While I do not routinely spay my own females, if necessary, my preferred methods are Laparoscopic Ovariectomy or Ovariohysterectomy. If you decide not to spay your female, understanding the symptoms of Pyometra is crucial, as it affects about 25% of unspayed females by age 10 and is a severe and life-threatening infection. For this reason, I suggest routinely giving a high quality, natural raspberry leaf supplement during each cycle to help maintain uterine health.

Castration, or neutering, for males is simpler due to the testes being external. It’s a surgical procedure where the testicles are removed under anesthetic. This procedure is generally considered routine and safe. Recovery typically involves a few days of rest and monitoring to ensure proper healing. 

​While I prefer to leave my own Bulldogs intact, making an informed decision that best suits your dog's health and lifestyle is essential. You can choose the best path for your Bulldog with your vet to ensure they lead a healthy and happy life.

One of the first things to consider is their sleeping arrangement. As dogs age, they can develop bald spots on pressure points, joint pain, and arthritis, making it crucial to provide a comfortable place to rest.
​

• Softer Bedding: Investing in a high-quality orthopaedic bed can help alleviate pressure on their joints and prevent calluses. Look for beds with memory foam or other supportive materials that can cushion their body and offer extra comfort. I like Meg Beds as they are wipeable and have a raised edge.
• Elevated Beds: For Bulldogs with severe joint pain, an elevated bed can make it easier to get in and out without straining their legs.
• Raised Edged Beds: Bulldogs can develop Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) with age. A rimmed bed allows the dog to rest and sleep with their head elevated, helping to avoid sleep apnea.

As Bulldogs age, their dietary needs change. Ensuring they get the right nutrition is vital for maintaining their health and preventing common issues like obesity and digestive problems.
​

• Softer Food: Senior Bulldogs may have difficulty chewing hard foods and kibble, which then become a choking hazard. Transitioning to softer food, whether wet food or moistened dry food (my top tip is moistening with bone broth), can make eating easier and safer for them. This also helps alleviate constipation, a common issue in older dogs.
• Senior Dog Food: Consider switching to a specially formulated senior dog food that provides the right balance of nutrients for aging dogs. These foods often contain added joint support supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin.

Joint issues are common in senior Bulldogs, so it's important to take steps to support their mobility and ease any discomfort they may experience.

• Regular Exercise: While your Bulldog may not be as spry as they once were, regular gentle exercise is still important. Short, frequent walks can help keep their joints flexible and maintain a healthy weight.

• Joint Supplements: Supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids can support joint health and reduce inflammation. 

One of the most important aspects of caring for a senior dog is ensuring they receive regular veterinary care. Frequent check-ups can help catch potential health issues early and allow for timely intervention.

• Routine Screenings: Regular blood tests, dental exams, and other screenings can help monitor your Bulldog's health and detect any changes that may require attention.
  
• Monitoring and Preventatives: Ensure your Bulldog is up-to-date on vaccinations (or better still, titre immunity blood testing and worm counted and preventative treatments for parasites like fleas and ticks (consider natural preventatives like raw garlic) .

Making minor changes to your home environment can significantly improve your Bulldog's quality of life.

• Non-Slip Surfaces: As mobility decreases, slippery floors can become hazardous. Adding rugs or non-slip mats can help prevent falls and make moving around easier for your Bulldog.
• Washable Puppy Mats: If reliability in toileting has become a challenge, washable puppy mats can help reduce anxiety for you and your dog by managing accidents more efficiently.
• Accessible Spaces: Ensure your Bulldog can easily access their favourite spots. Use ramps or steps to help them get onto furniture or into the car without straining their joints.

By making these thoughtful adjustments and providing attentive care, you can help your ageing Bulldog enjoy their golden years with comfort and happiness. Check out my other blog posts for more detailed tips on senior Bulldog care.

Have you ever been captivated by Bulldogs' endearing wrinkles and charming snorts, only to wonder what's behind their cute exteriors?

If so, you're not alone.

As a dedicated Bulldog enthusiast, I longed for a platform where I could delve deeper into the realities of this beloved breed, sharing authentic insights with fellow admirers, owners, and breeders around the globe. This longing gave birth to the Bulldog Broadcast, a podcast dedicated to exploring the true essence of Bulldogs beyond the stereotypes and misinformation.

