Shopping List

You will need many things for your new puppy. Below is a basic list of items to have ready when you bring your new puppy home:

Puppy food - The buyer should give you a bag of food and may make a suggestion as to which premium food you should switch to once the bag is empty. Continue the puppy on the food the breeder gave you but add a little bit of the new food you want to switch them to at each feeding so the change is gradual. This will keep their stomachs from becoming upset.

Crate - Our dogs sleep in 28" x 42" inch crates. The larger the better. This allows them to sleep in any direction comfortably and not touch the sides. The crate becomes their "bedroom," and they know that's where they can go to be left alone and be safe, especially when they sleep. It becomes their den. You may want to start out with the largest size so you don't end up spending extra money buying increasingly larger crates as your puppy grows.

Bed - A cushy bed with a washable cover that you can change out often. We have several for each dog and at least two are clean at all times.

Food dishes that attach to the crate - These can be ordered from www.kvvet.com if your local pet supply store does not carry them. Stainless steel only please, no plastic, glass or ceramic.

Collar and Leash - Your puppy will grow quickly, so don't be surprised if he or she outgrows collars quickly. Check the fit every few days to make sure the collar does not become too tight. You'll also need a sturdy, good quality leash as well, and make sure it is comfortable for you to hold.

Toys - Lots of durable chew toys. The best toys for bulldogs are Nylabones. They are made of durable plastic and can withstand the strong jaws and constant chewing of a bulldog.

Dog treats - This will help you train. Positive rewards, consistency, and repetition work best for bulldogs. We like Wellness Pure Rewards, Bil-Jac liver treats, and Grizzly Salmon Grain-Free treats.

Baby wipes - For daily cleaning of face wrinkles and under tail.

Paper towels

Ear cleaner

Eye drops

Shampoo - A high-quality oatmeal-based shampoo and conditioner such as the Bio-Groom brand which can be ordered from KV Vet.

Brush - A good quality brush to remove loose hair.

Towels for drying after a bath.

 

 

 

 

How to buy a puppy

Step 1:

Ask yourself some questions. Why do you want a bulldog? How much time can you dedicate to a dog? Does your lifestyle allow you the flexibility to have a bulldog in your life? Do you have the energy and time to dedicate to feeding, training, grooming, and exercising a bulldog? Do you have the income necessary to maintain the health of a bulldog? Will you be able to care for this dog for the rest of its life?

Remember, this puppy will become a member of your family and will be with you for a lifetime. Make sure you are ready for that commitment.

Step 2:

Educate yourself. Before selecting a puppy educate yourself on the Bulldog Standard. Read and re-read until you become familiar with bulldog characteristics. Knowing what to look for will help you select a healthy dog. The Bulldog Club of America provides valuable information on the breed and is also a good place to start.

Step 3:

Seek out a respected breeder. Seek out a breeder who is willing to educate you on how to care for your bulldog. (Never buy a dog from a pet store.) Select a responsible breeder - i.e. one whose number one concern is for the well-being of their dogs. Make sure you feel comfortable with this person; you will rely on them for many things and will ask them many questions.

To find a responsible breeder attend several meetings at your local bulldog club or kennel club. Anyone who is truly committed to the breed will belong to a club or canine organization of some kind.

Step 4:

Ask Questions. Once you have found a breeder you feel comfortable with, ask them a lot of questions. They know that bulldogs are different than other breeds and they need special care. They also know that it takes time to learn all there is to know about bulldogs. And don't be surprised when they ask you lots of questions; they want to make sure that their puppies will be well-cared-for and loved at their new home.

Step 5:

Look at puppies. When looking at puppies make sure you also see their parents. Puppies will grow up to look much like their parents so make sure they are healthy and to the standard. Look at their pedigree (family tree), medical history, their living conditions, etc.

Your new puppy should be at least 8-weeks old. Some people say that the puppy will choose you, not the other way around. I disagree with that statement. You need to choose a dog that will fit into your family. If you are active, choose an active dog. If you like to relax on the weekends, choose a more mild mannered puppy.

Step 6:

Buy your new puppy. Your new puppy should be at least 8-weeks old, be weaned, have his/her first set of vaccincations, and be wormed.

When you finally purchase your new puppy make sure you receive the following:

  • proof of the first vet visit and vaccincation record
  • the American Kennel Club (AKC) registration application
  • a copy of the breeder's contract
  • a purchase reciept
  • some of the puppy's personal things such as food, blankets, toys, etc. Having these last items will make the puppy's transition from the familiarity of its current surroundings and siblings to its new home with your family a little easier.