Why trust comes from time, not recommendations
A recommendation suggests I am endorsing someone’s ethics, their pairings, how they rear their puppies and the real standards behind their programme. Unless I have seen those things with my own eyes (and why would I have?), I cannot stand behind them. And lovely adverts, warm phone calls and tidy living rooms rarely tell the full story. Breeding is defined by what happens when nobody is watching. I also have to be realistic about my own experience. When I look back at the last Bulldog I added to my pack from outside my bloodline, it was Gigi, whom I imported from Norway because nothing in the UK fulfilled what I needed for the future of my line. Before her, the last one outside LaRoyal was one of our foundation girls in 1998. That should tell you how little I am out there comparing breeders, viewing litters or forming lived opinions about other people’s puppies. Yes, I'd agree I am more particular than 99% of Bulldog owners, and for good reason. I put real skin in the game for the sake of safeguarding the next generation. That seriousness also means I cannot casually point someone towards a breeder whose ethics or practices I do not truly know. And, as you will have heard me say many times, the benchmark for breeding standards in this country is far too low to take anyone’s word at face value. So my only genuine recommendation is this. Don't buy fast. The longer your relationship with a breeder, the more confident you can be in the puppy you will eventually bring home. Months, even years of conversation and observation tell you infinitely more than a single advert or a promising phone call. Trust grows slowly, and it is worth the wait. This is exactly why I created the STAR Puppy Plan. So many people end up misled by presentation, when the reality underneath can be very different. The STAR framework helps you assess a breeder’s values, their standards, their ethics and their puppy-rearing practices in a way that does not rely on someone else’s referral. If you want to begin your Bulldog search empowered, informed and confident, you can listen to the STAR Puppy Plan learning audio for free. I may not be able to recommend another breeder, but I can help you recognise a responsible one, and that is far more valuable.
Importing an English Bulldog means placing enormous trust in a breeder you may never meet in person. This guide explains why trust is often best placed in the UK. The Bulldog as a Global Icon
For international buyers, understanding those differences matters. Why the UK Remains the Benchmark for BulldogsThe UK is not just the birthplace of the Bulldog, it remains one of the most highly scrutinised environments in which the breed exists.
UK breeders who are active in the Bulldog community are immersed in the breed through:
There are strong external forces in the UK, including anti-pedigree and brachycephalic lobbying, that place significantly higher expectations on breeders than in many other countries. While challenging, this pressure drives accountability, transparency and measurable improvement. Decades of published critiques reflect this culture clearly: Importing a Bulldog, Why Early Rearing Matters MostInternational buyers often focus on pedigree, colour and price. Far more important is how the puppy is raised before it ever travels. Most Bulldogs cannot be exported until at least 16 weeks of age, following rabies vaccination and the required waiting period. The 8–16 week stage is a critical developmental window that has a lasting impact on adult behaviour and confidence. During this time, puppies should be learning:
A knowledgeable, hands-on breeder understands how to manage this period carefully. A disconnected or inexperienced breeder often does not. For imported Bulldogs, this early foundation plays a major role in shaping temperament, resilience and adaptability for life. Health Benchmarks That Matter for International HomesHealth should never be reduced to paperwork, particularly for Bulldogs travelling long distances or living in warmer, more humid climates.
UK breeders who are active in the community increasingly prioritise functional health benchmarks, including:
These benchmarks help ensure Bulldogs are fit for real life, not just photographs. Community-Active Breeders Think Long TermOne of the clearest distinctions between UK breeders active in the community and isolated breeders elsewhere is intent. Community-active breeders are usually breeding to:
They are not producing Bulldogs as interchangeable commodities. They are shaping dogs they will live with, show, judge and stand behind. This long-term thinking is rarely visible in adverts, but it leaves a lasting imprint on the dogs themselves. Why Importing a Bulldog from the UK Is Often the Safer ChoiceImporting a Bulldog is expensive, time-consuming and emotionally significant. When done poorly, it can result in long-term health, behavioural or welfare challenges. Choosing a UK breeder who is visibly active in the Bulldog community often means:
It does not guarantee perfection, but it significantly reduces risk. A Final Note for International BuyersBulldogs are not mass-produced products. They are the result of informed decisions made over generations.
