review of the best dog food for bulldogs

10 Best Dog Food for Bulldogs in 2024

Bulldogs have gained popularity as a breed in recent years; if you own one of these furry friends or know someone who does, we’ve put together a specialized guide just for you!

Bulldogs have shorter snouts and are more prone to developing bowel problems than other breeds. They are wide-set with skin folds that also require extra attention and care.

Unfortunately, bulldogs are known for their high risk of health issues. Their short snouts can cause breathing problems similar to pugs. Both these breeds are known as brachycephalic breeds.

This means their airways are more distressed, and factors such as extreme temperature changes can aggravate this condition. Many airlines refuse to transport these poor babies because of this.

Today we’re going to target the dietary aspects of caring for a bulldog. Below are some of the best dog foods recommended to help ease your bulldog’s array of health issues.

Bulldogs nowadays look nothing like their original ancestors, and this is due entirely to human interference. Let’s look at how best to help our cute friends.

Our team has spent hours researching products to find the best food for your Bulldog, read our in-depth reviews below. Learn more about our 10 point inspection checklist.

Best Dog Food for Bulldogs

1. Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Bulldog Adult Dry Dog Food

Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Bulldog Adult Dry Dog Food

First up is the famous and well-known brand Royal Canin. You can some Royal Canin dog food reviews here. Bulldogs are so famous for the health issues that dog food companies had to come out with specially engineered food just for them.

Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Bulldog Adult Dry Dog Food is suitable for English Bulldogs over a year old. What makes this easy on their stomach is easily digestible proteins, starches, insoluble minerals, and balanced fibers.

Many Bulldogs have an underbite, so the kibble in this Royal Canin dog food is wave-shaped, specifically created for this unique trait. The cocktail of healthy ingredients helps reduce intestinal fermentation, which prevents digestive disorders, flatulence, and unpleasant odors. Not only does this dog food support the stomach, but it also helps the skin and joints.

Why We Like It – Many consumers stand by his product, saying it has helped a lot with their dog’s health. Not only does it help the digestive system, but all the minerals also help with skin conditions like eczema.

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content3591 kcal/kg, 277 kcal/cup
Crude Protein22.0% min
Crude Fat12.0% min
Crude Fiber4.1% max
Moisture10.0% max

Pros:

+ Designed to meet the nutritional needs of Bulldogs
+ Promotes healthy digestive system with highly digestible protein and fiber
+ With EPA and DHA for healthy bones and joints
+ Improves stool quality and odor
+ Enriched with essential nutrients to promote healthy skin and coat

Cons:

– Contains by-product meal

2. Nulo Adult Grain-Free Dog Food: All Natural Dry Pet Food

Nulo Adult Grain Free Dog Food: All Natural Dry Pet Food

We must know how much processed food and chemicals we ingest, especially for sensitive dogs and humans. This brand is 100% all-natural and grain-free. Grains trigger food allergies that could be especially harmful to our already sensitive bulldogs.

Suitable for large and small dogs, the formula is crafted for every adult breed.

The omega-3 and 6’s nourish the skin and promotes a healthy coat. For dogs with sensitive skin like the bulldog, Nulo Adult Grain-Free Dog Food is a definite plus. Feel safe knowing that Nulo pet food is made in the USA and doesn’t contain any mystery ingredients. Know more about this brand through Nulo Dog Food Review.

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content3,595 kcal/kg, 424 kcal/cup
Crude Protein30.0% min
Crude Fat16.0% min
Crude Fiber4.5% max
Omega-3 Fatty Acids0.45% min
Omega-6 Fatty Acids2.25% min
Moisture10.0% max

Why We Like It – In order to run, jump and thrive, dogs require proper fuel and nutrition. Being a 100% natural option, you can be sure you are giving your furry family member the best.

