My Life

A Bulldog?

Brandon would like a smooshy-faced dog. Ideally, a bulldog.

I’ll have to do a bit more research, but I took a little quiz and the bulldog and I are apparently well suited. That’s good. I also like French bulldogs. They’re kind of smooshy-faced, so I think Brandon would probably like them too.

Dog Breeds

How does one go about finding a dog? It seems sort of strange to just google. Our kitties were strays, so I really have no experience in looking for a certain breed. Any tips?

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  • Melissa
    February 20, 2008 at 2:55 pm

    petfinder.com is a good website for adoptable dogs if that is what you are looking for…dogster.com is a good website to see pictures of various breeds to see what you think is really cute and I think their message boards have ways to find dogs as well. We have three dogs but I would still love to have a French Bulldog and/or a Boston Terrier. They are too cute! I’m all about some dogs! :)

  • jaime
    February 20, 2008 at 3:01 pm

    As Melissa said, petfinder is great!
    Also, it depends on what kind of dog you want. All smushy-faced dogs are prone to breathing problems and lots of gas. However, they’re adorable. The Frenchies are just much smaller than the English, so it depends on the size of poo you’d like to pick up!
    I have a Boston Terrier (Beans) and they tend to be a little on the hyper side, especially when compared with Bulldogs. However, he is also quite stinky :)
    If you have any other questions about Bulldogs please ask because we also have an American Bulldog (Lulu) – although she’s not a smushed-face dog, she is a fantastic.

  • Ellie
    February 20, 2008 at 3:04 pm

    my library had lots of books, one even had a great list of the breeds to avoid. Bulldogs are great, if extra prone to health concerns. Also breeders and the local playgroup/doggie daycare taught me lots about breed temperment beforehand. I now have a 5 month old Airedale, and of course she’s perfect. (non-shed was a must) After I got her though I learned about breed specific rescues which seem perfect, the AKC parent club of each should be able to help.

  • katie
    February 20, 2008 at 3:09 pm

    yay for smushed-face dogs! i have a pug and would love a bulldog or french bulldog.

    as far as recommendations go, i think google is actually an okay way as long as you do enough research. library books comparing dog breeds are nice too. all breeds have their drawbacks but if you love it enough it doesn’t seem to matter that much.

  • Courtney
    February 20, 2008 at 3:20 pm

    I’m a really big cheerleader for rescued pets! If there is a certain breed you want, do a little research because a lot of breeds have their own rescue agencies. We have a St. Bernard and went through the Houston St. Bernard Agency…they are obviously quite knowledgeable about your new pet, too. We’d never had a dog this large before so it was really great getting their tips and advice on how to care for our new love. Good luck!! xx

  • Michelle
    February 20, 2008 at 3:24 pm

    I have a family member who does the dog show thing. Don’t laugh…
    Bulldogs, or English Bulldogs tend to have a similar personality to pugs which is pretty even tempered and mild.
    They do have a problem with drool sometimes, especially in the warmer months. They can also be a little messy with food. When they lean forward their facial wrinkles tend get into the food/water and much ends up on the floor, specially if you’ve got small bowls.

    That doesn’t mean they don’t make great pets. They are kind of quirky but charming nonetheless.

  • Christina
    February 20, 2008 at 3:26 pm

    I am delurking to recommend pugs. Pugs are awesome – I adopted a pug/beagle mix from a rescue organization a year ago and it has been awesome. Their faces are also suitably smooshy – if you poke around on the web and do some Googling, you will be able to find breed-specific rescue groups. Be prepared to lose any semblance of privacy, though – they will follow you into every room. Yes, including the bathroom.

  • mary
    February 20, 2008 at 3:28 pm

    I agree that you should try your hardest to get a rescue dog. There are so many dogs out there there need adopting, it hardly makes sense to have to buy one from a breeder. The AKC has a list of rescue organizations by breed, and you can probably contact them to find out about if there are any close by. http://www.akc.org/breeds/rescue.cfm

    Good luck!!

  • Leslie
    February 20, 2008 at 3:30 pm

    I don’t have experience with bulldogs, but I think they’re super cute! As the other commenters have said, Petfinder.com is a great resource for finding great dogs that need loving homes. Also, you might want to contact your local purebred dog rescue organization. You’re in the Chicago area, right? I did a quick Google search and came up with this bulldog rescue group: http://www.ebullymatch.com/index.html. Good luck!