If you are considering importing a Bulldog, look beyond availability and appearance. Seek evidence of education, long-term involvement, health awareness and accountability. This is why, for many experienced international owners, the UK remains the benchmark. Considering Importing a Bulldog? If you are researching carefully and would like to explore whether my approach may be suitable for you, you are welcome to begin with my puppy vetting process. The quiet sign of responsible breeding most people overlook
That single decision by a breeder tells you the litter exists for a future, not just for sale.
Many dog owners who breed a litter to keep their first puppy don’t consider themselves breeders at all. In fact, many avoid the label, associating it with professionalism or commercial focuses. But breeding to keep is not about adopting a role, it’s about accepting responsibility. As a puppy purchaser, you are choosing to live with the outcome of their decisions, hopefully, for the next ten years or more. What matters even more is what happens next. Breeders who go on to keep and breed from multiple generations aren’t doing so because they have a commercial aim. Quite the opposite. They are staying accountable to their own decisions. They’ve watched puppies grow up, mature, age, and live real lives, and they’ve adjusted their choices accordingly. So what’s missing from most puppy-buying advice? Time. Checklists tell you what’s been done. They don’t tell you whether someone is prepared to live with the repercussions of their choices. This is why, in the (free) STAR Puppy Plan, breeder responsibility carries more weight than labels. A Breeder keeping a puppy from a litter shows intent. A Breeder keeping generations shows purpose. If you’d like to understand how to spot this kind of long-term thinking when searching for a puppy, the free STAR Puppy Plan learning audio explains what to look for and why it matters, without sales pressure or scare tactics. Why sound breeding, not shifting rules, is what truly shapes a healthy Bulldog.
Under the new system, any Bulldog graded 2 or 3 under the Respiratory Function Grading Scheme will be excluded from competing, meaning only dogs with genuinely functional breathing will make the cut. The intention is admirable, although I don’t agree that narrowing Crufts' entry is the best route. It places pressure on the most proactive dog owners, those already health testing and presenting their dogs openly, while leaving untouched the far larger population of Bulldogs bred with no understanding of conformation or functional health. It risks scapegoating the responsible, not the irresponsible. Here at LaRoyal, all four of our qualified dogs, Pearl, King, Luther and Phoebe, sit comfortably below the threshold. King and Luther were even tested at the earliest opportunity, the very first weekend after their first birthday, and both passed cleanly. No conditioning, no clever preparation, simply naturally sound youngsters who breathe exactly as a Bulldog should. The updated rules don’t change how we breed here. They simply highlight the value of strong female lines, correct type, thoughtful selection and honest testing. These principles have shaped LaRoyal for decades, and they continue to show in the dogs we take into the ring. Whatever direction the wider sport takes, our aim stays the same, producing Bulldogs that breathe, move and live as they should, and giving future families the confidence that their puppy begins life on the strongest footing possible. If you’re beginning your journey into choosing a Bulldog puppy, and want to understand what “healthy breeding” really means in practice, the STAR Puppy Plan is designed to guide you through it. It teaches you how to assess health, temperament and type, how to identify responsible breeders, and what to look for long before you fall in love with a puppy. You can even listen to the full learning audio free of charge below:
It’s an easy, insightful way to learn what truly matters in a Bulldog, and why thoughtful breeding makes all the difference. Buying a Bulldog Shouldn’t Feel Like a Minefield – STAR Is How You Stay Safe
Not even something important.
So buyers rush, breeders sell fast, emotions run high, and families end up heartbroken through no fault of their own. I can't possibly breed enough puppies to meet the number of enquiries I receive, not responsibly anyway. What I can do, though, is give you the same guidance I give my own puppy owners. That's why I created the STAR Model – six clear points that protect you from mistakes, misinformation and impulse buying. It's the most helpful thing I've ever produced, and I'm giving you the full three-hour audio version completely FREE. Listen here: Here's a taste of what STAR covers.
