How to Breed Bulldogs in Illinois

Originally bred to fight bears, bulldogs have wide, compact heads, a short muzzle and a characteristic frown. They are a medium sized dog, usually weighing 40 to 50 pounds. Their short muzzle leaves bulldogs susceptible to overheating. The comparatively cooler climate of Illinois is healthier for the dogs. Breeding a bulldog is tricky due to the dog's heavy forequarters and short legs. Consider how to find homes for any puppies you can't sell.

Things You'll Need

  • Breeding table
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Instructions

    • 1

      Apply for a license. Breeding bulldogs with the intention of selling the puppies requires a special license in Illinois. According to the Animal Law Center, Illinois requires breeders to sign a series of agreements designed to protect the animal's welfare. Any breeder found in violation of these agreements faces fines or loss of license.

    • 2

      Take your dog to the veterinarian. Check the dog's overall health. The vet looks at the dog's age and fertility. The vet will take a vaginal smear to determine the dog's fertility and cycle.

    • 3

      Look at Bulldog organizations in Illinois for a stud. The Chicago Bulldog Rescue has several meetings a year. Also, check with the American Kennel Club for other breeders in Illinois that offer stud services.

    • 4

      Agree on the terms for the stud service. The owner of the stud charges different rates depending on the age, color and size of the stud. Male bulldogs that have won awards in dog shows command a higher stud fee. Most stud owners require the female be brought to the stud since the male dog performs better in his home environment.

    • 5

      Introduce the female to the male. Due to the short legs of the breed, some males aren't tall enough to mate without help. This is where a breeding table comes in handy. The split table has straps that hold the female between the two sides. The sides tilt to allow the male to walk up the sides on either side of the female. The table supports the weight of the male as he mounts the female.

    • 6

      Take the female to the vet for an ultrasound two weeks after the mating to check the health of the puppies.

    • 7

      Give the female pregnancy dog food.

    • 8

      Contact the vet before the dog goes into labor. The wide, compact head of the puppies can block the birth canal, putting the female and the puppies in danger. Many bulldog breeders opt to deliver the puppies by cesarean section.

    • 9

      Leave the puppies with their mother. Illinois animal welfare laws require that puppies stay with their mother until at least 8 weeks of age.