English Bulldogs are wonderful, but are they right for you?
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What Is A Brachycephalic Dog?
Bulldogs are medium sized, compact dogs with short legs and big meaty paws. They are considered “high maintenance” because of the proclivity for medical issues that come along with them. Their inverted noses were bred in to them over time, and made them the smashed faced (Brachycephalic) smooshes that we have all grown to love. These conditions lead to breathing issues and they have a higher risk for complications from anesthesia. Even simple things like getting too excited can lead to breathing issues for them, so owners have to be constantly attentive to their well-being.
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They Run Hot.
Minutes matter! Bulldogs can not tolerate heat at ALL, and must be kept in air conditioning AT ALL TIMES. They can not be left free to run outside, EVER. there are no exceptions to this rule. They will overheat quickly and even a short walk can set them in to laryngeal paralysis and death. They are not the dogs for convertible car rides in the summer!
Bulldogs are incredibly dense-bodied dogs, and weigh deceivingly more than they look. As a result of this density, they are not great swimmers, if they can swim at all; due to the configuration of their noses, swimming proves difficult for them and they easily inhale water up their noses. ALWAYS PUT YOUR EB IN A LIFE JACKET AROUND WATER, AND NEVER LEAVE THEM UNATTENDED AROUND IT!
While exercise is always important for your bulldog, they don’t need the exercise other dogs do and are usually sufficiently exercised with short walks or monitored outings in a small yard. NEVER leave your EB outside unattended.
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Constant Care.
Bulldogs require daily constant care their entire lives, much like infant babies. You have to clean their face folds, nose, toes, and rumps daily! They have skin issues, eye issues, ear issues, and tail issues that can come about; if it can happen, it will happen.
Bulldog puppies are regularly in the vet for issues they encounter while growing, including eye issues called “cherry eye”. Often bulldogs require very specific care, even special cleaning wipes, shampoos, and daily medicinal regimens to maintain their health.
We wholeheartedly recommend you start your English Bulldog on the healthiest diet possible immediately when you get them! Good diets support the correct nutrients your dog needs, and help them balance their body’s natural yeast production. We recommend Ollie! (www.myollie.com) for your pups. While this diet may not be for every pup, we have seen great results from it with our kiddos!
ALWAYS GET PET INSURANCE. We recommend Nationwide or Healthy Paws!
They Are Wonderful Companions!
English Bulldogs are some of the most head-strong and opinionated dogs that you’ll ever encounter, and for this reason they can also be the most cuddly companions. They respond to POSITIVE reinforcement ONLY, NEVER use negative reinforcement with your EB. Keep a steady pocket full of treats on you when you’re walking them, training them, or have them around distractions (groups of friends) to keep their attention on you, they are very food-motivated! .
They Are The Best Cuddle Buddies!
English Bulldogs are incredibly emotional creatures, and want all of your attention on them at all times. They are notorious for letting you know when they want to play, go outside, or generally have your attention FULLY on them. They don’t listen well, and love soft couches, beds, and furniture so be prepared to keep a lint roller handy!
They love big comfy dog beds, and blankets, and piles of clothes and will be no stranger to them (clean or dirty!). They are fun, nurturing, and will curl up next to you every chance they get.