  • Samae
    February 20, 2008 at 3:30 pm

    Wait for one to come to the humane society or some rescue group for sure!

  • meggan
    February 20, 2008 at 3:33 pm

    My b/f is also a big fan of the smoosh-faces – and they do each have their quirks/health issues which we weren’t aware of before we started doing a bit more research. Petfinder and breed rescue groups are great ways to start looking. If you’re interested in purchasing a pup, absolutely make sure the breeder is in the dog business for the right reasons. (no pet stores). A good place to find legit breeders is at ACK/IKC dog shows.

    You’ve got good timing—The International Kennel Club Dog show is held at McCormick Place, Chicago this weekend!: http://www.ikcdogshow.com
    This is a huge “benched” dog show, meaning owners and their dogs will all be available to chat with when they’re not in the show ring. Great opportunity to talk to get some first-hand knowledge about owning a smoosh-face! Go early — by Sunday afternoon dogs and owners are usually pretty wiped :)

  • Peggasus
    February 20, 2008 at 3:53 pm

    I did a LOT of research before we got our second dog. Our first was a black lab who, unfortunately, went crazy in the head after eating a diffenbachia (sp?) plant (long story). The next time we got an English Springer Spaniel, and she was the best family dog ever. My youngest son learned how to stand and walk on her, and she happily stood in as a head rest/pillow for both of them when they were young. Our Bailey died a few years ago at almost 14.

    I would recommend this breed to anyone.

  • Jen
    February 20, 2008 at 4:19 pm

    I second the recommendations on both trying to find a dog through breed rescue and attending the show this weekend.

    Be sure to ask about temperament traits of the breeds you like, as well as any health issues the breed might have.

    I’m a huge fan of working stock for temperament and health reasons but I don’t think there are any bulldogs “working” these days.

  • Gràcia
    February 20, 2008 at 4:27 pm

    I’ve spent all morning saying I want a beagle! How funny is that?
    And, as other people said, read a lot about whatever breed you choose, they deserve the best of the best!

  • John
    February 20, 2008 at 4:50 pm

    I don’t know what the rescue market is like for smushy dogs, but I know it was rough finding a chihuahua to rescue.

    This sounds like a joke, but we finally found our little guy thanks to a Val-Pak coupon for a local petstore that advertised “We specialize in small breeds.” We ended up with a pure-bred chihuahua that was $75 off :)

    And anyone who’s been on our site knows we’re a little obsessed with pub.

    Good luck!

  • Maggie Sumner
    February 20, 2008 at 5:08 pm

    One thing to think about with a bull-dog is if you want to travel by air with them. Because of their breathing issues, these dogs typically can’t go on airplanes. Good to know, just in case you have family you fly to see and you’d want to take your family dog along.

    I also agree about going for a rescue dog. It’s amazing how many pure bred dogs end up in shelters. I would avoid pet stores as many dogs there come from puppy mills and often have myriad health issues from poor nutrition, health care and living conditions where they are bred. A reputable breeder is a much better option if you absolutely want a purebred puppy.

    That said, I got my dog (not a pure bred, but a Border Collie/Aussie Shepard mix) from Chicago Animal Care and Control (basically the city pound–they have a website you can check out). She is the absolute best $65 I ever spent in my entire life. I wouldn’t trade her for a million bucks.

  • robiewankenobie
    February 20, 2008 at 5:10 pm

    i want to add my vote to the rescue/pound pack. single breed dogs come into the pounds, so it is an option, as is rescue. a lot of our humane society dogs do show up on petfinder, so it is a great resource. i can’t wait to see what you find!

  • robiewankenobie
    February 20, 2008 at 5:17 pm

    fyi: http://www.ebullymatch.com/

  • Jules
    February 20, 2008 at 5:18 pm

    Usually you can Google and find area breed clubs who will then list area breeders. Finding a rescue dog would be ideal, but difficult. One thing to consider about bulldogs (it’s the only dog the Mister ever wanted so we did years of research) is the cost. Because their head size is so large (due to breeding techniques), the pups are often delivered via c-section. This increases the cost tremendously. In my area, a bulldog from a responsible and ethical breeder came close to $1500. Of course we saw adds in the paper for much less, but we didn’t feel comfortable with that route.

