How to Mate British Bulldogs

British bulldogs, called English bulldogs in this country, belong to the Non-Sporting Group of the American Kennel Club. A short-legged, funny-faced family companion, the bulldog originated as bullfighters and bull baiters in the British Isles, thus their name. Today, they form strong bonds with the children in their families and are gentle and protective. Owners wishing to breed their dogs need to wait until they fully mature, usually between 3 to 4 years of age and around 50 pounds for the male and 40 pounds for the female.

Things You'll Need

  • Journal to document female breeding cycle
  • Legal stud or mating agreement
  • Veterinary exams for both male and female dogs
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Instructions

    • 1

      Learn the breeding cycle of your female bulldog. Females become fertile usually twice a year and will accept the male during this time period, called heat. You will need to document and recognize when her cycle occurs so that you can schedule a breeding over those several days of heat.

    • 2

      Select the best mate possible for your bulldog to ensure you̵7;ll get puppies that will meet the breed standard. According to the AKC, English bulldogs ̶0;must be of medium size and smooth coat; with heavy, thick-set, low-swung body, massive short-faced head, wide shoulder and sturdy limbs.̶1; Find a bulldog breeder whose animals match those standards and whose dogs have bred successfully in the past.

    • 3

      Determine stud or mating fees with the other owner if you do not own both dogs. Legalize the agreement by writing down all of the terms of the mating and pregnancy, including vet fees, having both parties sign off and having the terms notarized.

    • 4

      The AKC recommends having both dogs checked for parasites and heartworms around one month prior to breeding. Because English bulldogs are prone to chronic skin and ear problems, get a veterinarian to examine both the male and female for signs of these diseases that they can pass to their offspring.

    • 5

      Watch for the female to come into heat. She commonly presents with a swollen vulva and bloody discharge for around 18 to 24 days. Because the female bulldog̵7;s vulva may be partially concealed with skin folds, it is important that breeders notice when the size changes or vaginal discharge occurs.

    • 6

      Bring the two bulldogs together during the latter stages of the heat cycle when the female is more receptive to the male. Allow them to coexist in a quiet, secluded area where they can be supervised while they get to know each other. Permit them to mate several times (usually every other day) over a period of three to seven days to help establish pregnancy.