English bulldog puppies are a unique dog breed that requires careful thought and consideration before acquiring. Though adored for their flat faces and many wrinkles, these same attributes often need special attention, as do the persistent chewing habits that they never quite outgrow, and their irregular energy levels. If you are looking for good companions who don't require excessive amounts of exercise, learning how to raise English bulldog pups may be just for you.
Things You'll Need
- List of reputable breeders of English bulldogs
- A good veterinarian
- Dog bed(s)
- Dog food
- Water
- Collar and leash
- Chew toys
- Treats
Instructions
Choosing a Breeder
Choose a reputable breeder that only sells puppies that are born on the premises, and never sells puppies before they are at least seven weeks old.
Ask the breeder questions about the puppies' health and temperaments, along with that of their dam and sire. Make sure the puppies have been properly socialized.
Consider whether the breeder will be available for advice and support after you take your puppies home.
Choosing Puppies
Decide how many puppies you have adequate space for, and can afford to care for. If you are away all day, two puppies will keep each other company. More then two are a responsibility that you really need to think carefully about before taking on. Consider food bills, veterinarian bills, and the time it takes to groom, take care of and play with each puppy.
Look at each puppy individually, and as they all interact in a group. Don't just pick the cutest English bulldog pup from the litter. According to the online source, The Bulldog Information Library, dogs can be classified in one of five temperaments. Dominant/rebellious types are suitable for guard dogs. Independent/self-assured types are not recommended for families with children. Docile types are obedient and stable. The fourth type is the docile, obedient type that has an increased need for affection, which makes this type excellent for children. The last type is anxious and unpredictable, and may not behave around small children
Pick up any English bulldog puppy you are considering purchasing. Observe its reaction to you. Set it down and see if it follows you and how it reacts to you. Pet the puppy, beginning with its head, then its neck and finally its back. If it walks away, it probably is not the puppy for you. If it turns around and licks you, or lays on its back and licks you, it may be a suitable match. If it jumps up on you or jumps and scratches this may indicate the puppy will require extra training. You will need to decide if you have the time and patience to do it yourself or spend the money to hire an expert.
Care
Provide a dog bed for each puppy. English bulldog puppies can't curl up like other dog breeds, so it should be large enough for the puppy to stretch out or lie on his side. Also remember English bulldog puppies grow quickly, so buy a bed that will be big enough for him to grow into.
Buy separate, individual bowls for food and water. Stainless steel is hygienic and does not retain food odors, or odors of detergents used to wash them. English bull dogs have flat faces, requiring them to put their lips in the bowl to eat or drink. Make sure bowls are large enough to accommodate this action, but not large enough for the pup to fall into.
Feed you puppies the best brand of food you can afford. Ask the breeder and your vet for recommendations. Most advise continuing to feed whatever brand the puppy has been eating before you got it for three or four months in order to avoid digestive problems. The puppy should be allowed to adapt to being away from its mother before you gradually change his food over a period of several days. A bowl of fresh water should always be out.
Exercise and Play
Attach a leash to each puppy's collar and take a nice walk. Remember young puppies are curious and you probably won't get far at first.
Throw a ball or have several toys on hand for your puppies to enjoy. Make sure they are rubber or hard nylon since English bulldog puppies love to chew.
Reward your puppies when they behave well, or when you are training them. Treats and praise will help enforce good behavior.