    Ultimately we decided against the bulldog for two reasons. Cost, and, more importantly, they have a shorter life span (5-9 years) and we couldn’t imagine having a dog in our life for so little time.

    We ended up with two beagles, and I love, love, love, love them to pieces. But, be warned–if you get one beagle you should really get two (or at least another pet) they are pack dogs and do better with a friend. :)

  • dana
    February 20, 2008 at 5:19 pm

    as cute as bulldogs and pugs are, make sure you get a dog to be a pet and family member, not just for his pretty face. and always adopt! there are breed rescues and many times local shelters have the breed you want. petfinder’s also a great resource. personality and temperment should always be key…not just looks.

    keep in mind that pet stores should be AVOIDED at all costs (they’re generally supplied by puppy mills) and if you do buy from a breeder, make sure you do EXTENSIVE research…the humane society website has some great information on getting a dog in general or, if you must, a puppy from a responsible breeder.

    http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_adoption_information/
    &
    http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_adoption_information/how_to_find_a_good_dog_breeder/

    there are millions of animals killed because of overpopulation and irresponsible breeders (akc means squat, really…they don’t do much to curb bad breeders, over population or puppy mills). when you adopt, you save 2 dogs–the one you adopted and the dog he/she makes room for.

    good luck…i love dogs, well, more than most people, and i’m always excited when someone finds a new friend (especially when they can save that friend’s life). have fun!!! =)

  • Megs
    February 20, 2008 at 5:26 pm

    If you get any of these “smooshed” face breeds, be VERY diligent in choosing a breeder. You should with any dog, but these dogs are all really prone to health problems. My friend has a bulldog who has had multiple surgeries (hips, nostil enlargment, something in his throught…). Her vet basically said if Bull dogs were humans, they would be drawfs (with the associated medical issues). You NEED pet insurance if you get one. AND if you go see a breeder who says otherwise, then they are not honest and find another one!

  • Leslie
    February 20, 2008 at 5:34 pm

    First determine if you want a puppy or adult dog, male or female, or do you want a purebreed or mix with specific physical characteristics?

    Living with a dog requires work and a 10 – 20 year commitment. There’s also the expense of spaying/neutering regular vet visits, planning for emergency vet visits, vaccinations, licensing, good-quality food, toys, etc. Be sure to budget for that.

    If you want a purebreed, there are thousands of rescue groups that can be found online and through your local vet office, animal shelter, and some pet supply stores.

    If you want a pet-quality purebreed puppy (healthy but perhaps the markings aren’t breed standard, etc.) visit dog shows, talk to the handlers and owners, and do some research on the breed standard. You want to meet the parent dogs. Be wary of anyone who would sell you a puppy quickly and/or who doesn’t ask thorough questions about your lifestyle, house, backyard, family, travel, etc. Also, a breeder should state in the contract that that spaying/neutering is mandatory and that he/she will take back the dog at any time for any reason. A reputable breeder should be at least comfortable with rescue if not actively involved in rescue and placement.

    Good luck choosing your new family member.

  • stef
    February 20, 2008 at 5:35 pm

    I’ll resist the urge to rant about breeders like I normally do and instead just *strongly encourage* you to consider adopting a shelter pup. Or, as I see was suggested above, check out a bulldog rescue. Petfinder.com is a fantastic resource and often includes 2-3 months of pet insurance if you adopt from there. I see this was also mentioned above – something like 90% of bulldog litters are delivered via c-section, ditto with french bulldog and similar types. I know there are responsible breeders dedicated to improving the breed, but I just cannot get past the image of a breeder getting their dog pregnant then having her sliced open to deliver the pups.

    I’m a long time reader. Sorry to delurk with such a sassy post. If possible, adopt a shelter bulldog puppy!

