There are many dogs to choose from, but none are quite like the English bulldog. They may not be for everyone, but for those who envision man’s best friend as a short, stocky ball of wrinkles that snorts, farts, and sleeps all day, the bulldog is a perfect fit. Here are the top ten reasons why you should own an English bulldog:

1. They’re adorable

No, but seriously. The wrinkles, the jowls, the saggy eyes. Bulldogs will melt your heart. There’s nothing like grabbing a giant head full of wrinkles and planting a fat kiss in the middle..

2. They’re full of personality

There is never a dull moment with a bulldog. Whether it’s filling your home with snoring so loud it puts Uncle Dale’s sleep apnea to shame, or interrupting your thoughts with its infamous bodily functions, the English bulldog is guaranteed to make you smile.

3. Bulldogs are one of the best dogs for children

This is because they are remarkably calm, intensely loyal, and, well, quite lazy. A tugging, screeching child simply doesn’t bother them. Heck, they’ll even let a child dress them in a tutu and a cowboy hat without raising a paw.

4. You don’t need to be an Olympic athlete to own one

Hate running? Prefer curling up on the couch? Then the bulldog’s your dog. While they do require some exercise, they make a poor running partner. In fact, most would rather spread their jowls on your feet than go for a jog.

5. Bulldogs are talented

Think border collies get all the credit? Well, you don’t see them surfing or riding a skateboard. You do see bulldogs, though. It’s partly because their stoutness gives them a low center of gravity, but it’s mostly because bulldogs are just plain cool.

6. They’re stubborn

Depending on what you want in a dog, this might be a reason not to buy a bulldog. For some, though, the bulldog’s renowned stubbornness is one more reason to love them. There’s nothing funnier than your dog sitting down in the middle of the sidewalk because he doesn’t feel like walking back.

7. Their whines are hilarious

Seriously, though, look it up. There are hundreds of videos of bulldogs whining because they want your hamburger or feel entitled to your couch. No other dog’s vocal chords can compete.

8. Bulldogs make great watchdogs

They were, after all, bred to fight bulls. While that’s of course no longer expected of them, they will defend their homes and their families…..Unless the intruder brings a treat…..But …

9. They won’t be aggressive with you!

Bulldogs may look intimidating because of their stature, but they are hardly violent, especially with their families. They’re lovers, not fighters. Which brings us to the final reason to own an English bulldog

10.  Bulldogs bring the love

Ultimately, bulldogs are just plain lovable. And for people with the right personality, no one other dog will do.

English bulldogs are the mascots of choice for many colleges, organizations, and even military branches. Their muscular, stout appearance and massive jaws give them an intimidating look, although it’s misleading. Bulldogs are mostly docile and well-behaved, choosing sleep over other popular canine activities. For those looking to purchase a bulldog, there are several considerations that must be made beforehand. Below are some tips on how to shop and buy a Bulldog puppy, what to look for in a breeder, and what to consider when purchasing a dog.

Many are surprised to find out that bulldogs are an expensive breed. In fact, quality puppies will set you back anywhere from two to four thousand dollars. But, there is a reason for this. Bulldogs are the result of specific and selective breeding process especially when it comes to champion dogs and bulldogs that represent the breed well. There are huge expenses for the breeder as well such as progesterone testing, stud fees, c-sections, milk formula, vaccinations, de-wormings, puppy checkups, special diets, whelping gear, etc. While it is tempting to look for the cheapest puppy you can find, that’s not a good idea with this breed. Choosing a dog because of a smaller price tag could cost you more in the long-run. You should search for a reputable English bulldog breeder. 

But where to start?

A great place to start looking for a breeder is through the breed’s parent club. In the case of the bulldog breed, the parent club is The Bulldog Club of America or “The BCA”. The BCA also has a Breeder Referral Listing, which has within it, a list of Breeders who have fulfilled the requirements of the BCA. One of these requirements is health testing. This way at least you know that you are dealing with Breeders who are conscientious about producing healthy puppies.

Do not look to purchase puppies through Craigslist, Social Media Sites, Pet Stores or the Walmart parking lot (yes, I have seen them for sale in parking lots!) Breeders who sell thru these venues are generally profiting and are not truly dedicated to the breed. These puppies are often poorly bred which results in an unhealthy puppy. A reputable breeder will be available to you for the long haul and eager to help with any questions or concerns throughout your bulldogs life.

Look for breeders who can provide you with a complete pedigree of your dog, a health guarantee, and a bill of sale. Also, look for breeders who have been breeding for several years and can provide information about the puppy’s parents. Finally, never have a bulldog shipped to you. Since they are brachycephalic (flat-faced), they are less likely to survive the shipping process compared to other breeds.

You should know beforehand bulldogs can have minor but common health concerns, including cherry eye and skin allergies and require excellent veterinary care so before buying a puppy make sure to have the puppy checked out by a Vet. A reputable and responsible breeder will have a clear and transparent health guarantee listed on their website and give you 24-72 hours to get the pup examined at your own vet just in case there are any costly or life-threatening conditions outside the minor issues common to bulldogs that can be easily treated. Check to see if they will replace the puppy; refund you in the event something is untreatable. A responsible breeder will not only make sure your puppy has a clean bill of health but they will also have a screening process to make sure they are going to a good home

Once you’ve found a quality breeder, think about the type of dog you want. Most reputable breeders will only sell their puppies on spay/neuter contracts if the puppy is not being sold as a show prospect. Caring for a female dog in heat is messy and time consuming, and male dogs with their testicles intact tend to be more headstrong and have more of a tendency to lift their legs (and mount yours) than neutered males. Finally, decide on appearance. White bulldogs resembling the University of Georgia mascot are very popular, but the breed standard also allows for dogs to be brindle or red. Black or blue colors however, are not part of the breed standard.

The English bulldog is a great breed, but be sure to know what to look for in a breeder and in a puppy before purchasing. Don’t be afraid to ask other bulldog owners for advice, and always seek references for breeders. Finally, if a puppy is not your thing, there are many bulldog rescues throughout the country that can provide you with an adult dog. Whatever method you employ, remember to take your time, do your research, and always opt for quality over cost. For detailed information or to have a question answered by a breeder click here.