The Health of the British Bulldog Despite the theory that the Bulldogs have chronic health problems and are short lived, current breed information indicates that this denigration does not necessarily apply to current dogs in Australia. The majority of detrimental articles written on the Bulldog"s health come from overseas Countries where conditions can be totally different. Generally, the Australian climate agrees with the Bulldogs, there is less industrial pollution and our dogs on the whole , very healthy. Some writers are not even involved in the Breed, while opinions given by Vets should only relate to experiences of the dogs they treat. Usually, apart from vaccinations, check-ups and injuries, there should be little need for healthy Bulldogs, which are in the majority, to be taken to the Veterinary Hospitals. It is acknowledged that many litters are the result of caesarean section. In most cases this is elected by the owner. Bulldogs can self whelp, but usually need the skill of an experienced breeders. Veterinary Surgeons are absolultely necessary for all companion animals for preventative treatment of ailments and injuries, just as Doctors are for Humans. Bulldogs are generally living longer than in former years. However, it should be accepted that there are some dogs which do have health problems. In most cases, a daily care routine will result in a happy, healthy dog. Much is written about the hereditary diseases which occur not only in the Bulldogs, but in every breed of animal and humans. It is necessary for research to be done on chronic hereditary problems and our orginisations should support those who carry out the investigations. When buying a puppy, it should be purchased from a reliable breeder who should be a member of a Breed Club and the State Dog Administration. EG. Royal NSW Canine Control Council. Generally, these have a code of ethics which give some protection and guidance to both buyer and breeder. It is recommended that buyers should get from the breeder 1. Canine Council registration papers. 2. Microchip details. 3. Vaccination papers issued by a Registered Vet. 4. A Feeding Chart. 5. Information on how to raise your new Puppy. 6. A Breeder's Contract. 7. A recommendation for a Vet who is conversant with the Bulldogs. 8. An application form to join the Royal NSW Canine Control Council . 9. An application to join a Bulldog Club. 10. Veterinary evidence of the health of the pup.   There are a number of good books on how to raise and train Bulldogs which can be great value. Prospective breeders and exhibitors should also purchase a copy of " The Perfect Bulldog", written by J. Hay. Hutchinson. This technical book should be available from the nearest Bulldog Club at a very modest cost. Puppies should be in top condition when purchased from reputable breeders. Within 72 hours of purchase, the buyer should also get a certificate from a Vet , conversant with the Bulldogs. If the Vet is not satisfied with the health of the puppy, the Breeder should be contacted immediately. If possible, it is best to maintian a good relationship with the breeder so that if any problems arise, they can be contacted for help or advice. It is best to buy a puppy no earlier than 8 weeks of age. If the Vet checks have been satisfactory, then the Breeder has completed his/hers part in raising the puppy and the future of the dog is totally in the buyer's hands. As with all dogs, the Bulldog needs exercise. A daily programme should be formulated so that both owner and puppy can settle into a pattern. Never allow the dog to walk without a lead outside your property. Bulldogs are friendly and easily distracted and should be under the careful control of the handler at all times. The puppy should be treated as if it is a basby. Keep it out of draughts, make sure the feed and water bowls are clean and ther is always clean fresh water available. Don't leave feed with the puppy for lengthy periods, particularly in summer. Bulldogs have a wonderful nature and are easily adaptable into a human family situation. Generally, this breed adopts the personality of it's owner-if the dog is unruly or hard to control, don't blame the dog, blame the owner. There is an old saying in the Bulldog world " If you see a silly Bulldog , You see it's silly Owner "