How to Buy a French Bulldog
The purchase of the French Bulldog is an exciting but a daunting experience. It is important to choose a reputable breeder who can answer all your questions and not attempt to hide everything.
You should also search for breeders that conduct health tests and doesn't breed related dogs. This will ensure your puppy is healthy and has a good disposition.
1. Look for a Reputable Breeder
A reputable breeder is someone who has been breeding French Bulldogs for several years and has maintained high standards. They should be able to answer all your questions regarding their breeding methods, and should have numerous references from past clients. They should also have a clean and well-maintained facility.
Buying a puppy is a major investment and you should be sure to look for a responsible breeder. If a breeder's only been operating for a brief period of time, or if they offer their puppies at very low prices, these are red flags that they are probably operating as a puppy mill.
Puppy mills typically operate without any regulation and are run by selfish people who are only interested in making money at the expense of animal welfare. These unscrupulous breeders create litter after litter of poor genetics and health testing. It is important to only purchase your French bulldog from a reputable breeder to reduce the risk of health issues.
When visiting a potential breeder it is important to meet both male and female parents of your puppy. If this isn't possible or practical, a reputable breeder will be able to provide videos of their parents to ensure that your puppy can be familiar with the appearance of its parents as they develop.
Frenchies are at risk of skin fold dermatitis due to the fact that they have extra folds of skin on their faces. This can lead to itchy, painful skin rashes that require treatment using antibiotics. You should also be careful when bathing them since too much can strip the natural oils that maintain their skin's health. Additionally, it is recommended to brush your teeth three or every week to prevent tartar buildup.
2. Visit the Breeder Home
The French Bulldog's ubiquity as the most pawpular breed in America has led to puppy mills and less-than-safe breeding practices. They are typically bred for profit and are kept in squalid conditions, with minimal care or socialization, which can result in genetic health issues in their offspring. The majority of breeders who are reputable will be willing to provide health records of their parents. They will also be transparent regarding their breeding practices and philosophies.
When visiting the breeder, check out their facility and take note of the conditions in which their puppies are being raised. Do they have a secure and clean place for the puppies? Are the puppies healthy and beautiful, with glowing eyes and a glossy coat? Then, you can ask the breeder about their breeding philosophy and methods.
Another thing to note is whether or the breeder has a waiting list for their puppies. A good breeder is interested in finding the best-matched pairs, and ensuring that their puppies are placed in the most suitable homes.
A reputable breeder will also offer a health assurance for their pups and should be happy to provide the conditions of this guarantee. This is a sign they are committed to their role in the preservation of breeds, and will do all they can to ensure their pups' health and well-being.
Frenchies are a breed of dog that require little exercise and can easily adapt to any setting. However, they're not ideal for hot temperatures, as their flat faces make it difficult for them to breathe. They also need regular grooming and regular nail trimmings. You'll also need to prepare your home prior to the time by buying food and sleeping quarters, water bowls collars and leashes appropriate toys, and other supplies. BlueHaven provides listed a few of these items in the FAQ section.
3. Take a look at the health tests for puppies
Look at the coats and skin of the puppies when you visit the breeder. They should be shiny, supple and free of bumps or lumps. Also, they must be eating well and have regular bowel movements. Also, be aware of how they interact with their littermates. Social behavior and playful play are good signs, while shyness or aggression may indicate health issues.
Ask the breeder for the results of the genetic health tests conducted on the puppies as well as their Canine Health Information Center numbers. These numbers are available on the internet and can provide valuable information on a puppy's hereditary conditions such as joint problems or congenital hearts disease.
These health reports can help you decide whether your prospective French Bulldog is healthy, and suitable for your lifestyle. A reputable breeder is also concerned about the welfare of animals and will do their best to improve the quality of life for their animals.
Frenchies are more susceptible to hip dysplasia, which is an inheritable joint disorder that results in loose joints. If left untreated it can result in chronic pain as well as exercise intolerance, repeated episodes of diarrhea and even incontinence. Surgery is typically required to treat the condition.
Frenchies are also susceptible to eye issues such as distichiasis, which occurs when the lower and upper eyelids roll inward, causing the hairs on the lid to rub against the eyeball and cause irritation, inflammation, tearing and corneal ulcers. They are also prone to entropion. This happens when the dog's eyes move out of their normal place along the edge and rub against the cornea, causing irritation, inflammation, tears, and loss of vision.
4. Sign a Contract
A French Bulldog can be a great addition to your family. This breed is fun, easy-going and loving. They make a great companion for anyone. However, there are some things you need to know prior to buying one. First, make sure you receive a contract from the breeder. The contract should contain information on the health of the puppy and its breeding history and any genetic issues. This should also outline your obligations as the dog's owner.
You should also make sure that the breeder has a good standing. You can do this through reviewing reviews and visiting the breeder's facilities. It is also advisable to request references from past buyers. Ask the breeder for their screening policy to ensure that they use healthy parents and avoid hereditary disorders.
Also, ensure that you sign a contract that outlines the price of the puppy and any additional costs. The contract should also say that you will not transfer or sell the puppy. Additionally, you must be willing to take the dog to a veterinarian within a specified amount of time. This is important because Frenchies are susceptible to hereditary illnesses that could be passed on through their parents.
The contract should also include any other terms and conditions that are related to the puppy's care. For instance, it should stipulate that the puppy must not be left outside in extreme temperatures. The breed is susceptible to exhaustion and heatstroke. The contract should also specify that the puppy will not be permitted to jump off of high surfaces, since this could rupture the hemivertebrae.
The contract should also include a provision for an alternative puppy in the event of the hereditary disease or congenital defect occurs. This includes conditions like cherry eye, entropian, loose knees or hips and skin allergies. However the contract does not cover hereditary conditions considered normal in French Bulldogs, such as hemivertebrae or cataracts.
5. Make the Payment
If you decide to purchase the French Bulldog, you'll need to pay for it. Breeders who are responsible need a deposit to ensure their pups are in good families. This will help them avoid breeding unhealthy pups that could be suffering from genetic disorders and diseases such as cataracts, cherry eye, and the entropion. Get health test results from a reputable breeder prior to you make the final payment.
After you have paid the fee, you can begin planning for the requirements of your new puppy. This may include purchasing food, toys, bedding, a crate, and training materials. Take into consideration the cost of veterinary care and vaccinations. Frenchies are prone to many common medical conditions, such as obesity, overheating deafness, tracheal collapse. It is recommended to ensure your French bulldog for any unexpected veterinary expenses.
Frenchies are great family dogs. They are very loving and enjoy spending time with their human companions. However, they do not tolerate long periods of isolation and may suffer from separation anxiety when left on their own for long enough. They are not suited to families that travel frequently or work for long hours.
A French bulldog bought from a reputable seller can be a rewarding experience. Responsible breeding can lower the risk of health issues and a healthy puppy is a joy to website have for the rest of your life. Don't forget the countless Frenchies who are homeless and in shelters across the country. They need homes that are loving and supportive. Don't make the mistake of judging these puppies based on their price tags. If you are unable to afford a Frenchie then you can adopt one from your local shelter or rescue group.