it just won't be the same.

If you've ever had a puppy, you know that they're like having small children. So, you might want to wait til you're home more? You've got to plan on taking it out every 3 hours or so at first; they just can't hold it much longer. They are definitely a lot of trouble that first year.

A neighbor of mine had an O.E. Bulldog-- "Winston." :) He's see you a block away and get so excited and start snorting and practically pull her over. (Obedience training early is necessary, I suspect.)

Answer 3

I don't own a bulldog, but I have noticed that they are rising in the ranks of popularity.

PLEASE keep in mind that many bulldog owners will tell you about how their dog(s) are, but it is going to boil down the specific personality of the dog you actually end up. Us humans are TERRIBLE at stereotyping breeds of dogs. Dogs are like people in that their personalities can vary greatly, regardless of breed.

Good luck!

Answer 4

well my boyfriend use to have one and he have a terrible allergie on the skin..my advice is get one in the shelter some time they have pure breed dogs, because u waste money buying a dog bcuse in miami they running around 1200 and u can have that money to save later and have ur dog healthier for life...good luck...

Answer 5

I HAVE 2, AND THEY ARE TOTALLY DIFFERENT. THEY BOTH CAN'T HANDLE THE HEAT AND STAY IN THE AIR CONDITION MORE THAN OUTSIDE. ONE IS KINDA HYPER AND ONE MORE LAID BACK. ONE WILL RIDE ON THE 4-WHEELER AND ONE WANTS TO RUN ALONG SIDE. THEY HAVEN'T HAD ANY HEALTH PROBLEMS, BUT I WATCH FERVENTLY TO KEEP THEM SAFE AND HAPPY.

Answer 6

they will adjust to your work schedule just fine. they are great family dogs and make a wonderful pet with kids.Enjoy your new puppy!!!!