Are Bulldogs A Good Choice To Bring Into A Home With Kids? What We Know

The English bulldog is one of the most recognizable dog breeds out there. With their wrinkles, squishy faces, and short and stout stature, there's no denying these pups are greatly unique. Although their bulky size might make them appear slightly intimidating, these pups are very much gentle giants.

Bulldogs are easygoing dogs that make great family pets. They get along with adult humans, as well as children of all ages, and love nothing more than spending time with their family. Bulldogs have many qualities and traits that make them great pets to have around children, although like all dogs, you should still be prepared to do some training and socialization with your bulldog. Bulldogs also have some special health and care needs you should consider before bringing one into your family, however they make for a great companion if you are able to meet these needs. Read on to learn all about what makes the iconic bulldog a good choice for a home with kids.

Despite their hefty size, one reason bulldogs make a great pet for homes with children is because of their gentle disposition. Although their appearance may say otherwise, bulldogs are very sweet dogs and laid-back pups. These loyal pups can sometimes be wary around strangers and other dogs, but with their family, they are very affectionate. Overall, bulldogs are friendly pups who will easily become a beloved member of your family, and your family will become a cherished member of theirs.

Along with their sweet temperament, bulldogs also make for entertaining pets for adults and children alike. Bulldogs have goofy personalities, and are sure to get kids of all ages laughing at their silly quirks. If your children and family are fans of other animals, thanks to their easy going nature, bulldogs also tend to get along well with other household pets.

Not only are bulldogs gentle and friendly pups, but they are also very calm. Bulldogs rear on the lazy side, tending to be very low energy. While this isn't an ideal trait for someone looking for a hiking or running buddy, it's a perk for households with children, especially smaller kids. Even though bulldogs can weigh up to 50 pounds, per the AKC, since they are such calm pups, you won't need to worry about them trying to play with small children and potentially knocking them over or injuring them, as could be an issue with some other medium or large breed dogs who have more energy.

Even though bulldogs are often considered a lazier breed, they do still require some exercise. Typically, a short daily walk will be a good amount of exercise for a bulldog, which can make for a fun part of you and your children's daily routine.Some bulldogs may be more energetic than others, and might enjoy a game of fetch with the family.

The bulldog's hefty build is another perk when it comes to living with children. Small dog breeds sometimes aren't the best choice for a house with kids, especially smaller kids who haven't yet fully grasped the concept of being gentle with dogs. Small dogs are fragile, and if a child isn't careful, they could end up injuring the little pup. With bulldogs, however, this potential issue shouldn't be a concern, since bulldogs have a durable built, and are less likely to get hurt when a child is playing with them.

Even though bulldogs are sturdy and laid-back dogs who may tolerate a child's rough behavior, you should still teach your children to be respectful of them. Teaching a kid how to pet a dog gently and establishing rules can help keep your bulldog happy and your children safe. Once your kid knows how to treat and play with dogs in a respectful manner, it'll create an even deeper bond between them and their bulldog.

While it's very likely for most bulldogs to be good with children, proper training and socialization is important for any breed of dog, including bulldogs. Even though bulldogs might be good with the kids in your house, if they aren't properly socialized, they might be wary of strangers and children they don't know. While your bulldog is young, make sure to introduce them to many new people and other children so they can get used to interacting with non-family members.

Be aware that while bulldogs have many positive traits, one of the downsides to their personalities is their stubbornness. This trait can make it hard to train them, so if you aren't willing to put in some extra work, the bulldog might not be the best choice for you and your family. However, bulldogs respond well to positive reinforcement training, and getting kids involved in their training can be a fun bonding activity.

While bulldogs make great pets for children, there are some things you should consider before deciding if a bulldog is the right fit for you and your family. Because of their flat faces and the way they are built, bulldogs are prone to many health issues. Breathing problems, skin problems, allergies, obesity, and joint issues are just some of the potential problems bulldogs deal with.

If you live in a place where it's hot year round, the bulldog might not be the pup for you. Bulldogs overheat easily and are prone to heatstroke, so it's important to take precautions to keep them cool when it's toasty out.Bulldogs also require some extra care when it comes to cleaning, as you'll need to clean their face wrinkles, eyes, and ears regularly. As long as you are able to meet a bulldog's needs, they are destined to make a wonderful addition to your family.