Pros:

+ 100% all-natural with wholesome fruits and vegetables
+ Grain-free formula free from chicken and egg proteins
+ Made from 80% premium animal proteins
+ With amino acids to support lean muscle mass and healthy heart
+ Includes calcium and phosphorous for healthy bone development
+ Omega fatty acids to make your dog’s skin and coat healthy

Cons:

– Could be a little bit more expensive than other options

3. Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Bulldog Puppy Dry Dog Food

Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Bulldog Puppy Dry Dog Food

This is not a repeat of the first listing. The two are essentially the same thing with one major difference; this dog food is meant for puppies. The combination of ingredients includes highly digestible proteins and vitamin E and C to support your puppy’s immune system. Puppies need different food to strengthen their bodies. Check out some of the best dog food options for puppies.

Glucosamine and chondroitin support their joints and reduce the risk of arthritis in their later years. Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Bulldog Puppy Dry Dog Food is the perfect blend for bulldog puppies from 8 weeks to a year old. After 12 months, switch over to the adult brand for continuous support.

Why We Like It – This Royal Canin puppy food for bulldogs has everything the adult version has and more. It starts supporting your puppy’s immune system from a young age. Switching to the adult brand at the right time adds more support.

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content3713 kcal/kg, 338 kcal/cup
Crude Protein28.0% min
Crude Fat15.0% min
Crude Fiber4.0% max
Calcium1.15% min
Moisture10.0% max

Pros:

+ Specifically designed for Bulldog puppies
+ Wave shaped for easy chew
+ Helps reduce stool odor
+ Supports and maintains digestive health
+ Protects joints and bones with calcium and phosphorous
+ With complex antioxidants and vitamin E to protect your Bulldog puppy’s immune health

Cons:

– First ingredient is chicken by-product meal
– Not the best packaging

4. Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition French Bulldog Adult Dry Dog Food

Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition French Bulldog Adult Dry Dog Food

Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition French Bulldog Adult Dry Dog Food is enriched with L-Carnitine, which helps in metabolism. And the protein content maintains lean muscle mass. Royal Canin is partnered with pet experts to develop the best formula for specific breeds. If they have a breed formula, it’s because your pet needs it. So don’t settle for the common adult formula for your Frenchie.

Why We Liked It – You know a brand takes great care in dogs if they go out of their way to engineer a formula for a specific breed. The special blend for French Bulldogs offers the right ingredients to target problems that affect this particular breed.

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content3,840 kcal/kg, 330 kcal/cup
Crude Protein24.0% min
Crude Fat16.0% min
Crude Fiber3.4% max
Moisture10.0% max

Pros:

+ Designed to meet the nutritional needs of purebred French Bulldogs
+ Promotes lean muscle development with protein and L-Carnitine
+ Includes essential nutrients to support healthy skin
+ With highly digestible proteins and fiber content for a healthy metabolism
+ Improves stool odor and quality
+ Wave-shaped kibble tailored for a Bulldog’s mouth

Cons:

– High-calorie recipe may not be recommended for older Bulldogs

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5. IAMS ProActive Health Adult Breed Specific Dry Dog Food

IAMS ProActive Health Adult Breed Specific Dry Dog Food

This blend tailors the ingredients to be ideal for both American and English Bulldogs. Both these breeds are bigger than the Frenchie, so the dietary needs also differ slightly. Made with real chicken giving English Bulldogs an irresistible taste of dog food.

Want more American Bulldog specific foods? Read our in depth article on the best dog food for American Bulldogs

IAMS ProActive Health Adult Breed Specific Dry Dog Food also doesn’t include soy, wheat, or fillers. The L-Carnitine helps maintain a healthy metabolism, and the protein supports strong muscles and heart function.

Too much of anything can be a bad thing, so IAMS dog food supplements the kibble with garnishes of carrot and beet pulp to balance the protein. Why feed your dog with generic dog food when IAMS is available to you and this dog food is affordable?

Why We Like It – IAMS exhibits complete transparency with their ingredients listed clearly on the package and website, giving you full disclosure on what is being consumed by your dog.