1. Health Most people who contact me are terrified of ending up with a Bulldog who can't breathe or walk comfortably. Health problems aren't fate, they're the result of poor breeding. STAR teaches you what genuine health looks like and how to spot breeders who prioritise it. 2. Temperament A proper Bulldog temperament is steady, affectionate and people-oriented. It isn't anxious, wired or reactive. STAR explains how temperament is inherited, what good early rearing looks like, and why you should never rely on "cute" alone. 3. Type Exaggeration is your enemy. Social media Bulldogs with squashed faces, huge heads and rolls for days might look amusing, but they rarely live well. STAR shows you what a correct, functional Bulldog type actually is, and why it's your shortcut to a healthier dog. 4. Owner Once your puppy comes home, you become the biggest influence. Feeding, weight, early training, heat management, vet choices – it all matters. STAR helps you understand your role so you raise a Bulldog who thrives, not one constantly fire-fighting avoidable issues. 5. Vet Not every vet understands Bulldogs. Too many tragic stories stem from poor advice or slow decisions. STAR teaches you how to choose the right vet before you ever need them. 6. Breeder The most significant factor of all. A responsible breeder determines health, type, temperament and early development. STAR gives you a clear checklist so you can instantly tell the difference between a knowledgeable breeder and clever marketing. Want personalised help choosing your Bulldog?If you want direct guidance, honest feedback on breeders, bloodlines and buying decisions, join the Bulldog Owners Club. It's the only place where I offer personal purchasing support with fortnightly community calls.
Step 1: Check if it’s more than a one-offStart by giving your Bulldog a quick once-over with a fine flea comb, paying close attention to the base of the tail, rump, groin and neck. Because Bulldogs are short, single-coated dogs, fleas are usually easy to spot if you look closely. If you do find any dark specks, tap them onto a piece of damp white kitchen roll. Flea dirt will “bleed” into a reddish-brown mark because it’s digested blood, whereas ordinary dust or soil will not.
If you find flea dirt, you’ll need to treat your dog and the environment on the same day. If not, keep checking daily for the next few days. One flea might just have hopped on and off during a walk—especially if you’ve been near wildlife like hedgehogs, foxes or squirrels—but a pattern of repeated sightings means there’s a problem starting. Step 2: When to act now and when to waitIf you’ve seen more than one flea in a few days, noticed flea dirt, or your dog is itchy, chewing, or developing scabs, treat immediately. On the other hand, if you’ve only seen a single flea once, there’s no dirt and no itching, it’s reasonable to keep a close eye for 48 to 72 hours before using any treatment.
Step 3: What really works (and a quick UK update)Many supermarket or pet shop spot-ons are outdated and hit-and-miss. Modern, vet-authorised products are much more reliable when used correctly for your dog’s weight. However, under new UK guidelines, many vet practices will only supply prescription flea treatments if your dog is a registered patient who’s been seen recently as part of ongoing care. If you’re due a check-up, book ahead rather than waiting until you’re battling fleas at home. If you have more than one dog, treat them all on the same day to prevent what I call “the flea merry-go-round”, where untreated pets re-infect each other. Don’t forget the environmentOnly a small percentage of fleas live on your dog—the rest are in your home, in the form of eggs, larvae and pupae. Wash bedding, blankets, and soft toys on a hot cycle, vacuum daily for a week (including sofas, skirting boards and the car), and mop hard floors. Use a proper household flea spray that contains an insect growth regulator, applying it to carpets, rugs and under furniture as directed, then air the room well. This breaks the life cycle and stops new fleas from hatching. Bulldog-specific tipsBulldogs are particularly prone to irritation in their skin folds and tail pockets, so check and keep these areas dry and clean. Even a few bites can trigger intense itching in sensitive dogs, so don’t wait to act if you notice scratching or red patches.
