The Swedish Kennel Club (SKK / Svenska Kennelklubben)  has recently revised its Bulldog breed standard, shifting the breed's description towards a type more aligned with the Continental Bulldog, a breed recognised by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) The Continental Bulldog has a longer muzzle, less exaggeration, and a more athletic frame.

While this change has no real impact on British-bred Bulldogs, as The Kennel Club breed standard remains the reference point for UK show breeders, it once again reignites the tired argument that all Bulldogs are inherently unhealthy.
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While likely well-intentioned, this change misses the real issue—a breed standard only governs those who choose to follow it, yet most Bulldogs are bred by those who do not.

Only a tiny percentage of Bulldog breeders are show breeders. The reality is that most Bulldogs are bred by novice or casual breeders who are not bound by any breed standard—let alone health testing requirements.

​Show breeders have been proactively addressing health concerns for decades. They voluntarily participate in health testing schemes, and more recently, BOAS (Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome) grading has become mandatory for Bulldogs entered at Crufts. These breeders work within the existing UK breed standard, which has been continuously revised to remove exaggerations without fundamentally changing the breed itself.

The real concern is that the pet-bred Bulldog population continues to be bred for extreme wrinkles and exaggerated features, often because novice breeders lack education on the consequences of these traits. Since they do not show their dogs, they have no incentive to follow the breed standard or participate in health testing. As a result, the most exaggerated Bulldogs are often bred outside of the influence of show breeders, meaning that even if The Kennel Club adopted a revised standard, it wouldn't impact the majority of Bulldogs being bred today.

The real problem lies with unregistered breeders who operate outside breed clubs without knowledge and care for health and welfare. Until health testing becomes a requirement for all breeding Bulldogs—not just those shown in the ring—these changes in breed standards will remain a cosmetic adjustment that does nothing to safeguard the breed's future.

If we genuinely want to improve the future of Bulldogs, we need to:

• Educate new breeders on why breeding for extreme traits leads to long-term health problems.
• Health testing is required for all bulldogs used in breeding, not just those being shown.
• Push for responsible ownership so puppy buyers only purchase from health-tested, ethical breeders.
• Advocate for better enforcement standards to reduce the likelihood of unethical or uneducated breeders.

This is where real change will happen—not adjusting a breed standard that most Bulldog breeders don't even follow.

This revision by the The Swedish Kennel Club (SKK / Svenska Kennelklubben)  might make headlines, but it won't make a real difference to the overall health of Bulldogs. The problem has never been with responsible show breeders—it has always been with those who breed without knowledge, ethics, or health testing.
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A better approach would be to focus on education, health testing, and enforcing responsible breeding practices across all breeders, not just those in the show world. Anything else is just a distraction from the real issue.

Exciting news—Gigi has passed her BOAS test with a Grade 0, the best possible score! This means she has excellent respiratory health, making her an ideal candidate for breeding. But why is BOAS testing so important, and how does it benefit LaRoyal puppy owners?

At LaRoyal, we take health seriously, balancing it with breed type and temperament to produce well-rounded Bulldogs. BOAS testing is a key part of this, ensuring that our dogs not only look great but also lead active, comfortable lives.
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What This Means for Puppy Owners

• Health Assurance – Our puppies come from generations of tested Bulldogs, reducing the risk of breathing issues.
• Ethical Breeding – We make informed decisions that prioritise welfare over shortcuts.
• Better Quality of Life – Bulldogs with good respiratory function enjoy a more active and comfortable life.

Selecting the right stud is just as important as choosing a health-tested female. At LaRoyal, we always consider BOAS grading in our breeding decisions to improve respiratory health across generations.

By prioritising tested pairings, we continue to reduce breathing issues, ensuring that each new generation is healthier and better equipped for a long, happy life.

BOAS testing is essential in ethical Bulldog breeding. Gigi’s perfect score is proof of our commitment to producing Bulldogs that can breathe easily, live actively, and bring joy to their families.

No puppy owner should consider buying a puppy without multiple generations of BOAS testing. At LaRoyal, we are now over three generations deep in this testing, ensuring the best possible respiratory health for our dogs.
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By choosing a LaRoyal Bulldog, you are choosing a puppy bred with care, purpose, and a dedication to the breed’s future.

Having had the honour of qualifying and competing at Bulldog of the Year multiple times, judging the 2024 event was an absolute privilege. This prestigious competition is a highlight of the Bulldog world, bringing together the finest examples of our beloved breed for a day of top-tier competition and camaraderie.