As the host of the Bulldog Broadcast, my journey with this podcast began somewhat serendipitously. During a scroll through a Facebook group, initially joined out of curiosity rather than active participation, I stumbled upon a post asking for advice on Bulldog puppies. The comments section was rife with misinformation and negativity about Bulldogs, portraying them as fragile and unhealthy.

This frustration sparked an idea: rather than engaging in a futile online debate, why not create a positive, informative space dedicated to Bulldogs? A podcast seemed the perfect medium to reach a wider audience, dispelling myths and offering real-life insights into Bulldog ownership and breeding.

Bulldogs often face unfair stigma, mainly pedigree and brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds. Critics claim they are prone to health issues and have short lifespans. As someone who has lived with and loved Bulldogs for over three decades, I felt compelled to address these misconceptions.

Why would I, a reasonably sensible person, choose to breed dogs supposedly "on death's door"? The truth is, with responsible breeding and proper care, Bulldogs can live healthy, fulfilling lives. This podcast highlights responsible breeders, dedicated owners, and real Bulldog stories that showcase the breed's resilience and vitality.

​This extensive experience has taught me that while Bulldogs are unique, requiring special care and understanding, they are incredibly rewarding companions. They are not just pets; they are little personalities wrapped in dog bodies, full of character and charm.

The Bulldog Broadcast is more than just a podcast; it's a community. Alongside each episode, you'll find show notes and resources on our website, Bulldogbroadcast.com. I also invite you to join our Facebook community, where you can ask questions, share your experiences, and connect with fellow Bulldog lovers.

While most podcasters ask for ratings and reviews, my primary request is simple: tell two people interested in Bulldogs about this podcast. By spreading the word, you help build a knowledgeable and supportive community dedicated to the love and welfare of Bulldogs.

Thank you for joining me on this journey, you can listen on any podcast streaming platform. I hope the Bulldog Broadcast becomes a valuable resource for you, offering insights, support, and a sense of community. Whether you're a seasoned Bulldog owner or considering bringing one into your life, this podcast guides and inspires you.

So, stay tuned and let's celebrate everything that makes Bulldogs truly special.

​Ta ta for now!

The Kennel Club published their 3rd quarter registration stats this week, and puppy registrations are down by 17%.

Even more surprising, Bulldogs are down by a whopping 39%, the second* most significant drop in the top ten most favoured breeds to under 6,000 born up to September 2023.

To give you an idea, there were over 21,000 French Bulldogs registered and over 30,000 Labradors - crazy numbers.

Remember, many popular 'fad and fashion' dogs can’t be KC registered because of their coat colour or type (which means they aren’t purebred) and don’t get me started on the XL bully ban. American Bullies are ABKC reg, and their number is unknown in this country - but it’s A LOT.

Now, this isn’t a bad thing, in my opinion.

Far too many puppies have been bred for a quick buck since the pandemic, so it’s good to see it normalise again. Also, global economic pressures were always going to impact demand. And I’m sure the rescue and rehome charities are singing their praises for the decline.

But it also means that buying a well-bred, quality Bulldog puppy is harder than ever. Any breeder that’s worth their sort will have a waitlist, so if you want to add a puppy to your family any time soon, make sure you get on a list and be prepared to wait.

* Pugs dropped by 42% and are no longer in the Top 10.

I was sent this intriguing study printed in the Telegraph that I think you'll find absolutely adorable. 

Researchers have found that our fascination with flat-faced dogs like Bulldogs, Pugs, and French bulldogs is due to their uncanny ability to tug at our heartstrings like babies. I've struggled to believe this because anyone who knows me knows my 'baby interest' is absolutely zero. Coo, I do not.

These brachycephalic breeds, known for their cute, baby-like faces and large eyes, have been gaining popularity for decades.

According to the study from Hungary, their helplessness is the key. When faced with a problem, they're more likely to seek help from humans rather than solve it themselves. 

I was dumbfounded by the above, but it's most certainly true from my years of experience, and I even wrote about my IQ and EQ differences with my Bulldog vs. Labrador emails.

Introducing LaRoyal's comprehensive new puppy shopping list – your ultimate guide to preparing for your furry friend's arrival! We understand that bringing home a new puppy is an exciting and joyful experience, and we want to ensure you have everything you need to provide the best care.