In summary: fleas are easy to spot on Bulldogs if you take a few minutes to check regularly. Don’t panic if you see one, but don’t ignore the warning either. Confirm it with the simple wet-tissue test, act quickly when needed, and always include your home in your clean-up plan. If you’d like guidance tailored to your dog and home routine, join us on the next Bulldog Owners Club call, where we’ll continue to share practical, proven advice for keeping your Bulldogs healthy and happy. Junior Bulldog Club Championship Show |
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Allergies are now one of the most common health issues affecting dogs today, not just in Bulldogs, but across all breeds. Vets are reporting more cases than ever of itchy skin, recurring ear infections, and chronic gut upsets.
For Bulldogs, the impact can be especially tough. Their skin folds, short coats, and compact ear canals make flare-ups obvious, uncomfortable, and often harder to manage. However, while medication may temporarily alleviate symptoms, food choices, particularly the type of protein, are often the key to lasting relief. |
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What Do Hot, Neutral, and Cold Proteins Mean?
In holistic nutrition, proteins are grouped by how they influence the body's "heat":
🍽️Cooling Proteins – calm the system, reduce inflammation, and soothe itchiness. Examples: Rabbit, Duck, Goat
🍽️ Neutral Proteins – stable and generally well tolerated, don't push the body either way. Examples: Turkey, Pork, Beef
🍽️ Warming Proteins – stimulate circulation and metabolism, but can worsen hotspots, redness, and yeast in sensitive dogs. Examples: Chicken, Lamb, Venison
For Bulldogs, already prone to red skin, ear flare-ups, and paw irritation, feeding too many warming proteins can be like pouring fuel on the fire. Cooling proteins are often better tolerated, helping to settle things down.
🍽️Cooling Proteins – calm the system, reduce inflammation, and soothe itchiness. Examples: Rabbit, Duck, Goat
🍽️ Neutral Proteins – stable and generally well tolerated, don't push the body either way. Examples: Turkey, Pork, Beef
🍽️ Warming Proteins – stimulate circulation and metabolism, but can worsen hotspots, redness, and yeast in sensitive dogs. Examples: Chicken, Lamb, Venison
For Bulldogs, already prone to red skin, ear flare-ups, and paw irritation, feeding too many warming proteins can be like pouring fuel on the fire. Cooling proteins are often better tolerated, helping to settle things down.
Why Dogs Struggle With Allergies
Allergies aren't just a Bulldog issue. Spaniels, Retrievers and Terriers, all breeds, are seeing an increase in cases. However, Bulldogs tend to show the effects more clearly due to their short fur and rose-shaped ears. Underlying factors include:
- Genetics – Bulldogs can be predisposed to skin and ear conditions.
- Gut imbalance – antibiotics, steroids, and heavily processed food weaken digestion.
- Protein intolerance – common meats like chicken and lamb are frequent triggers.
- Carbohydrates and vegetables – some vegetables, particularly starchy ones, increase sugar levels in the body. This can feed yeast and exacerbate irritation around the paws, face and ears.
Allergy Red Flags to Watch For
Not all signs are apparent. Beyond itching, look for:
- Redness around the face folds, paws or tail pocket
- Yeasty smell between toes or in ears
- Face rubbing on furniture or carpets
- Tear staining under the eyes
- Recurring ear infections despite cleaning
- Soft or loose stools with no other cause
Food vs. Environment: Two Parts of the Puzzle
It's important to remember that not all allergies are food-related. Many Bulldogs also react to:
- Environmental triggers – pollen, grass seeds, dust mites
- Household products – shampoos, laundry detergents, floor cleaners
- Climate – flare-ups often worsen in hot, humid weather
Elimination Diet: A Practical Approach
The gold standard for allergy management is an elimination diet:
- Choose one cooling protein (rabbit, duck, or goat).
- Feed it exclusively for 8–12 weeks, with no extras or treats outside of the protein.
- Support gut health with probiotics or natural prebiotics.
- Monitor carefully for improvement in skin, stools, and energy.
- Reintroduce cautiously, try one new protein at a time.
Key Takeaways
- All breeds are seeing a rise in allergies, but Bulldogs show them more visibly due to their unique anatomy.