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content3,672 kcal/kg, 382 kcal/cup
Crude Protein25.0% min
Crude Fat14.0% min
Crude Fiber5.0% max
Vitamin E60 IU/kg min
Omega-6 Fatty Acids1.75% min
Moisture10.0% max

Pros:

+ The first ingredient is real, premium lamb
+ Tailored blend of wholesome fibers and prebiotics for healthy digestion
+ Maintains healthy skin and coat with Omega-6 fatty acids
+ High-quality proteins that support strong muscles
+ Complete and balanced diet for Bulldogs
+ No artificial flavors or preservatives

Cons:

– Not recommended for dogs with digestive issues

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6. Purina Bella Natural Bites for Small Dogs Adult Dry Dog Food

Purina Bella Natural Bites for Small Dogs Adult Dry Dog Food

This option would be better suited to French bulldogs being the smaller of the three different types. Purina Bella Natural Bites is formulated to support the health of small breed dogs. With the perfect mix of real turkey and chicken meat accented with carrots and green beans, this dog food gives sufficient nutrients with an extremely tempting taste.

There are two textures to this Purina dog food. The crunchy kibble is not only smaller in size and helps clean your dog’s teeth, but the tender pieces are also easier to chew. With such a unique combination of ingredients, it’s guaranteed to leave your pup wanting more. Learn more about this brand through Purina Pro Plan Dog Food Review.

Why We Like It – A lot of small dog owners know the problem with big kibble fitting into their tiny mouths. It can be tough for them to chew. Purina has thoughtfully incorporated small soft shreds to make mealtime a happy experience for them.

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content3,678 kcal/kg, 358 kcal/cup
Crude Protein26.0% min
Crude Fat15.5% min
Crude Fiber4.0% max
Calcium1.1% min
Moisture12.0% max

Pros:

+ #1 ingredient is real turkey and includes real chicken
+ Formulated to support the health of the small adult dog breeds
+ A mix of crunchy and soft kibble
+ Made with premium animal proteins to support strong muscles
+ Includes necessary vitamins and minerals
+ No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives

Cons:

– Doesn’t come in a resealable bag
– Includes some fillers like whole-grain corn or whole-grain wheat, and chicken by-product meal

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7. CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Healthy Weight Limited Ingredient Chicken & Pea Recipe Dry Dog Food

CANIDAE PURE Weight Management, Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Premium Dry Dog Food

If you’re worried about your Bulldog’s unnecessary weight gain and looking for a healthy weight formula dog food, well, this is the best dog food for your furry friend. The CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Healthy Weight Limited Ingredient Chicken & Pea Recipe Dry Dog Food is a limited-ingredient diet that promotes healthy weight management. CANIDAE Grain-Free has 9 natural, simple ingredients to keep your furry friend living a long and healthy life.

You will also love this grain-free recipe because it’s made without fillers like corn, wheat, or soy, making this food gentle on dogs’ sensitive stomachs. It has the all-around essential vitamins and minerals your pup will need, including Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids for skin and coat nourishment.

Why We Like It – Achieve your dog’s healthy weight with this grain-free limited-ingredient recipe with a high-quality protein as its #1 ingredient. It contains probiotics that are gentle on the stomach good for promoting healthy digestion and metabolism. Learn more about the product here: Canidae Dog Food Reviews

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content3,300 kcal/kg, 409 kcal/cup
Crude Protein28.0% min
Crude Fat9.0% min
Crude Fiber5.0% max
Moisture10.0% max

Pros:

+ Grain-free recipe great for dogs with sensitive stomachs
+ Made with 9 real simple ingredients
+ #1 ingredient is real chicken to support muscle development
+ Includes probiotics for a healthy digestive system
+ Supports the skin and coat with Omega fatty acids
+ Promotes healthy body weight

Cons:

– High carb content is not recommended for diabetic Bulldogs

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8. Purina ONE SmartBlend Natural Small Bites Beef & Rice Formula Adult Dry Dog Food

Purina ONE SmartBlend Natural Small Bites Beef & Rice Formula Adult Dry Dog Food

Real ingredients are a trait most dog food brands advertise. Purina ONE SmartBlend has antioxidants, which counter the effects of damaging free radicals they may have in their bodies. Of course, glucosamine and omega-6 fatty acids are included to support joint and skin health.

