From: Brian <brian@detroitdogtrainer.com>
Subject: Bulldog question on craig's list
Hi,
Saw your question on craig's list and figured I'd answer. Just for your info, I am a dog behavior expert and professional trainer with lots of experience with boxers, pitbulls, and bulldogs.
In the situation you describe, I would not worry about the children, the dogs are very good with kids and I seriously doubt you will have a problem. Obviously, when first introducing the dog to the children you will want to watch and make sure everything is fine, but they are not given to aggression to people or kids, and I wouldn't expect trouble.
Where you might, I say again, MIGHT, have an issue is the 2 dogs getting along. My suggestion would be to get the dogs together and observe them before you commit to taking the bulldog. If they get along and play, then it will all be good. If they don't like each other, or worse, start a fight, then I wouldn't take it home. Probably, the boxer would be fine with another dog. Sometimes bulldogs can be hard headed and might want to fight instead of getting along. Other than that, they are great dogs, and as I mentioned, I don't think you'll have any trouble with your children. You'll know within minutes if there's going to be an issue of them living together.
Their personalities are similar to boxers, but their energy level isn't as high. They are very intelligent, learn quickly, and want to please.
One problem they sometimes have is bad hips, you might want a vet to take a look and make sure the dog is solid before you agree to take him. Hip problems are a real drag, it is expensive vet bills, the dog is miserable and lives in constant pain, and that takes a toll on a family. Children wouldn't be able to go up and pet the dog on the rump end, especially if he's sleeping, his pain might cause him to nip or snap at the child.
My second suggestion would be this: if you do decide to keep him, here's what I would do. Before letting him in your house - walk him and your boxer. Bring him home in the car, before you go into the house, go get your boxer on a leash, put a leash on the bulldog and walk them both. A good, LOOOONG walk, so they both can get used to each other, burn off energy, and you get established as pack leader. Don't take any guff, make them walk together and BEHAVE.
Then, when they are obviously tired, bring them into the house. This will avoid many potential problems - the boxer will meet him on neutral ground, and thus not be territorial or anything, the bulldog will meet you and the boxer on neutral ground and not feel intimidated entering another dog's territory, and their energy level will be much lower the first time in the house, eliminating the chances of them getting all riled up, maybe damaging something with their running around and playing, and almost 100% eliminate any chances of a fight breaking out in the home.
Hope this helps, and if you have any other questions or comments, please feel free!!
Good luck
Brian
R:
WOW! Thanks for taking the time to reply to my post. This information was extremely helpful. I wouldn't have thoought to take the dogs for a walk together, that is such a good idea! I appreciate you taking the time to email me back!
Thanks again! :)
Lori