  • modernemama
    February 20, 2008 at 5:56 pm

    Do your research on the breed, the AKC is a good place to start, and then see if the breed association has a rescue
    here’s a link to the bulldog rescue association:
    http://www.akc.org/breeds/rescue.cfm#302

    We got one of our dogs this way (Irish Setter rescue)

  • Zinzi
    February 20, 2008 at 5:58 pm

    Wow, I’m so glad everyone is encouraging the adoption route! I was getting all poised to post a comment urging you to adopt and I was getting a little nervous as I’ve never posted here before and I didn’t want my first comment to be me up on a soap box! (Kudos to stef for “delurking” that way too :) )

    At any rate, if you are set on a purebred dog, there are TONS of purebred adoption organization, so a saché through google should put you in contact with a lovable bulldog of your choice.

    Otherwise, there is a great site, http://www.dogsindanger.com, that (although not exactly upbeat) is a really great resource if you’re serious about rescue dog adoption.

    Whatever way you end up going, congratulations on adding a dog to your family!

    Zinzi

  • Zinzi
    February 20, 2008 at 6:02 pm

    P.S. If anyone is in the LA area and wants a great dog, my animal rescue organization, Much Love Animal Rescue (muchlove.org) is really great and helpful. We even recently had a chihuahua, although I don’t know if they’re as rare here as elsewhere…

  • April
    February 20, 2008 at 6:06 pm

    My husband wants the same kind of dog. Since we won’t be getting one for a another year or so, I have only looked briefly. The things we’ve looked have included the breathing problems arise. Also, if you’re interested in adopting from the shelter (I’m not sure if I already posted this), but most will allow you to call or come in and leave you information and include the breed you would like. Then they can contact you when that breed comes in. My dad has a beautiful german shepherd that he got that way.

  • Making it Lovely
    February 20, 2008 at 6:21 pm

    We’re not concerned with proper markings – we want a healthy, loving, mild-mannered dog, and the bulldog’s temperament sounds perfect for us. The smooshy face is just an added (cute) bonus!

    We do know to stay clear of pet stores, and to have our new pup spayed or neutered. We are responsible pet owners, don’t worry.

    Every pet I’ve ever had was a rescue. In this case though, we might want to go to a (reputable) breeder. With all of the possible health problems associated with bulldogs, I would feel better knowing where ours came from. Brandon is also very excited about getting a puppy, rather than an older dog. I’m certainly not against getting a rescue dog though… I’ll look into it more.

    Please feel free to keep the suggestions coming!

  • Chelsea
    February 20, 2008 at 6:23 pm

    The IKC dog show is at McCormick this weekend. That would be a great venue for meeting a lot of different breeds and talking to the breeders about them, since it is a benched show (the dogs are on display when they are not competing in the rings.) You could then explore the rescue option, or have met some people who might be able to refer you to reputable dog breeders.

  • Making it Lovely
    February 20, 2008 at 6:29 pm

    Yes, we’re planning on going this weekend! The Chicago rescue organization (ebullymatch) will be there too.

  • April
    February 20, 2008 at 6:47 pm

    After reading the other responses, I have bookmarked this link for when we decide to look because there’s so much helpful information here :)

  • April
    February 20, 2008 at 6:50 pm

    Also, because I haven’t posted like twenty times already, I wanted to give you some kudos for looking into this so much. I have known several cases where the animal has been slightly neglected because the owners did not think things through. Actually, I’m not sure they really thought it through at all.

  • Michelle
    February 20, 2008 at 7:11 pm

    Oh one more thing! If you decide against a bulldog for some reason, you may fall in love with a beagle.
    They are so sweet and loving! My husband had one and he was the best.

    They are more energetic compared to a bulldog, though. ;)
    I love smoosh – faced dogs!

  • sarah
    February 20, 2008 at 7:44 pm

    Sounds like your set on a bulldog, but just thought I’d chime in and say I have a beagle & he is fantastic! I got him from a local rescue when he was 2. He came housebroken & already knew a few commands! I fell in love with him the instant I met him & 4 years later we’re preparing to move across the ocean to The Netherlands together (and knowing he’ll be there with me somehow makes me feel like being so far from home won’t be as hard).

  • carrie
    February 20, 2008 at 7:59 pm

    Rescue, rescue, rescue! Check out your local rescues you can find them on Google. Or, Petfinder.com has both rescues and pets that need to find a home for one reason or another.

    Good luck ~ Dogs are the BEST!