This texture combo of hard bites and tender shreds will give your faithful friend a balanced and healthy meal. Purina ONE created a 28-day challenge to allow dog owners worldwide to see the difference the food can make to a dog’s health. Try out this perfectly concocted formula and see for yourself!

Why We Like It – This dog food isn’t a result of cramming healthy ingredients into one package. Every ingredient has its purpose, and with the 28-day challenge, the proof is right before your eyes!

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content4,046 kcal/kg, 388 kcal/cup
Crude Protein26.0% min
Crude Fat16.0% min
Crude Fiber3.0% max
Omega-6 Fatty Acids1.6% min
Moisture12.0% max

Pros:

+ Real Beef is the #1 ingredient
+ Smart blend of antioxidants to help the immune system
+ With protein-rich tender meaty morsels
+ Supports joint health with natural sources of Glucosamine
+ Contains Omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat
+ Complete and balanced adult Bulldog dog food

Cons:

– Not recommended for dogs with grain allergies

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9. Earthborn Holistic Great Plains Feast Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Earthborn Holistic Great Plains Feast Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

With holistic in the name, you can expect this brand to target every aspect of your dog’s health. Even if you don’t own a Bulldog, this would still be an excellent choice. Earthborn Holistic Great Plains Feast Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is grain-free and gluten-free, which means lesser digestive and allergy issues for your dog. With the combination of lean red meats, wholesome antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, and a balanced ratio of omega-6 and 3 fatty acids, Earthborn really lives up to the definition of holistic health for your dog.

Not only is Earthborn aware of your pet’s health, but they also care for the earth. The packaging is BPA-Free and recyclable through their TerraCycle and Earthborn ReBorn program. With this dog food for Bulldogs, you will get the value for your money from its high-quality ingredients that provide optimal nutrition.

Why We Like It – As inhabitants of this earth, Earthborn really does their part in caring for animals and our planet. Not only do they offer our pups the best with this brand, but we will also be doing our part for the environment.

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content3,780 kcal/kg, 400 kcal/cup
Crude Protein32.0% min
Crude Fat18.0% min
Crude Fiber4.0% max
Omega-3 Fatty Acids1.9% min
Omega-6 Fatty Acids3.0% min
Moisture10.0% max

Pros:

+ High-quality proteins from bison meal and beef meal, also rich in amino acids
+ Antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables to support immune health
+ Healthy balance of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat nourishment
+ BPA-free, resealable, and 100% recyclable packaging
+ Gluten-free and grain-free diet
+ Enriched with Taurine and Methionine for heart health

Cons:

– Not the best velcro packaging

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10. Purina Pro Plan FOCUS Sensitive Skin & Stomach Adult Dry Dog Food

Purina Pro Plan FOCUS Sensitive Skin & Stomach Adult Dry Dog Food

Bulldog owners all know that this breed of adorable dogs is prone to a lot of health issues. Like we mentioned before, among these issues are skin and digestive problems. Purina Pro Plan FOCUS has put a focus on skin and stomach issues in this particular kind of dog food. Salmon is their number 1 ingredient, which isn’t as hard on the stomach as meat.

The prebiotic fiber included promotes digestive health to support their overall wellbeing. With no corn, wheat, or soy, allergic reactions are decreased, and antioxidants help maintain their immune system. Purina always uses quality ingredients that are specialized for your dog’s specific needs.

Why We Like It – This focused kind of dog food from Purina gives the perfect treatment for your bulldog. The combination of ingredients is backed by 85+ years of research. Give your dog the best and try out the dog food of choice made by one of the best dog food manufacturers worldwide.