What many don’t realise is that the excitement of judging Bulldog of the Year starts long before stepping into the ring. Judges are invited two to three years in advance, a moment that is both thrilling and humbling. However, from that point on, it must remain a closely guarded secret until the club formally announces the judging panel just a few months before the event. Keeping that kind of news quiet is no easy task, but it’s all part of maintaining the integrity and anticipation surrounding this prestigious competition.

This year, I stepped into the ring not as an exhibitor but as a judge, a role I wholeheartedly embraced. Reflecting on my journey with this event, I was reminded of the many memorable moments LaRoyal has had over the years. Qualifying five dogs for Bulldog of the Year is an achievement I take immense pride in, and looking back, I still treasure the memories of my past successes in the ring.

In 2011, my boy Martin (LaRoyal Luther King JW ShCM) took Reserve Best Male, a testament to his exceptional type and breed quality. Two years later, in 2013, his daughter Lacey (LaRoyal’s Best Kept Secret) went even further, claiming Best Opposite Sex – a remarkable achievement that underscored her undeniable ring presence and structure. In 2015, Lacey proved her worth again by taking Reserve Best Female, solidifying her place among the breed’s elite after rearing two litters.

Returning to the event this year as a judge rather than a competitor was a shift in perspective but no less rewarding. The standard of Bulldogs presented was excellent, with each exhibit bringing something special. I was looking for the hallmark characteristics that make this breed so distinctive – strength, balance, soundness, and the unmistakable Bulldog expression that speaks to the breed’s charm and confidence.
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Beyond the competition itself, what makes Bulldog of the Year so special is the shared passion of everyone involved. From exhibitors and spectators to organisers and fellow judges, the atmosphere is a celebration—an opportunity to admire the breed at its best and acknowledge the dedication of breeders, handlers, and owners.

As I reflect on this year’s event, I feel immense gratitude to have been part of it in such a meaningful way. Judging Bulldog of the Year 2024 was an experience I will cherish, and I look forward to seeing how the next generation of Bulldogs continues to evolve.
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For those who have never attended, I highly recommend it. Whether as an exhibitor, breeder, or enthusiast, Bulldog of the Year showcases everything that makes our breed unique.

You'll read within our breed, 'head nods' or 'tremors' aren't uncommon. However, in my decades of Bulldog ownership, I've only had one female suffer from these. I used to keep a packet of Custard Cream biscuits in the cupboard with her name on them (fortunately one of my least favourite biscuits, so I was never tempted to dip into them!).

I found no pattern or triggers for her head shakes, and after blood tests that showed no precise diagnosis, the vets ruled out poisons, toxins, pain, or infections. It's widely accepted that these tremors could be due to low blood sugar or calcium. Offering her a Custard Cream used to snap her out of the shaking ‘habit’, if nothing else!

​However, this same female did go on to show early signs of Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD), signalled by poor memory and unnecessary barking - so I have no doubt the two were connected. As dogs age, they may require additional care and attention to maintain their health and well-being. Just like humans, senior dogs can experience various age-related issues, including joint problems, decreased mobility, and cognitive decline. In this blog, I’ll share the common symptoms in ageing dogs, how to manage canine cognitive dysfunction and supplements that can help prevent the onset of age-related issues.

Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) is similar to dementia in humans and affects many older dogs. Here are some ways to care for a dog with CCD:

✅ Routine and Consistency: To reduce confusion and anxiety, keep a consistent daily routine. Regular feeding times, walks, and bedtime routines can help your dog feel more secure.

✅  Mental Stimulation: Engage your dog in activities that challenge their mind. Puzzle toys, scent games, and training sessions can help keep their brain active and slow cognitive decline.

✅  Environmental Enrichment: Provide a stimulating environment with toys, chew items, and interactive play. Rotate toys regularly to keep your dog interested and engaged.

​✅  Behavioural Support: Use positive reinforcement to encourage desired behaviours. Avoid punishment, as it can increase anxiety and confusion in dogs with CCD.

​Caring for an aging dog requires patience, attention, and a proactive approach to their health and well-being. Recognising and addressing common symptoms, managing canine cognitive dysfunction, and incorporating supplements can help support your dog's health as they age. By taking these steps, you can ensure your senior dog enjoys a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life!

