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!

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.
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• 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.
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• 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!