- Cooling proteins, such as those from rabbit, duck, and goat, often help calm flare-ups.
- Red flags include redness, yeast, paw licking, and ear infections, not just obvious itching.
- Vegetables and starches can increase sugar levels, which in turn feed yeast and exacerbate irritation.
- Allergies aren't always caused by food alone; the environment plays a significant role.
- Consistency is key; chopping and changing diets makes it harder to identify the actual cause, but it's vital to vary protein sources.
Final Thought
Allergies in Bulldogs are rarely solved by medication alone. The key lies in addressing the root cause: food choices, gut health, and environmental triggers. By understanding hot and cold proteins and watching for hidden red flags, owners can reduce flare-ups, improve their Bulldogs' comfort, and ultimately give them lasting relief.
So the next time your Bulldog starts licking paws or scratching ears, don't just ask, "What brand of food?" ask, "What type of protein?"
So the next time your Bulldog starts licking paws or scratching ears, don't just ask, "What brand of food?" ask, "What type of protein?"
 | If you’ve ever owned a Bulldog, you’ll know one thing for sure. These dogs don’t do drama halfway. They’ll carry on like nothing’s wrong until suddenly it’s not just a little limp or pant, they’re in real trouble. That’s precisely why our latest Bulldog Owners Club community call focused on first aid. Not just what to buy, but what to do, what to watch for, and how to prepare. This wasn’t a shopping list exercise. It was practical, emotional, and grounded in lived experience. We shared moments where having the right supplies and the calm to use them makes all the difference. |
Bulldog First Aid Kit Essentials
This list brings together the most essential tools and treatments for wound care, overheating, allergic reactions, and everything in between. Organised by category, it helps you stay clear-headed when every second counts.
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📌 Wound Care and Skin Support ☐ Vet wrap ☐ Gauze pads and bandage tape ☐ Colloidal silver spray or Lucillin ☐ Diluted Hibiscrub or CLX wipes ☐ Styptic powder or medicated talc ☐ Isoderm or magnesium sulphate paste for infected swellings or cysts (or haemorrhoid cream) ☐ Medical-grade Manuka honey for deeper or slow-healing wounds ☐ Sensitive baby wipes ☐ Nitrile gloves 📌 Eye, Ear and Nose Care ☐ Lubricating eye drops such as Carbomer Liquid Gel ☐ Golden Eye is a mild antibiotic treatment ☐ Colloidal silver-based ear cleaner ☐ Sterile saline pods for flushing eyes or ears ☐ Tick remover and blunt-tip tweezers for grass seeds and debris 📌 Tools and Extras ☐ Slip lead for quick, safe handling ☐ Clinell universal wipes for general cleaning |
📌 Allergy, Inflammation and Overheating ☐ Piriton Syrup (Cetirizine Antihistamine) ☐ Hydrocortisone cream ☐ Lemon juice to break down mucus during airway distress ☐ Paracetamol (emergency use only) or Pardale-V ☐ Cool coat, cooling bandana, cool mat or portable fan ☐ Flexible-tip digital thermometer for accurate temperature readings ☐ Vaseline for thermometer lubrication 📌 Digestive and Gut Support ☐ Pro-Kolin paste or a similar probiotic ☐ Slippery elm powder ☐ Epsom salts for soaking infected paws or drawing out abscesses 📌 Vet-Prescribed Emergency Medications ☐ Metacam (meloxicam) for inflammation and pain ☐ Gabapentin for nerve pain, seizures, or post-operative discomfort ☐ Antibiotic ear drops |
Bulldog First Aid Kit Essentials
These aren’t hypotheticals. They are stories from Bulldog owners just like you who acted fast and were prepared.
- A torn nail bled heavily during a play session. Emergency cornflour stopped the bleeding instantly and vet wrap held the dressing in place.
- A dog’s face ballooned after an insect sting. Piriton alone wasn’t enough. A fast-acting steroid from the vet made all the difference.
- A Bulldog began to collapse due to overheating caused by travel anxiety. Cooling towels and a fan helped, but it was the emergency medication on hand that truly turned things around.
