How to Buy a French Bulldog
The purchase of a French Bulldog is an exciting but a daunting experience. It is important to look for a reputable breeder who will be available to answer any questions you may have and will not attempt to conceal anything.
You should also search for a breeder who conducts health testing and doesn't breed related dogs. This will ensure your puppy is healthy and is a pleasant person.
1. Find a Reputable Breeder
A reputable breeder is one who has been breeding French Bulldogs for several years and has maintained high standards. They should be able answer all your questions about their breeding methods, and have many references from past clients. In addition, they should have an organized, clean facility.
Buying a puppy is a significant investment and you should make the effort to search for an ethical breeder. If a breeder's only been in business for a brief period of time or if they sell their puppies at very low prices, these are signs that they may be operating a puppy mill.
Puppy mills generally operate without regulation and are run by naive individuals who only care about making money at the expense the welfare of animals. These breeding companies that are not ethical produce litters following litters that have poor genetics. To reduce the risk of developing health problems it is essential to purchase your French Bulldog from a reputable French bulldog breeder.
You should be able to meet the female and male parents when you visit a potential breeder. If this isn't possible or practical, a reputable breeder should provide videos of the parents, so that you can get a glimpse of what your puppy might appear like when they are older.
Frenchies are prone to 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. Be careful when bathing them as excessive bathing can deplete the natural oils that maintain their skin's health. You should also brush your teeth at least three or four time each week to avoid tartar.
2. Visit the Breeder's Home
The French Bulldog's huge popularity as the most paw-friendly breed in America has resulted in puppy mills as well as unsafe breeding practices. They are usually bred exclusively to make money and kept in deplorable conditions with no care or socialization which can lead to genetic health issues for their offspring. The most reliable breeders will be able to provide you with the parents' health records. They will also be honest 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 safe and clean space for the puppies? Are the puppies healthy with sparkling eyes and a shiny coat? Then, you can ask the breeder about their breeding philosophy and practices.
A waiting list for breeders is another thing to keep an eye out for. A good breeder is likely to be interested in finding good-matched pairs and making sure their puppies are placed in the best homes possible.
A reputable breeder will also offer a health assurance for their pups, and they should be happy to explain the terms of this guarantee. This is a sign they are serious about their role in preserving breeds and will do everything they can to ensure their puppies are healthy and well-being.
Frenchies are relatively low-maintenance dogs that require little exercise They can easily adapt to most environments. However, they aren't suited for very hot weather as their flat faces make it difficult for them to breathe. They also require regular grooming and frequent nail trimmings. You will also need to prepare your home ahead of time by buying food and water bowls, sleeping quarters collars and leashes suitable toys, as well as other items. BlueHaven examines a few of these items in FAQs.
3. Take a look at the health tests for puppies.
Look at the coats and skins of the puppies as you visit the breeder. They should be smooth and soft with no bumps or lumps. Additionally, they should be eating regularly and have regular stool movements. Also, pay attention to how they interact with their littermates. Social interaction and playfulness are good signs, while shyness or aggression could indicate health issues.
Ask the breeder for the results of the genetic health tests performed on the puppies as well as their Canine Health Information Center numbers. These numbers are accessible online and can provide valuable information on the puppy's hereditary ailments like joint issues and congenital hearts disease.
These health reports will help you determine whether your possible French Bulldog is healthy, and suitable for your lifestyle. A reputable breeder will also consider the welfare of their animals and work to improve their quality of life.
Frenchies are susceptible to hip dysplasia. This is an inherited joint disease that causes loose joints. If not treated it can lead to chronic pain and exercise intolerance, frequent episodes of diarrhea or even incontinence. Surgery more info is often required to treat the problem.
Frenchies are also susceptible to eye problems, such as distichiasis. This happens when the upper eyelid and lower eyelids move inwards and cause the hairs of the eyelids to rub against the cornea, leading to irritation, inflammation and tears. They are also prone to entropion. This occurs when the dog's eyelashes move out of their normal place along the edge and rub against the cornea and cause irritation, inflammation, tears, and loss of vision.
4. Sign a Contract
The introduction of a French Bulldog into your life is an exciting time. This breed is easy-going, playful, and loving and makes a great companion for anyone. But there are a few things you should know before buying one. You should first ask for a contract with the breeder. This should include information about the puppy's health, breeding history, and genetic defects. It should also define your obligations as the dog's owner.
It is also essential to ensure that the breeder has a good reputation. You can do this by reading reviews and visiting the breeder's facilities. Additionally, you should request references from previous buyers. Finally, you should ask the breeder about their screening policy to ensure that they have healthy parents and avoiding hereditary disorders.
You should then sign an agreement outlining the cost of the puppy and any additional costs. The contract should also state you will not sell or transfer the puppy. You should also be able to bring your dog to the vet within a specified timeframe. This is crucial, since Frenchies are susceptible to inheritable diseases that can be passed on through their parents.
The contract should include any other terms or conditions relating to the puppy's care. For instance, it should mention that the puppy must not be left in temperatures that are extreme. The breed is prone to exhaustion and heatstroke. Additionally the contract should make it clear that the puppy must not jump off high surfaces because this can cause hemivertebrae to rupture.
The contract should also contain a provision for a replacement puppy if an inherited condition or congenital defect is discovered. This includes conditions like cherry eye and entropian (a condition in which the eyes are squinting inward) as well as loose hips and knees, or skin allergies. However the contract does not cover hereditary diseases that are considered normal in French Bulldogs like hemivertebrae or cataracts.
5. Make the Payment
After you decide to purchase the French Bulldog, you'll have to pay for it. Most responsible breeders require a deposit in advance to ensure that their puppies are placed in homes that are responsible. This can help them to avoid breeding puppies with genetic diseases and illnesses such as cataracts, Cherry Eye, and Entropion. Request health tests from a reputable breeder before you make your final payment.
After you have paid, you can begin planning for the requirements of your puppy. You can buy bedding, toys and food as well as an crate and other training equipment. It is also important to think about the cost of vet visits and vaccinations. Frenchies are susceptible to many medical conditions, such as deafness, obesity, and collapsing trachea. It is recommended to cover your French bulldog for any unexpected veterinary expenses.
Frenchies are great family dogs. They are extremely loving and enjoy spending time with their human companions. They are not tolerant of prolonged isolation and can be anxious when left on their own. They are not suited to families that frequently travel or work for long hours.
A French bulldog bought from a trusted seller is an enjoyable experience. Responsible breeding practices can reduce the chance of developing health issues and a healthy dog can be a pleasure for a lifetime. But don't forget that there are thousands of displaced Frenchies in shelters across the country who require loving homes too. Don't fall into the trap of judging these pups by their price tags. If you cannot afford an Frenchie then adopt one from your local shelter or rescue group.