How to Buy a French Bulldog
The purchase of an French Bulldog can be an exciting, but also daunting experience. It is important to find a reputable dog breeder that will answer all your questions and not try to cover up anything.
You should also look for a breeder who performs health tests and does not breed dogs with similar characteristics. This will ensure that your puppy is healthy and has a good temperament.
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 to answer questions about their breeding practices and have a number of references from their previous clients. They should also have a clean and well-maintained facility.
A puppy purchase is a major investment and you need to take the time to look for a responsible breeder. If a breeder has only been operating for a short period of time, or if they offer their puppies at extremely low prices, they are signs that they may be operating an animal farm.
Puppy mills are usually run by individuals who don't care about animal welfare and only desire to make money. These unscrupulous breeders produce litter after litter with poor genetics and health testing. To minimize the chance of developing health problems, it is important to buy your French Bulldog only from an accredited French bulldog breeder.
When you visit a potential breeder you should be able 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 grow.
Since they have extra skin folds on their faces, Frenchies are prone to a condition called skin fold dermatitis. This can lead to itchy, painful rashes that require antibiotic treatment. Be cautious not to bathe too much them, as this could remove the natural oils which ensure their skin is healthy. Additionally, it is recommended to brush your teeth three or four times a week to avoid tartar buildup.
2. Visit the Breeder's Home
The French Bulldog's ubiquity as the most pawpular breed in America has led to puppy mills and unsafe breeding practices. The French Bulldog is usually breeding to make money, and cruel conditions are used to raise them. They receive little or no attention or socialization. This can lead to genetic health problems. Most reputable breeders are willing to give you health records of their parents. They will also be honest about their breeding practices and their philosophies.
While visiting the breeding facility be aware of the surroundings in which the puppies are raised. Is the area where the puppies are cared for clean and secure? Are the puppies healthy-looking with bright eyes and a glossy coat? Then, you can inquire with the breeder about their breeding philosophy and methods.
Another thing to note is whether or whether the breeder has an open waiting list for their puppies. A good breeder is focused on finding the best-matched pairs, and making sure their puppies are placed with the best homes.
A reputable breeder should also have a health guarantee for their puppies and should be happy to provide the conditions of this guarantee. This is a sign that they take their role in preserving the breed seriously and will do all they can to ensure the health and well-being of their puppies.
Frenchies are relatively low-maintenance dogs that require little exercise They are also able to adapt to most environments. However, they're not suitable for extremely hot weather, as their flat faces make it difficult for them to breathe. They also require regular grooming, which includes periodic nail trimming. You'll also need to prepare your home ahead of time by purchasing food, water bowls, sleeping quarters collars and leashes, appropriate toys, and other things. BlueHaven reviews some of these items in FAQs.
3. Look at the Puppies' Health Tests
Take a look at the coats and the skin of the puppies as you visit the breeder. They should be smooth and supple with no unusual lumps or bumps. They should also be eating well and having regular stool movements. Also, take note of how they interact with their littermates. Social behavior and playful play are positive indicators, whereas shyness or aggression may indicate health issues.
Ask the breeder about the puppies genetic health tests as well as their Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) numbers. These numbers are accessible online and provide you with valuable information about the puppy's hereditary health issues like joint issues and congenital heart disease.
A reputable breeder should be able to provide health reports, which will allow you to determine if your potential French Bulldog is healthy and suitable for your lifestyle. A reputable breeder is also concerned with the well-being of animals and will do their best to improve the quality of their life.
Frenchies are prone to hip dysplasia, an inheritable joint disorder that results in loose joints. Untreated, it may cause chronic pain, exercise incapacity and recurrent diarrhea episodes and even incontinence. Surgery is often required to remedy the condition.
Frenchies may also be afflicted with eye problems, including distichiasis. This occurs when the upper and lower eyelids move inwards, causing the eyelid hairs to touch the cornea, leading to irritation, inflammation and tearing. They also are susceptible to entropion. This happens when the dog's eyelashes fall out of their usual position at the edges of the lid and rub against the eyeball, causing irritation, inflammation, tears and loss of vision.
4. Sign a contract
Inviting a French Bulldog into your life can be an exciting experience. This breed is playful, gentle and affectionate. They make a great companion for anyone. But there are a few things you need to know prior to purchasing one. First, ensure that you receive a contract from the breeder. It should contain information about the health of the puppy, its breeding history, and genetic defects. It should also define your obligations as the dog's owner.
Also, you should check the breeder's reputation. You can do this by reading reviews or visiting their facilities. In addition, you should request references from previous buyers. Ask the breeder about their screening policy to ensure they use healthy parents and to avoid hereditary disorders.
Also, ensure that you sign a contract that details the cost of the puppy as well as any additional charges. The contract should also state that you will not resell or transfer the puppy to a different person. Also, you must accept to bring your dog to the vet within a specified time frame. This is important because Frenchies are susceptible to hereditary illnesses that could be passed down through their parents.
The contract should also include any other terms and conditions pertaining to the puppy's care. For instance, it must state that the puppy is not to be left outside in extreme temperatures. The breed is prone to exhaustion and heatstroke. The contract should also state that the puppy is not allowed to jump off high surfaces because this could cause hemivertebrae to rupture.
The contract should also provide for a replacement if the puppy develops a hereditary congenital disorder. This includes conditions like cherry eye or entropian (a condition where the eyes are squinting inward) as well as loose hips and knees, or skin allergies. However the contract does not cover hereditary conditions that are considered normal in French Bulldogs like hemivertebrae or cataracts.
5. Make the Payment
When you have decided to purchase the French Bulldog, you will be required to purchase it. The majority of responsible breeders require a deposit upfront to ensure that their pups go to responsible homes. This will help them avoid breeding unhealthy pups who could be suffering from genetic disorders and diseases such as cataracts, cherry eye and the entropion. It is essential to locate an established breeder and request for the results of a health test prior to making the final payment.
After you've paid you have paid, you can begin to plan for the requirements of your new puppy. This may include purchasing food, toys, bedding, a crate, and training supplies. Be aware of the costs associated with vet care and vaccinations. Frenchies are prone to a variety of medical conditions, including obesity, deafness and collapsing trachea. It is recommended that you get your French bulldog insured to cover any unexpected veterinary expenses.
Frenchies are fantastic pets that are an excellent addition to any family. They are extremely affectionate and love to spend time with their human companions. However, they cannot tolerate long periods of isolation and can develop separation anxiety if left on their own for too long. Because of this, they aren't the best family member for families that travel often or work long hours.
The purchase of a French bulldog from a reputable breeder is a rewarding experience. Responsible breeding practices can help to reduce the risk of developing health problems, and a healthy pup can be a pleasure for a lifetime. Don't forget about the thousands of Frenchies who are displaced and in shelters all over the country. They require homes that are nurturing as well. Please don't make the mistake of judging dogs according to their cost. If you can't afford the cost of a Frenchie adopt one from an animal shelter or rescue group instead.