Nutrition Information:

Caloric Content4,049 kcal/kg, 467 kcal/cup
Crude Protein26.0% min
Crude Fat16.0% min
Crude Fiber4.0% min
Omega-3 Fatty Acids0.75% min
Omega-6 Fatty Acids1.6% min
Moisture12.0% max

Pros:

+ High-protein formula with real salmon as the #1 ingredient
+ Formulated with live probiotics for immune and digestive health
+ Rich in Omega-6 fatty acids to promote healthy skin and coat
+ Lowers allergy risk great for sensitive skins and sensitive stomachs
+ No corn wheat, soy, or poultry by-product meals
+ Easily-digestible Bulldog food

Cons:

– May have stronger fish smell than other options

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Add-On: Paw Prints 37579 26lb. Plastic Rolling Pet Food Bin (Carlos The Bulldog Design)

Paw Prints 37579 26lb. Plastic Rolling Pet Food Bin (Carlos The Bulldog Design)

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Does the cute exterior of Carlos the Bulldog entice you? Just seeing this design makes me want to buy it! With the Paw Prints 26lb pet food bin, you can make sure to keep your dog food fresh. Paw Prints rolls easily and the flat-backed design sits against the wall to keep it out of your way. Keep your bulldog from getting into the food and eating at inappropriate times with the gasket-sealed lid. This is a great extra purchase to go with your new bag of dog food!

How We Chose the Best Dog Food for Bulldogs

how we chose the best dog food for bulldogs
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When looking for the best dry dog food for Bulldogs, you will want something that caters to your dog’s nutritional requirements to maintain their overall health. And as always, we want to provide you only the best dog food for Bulldogs and let you know how we chose our top-rated foods.

High-quality Proteins

High-quality dog food with premium protein is very beneficial for your Bulldog. Proteins are rich in amino acids that help build your dog’s muscles and bones, allowing them to maintain a healthy and lean muscle mass. Check out our #2 dog food for English Bulldogs, the Nulo Adult Grain-Free Dog Food: All Natural Dry Pet Food, which has 80% animal-based protein from Deboned Salmon, Turkey Meal, Menhaden Fish Meal, and Deboned Turkey.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are great sources of vitamins and minerals that provide nutrition for your body’s defenses. Your pupper can also benefit from the fiber from fruits and veggies, promoting a healthy digestive system even for dogs with sensitive tummies. This must be a part of your Bulldog’s healthy diet. Our top 9 is the Earthborn Holistic Great Plains Feast Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, which contains antioxidant-rich fruits and veggies for your dog’s immune health.

Essential Fatty Acids

Skin and coat nourishment is an important part of your dog’s grooming. Omega fatty acids are particularly helpful in promoting healthy skin and coat. More than that, Omega-3 fatty acids improve your dog’s brain and eye function, while omega-6 gives your dog a shinier coat and skin. The top 7 in our list, CANIDAE PURE Weight Management Dry Dog Food, has a fatty acid blend made to provide nourishment to your dog’s skin and coat.

Complete and Balanced Diet

Aside from feeding your Bulldog quality protein and antioxidant-rich fruits and veggies, they also need a complete and balanced food to support their whole health. Your Bulldog’s nutritional needs will be met if you provide them with complete nutrition just like what’s offered in this IAMS ProActive Health Adult Breed Specific Dry Dog Food.

Related Review: Food for Pug Dogs.

A Buyer’s Guide on the Best Dog Foods for Bulldogs

buyer's guide on the best dog foods for bulldogs
Photo by Mathew Coulton on Unsplash

Bulldogs are delightful and lovable dogs that most pet parents would opt for because of their sweet and fun-loving nature. Despite the common misconceptions surrounding the breed, it’s still one of the most popular dog breeds, according to the 2021 Most Popular Dog Breeds Rankings, reported by the American Kennel Club.

