I've stayed at the Bulldog 3x and am going back there February. I like it, they have clean dorms of 8-12 people at about E30 per nite. That's about the cheapest I've found, it's CLEAN and well managed. The staff is super and friendly(mostly), just be mindful of all the menstrual cycles present as there are lots of women on staff. Don't get me wrong, they're all cool, but a cycle is a cycle and the poor dears sometimes LOSE it, but I digress.
It's very centrally located (RLD, Oudezijds Voorburgwal 220) and anything you may desire is very near at hand, easy walks. There's a sroomery and a coffeeshop right next door open early and late. I score most of my consumables elsewhere, but it's good to have them handy now and then for supplementation
The lobby and bar are super smoker friendly, but are restricted to guests, staff and people the staff let in 
. I think this is essentially a PRO because you have a semi restricted 'haven' from which to operate your Dam adventures. There is no smoking in the rooms, but there's a large roof terrace in addition to the aforementioned lobby/bar. I have read some negative reviews, but most avoidable with a better approach. You get what you give here so bring a good attitude. I travel alone, but if there are a number in your party, they have rooms for 2-6 people. There's 1 room right off the terrace for 4 or 6 people that is awesome. Best of luck wherever you stay
