How to Choose an American Bulldog Puppy

American bulldogs generally have a friendly temperament around people. They are characterized by their stocky bodies but shouldn't be confused with pit bulls which they strongly resemble; American bulldogs are a bit taller and less aggressive. Prospective owners should consider if this breed of dog is the right choice for them and then proceed with an inquisitive mind to find the best breeder for a healthy bulldog puppy with a compatible personality.

Instructions

    • 1

      Determine whether the American Bulldog is the best breed for you. These dogs are very devoted but may show some aggression toward strangers or other animals. You need to spend a lot of time with bulldogs as they very social and need regular exercise. Keep its excess energy in check or behavioral problems may develop.

    • 2

      Decide between a male or female dog. Male dogs are less moody than female dogs and generally more friendly but may be more aggressive. Female dogs are prone to hormonal mood swings and are usually affectionate only when they want to be.

    • 3

      Choose your bulldog puppy from a respectable breeder rather than a pet shop. Pet shop puppies are almost always from puppy mills or commercial breeders with no guarantee on their health. Avoid individual breeders who raise puppies in kennels as well since they may be a puppy mill in disguise.

    • 4

      Ask the breeder questions about his experience with breeding bulldogs, the reason he is breeding them and the quality of care given to the puppies regarding situations such as the environment they were brought up in. Request to see any related health records to check on any likely genetic conditions and if possible, ask to see the parents as they will be good models of how the puppy will turn out.

    • 5

      Run a personality test on each puppy of the litter. An extremely energetic puppy may likely grow up too bold while more reserved puppies may make calmer companions. Try to choose a puppy that is somewhere in the middle so there won't be a power struggle or so that you won't have a puppy that is overly submissive.

    • 6

      Request some time alone with the puppy of your choice. If there are no drastic changes in its personality away from its litter, the two of you get along great and everything else in its background looks good, this American bulldog puppy may make a good choice as a new addition to your home.