  • jenni s-g
    February 20, 2008 at 8:44 pm

    I am also a big fan of rescuing dogs! And getting mutts has always been such a better deal for me. All the purebred dogs we had as a family were riddled with problems both socially and medically. All the mutts we rescued were much more even tempered and less sickly.

    Check with your local pound–some of the chain stores like Petsmart have organized adoption days–and other rescue organizations.

    And spread the word. You never know when someone knows someone who works with someone who is looking to get rid of a dog–either because it was a bad fit, they discovered allergies, or they’re moving. That’s how I found my awesome shepard mix, the bestest dog in the world. :)

  • daisy janie
    February 20, 2008 at 9:27 pm

    It’s been said so many times already that I feel like a broken record, but you seriously should go the rescue route if at all possible…even if it means abandoning the idea of a purebred dog. Mutts are so much better (IMHO) b/c they are not prone to the health problems, idiosyncrasies and negative personality traits that an overbred purebred often can be. They just are what they are…totally moldable and ready to be trained! Both of our dogs are from petfinder.com, and we couldn’t have asked for anything better! A reputable rescue agency will screen you as if you’re adopting a baby (which you are)…they want to make sure they have a match as much as you do so you’re not stuck with a lemon! (How will you save your hardwood floors??)

  • Sam
    February 20, 2008 at 11:31 pm

    Might I recommend that you use a rescue group that does home visits? That way, you can meet the dog at your house and get a feel for them in their environment. Many rescue groups have volunteers that foster dogs in their homes which is great because then they really know the dog. Also, if the dog doesn’t work out for some reason, the foster person will usually happily take the dog back with no hard feelings.

  • Gwen
    February 21, 2008 at 8:53 am

    It sounds like you’ve gotten lots of great advice. I would only add to think about little things that you care about. Does it bother you if your adorable bulldog puppy slobbers all over your furniture while playing with a toy? Or, does it bother you that all your black clothes are covered in little white hairs? Do you mind a dog that barks a lot? Do you mind dogs with serious smelly gas issues? Would it bother you if the dog got in the trash and spread it all over the floor tracking used coffee grounds all over your nice rug? Try and think about these things before you jump in to the magical world of dog ownership. Congratulations & be sure and post pictures of the puppy!

  • S
    February 21, 2008 at 11:07 am

    I have a french bulldog – a brindle male – and he is the BEST THING THAT EVER HAPPENED TO ME. Sweet, clowny temperament, good with kids, energetic in spurts but lots of naps. A good romp at the dog park and he’s exercised enough for the day, which is good because I don’t have enough time to properly exercise a hyper dog. I agree that rescuing dogs is the best way to go, but I freely admit that as a first-time dog mom I was more comfortable going with a breeder, so I would feel a bit better that I knew the general parameters of what I could expect when the puppy grew up. My strategy was to google for nearby breeders, email with them, ask a lot of questions. Oh – and I told them I didn’t need a puppy. Often times they have older dogs (bonus – already housetrained!) who were going to be showdogs or breeding dogs but didn’t work out because of something small. Mine was going to be a showdog, but he was, no joke, one pound over the weight limit. Otherwise he is perfect. (For a farty, snorty, snoring little smooshy-faced dog.)

  • Ada
    February 21, 2008 at 11:12 am

    I have an english bull dog, an old english bull dog (no not like the malt liquor…) and a poodle. So i highly recommend a bulldog. they are stupid but sooo loving! my poodle is amazingly smart and my favorite but you know. my friend has a keese hound and he is the sweetest thing. and no shedding!
    ps. I love your blog

  • JenM
    February 21, 2008 at 1:06 pm

    Just be prepared that a puppy is nothing like a kitten. Cats settle into their new homes very quickly and are much easier to potty train. With a puppy I’ve heard its much like taking care of a newborn in that you won’t get much sleep. The puppies miss their mothers, cry through the night if you keep them in a different room, and then of course there is the potty training issue. As others have mentioned – be prepared for all sorts of vet bills. The shots, the heartworm meds, and then just random illness. My cat is so low-maintenance compared to our dogs. The dogs are completely worth it though!

  • zay
    February 21, 2008 at 1:53 pm

    going thru a bulldog/french bulldog rescue would be a nice way to save a pup…

    that’s how we got our bull terrier, toby…

  • Princess of Power
    February 21, 2008 at 1:57 pm

    We loved the idea of a puppy and when we brought him home, we had no idea what we were doing! My best advice: Crate training! Our tiny dachshund puppy TORE UP our bathroom. Eventually we learned and now we are content happy dog owners.

