Bulldog history originates in England. The term Bulldog generally refers to the English version of the breed though there are also French and American Bulldogs. The original Bulldog, the Old English bulldog, was a large dog used to drive cattle. The English later bred these dogs to be aggressive and used them in gambling sports like bull baiting and dog fighting. When England passed the Cruelty to Animals Act of1849, bull baiting and dog fighting were banned and much of the population lost interest in the Bulldog.

More than one Bulldog breeder began to mix Bulldogs with smaller breeds to create a lap dog that could be an indoor family pet. This resulted in the current form of the English and French Bulldogs. Some European immigrants took their Bulldogs with them when immigrating to America. These Bulldogs would become the progenitors for the American Bulldog breed, which more closely resembles the Old English Bulldog.
Bulldog Breeders should be able to educate potential buyers about Bulldog information including care, grooming and discipline. Whether an American, French or English Bulldog breeder, he will have knowledge of all Bulldog breeds and their specific needs. Bulldogs are not for inexperienced pet owners. This breed is high maintenance and requires significant attention, training and medical care.

European versions of the Bulldog often have respiratory problems due to their small bodies, flat faces and Pug noses. These versions also need help giving birth, usually by c-section, as puppies' heads are too wide to be delivered naturally. The American Bulldog has a life expectancy of almost twice that of the European versions, but these larger dogs have their own set of behavioral, social and health issues. Bulldogs buyers should approach Bulldog breeders with a list of questions. Good breeders will be able to provide extensive Bulldog information. Buyers should also expect Bulldog breeders to interview them to make sure they can adequately provide for Bulldog puppies.
A good Bulldog breeder will not sell puppies to pet stores. It is important that dog buyers purchase Bulldogs from certified, loving breeders who maintain their own kennels. Puppy brokers, backyard breeders and pet stores buy and sell puppies like any other merchandise with no guarantee on puppy health or lineage. An alternative to buying direct from a breeder is buying from a breed-specific rescue center. Rescue dogs are often saved from lives in puppy mills, puppy auctions and pet stores. These dogs may have been neglected, abandoned, and abused and will be grateful to be rescued by a loving owner. Like any pure breed, rescue dogs need an experienced owner who knows how to socialize, positively reinforce and care for them.

Bulldog buyers have a responsibility to research both breed and breeder before buying a purebred Bulldog. It is important not to continue the cycle of puppy mill breeding. Buyers should report any breeder they suspect of mistreating animals. A good Bulldog breeder will do the same and will encourage buyers to look into rescued Bulldogs.

Buyers should research a Bulldog breeder thoroughly before buying a purebred Bulldog. Bulldogs information and how to determine a good from bad Bulldog breeder is provided in this article.