- During a coughing fit, a Bulldog fainted. Lemon juice helped break down mucus and restore breathing, preventing an emergency trip to the vet.
- A serious leg injury became infected. Despite failed surgery, home care with silver sprays, Manuka honey, and regular dressing changes supported a full recovery.
- A choking incident caused the gums to turn blue in seconds. A swift back-thrust ejected the chew and saved the dog’s life.
Why Every Bulldog Owner Should Learn First Aid
Canine first aid is not just about having the right supplies. It’s about skills, confidence, and knowing how to act when it matters most.
Every Bulldog owner should complete a first aid course tailored to dogs. Choose one that covers flat-faced breeds and teaches breed-specific CPR techniques. You will learn how to:
Panic causes hesitation. But training builds muscle memory. It gives you time to think and confidence to act.
Every Bulldog owner should complete a first aid course tailored to dogs. Choose one that covers flat-faced breeds and teaches breed-specific CPR techniques. You will learn how to:
- Check breathing, pulse, temperature and gum colour
- Recognise shock, trauma and overheating
- Perform CPR for brachycephalic dogs
- Stay calm and decisive in high-stress situations
Panic causes hesitation. But training builds muscle memory. It gives you time to think and confidence to act.
DON'T FORGET!
Bulldogs rarely exhibit obvious signs of illness or discomfort until the condition becomes severe. Their high pain threshold and stoic nature can lead to rapid escalation. That is why the best thing you can do is prepare in advance.
Being a Bulldog owner means being their advocate, protector and first responder. Preparation is not paranoia—it’s part of the job.
- Build your first aid kit now.
- Take a course.
- Practice handling your dog’s face, paws and ears.
- Know what’s normal so you can recognise what’s not.
Being a Bulldog owner means being their advocate, protector and first responder. Preparation is not paranoia—it’s part of the job.
*Some product links may be affiliate links; these do not affect the price you pay.
The youngest LaRoyal pups had a show outing on Sunday, and it was a memorable one.
Luther, just six months old, went home with Best Puppy in Show. A fantastic result, no doubt. But what stood out just as much as the win was the judge’s speed and attention to detail in publishing her show critiques. Within just a couple of days, thoughtful written assessments of each dog were online. They were balanced, observant, and full of useful insight. That kind of follow-up is still far too rare, particularly at smaller club-level events
Luther, just six months old, went home with Best Puppy in Show. A fantastic result, no doubt. But what stood out just as much as the win was the judge’s speed and attention to detail in publishing her show critiques. Within just a couple of days, thoughtful written assessments of each dog were online. They were balanced, observant, and full of useful insight. That kind of follow-up is still far too rare, particularly at smaller club-level events
For me, the critique carried as much weight as the rosette.
Because while the applause fades, a proper critique becomes something more lasting. It’s a tool for reflection, learning and ultimately, better breeding decisions.
Understanding What a Critique Really Is
For those less familiar with the show world, a critique is a written evaluation by the judge of the dogs they’ve placed. It serves as a short formal report that captures how the dog measured up against the breed standard on the day. A well-written critique provides a moment of clarity. It helps a breeder make more informed decisions about future pairings and gives potential puppy buyers a valuable snapshot of the quality and health behind their chosen pup.
Critiques matter not just for the trophy cabinet but for the long-term development of the breed.
Why a Rosette Isn’t the Whole Story
There’s no denying that a win feels good. But if the only goal is to collect rosettes, you’re missing the point. For future breeders and ultimately, the owners of the puppies they produce, critiques are one of the most valuable forms of education available outside the whelping box.
You might think your dog is typey, correct, or promising. But a judge with an experienced and impartial eye may spot something you’ve missed. Just as often, they might highlight a trait that’s easy to overlook—one that deserves to be preserved.
That’s where the real value of critique lies. It brings structure to progress and turns instinct into informed planning.