  • Natalie
    February 21, 2008 at 2:25 pm

    The best way to find a reputable breeder and a good, healthy pup, is to take some walks in dog parks and ask the owners where they got their dog. Under no circumstances should you go to the pet store, unless of course they are some super-duper pet store that has employees that give love and personal attention to each and every animal. Sorry, I am kind of opinionated about this…

    Rescues are great too, but make sure to visit the dog lots before you bring him into your home and decide whether his personality will mesh with yours. The old addage that you can’t teach an old dog new tricks is very true. Once a dog has been trained – well or not – it takes lots of work and time and patience to fix those learned behaviours.

    That being said I rescued a wild and crazy 16 month old lab and she is just the sweetest and best thing that has ever happened to me. Good luck!

  • Ana
    February 21, 2008 at 2:49 pm

    Rescue dogs all the way, and I echo what was said before, there is most likely a bulldog rescue in your area.

  • Frances
    February 21, 2008 at 3:24 pm

    Go smooshy-faced dogs!! I have a boston called Buster ( his picture is on the all-mighty.com site). The beauty of a purebred from a reputable breeder is the dog will match EXACTLY the expected characteristics of the breed – size, temperament etc.
    One great thing about Bostons and Frenchies is they can happily be left home alone. They’re very clean and don’t need much amusing. Then the little squishy fellows come alive when you get home. SO CUTE!!!

  • Jen
    February 21, 2008 at 3:54 pm

    I went through this almost a year ago and I basically moved into the library researching breed books and training books etc… I feel like that stage took forever but as a result I got exactly what I wanted. I got the most adorable Boston Terrier (Milo) and I couldn’t be more smitten. I like bulldogs a lot, I reeeallllly wanted a french bulldog but I was worried about all the health problems. And I don’t know if this is a factor for you or not but I really decided against a bulldog because they’re so short lived. I get super attached and I knew that if I got a rescue dog that was a year or two old and if he/she would die at 8years I just didn’t want to have to deal with that. And, also a bulldog was just too much dog for me in a small space, and I also hate being yanked by big dogs on a leash. My neighbor had one and I can’t tell you how many times she’d be walking and trying to keep him at an even pace and he would snap the leash. I just like a dog that can’t make me fall to the ground, that being said you can train dogs not to pull and use proper harnesses etc…

    Anyway, I can’t recommend boston terriers enough! I live in an apartment complex and Milo is the little neighborhood stud, he knows the UPS man, the maitenance and grounds crew and he knows everyone. He’s a total clown, he’s always hamming it up and has yet to meet a single person that he dislikes, that is not worth being slathered in puppy kisses. Anyway, they are total lovers, almost never bark (except in his puppy dreams), super smarties, adaptable and sooo freaking social. Anyway, so yes he’s hyper when I get home but he’s also just a go with the flow dog. I had surgery last month and he just laid in bed with me all day. He had someone walk him once a day but other than that he’s just content to be near me, and he self entertained by bringing his toys to the bed. He is the biggest sweetheart, and everyone I meet tells me if I ever need a puppy sitter to call them…The biggest drawbacks to the breed can be health problems like allergies, breathing problems etc… so do you research. Also, as mentioned above the rancid room clearing farts are awful, but by adjusting their diet and finding what works you can greatly decrease them. And sometimes he snores like an old man and it’s surprisingly loud. Lastly while I adore it when Milo jumps and slathers me with kisses some people don’t. When I get home he runs in circles it’s like he’s just done a few lines of puppy crack, some people can’t handle the hyperness and you can train them to calm down. Milo gets over it in about two minutes, but other than that they’re such great little affectionate dogs. When he’s not doing his “new person! new person! someone’s at the door!” happy dance when someone knocks he’s super chill for the most part. I live in Michigan and everyone seems to speak really highly of the Midwest Boston Terrier Rescue, so check them out if you would consider a BT.

    http://www.midwestbtrescue.org/

  • Chandaloo
    February 21, 2008 at 10:59 pm

    Being a pug owner I’m a bit partial, but I think they are the greatest indoor dogs. They are funny and have a great personality while being somewhat small. They are robust and love to play but also love to sleep in late. They do shed, but I’ve found that a monthly shave down at the groomers cures that.
    We found our puggie through a friend who knew someone who was moving and couldn’t keep him. He’s been the best dog we’ve ever had. He’s not as intelligent as our little terrier but he’s loads of fun and a good couch buddy too. Plus they’ve got the smushy face you want and other than the monthly shave, they’re v. low maintenance.