They are very friendly puppers, that even when they weigh up to 50 pounds, Bulldogs would still think they weigh less than that and pounce on you to curl up on your lap. And like all dog breeds, Bulldogs have specific needs and wants that you, as their dog owner, need to satisfy, so they stay your loyal companion for a long time.

Nutritional Needs of Bulldogs

Meeting your dog’s nutritional requirements should be your top 1 priority. What kind of food and how much food you feed them will determine their overall health. Therefore, getting the right Bulldog food with high-quality ingredients for your dog’s diet is a big factor in how they will grow up. Following a healthy diet will surely keep your English bulldog living a long and happy life. That’s why you should know the important ingredients that need to be included in your dog’s diet.

Protein

Premium animal proteins are the most integral part of a Bulldog’s diet, especially for an English Bulldog. Since developing strong muscles is very important for a Bulldog, feeding them the right amount of protein depending on their life stage to support their muscle development is necessary. For an adult Bulldog, it’s recommended to have at least 18% protein in their diet. While Bulldog puppies will thrive on about 22% of protein content included in their diet.

However, it’s also important to pay attention to the type of protein your pooch is allergic to. The common causes of food allergies for Bulldogs are chicken, pork, beef, or fish. So if your Bulldog is allergic to any of these, then your best option for good protein sources is a real lamb or lamb meal.

Vitamins and Minerals

Since Bulldogs are also prone to health issues, keeping your dog’s immune health protected and nourished is essential. And the way to do that is by supplementing them with vitamins and minerals. Dog foods are naturally supplied with vitamins and minerals. The most common source of this is fruits and vegetables. Based on Any Bulldog, the most important vitamins for an English Bulldog are vitamins A, C, E, K, and Folate.

Meanwhile, minerals promote healthy bones and teeth. Essential minerals like potassium, zinc, sodium, calcium, magnesium, selenium, and iron are the ones you should look for in Bulldog food. But, if you can’t find all of these vitamins and minerals in your dog’s food, you can give them supplements to make sure they receive a complete and balanced diet.

Healthy Fats

Bulldogs are very prone to obesity; that’s why moderating their fat and protein intake is important in keeping a healthy body weight. However, not all fats are bad. There are also healthy fats that can contribute to your pooch’s overall wellness and being. Essential fatty acids like Omega-3 and Omega-6 are examples of these. Not only are they important to support your dog’s immune health, but they also promote skin and coat nourishment.

Carbs

Although Bulldogs are easy-going and laidback dogs, they also enjoy exercises or fun activities from time to time. And the energy they spent doing those exercises needs to be replaced to keep living a healthy and active lifestyle. Carbs serve as fuel for your dog’s body. They supply dogs with energy to keep them feeling full for longer and keep them energized so they can commit to their everyday routine.

Feeding your Bulldog complex carbohydrates like sweet potatoes, brown rice, fruits, and vegetables helps your dog maintain healthy digestion and a strong immune system. It’s also a great source of vitamins and minerals to aid your dog’s overall health.

Main Health Problems of a Bulldog

Taking care of dogs is a big responsibility, almost just as big as taking care of a baby. And with everything else to keep in mind, such as their nutritional needs, it’s also your responsibility to be familiar with the common health problems that Bulldogs experience.

Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome (BAS)

Bulldogs are only a few of the dog breeds that suffer from Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome (BAS); some other dog breeds are Pugs, Shih Tzus, Chihuahuas, etc. Brachycephalic dog breeds are very distinctive dogs because of their flat faces. They have shorter bones and narrow noses, making them different from other dog breeds. Unfortunately, this also causes breathing problems for Brachycephalic breeds.

Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome (BAS) is a condition that causes airway obstruction for Bulldogs, making it difficult for them to breathe, especially in the heat. That’s why it’s also not recommended to let them exercise for too long or stay in the heat for a long time because heat makes it difficult for them to control their temperature. This condition’s signs and symptoms are loud breathing, snoring, exercise intolerance, heat intolerance, collapse, and vomiting.