What a Good Critique Can Reveal
One of the LaRoyal pups was described as “still raw but all there.*” It was a perfect summary of a young dog who has yet to body up but already shows strong foundations. Another was praised for her head properties, with notes on areas likely to improve after motherhood. As you’d hope, those were traits I had already noted in her.
That kind of nuanced feedback goes far beyond a trophy or photo.
Judges Help Guide the Breed
A good judge does more than hand out ribbons. They shape the direction of the breed by pointing out what is working, what needs improvement, and what absolutely must be addressed. A thoughtful critique doesn’t just help the exhibitor, it helps the whole breed.
Their observations act as a quiet form of mentorship, even for breeders they’ve never met. When judges take the time to reflect honestly and clearly, they provide an invaluable reference point for those striving to breed with purpose.
If You’re Buying a Puppy, Ask Better Questions
Not every good breeder is in the ring every weekend. However, they should seek outside input and strive to learn. If you're speaking to a breeder about a puppy, ask them:
The best breeders can explain both what they are proud of and what they are actively trying to improve. That’s how the breed moves forward.
Critiques are more than just comments on a page. They are evidence of a breeder’s willingness to learn, refine, and be held accountable. They shape the conversations we have about our dogs—and they should shape the decisions we make going forward.
If you're a future breeder, let critique be your compass. Show your dog. Ask for feedback. Take notes. And when you plan your next steps, ensure they are guided by knowledge, not assumptions.
And if you're a future owner, remember this: a good breeder will welcome scrutiny. They won’t just show you a pretty photo or say, “mum’s a great dog.” They’ll talk to you about structure, faults, development, and how their dogs compare to others in the breed. That’s the kind of breeder who’s in this for the right reasons and that’s the kind of dog you want.
In Bulldogs, the wins are lovely. However, it is the learning that truly lasts.
Because while the applause fades, a proper critique becomes something more lasting. It’s a tool for reflection, learning and ultimately, better breeding decisions.
Understanding What a Critique Really Is
For those less familiar with the show world, a critique is a written evaluation by the judge of the dogs they’ve placed. It serves as a short formal report that captures how the dog measured up against the breed standard on the day. A well-written critique provides a moment of clarity. It helps a breeder make more informed decisions about future pairings and gives potential puppy buyers a valuable snapshot of the quality and health behind their chosen pup.
Critiques matter not just for the trophy cabinet but for the long-term development of the breed.
Why a Rosette Isn’t the Whole Story
There’s no denying that a win feels good. But if the only goal is to collect rosettes, you’re missing the point. For future breeders and ultimately, the owners of the puppies they produce, critiques are one of the most valuable forms of education available outside the whelping box.
You might think your dog is typey, correct, or promising. But a judge with an experienced and impartial eye may spot something you’ve missed. Just as often, they might highlight a trait that’s easy to overlook—one that deserves to be preserved.
That’s where the real value of critique lies. It brings structure to progress and turns instinct into informed planning.
What a Good Critique Can Reveal
- Identify virtues you want to preserve or establish in your line, such as strong layback, open nostrils, or correct rib shape.
- Highlight faults to balance in future pairings. Examples include short necks, tight fronts, or light eyes. It’s important to remember that not all faults carry equal weight. Some are simply cosmetic, while others have long-term structural or health implications.
- Signal future potential in pups that are still immature but clearly well made
One of the LaRoyal pups was described as “still raw but all there.*” It was a perfect summary of a young dog who has yet to body up but already shows strong foundations. Another was praised for her head properties, with notes on areas likely to improve after motherhood. As you’d hope, those were traits I had already noted in her.
That kind of nuanced feedback goes far beyond a trophy or photo.
Judges Help Guide the Breed
A good judge does more than hand out ribbons. They shape the direction of the breed by pointing out what is working, what needs improvement, and what absolutely must be addressed. A thoughtful critique doesn’t just help the exhibitor, it helps the whole breed.
Their observations act as a quiet form of mentorship, even for breeders they’ve never met. When judges take the time to reflect honestly and clearly, they provide an invaluable reference point for those striving to breed with purpose.