This meticulously curated list includes all the essential items to cater to your puppy's needs, from feeding and grooming to comfort and safety. With this shopping list, you can rest assured that you won't miss a thing. Be equipped with top-quality food, water bowls, a cozy bed, durable toys, grooming supplies, training essentials, a secure leash and collar, and much more.

I've taken the guesswork out of the equation, enabling you to focus on creating a warm, loving environment for your new furry family member. Start your puppy parenthood journey right with our indispensable shopping list and give your puppy the best start in life.

This is shopping list has direct links to Amazon. ​For transparency, we participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn advertising fees by linking to amazon.co.uk and affiliated websites.

No thin plastic ‘squeaky’ toys or cowhide chews.

• Bamboodles - Bamboodle toys that Bulldogs can hold and chew easily or a Rubber Version
• Kong Wubba - LaRoyal Bulldog approved
• Yak Chew - Hard Cheese
• Lick Mat - A brilliant enrichment activity 
• Free standing toy - easy for Bulldogs to pick up

As a passionate and dedicated bulldog breeder, I am delighted to announce the creation of an informative and engaging 8-page paper and ink newsletter. This initiative is aimed at providing valuable resources and fostering a sense of community among interested puppy buyers, existing dog owners, and individuals whose dogs' ancestry is connected to the LaRoyal kennel.

My decision to embark on this venture stems from a deep-seated belief in the importance of education and support for bulldog enthusiasts. Bulldogs, with their distinctive appearance and unique characteristics, have captivated the hearts of many, and I recognise the need for a comprehensive platform that promotes responsible ownership and celebrates the breed's rich heritage.

Through the Bulldog Broadsheet newsletter, I strive to empower puppy buyers by equipping them with the knowledge and tools necessary to make informed decisions when selecting a bulldog companion. I will share insights on breed standards, health considerations, and reputable sources for acquiring healthy puppies. By providing this information, we hope to contribute to the responsible breeding practices that are essential for the well-being and longevity of the breed.

Moreover, I am committed to supporting existing bulldog owners throughout their journey. LaRoyal's Bulldog Broadsheet will address common challenges faced by bulldog owners, offering practical tips on training, grooming, nutrition, and health maintenance. By sharing experiences and best practices, I aim to create a community of support, enabling owners to navigate the joys and responsibilities of bulldog ownership with confidence.

Furthermore, I recognise the significance of preserving the ancestry and history of bulldogs. Many individuals own bulldogs with fascinating lineage connections, and we intend to highlight these stories in our newsletter. By exploring the breed's past and present, we hope to deepen the appreciation for bulldogs as a cherished part of our cultural heritage.

My decision to create an 8-page paper and ink newsletter for bulldog enthusiasts is driven by our dedication to fostering a sense of community and providing comprehensive education. My aim (and hope) to empower puppy buyers, support existing owners, and celebrate the breed's history.

​By doing so, we hope to enhance the lives of bulldogs and their human companions, ensuring a bright future for this remarkable breed. Together, let us embark on a journey of learning, growth, and camaraderie within the bulldog community.

Having not been ringside for three years, it was nice to see the dogs with fresh eyes. Overall the quality was more consistent in the females than in the males, though I was pleased with my final winners. I thoroughly enjoyed the appointment and thank my stewards for ensuring the ring ran smoothly. I don't think I've ever experienced rain before at this venue, but there is always a first. The dogs, particularly the females (and their handlers), coped exceptionally well with the thundery rain.
 
There's no doubt that the show dogs are the healthiest they have ever been, and breeders should be applauded for such significant developments in the Breed's health. I feel that the Bulldog head, particularly the overall size and correct shape, is being lost, and even more so the grand width of the jaw. There are modern reproduction techniques nowadays, and I encourage more breeders to be freezing semen and use the frozen available to help claw back some of these essential breed assets, where possible.
 
