Questions to Ask a Bulldog Breeder

Background and Qualifications

• A good breeder knows his breed inside and out. As with so many professions, there is simply no substitute for experience. Ask how long the seller has been breeding bulldogs. Gauge his knowledge by inquiring about breed characteristics, temperament, exercise needs and health issues. Confirm the dogs are registered with the American Kennel Club. Reputable breeders generally belong to breed clubs, many of which provide referral services to pet-seekers. The Bulldog Club of America's breeder referral program holds participating breeders to the highest ethical standards and disciplines for infractions. Finally, breeders committed to the breed standard are often involved in showing their dogs. Ask if the seller actively shows dogs, inquiring specifically about the show history of the puppies' parents.

Health and Welfare

• Eliminate the risk of dealing with a broker by confirming the seller bred the puppies. If so, ask to see the puppy's parents. At least one of the parents, preferably the female, should be on the premises. The quality of the dogs' environment is critical to the behavioral and physical development of the puppies. Are the dogs kept indoors and not outside or in runs? Are their living quarters clean and well-maintained? Food should be of high quality. Are the dogs happy and sociable or do they seem skittish? Unfortunately, bulldogs are prone to a number of health problems and congenital abnormalities, among them: hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, cherry eye and heat sensitivity. An ethical breeder will not hesitate to inform prospective buyers about potential issues and explain policies for reducing such incidence. As if the breeder screens the health of adults before breeding and sterilizes animals with congenital defects. Find out if all of the puppy's veterinary records as well as a written health guarantee convey with the purchase.

Qualifying the Buyer

• A good breeder will not hand over a puppy to the first buyer with cash in hand. Breeders who genuinely have the dog's best interest at heart want to ensure that their puppies will live long and happy lives with their new family. A breeder will ask what the buyer plans to do if their life circumstances change abruptly -- divorce, illness, a move or other unforeseen events. Likewise, the breeder may ask what will happen if the dog becomes unexpectedly ill and how far the buyer is willing to go to pursue treatment. The buyer should be asked to provide references as well as the name of a veterinarian, existing or proposed. Lastly, to ensure the best possible match, a breeder should be willing to continue to answer questions or mentor long after the puppy has gone to the buyer's home.

Buyer Beware

• Too often, less than reputable breeders sell puppies with health or temperament issues. Avoid possible heartache by taking the time to select a knowledgeable, ethical and compassionate breeder. A critical step in this process is to obtain references from past clients as well as the breeder's veterinarian. Unfortunately, the rising popularity of the breed has led to a number of scams, most involving Internet sales. A good breeder will never sell puppies through pet stores -- a common venue for commercial puppy mills -- or over the Internet. Beware of con artists who require a small upfront payment for the promise of a puppy that does not exist. Protect against fraud and deal only with a breeder willing to answer any and all questions.