Questions to Ask Alapaha Bulldog Breeders

Originating from English bulldog stock, the Alapaha bulldog has been traced to one originating American breeder from Georgia. Prior to 1979, and the formation of the Alapaha Blue-Blood Bulldog Association (ABBA), this southern born bulldog breed had become almost extinct. Because of this breed's precarious ancestry, the ABBA registry and club members are strict and meticulous when it comes the breeding practices of this dog.

  1. Breeders

    • The dog breeding business has come under scrutiny for unethical and inhumane practices. Alapaha bulldog breeders are now closely monitored, not only by the ABBA, but also by organizations like the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and the Humane Society of the United States.

      When considering the purchase of a new puppy, choosing the right breeder is the greatest consideration. Always insist on seeing where the dogs are housed and meeting the parents of your new puppy. Any reputable breeder will not hesitate to open their facilities for your inspection.

    Initial Inspection

    • There are two common types of dog breeders -- those who have an on-site dog breeding business that requires permits, certification and licensing, and private homeowners who simply have a female dog with a litter of puppies they want to sell.

      Which ever type breeder you choose, be investigative. Observation can tell you a lot about a breeder and the care they take with their dogs. Look to see if the facility is clean and well maintained. Is the temperature set for the maximum comfort of the dogs? Is the dogs' living area carefully secured and all potential dangers removed? Make certain the dogs are clean and playful and have a healthy appearance. The dogs should have a designated area to run free and play. A reputable dog breeder will always have fresh water available, as well as a comfortable area for the dogs to rest and sleep.

    Questions for the Breeder

    • It is best to make a written list of questions prior to visiting a dog breeding establishment. Once on site, the environment can be exciting, chaotic and confusing, which may hinder your ability to remember the questions you want to ask.

      If the Alapaha bulldog puppies are said to be purebred, ask to see the ABBA registration papers for both parents. By the time they are put up for sale, the young dogs should have been examined and treated by a veterinarian, so ask to see the veterinary report.

    Additional Inquiries

    • Besides documented information, there are probing questions a dog breeder should be willing to answer. For instance, ask for references. Conscientious and ethical breeders keep records of previous sales and often ask buyers if they can use them as references. Question the breeder for information on how much experience they have breeding dogs. Inquire about specifics pertaining to the Alapaha bulldog breed. Find out if these dogs are suitable family pets. Do they make good watchdogs and are they easy to train? An ethical breeder will attempt to ensure their dogs are a good fit for your lifestyle and that you can provide a suitable home.

    Purchase Guarantee

    • Ask the breeder what type of guarantee they offer. New puppies should come with a health guarantee, current vaccinations and de-worming schedule. No breeder can promise that a puppy will not have future health problems, but a health guarantee should cover any genetic related diseases. It is important to take your new Alapaha bulldog puppy, with his records, to your own veterinarian immediately after you bring him home.