VD/B (4,1)
1st PARKER'S ALBIONPRIDE A KING OF MAGIC JW, Masculine F/W, to who I have previously awarded the RCC. 7 years old, and great to see him age so well. Large, clean head with no excessive wrinkling. Had the widest jaw of the day, a feature we breeders must do more to preserve. Great body condition, well-toned with no apparent skin callus' that normally comes with age. Large framed with good bone and tidy feet given age. Good rear angulation moved soundly with a wide true front. Was unfortunate to come up against 3rd in OB to miss out on BV.
2nd COLLINS & GILLINGWATER LINFORDPRIDE JUNO ECLIPSE SH.CM, 8 years and 10 mth old white bitch. Feminine head that was well pigmented. Coat in good clean condition with a cobby and short body, filled with prominent ribs. Enough bone, moving soundly with width to her front.
3rd COLLINS & GILLINGWATER LINFORDPRIDE MAMA THE HUTT
 
MPD (4,2)
1st RODGERS BELUSHI ONE IN TEN, Deep red with well-pigmented eyes and muzzle with the correct rose ear. Won the class on length of skull and overall head proportions. Shapely body with wide front, good bone and compact feet. Short coupled with good topline. Moved soundly.
2nd BRAGGER PRIDEOFBULLY MAGIC MIKE, R/W also with great pigmentation. Strong bone, with a wide front giving a pleasing front appearance when stood. Shapely body, well-laid shoulders, good rear angulation and pleasing tail. A little loose in movement, but acceptable given age, moving soundly.
 
PD (3,0)
1st HANDLEY HADDAWAY HEY BULLDOG, what a handsome boy who took my eye immediately. 10mth old Br/W whose headpiece is as clean as a whistle. Beautiful head proportions, broad flat skull, correctly set thin rose-shaped ears. Eyes set wide apart that are dark, round and clear. Full nose roll not obstructing his nose or layback over a big, black nose with wide nostrils finished with good width of jaw, well-fitting and nicely covered flews. Correct arch of shoulders, to thick well, boned forelegs, strong pasterns and tight cat feet. Enough rib for maturity, giving the correct pear shape with a suitable rise in topline with a low tail set and sufficient tail. This boy moved with ease, covering the ground well, correctly walking his width. Awarding such big awards to a young dog is always a statement, but this boy is beautiful and seems to have a well-developed but not excessive growth pattern. I think (from my observation) he will mature beautifully, ensuring a big, bright future ahead of him. I was happy to award him the CC, BOB & BP. He wasn't placed in the groups, but watching the footage online, he showed well for such a big demand at such a young age, and I rarely see two brachy breeds shortlisted as this level with the French Bulldog taking G2. I will enjoy seeing how this boy powers through the rest of 2022.
2nd MAY SIR DONALD THE BOLD, 10mth old Short and cobby r/w. Good head qualities, broad skull, correct set of ears and low eye set. Big clear, dark eyes, full nose roll over a big black nose. Enough turn of jaw and width. Strong bone of forelegs with good cover of body condition and coat. Moved soundly.
3rd IRONMONGER MYSTYLE RED ENSIGN TAF
 
JD (1,0)
1st GILLETT MIREMAN NANO FOR ONABAZZ, Stood alone but more than deserving of this placement. Br/Pied 16mths. Short bodied with big ribs and correct topline and tuck-up. Strong, thick forelegs to compact feet giving a pleasing front. For me just lacked a little maturity; the foundations are there with a good length of skull, dark pigmented muzzle and correct rose ears. I would also start to tone up his body condition, so he's a little tighter in his coat. He moved well and soundly with good front width and rear movement.
 
YD (4,1)
1st WARE DISCOBULLS RENEGADE MASTER, 16mth R/W and what a powerhouse. This boy is all male and some. Masses of bone, a solid frame with well-laid shoulders, straight bone to strong pasterns and tight feet. Quality traditional headpiece with good length of skull, width throughout the skull and width of jaw. He would be a little more balanced if he was more filled behind the shoulders and a tad shorter in body, but he has the rise of topline and low set tail of good length, which was free moving. No doubt this is a quality boy carrying essential stud assets.
2nd BRIDDON MIRISTAR ROCYN REBEL, 16mth plainer headed than 1 but an appealing, clean upstanding male. Flat classic skull, no excessive wrinkling in the head, well-rounded cheeks with good width throughout the skull. Well-boned front, good neck length into well-laid shoulders and big ribs. Short in back with the correct topline and good rear angulation.
3rd FOWLER KADREYA GALANTIS
 