Judging the Raduno Dell'Anno for the Circolo Italiano Bulldog was an honour on 19th October 2024. As always, the event was marked by Italian hospitality's signature warmth and friendliness, which never faltered despite the less-than-ideal weather conditions. Unfortunately, the chill in the air and persistent rainfall resulted in severe weather warnings, which may have impacted some exhibitors' ability to attend. Additionally, some of us also faced difficulties departing from Bologna Airport due to the unusual flooding in the region. I guess this all adds to the fun!
 
I'd like to thank President Lucia, the committee, and my dedicated scribe, who quickly picked up a new vocabulary of Bulldog terminology. A special mention goes to Riccardo and Emilio, whose hospitality and attention were greatly appreciated throughout the trip. The venue was spacious, with a large ring providing ample room for the exhibits to move freely. While the lighting was dim, I'm sure a typical Italian winter sunny day would have remedied this minor issue.

We all face similar challenges as breeders, particularly in maintaining breed type while appeasing health critics. Temperaments across the board were exceptional, save for a tiny minority, and I believe this is a crucial breed characteristic to preserve. The Bulldog's natural instinct to make us happy subtly and meaningfully defines them as a beloved companion breed.
 
Most of the exhibits were in good overall condition. However, a few dogs displayed excessively dry or coarse coats, and it was clear that some handlers had applied too much powder. I also noticed a handful of dirty mouths, with dead fur caught in the gums—an issue that can easily be rectified with a cotton bud. It's important to remember that this not only causes discomfort to the dog but is also something exhibitors can easily avoid.
 
One concerning trend I observed was the deterioration of tails, with too many being too short and tight. The good thing is that tails can be fixed quickly in just one breeding, but the downside is that they can also be quickly lost! I also noted a lack of true jaws, which is not just a concern here in Italy but something that seems to be a broader issue in the breed, especially if paired with good width.
 
Regarding grading, I penalised heavily on incorrect proportions and shapes. For me, a Bulldog should exude power but possess the potential for essential agility to, theoretically, bait a bull (or at least attempt to!). While many exhibits demonstrated good structure, some suffered from short necks and poor shoulder angulation, which, in turn, could impact the dog's ability to breathe efficiently and also result in a shallow chest. This decline in the breed's front was particularly evident. The breed requires a unique 'tacked on' shoulder and elbows that stand away from the body. Poor angulation of the shoulders gives the impression of a straight front, but it also robs the dog of essential neck length.
 
Despite these concerns, it was encouraging to see the improvement in eye health and clarity across the board—this development deserves recognition and commendation. Ultimately, I was strict with my grading, awarding "Excellent" to those dogs I believed worthy of a KC studbook number obtained with major titles or challenging class placements. This isn't intended to offend but to reflect my belief that a studbook number indicates a dog of outstanding merit, contributing to the betterment of the breed should they be bred. My judgments are simply one opinion at one show. They should not be seen as a definitive stance on any dog's potential, as every dog has the opportunity to grow, develop, and flourish over time.
 
Of particular note were the females, who I found to be of superior quality, especially in the more significant numbers. My Best in Show, Bucks & Son America, caught my eye instantly. She exemplified the perfect balance of femininity and power, boasting a large head, a correct neck length on a well-balanced frame, quality bone, well-rounded ribs, and a strong rear that gave her the desirable pear shape filled with natural curves. Her clean outline was beautiful and a testament to her strength and mobility. I would happily take her and my Reserve bitch CAC home with me.

Another observation was the occasional intermittent lameness (especially while watching BOY after a very long day), which I believe was due to the low temperatures, damp conditions, and drafts inside the venue. Exhibitors should keep their dogs' muscles warm in this climate to prevent stiffness and exercise them before exhibition.
 
I hope you appreciate my honest observations and find them helpful in working toward the improvement of our fabulous breed. Again, thank you for the opportunity to judge and study your dogs at this prestigious event.
 
Judge: Sara Lamont (LaRoyal)

It was a truly delightful day at the Bulldog Rescues and Rehoming 2024 Annual Picnic Fun Show. I was deeply honoured to be asked to judge such a significant event, especially considering my many years of attendance. What I initially thought might be a relatively easy day turned out to be a challenging and thoroughly enjoyable experience.
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The show was packed with wonderful Bulldogs, and I had the pleasure of judging various classes. Here's a glimpse into each one:

Lastly, a huge thank you to the incredible volunteers who worked tirelessly, not only at the picnic but throughout the year, to support neglected and needy Bulldogs. Your dedication ensures that these amazing dogs receive the care and love they deserve.
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The entire event was a day filled with joy, pride, and, of course, beautiful Bulldogs. I’m already looking forward to next year’s show!