  • pve design
    February 22, 2008 at 7:47 am

    Somehow you just know when you find the perfect one! We fell in love with our little guy, part beagle and poodle! He is so loving and such an integral part of our family. I really do not know how we ever lived with out him.
    Of course, lots of training, crate training and even an obedience class. Repetition is the mother of learning – He sits, does down and rolls over, all for a reward of a treat!

  • Kris
    February 22, 2008 at 9:09 am

    I hate to be a downer…but I wouldn’t get a smoochie face dog. They can end up with major health problems because, well, they were breed to have flat faces…and it’s not normal. Plus, they drool – a lot.

    Adopt a mutt from a rescue shelter. Mutts are the best!

  • Amber
    February 22, 2008 at 10:13 am

    I have a smoosh faced dog, a boston terrier! They are great dogs! Please consider getting a rescue dog. They are wonderful and you will be giving them a better life. I love my Kyla. Here’s a resource for bulldog rescue: http://www.rescuebulldogs.org/

  • meredith
    February 22, 2008 at 10:29 am

    hi there nicole,

    my husband & i bought a house a few years ago and were determined to adopt a dog once we had a yard. we spent a few months going to the animal shelter on the weekends, but one saturday saw a shy little german shepherd mix that would come up the the kennel door to check us out, but then retreat to her blanket. we asked to take her out to play and she immediately ran up to my husband and flipped over for him to rub her belly! it is important to note, i am terrified of german shepherds normally (something about their enormous jaw & pointy ears?), but she has been the sweetest dog i have ever come across.

    my point is that i think purebreds are great, but there are so many mixed breeds at the shelters that need homes. For us it had much more to do with the personality of the dog, not the breed. despite my initial fear of owning a german shepherd mix, she has a sweet & calm disposition, is super smart & loyal and has been a great addition to our little family.

  • Sues is not Martha
    February 22, 2008 at 11:25 am

    Aww what a great program! I’m not a huge fan of smooshy-faced dogs…I think they snore a lot. Bulldogs are cute though :) I also love keeshonds and samoyeds.

    I’m most compatible with beagles. Yay Snoopy!

    Sues

  • jane
    February 22, 2008 at 4:27 pm

    I agree with a previous poster that English Springer Spaniels are one of the best family dogs around—such sweethearts! Our family dog was a Boston. She was really pretty, really funny, and a lover. They are quite hyper, though, and the health problems associated with this breed are mostly associated with their squished-in nose and also their eyes are vulnerable to injury Ours had both nose surgery (early) and eye surgery (later in life). Also, bostons often have one person they love best, so it can be hard on a couple if you both long to be idolized by the same pup. I don’t know if the french bull dog has this same trait? I would also encourage you to look into rescue dogs—such a great way to become a new dog owner. Good luck with your choice. :)

  • amy purple
    February 22, 2008 at 4:50 pm

    Definitely check out the rescue sites Amber and Jen posted! Petfinder has lots of rescues listed as well.

    We’re considering adopting a schipperke from a rescue and I already talked to her foster mom. She’s having pups, so we’d have to wait 10 weeks to adopt her. I can’t wait to meet her. I hope it works out and we’re a good fit.

  • Meg
    February 22, 2008 at 8:25 pm

    Ya for Smooshy faced dogs! We have a boston terrier and love everything about her. She really is perfect for us. But, she’s a lot different (and more high energy) than an English Bulldog….

    You’ve gotten some great advice, I just had to share in the smooshy goodness.