PGD (4,0) A challenging class to judge that varied in size and type.
1st GOODWIN BRITISHPRIDE ROCK AND ROLL, R/W won the class on overall balance and proportions. Had enough of everything to provide a pleasing outline and the best breed type in the class. Clear, dark eye, well-pigmented muzzle, good-sized nose with good fit and turn of jaw. Enough rib gives a pear-shaped body, with the rise of topline and good tail. Moved soundly.
2nd BROOKS MIGHTY KING ARTHUR, a large solid white. A tad too big and heavy for me, with excess skin. Strong bone filling his fame, he moved well for this size. Large head size, eye set well part and low what were dark and clear. Well padded muzzle with a true jaw that fitted well. For me, he needs to lose a few lbs and tone up in body condition.
3rd SMITH LADYMERE KINGSTON
 
LD (8,2)
1st REYNOLDS D'OR WOOD SAN VALERO AT GRATIABULL is a slightly understated dog at first glance, but the more you look, the more you like. A clean r/w masculine boy with suitable work in his head. Broad skull, neat rose ears, well-pigmented eyes and muzzle with well-filled cheeks. Big nose with a full nose rope, not impeding layback. Enough width of jaw with good fit and turn. Strong bone to strong pasterns and neat compact feet. Excellent overall proportions, with a wide front, good ribs and a narrow waist giving the correct pear-shaped body with the correct topline and sufficient tail. He was the best mover in the class and cruised to the RDCC in the challenge.
2nd CUNNINGHAM SAFFIENNA GYPSY KING, a similar type to 1, R/W with a classic clean head. Great length of skull and square throughout. Well-boned straight front, shapely body that could carry a little more weight to balance him out. Lost out to 1 on feet but moved ok.
3rd EVISON ANDLARE SCOOTER AT KIKUCHI JW
 
OD (9,3)
1st BRAGGER PRIDEOFBULLY NIGHT FURY, R/w Pied. Clean and honest boy. Well-boned, strong pasterns and compact feet with depth of brisket providing a pleasing front. Amazing pigment with dark wide-set eyes, enough work in the skull with neat rose ears. Shapely body, correct rise of topline finished with a good tail. One of the few to have the correct Bulldog roll whilst moving and won the class on movement. Considered for the RCC.
2nd GEORGE AVAWORD KING GEORGE, R/W with strong bone and neat feet and I believe litter mate to the BCC and carrying very similar properties. Compact size and short coupled with big ribs and short back. Ok tail. Good bone with sufficient front feet. Head a little heavy, but good width and turn of jaw.
3rd MARTIN CALIBRA PEPSI MAX
 
GCD/B NO ENTRIES
 
MPB (4,1)
1st CUNNINGHAM ANZABULLS ULTRA VIOLET NAF TAF, 8mth ticked white thick girl. Deep chested with excellent depth of brisket. Well-boned with compact feet. Flat, broad skull, good ear set and rosed ears. Nice dark pigment with a clear eye and big nose, creating the correct layback. Moved very well for age, a very plump girl with beefy thighs, but even for a puppy, she carried too much weight. A few lbs off will help her overall leg length/body proportions.
2nd RODGERS BELUSHI MOONLIGHT LOVER, Deep R/Br and white with a totally different frame to 1. This girl is yet to blossom and mature, but for MPB, rightly so. Clean skull with good length and nice fit and turn of jaw. Good width of chest with straight bone. She was short-bodied with rounded rib, good rear angulation, and moved well once she settled with her gait.
3rd GOODWIN BRITISHPRIDE AVEDA NAF
 
PB (2,1)
1st ALLEN HADDAWAY DIZZY MISS LIZZY AT RATTRAY, stood alone but would stand out in a class. An elegant and tidy 10mth Fawn Br/W bitch. Feminine head with no excessive wrinkling, classic skull with pleasing eye set and shape. Neat rosed ears, well-rounded cheeks with good fit and turn of jaw. Broad chested with enough brisket for age and enough bone for sex. Well-rounded ribs leading to a short and shapely body. BPB, I later found out she was litter mate to the DCC, and the consistent type was evident.
 
