Article Advise

submitted: Aug 25th 2008 | by: BobbyCallahan | Total views: 1 | Word Count: 546 | |

The history of the American Bulldog begins with the Old English Bulldog in Britain. Bulldogs were used to bait bulls and in other violent dog fighting competitions. When Britain passed its Cruelty to Animals Act in the 1800s, Bulldogs lost their usefulness and popularity.

The Bulldog almost became extinct after Britain passed the Cruelty to Animals Act. Bulldogs were no longer allowed to bait bulls or fight other dogs and their usefulness was diminished. Fortunately, European fans of the breed mixed Bulldogs with Pugs to breed dogs down to lap dog size. French and English Bulldogs are popular family pets and often used as characters in film and television due to their expressive eyes, comical mugs and large personalities.

Bulldogs were brought to America by immigrants and used as working dogs on farms and ranches. The original form of the breed almost became extinct after World War II. A war veteran and breeder, John D. Johnson, scoured the American South for remaining Bulldogs and begin breeding the American version known today. American Bulldogs are much larger than European forms and are still used for cattle droving. They are also used as K-9 dogs and as family pets. The breed has gained popularity due to the banning of the American Pit Bull in many countries. Former owners of banned Pit Bulls view American Bulldog puppies as attractive replacements.

Buyers of American Bulldog puppies have John D. Johnson to thank for the very existence of the breed, and his protg, Alan Scott, also helped maintain the existence of the American Bulldog. These two men split and bred two separate types of American Bulldogs, Scott, or Standard, American Bulldogs and Johnson American Bulldogs. Scott/Johnson hybrids are also popular among American Bulldog breeders.

Buyers should be experienced dog owners before purchasing a breed such as the American Bulldog. This breed requires attention and discipline from the beginning and an inexperienced owner will not have the skills needed to raise successful Bulldogs.

For experienced buyers, American Bulldogs can be found by asking local breeders or visiting websites that advertise National Kennel Club or United Kennel Club certified breeders. Because of the volatile nature in the breed's past, buyers should never buy American Bulldog puppies with questionable ancestry or pedigree. Only well-documented, certified puppies should be purchased and puppies should immediately receive discipline and training.

Before purchasing American Bulldog puppies, buyers should stock up on necessary Bulldog puppy supplies. Buyers can also inquire of breeders what necessary items should be bought. American Bulldogs are medium-sized dogs and will require more food, grooming supplies, and training than toy or small dogs. Good American Bulldog breeders can provide buyers with a list of items needed to care for American Bulldog puppies. Some of these items include: proper brand and amount of puppy food, chew toys, housebreaking supplies such as pee pads, leashes, kennels or crates, training schedules, developmental timetables, grooming supplies, and medicine.

Besides getting puppy supply tips from breeders, buyers should also make sure that their breeder is well informed about the breed. Breeders should be able to answer all questions buyers have about caring for and raising American Bulldog puppies. Breeders should be able to provide puppy medical records including immunization history and screening results for common genetic disorders, pedigree and certification, and a warranty or guarantee against illness.

About the Author

About the author: Bobby Callahan is a passionate lover of the Bulldog and owns a popular website that can teach you how to have a happy, healthy and well behaved Bulldog. Among other topics there, you can also learn all about Bulldog puppies plus a whole lot more.

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