How to buy a bulldog?
Ask yourself some questions. Why do you want a bulldog? How much time can you dedicate to buy a dog? Does your lifestyle allow you the flexibility to have a bulldog in your life? Do you have the energy and time to dedicate to feeding, training, grooming, and exercising a bulldog? Do you have the income necessary to maintain the health of a bulldog? Will you be able to care for this dog for the rest of its life?
Remember, this puppy will become a member of your family and will be with you for a lifetime. Make sure you are ready for that commitment.
Educate yourself on the Bulldog Standard
Educate yourself. Before selecting a puppy educate yourself on the Bulldog Standard. Read and re-read until you become familiar with bulldog characteristics. Knowing what to look for will help you select a healthy dog. The Bulldog Club of America provides valuable information on the breed and is also a good place to start.
Seek out for a professional breeder
Seek out a professional breeder, who is willing to educate you on how to care for your bulldog. (Avoid buying a dog from a pet store.) Select a responsible breeder - i.e. one whose number one concern is for the well-being of their dogs. Make sure you feel comfortable with this person; you will rely on them for many things and will ask them many questions.
To find a responsible breeder attend several meetings at your local bulldog club or kennel club. Anyone who is truly committed to the breed will belong to a club or canine organization of some kind.
Ask you doubts
Ask Questions. Once you have found a breeder you feel comfortable with, ask them a lot of questions. They know that bulldogs are different than other breeds and they need special care. They also know that it takes time to learn all there is to know about bulldogs. And don't be surprised when they ask you lots of questions; they want to make sure that their puppies will be well-cared-for and loved at their new home.
Look at the puppy and confirm its standards
Look at puppies. When looking at puppies make sure you also see their parents. Puppies will grow up to look much like their parents so make sure they are healthy and to the standard. Look at their pedigree (family tree), medical history, their living conditions, etc.
Your new puppy should be at least 8-weeks old. Some people say that the puppy will choose you, not the other way around. I disagree with that statement. You need to choose a dog that will fit into your family. If you are active, choose an active dog. If you like to relax on the weekends, choose a milder mannered puppy.
Dog Vaccination
Buy your new dog. Your new puppy should be at least 8-weeks old, be weaned, have his/her first set of vaccincations, and be wormed.
When you finally purchase your new dog make sure you receive the following:
- proof of the first vet visit and vaccincation record
- • the American Kennel Club (AKC) registration application
- • a copy of the breeder's contract
- • a purchase reciept
- • some of the puppy's personal things such as food, blankets, toys, etc. Having these last items will make the puppy's transition from the familiarity of its current surroundings and siblings to its new home with your family a little easier.