JB (2,1)
1st BRIDDON MIRISTAR ROCES ROCKABYE, stood alone but another that would stand out in a class. A very pretty, feminine 14mth bitch. Clean skull with length and width, well-filled cheeks, solid nose roll with correct layback. Well-boned forelegs leading to strong pasterns and neat feet. Good neck into well-laid shoulder, big ribs and deep brisket. Short bodied, correct topline finished with appropriate tail, muscular thighs without being beefy and low hocks. Overall a very sturdy and naturally curvey girl that was well put together.
 
YB (9,3)
1st BANNISTER ANDLARE IF'S AND BUT'S, I've admired this girl from a distance and didn't disappoint on closer examination. Quality white 14mth old in excellent condition. Beautiful front, due to correct lay of shoulder, well-boned forelegs, strong pasterns and neat feet. Good length of head, dark pigment, well-set eyes with good width to muzzle and good fit and turn of jaw. Well-balanced body with nice deep brisket, a rise of topline and low tail set with well-developed thighs. She moved soundly and pushed for higher awards, but she just needs to 'pop' with maturity. The best of this girl is yet to come.
2nd HANDLEY HADDAWAY HOLLY BERRY, another pretty fawn Br/W with a well-developed broad flat skull. Well-filled head, neat nose roll and filled cheek with the correct layback. Lovely intense pigment, with a big black nose and width to muzzle. Strong bone to neat feet. Walked her width and soundly. Short bodied with big rib and enough tail. Lost out to 1 on the topline.
3rd PARKER ANDLARE MISS FIRE AT ALBIONPRIDE
 
PGB (4,1)1
1st POULTON AVAWORD TEMPTRESS AT BALLESMAR, 15mth old R/W compact female with super pigment. Cobby and curvy due to big ribs, correct pear-shaped body due to a narrow waist. Well-worked broad skull with wide-set eyes and well-filled muzzle. Correct layback due to turn of jaw pushed backed nose and length of forehead. Strong bone with ok feet, moved well. She was considered for the RCC, and I later found out she is a littermate to the BCC.
2nd PLANSON WINTER WILLOW AT BRITISHSTYLE, Clean and classic R/W with big ribs. Her markings accentuate her broad flat skull and small neat rosed ears. Wide, low set eyes, good width of muzzle well padded with filled cheeks. Strong, straight bone to slightly flat feet. Good overall body shape and outline.
3rd STEELE  CHAYO CARVALHO AT CHELSEAPRIDE
 
LB (6,1)
1st STUTTER LYNMANS PARTY LIKE PATSY AT LINMIST, Large framed R/W Pied. Thick bone with strong pasterns and compact feet. Skull with length throughout with the correct layback. Dark eye and good neck with a shapely body due to big ribs and narrow waist. Moved incredibly well, holding her topline with a well-muscled rear. Just a shade too big all over for my preference.
2nd BANNISTER ANDLARE SKALLY WAGG, 14mth old dark red Br/W. Feminine expression due to clean head with correct rose ear, dark well-set eyes and big well placed nose with enough jaw. Enough bone to tidy feet. Rounded rib and short in the back. Moved well and sound.
3rd ROSE ROSEBULL I AM DELORES
 
OB (7,1)
1st GEORGE AMANDA AVAWORD DOTTIE, Strong compact R/W that sits on the right side of balancing strength, sourness and feminity. Well worked skull, with a complete nose rope, big nose and correct layback. Wide skull with width throughout with a wide fit and turn of jaw. Enough neck to strong, well-laid shoulders with forelegs of plenty of bone and strong pasterns and neat feet. Big, well-rounded ribs and a narrow rear gives the correct pear-shaped body. Good topline, well-muscled and angulated rear with low hocks. Walked her width with ease and covered the ground well. She's easy on the eye from all angles and provided a pleasing outline. I was happy to award her the BCC, her 2nd.
2nd VAUGHAN CH ODINSCHILD VIOLET PRINCESS JW SH.CM, nearly 5yr r/w whose drier in type to 1. Classic skull with great length, clean with no excess skin or wrinkles giving a feminine expression. Clear dark, round eye, set well between a big, dark nose. Natural width of muzzle due to good width and turn of jaw. Well boned to neat feet, well-filled forechest and depth of brisket. Good neck in well-laid shoulders and the correct topline. Moved soundly and was pleased to award her the RBCC in good company.
3rd HANLEY CH SGRIBBLE PIP AS BLENHIEMSTAR