(...) Like any other dog breed, bulldogs may have genetic defectsand are also subject to various illnesses that affect many other breeds. Common English Bulldog health problems include: dermatitis, demodetic mange, eye lid anomalies, hip dysplasia, elongated soft palate, small trachea, allergies, and heart problems. If you are adopting an older dog, many of these conditions will already have been identified. Of course, like in all breeds, individuals differs greatly, but not all English Bulldogs, are those perpetual lazy coach potatoes, uncapable of any type of exercise, with possibly congenital diseases, as described by opponents of the breed. If treated kindly and trained appropriately, they will develop a delightful personality, demonstrate an unquestionable loyalty to and affection for their master and be capable of much more than their new owners would have ever suspected.
As far as their health and genetic potential is concerned, the foremost important point is the choice of a breeder. Only buy puppies from a reputable and ethical breeder with a scrupulous breeding policy. Never, ever buy a Bulldog from a pet store or from a breeder who also sells puppies to pet stores or puppy mills. An ethical breeder should not accept to sell a bulldog puppy befor the age of 8 weeks (see article about the Development Stages of the Puppy),because puppies need this time with their mother and littermates to be correctly socialized. Of course, this goes for all dog breeds, but is may be even more true with Bulldogs.
