Quote:
Originally Posted by chuck1984
Hey everyone!
I'm looking at getting another dog (my Boxer passed away Dec 31st 2011). I live in a condo and would rather have a lazy dog. Anyways, I'm looking for a english bulldog but all their health issues scare me... Does anyone have one bought from a breeder that you would suggest?
Thanks a lot!
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Don't own one and never have (I got a Schnauzer) but know a thing or two about them.
To start with, the whole thing about them being a lazy breed is a bit of a myth-- it's not that they are, generally inactive but more that they need the right incentive to be energetic. As mentioned by the previous poster, Bulldogs are incredibly loyal so if activity equates to more time with you/the family they will be more active. They are very smart dogs too, so if you're looking for toys, try ones that are puzzles (thing a kong with a dog treat in it) to keep it busy.
Why I start with there activity is because it, along with diet, have a lot to do with the animals health. Generally speaking, the smaller the breed the more opportunity to exert energy it needs. While not the smallest breed, Bulldogs need quite a bit of activity to keep their energy output in line with their intake so, while they're lazy on there own, it is important that enough time is taken to encourage it to get the exercise it needs. Because they need the motivation, they can also become overweight fairly easily which can lead to a lot of the health problems you've eluded too.