Care should be taken in breeding management of this breed to avoid selection of dogs with extreme morphological traits - traits which can lead to dogs suffering from a variety of health conditions. Estimates of lifespan vary from >6-7 to over 10 years of age. They are generally amiable and easy-going, but can be stubborn. Why do people choose the dogs they do - and what is the impact on dog health and welfare?īulldogs love to live indoors and be part of the family. However, more than one research study has shown that people who are attracted to the appearance and character of Bulldogs, do not prioritize health when they are acquiring one of these dogs, and, in spite of serious and costly veterinary care, as well as suffering for the dog and the owner, many indicate that they would purchase another one. Sourcing of puppies from breeders who practice critical, rational, logical thinking about breeding decisions focused on health and welfare of the dogs produced and kept as companions is an important pre-purchase consideration for anyone with an interest in obtaining a Bulldog. The information should help the veterinary community to guide clients and to educate potential owners in determining whether a Bulldog is the right breed for them. It is hoped the information in this article will assist all stakeholders to see the Big Picture - internationally - for the Bulldog. Additional legislative processes are underway in several other countries in Europe, most recently in Norway. Never-the-less, in 2020 legislative action was taken by the Netherlands government to regulate breeding of Brachycephalic breeds with the goal to enhance health and welfare. In some cynological organizations Breed Standard wording has been clarified to minimize the acceptability of extreme traits. Health management and breeding strategies constructed by Kennel and Breed clubs are focused on identifying the prevalence of and effective methods to address key health concerns in the breed. Demand for these dogs has led to production of pups by less than scrupulous breeders who are not operating under the umbrella or direction of Kennel and Breed club health improvement program recommendations. Based upon Kennel Club registrations, the Bulldog is considered a popular dog in the UK and US among the community of purebred dog enthusiasts. This is a 'living document' - so if anyone has more material to share or point us to - please let us know!Ĭoncerns for the welfare of brachycephalic breeds, including the Bulldog, have been the subject of much debate over the past several years. Thanks to all of those working on behalf of Bulldogs. We reference and link to terrific work, developments, reports, and research from the UK, USA, Sweden, Finland, and more below. There are many others doing great work to advance health, well-being, and welfare in this wonderful breed. See IPFD's Get a GRIHP! on Breed Health Initiative. This article on English Bulldogs is part of a series to highlight the Big Picture of health, welfare, and breeding and to help develop Globally Relevant Integrated Health Profiles (GRIHPs) for many breeds.
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