  • Miss B
    February 23, 2008 at 4:16 pm

    A Frenchie! They are small not as active as a Boston, not as sloppy as (the so cute English versions). They are smart as can be, funny, sweet, kind and impossibly loyal. There are AMAZING rescue organizations for Frenchies…

  • Lisa
    February 23, 2008 at 5:44 pm

    Please consider getting a mutt. I have friends with purebreds (pugs, bulldogs, poodles, terriers of all kinds, you name it), and not a single one of them doesn’t have some kind of health issue, with the exception of a labradoodle. The mutts in my life (including my two girls), however, tend to be healthier overall. No expensive surgeries or unusual allergies. They also, in my dog park experience, tend to have more stable temperaments. So many dogs are put down every day because they don’t have homes, even puppies! I understand your reputable breeder argument, but mother nature is a very reputable breeder, if left to her own devices.

    That said, a pure breed is a known commodity. And if I had gotten my older dog before some asshole kicked (or threw) her (and I found her when she was only 5 weeks old… so yeah: there’s a special place in hell for people who abuse animals), we would have saved a LOT of time and heartache in getting her to trust people again. A reputable breeder can eliminate the “possibility of abuse” factor if you don’t want to deal with that.

  • Renee
    February 23, 2008 at 8:44 pm

    I haven’t read all the comments, but just beware that a bulldog and french bulldog have totally opposite personalities. The latter needs a lot of exercise and though very cute are hyper and stubborn. Whereas bulldogs are a bit more easily tired out. How about a charpae (sp?) they’re adorable….

  • Sommer
    February 24, 2008 at 9:34 am

    As everyone else has said, I highly recommend getting a rescued pup rather than a breeder pup. I don’t trust breeders, no matter how reputable they may be. I also have had friends that have run different kinds of rescue homes and I’ve always done my best to donate to them in any way I could. Those animals really NEED us. I hope you find a lovely addition to your family! I’m a Beagle fan myself, but any fuzzy friend is good.

  • Courtney
    February 25, 2008 at 11:14 am

    I have a mixed english and french bulldog…people are right about flying these dogs–she’s the size of a frenchie, so she flies under the seat with us. As far as breathing issues, it’s really not as bad as people say. She snores, but the vet didn’t think she needed the nose surgery to open up their breathing passages, which they would have done when they did her spay, if they thought she needed it. If they do get the surgery, it’s totally routine and doesn’t cost much more than the spay alone, because they are already under anethesia. These dogs are amazing, smart and hilariously spunky,and live a lot longer than commonly thought if you watch their weight and keep them active. A vet said ours could live up to 17 years! As far as different personalities between the two breeds, Renee might be right. Since she’s mixed, ours seems to either be sprinting around the house or sleeping, and nothing inbetween. One other thing to note is they aren’t huge fans of the cold weather, but that can be a good thing if you aren’t either! We just moved from Portland, OR to Evanston, and while she loves the snow, she is not a huge fan of the cold. Good luck, and don’t get freaked out by what everyone says…I think it’s great that you’re thinking about it, but also, when you meet your dog, you know it, and that’s that!

  • .a
    February 25, 2008 at 12:47 pm

    Olde English Bulldog – Look into that breed. My parents have a 4 month old that has taken very well to training, smart!

  • RoseCampion
    February 25, 2008 at 3:42 pm

    I can’t believe no one else has spoken up in favor of your 98% match. The Keeshond. We had a Kees for eleven or so years. We got him as an adult, so he passed at like age fourteen or so. He probably would have lived longer but for the kidney disease, which I think was caused by his dog food. We fed Iams for years.

    But seriously, our Kees was the sweetest, most patient, loving dog I’ve ever known. A little dumb, but honestly, too smart is not necessarily a good point in a dog that’s primarily a house pet. I wouldn’t have a smart dog like a border collie unless I had sheep for it or something.

    Also, don’t be put off by the long hair. For some reason, our Kees never matted except a little by the ears, so he was really easy to keep for a long hair dog. A Kees is sturdy, medium sized, friendly, and a good watch dog without being scary. Also, breed rescue is pretty active and they always seem to have puppies as well as adult dogs listed.

  • AMANDA
    February 29, 2008 at 4:55 pm

    i would find a forum of dog owners to ask the pros and cons of their own breeds of dogs.

    i have a cocker spaniel and i love her to pieces.
    i adopted her when she was 5 years old.

  • French Bulldog Blog
    May 23, 2008 at 10:50 pm

    We love frenchies over here!