If You’re Buying a Puppy, Ask Better Questions
Not every good breeder is in the ring every weekend. However, they should seek outside input and strive to learn. If you're speaking to a breeder about a puppy, ask them:
- How has the bitch been assessed?
- What are her strengths, and what needed balancing?
- Why was this particular stud chosen?
- What critiques or third-party input have they received?
The best breeders can explain both what they are proud of and what they are actively trying to improve. That’s how the breed moves forward.
Critiques are more than just comments on a page. They are evidence of a breeder’s willingness to learn, refine, and be held accountable. They shape the conversations we have about our dogs—and they should shape the decisions we make going forward.
If you're a future breeder, let critique be your compass. Show your dog. Ask for feedback. Take notes. And when you plan your next steps, ensure they are guided by knowledge, not assumptions.
And if you're a future owner, remember this: a good breeder will welcome scrutiny. They won’t just show you a pretty photo or say, “mum’s a great dog.” They’ll talk to you about structure, faults, development, and how their dogs compare to others in the breed. That’s the kind of breeder who’s in this for the right reasons and that’s the kind of dog you want.
In Bulldogs, the wins are lovely. However, it is the learning that truly lasts.
*And if you’re wondering, here’s what judge Leah Connelly had to say about the LaRoyal’s:
Luther: DARING TO DREAM LAROYAL
6-month white boy that is well off for bone. Very raw at the moment but loads to like. Correct flat skull, complete pigment around lovely dark eyes, open nostrils, nice broad jaw with a good upsweep. Pleasing overall shape. His frame will fill with age. Correct rear. OK tail. Moved well around the ring. Well handled and in beautiful condition. Pleased to award him Best Puppy in Show.
King: LUTHERS LEGACY LAROYAL
6-month-old red and white litter brother to 1, but very different at the moment. Time is on his side. It’s all there. He is clean and healthy. Nice layback, lovely sloping shoulders into straight bone. Pear shape from above. Correct rear. Moved well.
Pearl: LUFORD BLOND BOMB LAROYAL
Red and white girl, bigger, with loads to like. Lovely broad head, flat skull and well-padded cheeks. Nice broad jaw. Her shoulders are tacked on and sloping. Enough brisket, which will come. Well-muscled rear. Moved well.
Phoebe: LAROYALS BLURRED LINES
2-year-old young lady who is well off for bone. She has a lovely broad chest from correct tacked-on shoulders. My notes said probably the best layback of the day. Classic head of good properties. Broad jaw with a lovely upsweep. Correct rear. Moved OK.
Luther: DARING TO DREAM LAROYAL
6-month white boy that is well off for bone. Very raw at the moment but loads to like. Correct flat skull, complete pigment around lovely dark eyes, open nostrils, nice broad jaw with a good upsweep. Pleasing overall shape. His frame will fill with age. Correct rear. OK tail. Moved well around the ring. Well handled and in beautiful condition. Pleased to award him Best Puppy in Show.
King: LUTHERS LEGACY LAROYAL
6-month-old red and white litter brother to 1, but very different at the moment. Time is on his side. It’s all there. He is clean and healthy. Nice layback, lovely sloping shoulders into straight bone. Pear shape from above. Correct rear. Moved well.
Pearl: LUFORD BLOND BOMB LAROYAL
Red and white girl, bigger, with loads to like. Lovely broad head, flat skull and well-padded cheeks. Nice broad jaw. Her shoulders are tacked on and sloping. Enough brisket, which will come. Well-muscled rear. Moved well.
Phoebe: LAROYALS BLURRED LINES
2-year-old young lady who is well off for bone. She has a lovely broad chest from correct tacked-on shoulders. My notes said probably the best layback of the day. Classic head of good properties. Broad jaw with a lovely upsweep. Correct rear. Moved OK.
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Written exclusively by Sara, a proud founder of the LaRoyal name and a seasoned bulldog enthusiast, our blogs are overflowing with an abundance of show wins, captivating ideas, and a plethora of thoughts and feelings. We are thrilled to embark on this journey, sharing our "real-life" dog ownership experiences with you, our valued readers.
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