Hip Dysplasia

Based on the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, about 71% of English Bulldogs suffer from hip dysplasia, making it one of the Bulldogs’ most common health problems. This condition is defined by the pelvis’ socket (socket joint) and the hip bone’s ball (thigh ball) not fitting normally as it should, causing an abnormality in the dog’s hips.

Hip dysplasia develops over time and becomes significantly worse as they age. Symptoms of hip dysplasia include limping, stiffness in the legs, exercising intolerance, unable to extend their rear legs, trouble walking or running, and loss of muscle in the hind legs.

Cherry Eye

Cherry eye is a common visual problem for Bulldogs. This is when their third eyelid’s gland prolapses and gets inflamed causing the eye to bulge and become red in the inner corners of the eye. If caught early, this condition can be treated, so immediately consult your dog’s vet if you notice signs and symptoms. The signs of Cherry Eye to watch out for are pawing or rubbing of eyes, squinting, eye redness, eye swelling, dry eyes, pus discharge, impaired vision, and changing of eye color to black.

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is defined by the lack of production of a thyroid hormone called thyroxine. This hormone is responsible for our metabolism, meaning the lack of thyroxine can cause your dog’s metabolism to slow down. According to the AKC, the common symptoms of hyperthyroidism are lethargy, mental dullness, weight gain, exercise intolerance, obesity, cold intolerance, hair shedding, hair loss, or hair thinning.

Cancer

Bulldogs are prone to cancers, specifically mast cell tumors, melanoma, testicular cancer, and breast cancer. Unfortunately, there’s no known cancer cure; however, it can be treated with radiation and chemotherapy. In some cases, testicular cancer in male dogs can be prevented through neutering or castration. Cancer can be a sensitive topic for anyone and, in this case, for pet parents. Still, it’s only right to be aware of cancer’s common signs and symptoms just to be careful in the future.

As mentioned by Pet MD, the signs of cancer include:

  • unexplained lumps and bumps
  • pigmented sores
  • swollen lymph nodes
  • unhealed wounds
  • collapse
  • gastrointestinal problems
  • difficulty breathing
  • sudden wight loss
  • lethargy

Knowing these signs is very important because you will be able to identify if there’s something wrong with your pooch. If you notice any of these signs with your pooch, your next step should be consulting a veterinarian to get a proper diagnosis.

Common Allergies of Bulldogs

Being a responsible fur parent means familiarizing yourself with the common dog allergens that affects Bulldogs.

Food Allergies

Some food allergens you should look out for are pork, beef, chicken, fish, dairy, eggs, wheat, corn, soy, artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. These are a few of the common food allergens a Bulldog might be allergic to. If your pooch is allergic to these proteins, you should opt for those with lamb as their main protein source and look for other food options for your dog with allergies.

Skin Allergies

Skin allergies can be caused by environmental allergens such as dust mites, pollens, molds, and even aerosol sprays. And the only way to avoid these is to regularly clean your house so they won’t get irritated by the dust surrounding your home. You can also try limiting your dog from going outside because this is where most environmental allergies are found.

Flea Allergies

Flea bites can also cause an allergic reaction to your pooch. Flea allergies can cause skin itching, swollen skin, difficulty breathing, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you want a flea prevention solution, you can try using a flea collar for your dog or use flea sprays around your house to avoid flea infestation.

Here are the signs and symptoms to look out for if your dog is having an allergic reaction:

  • Irritated and itchy skin
  • Redness in the skin
  • Scratching
  • Biting their paws
  • Hair loss
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Sneezing
  • Skin shedding
  • Vomiting
  • Hives
  • Bloodshot eyes
  • Eye discharge
  • Paw Licking

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best dog food for an English Bulldog?

Nulo Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food: All Natural Dry Pet Food

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For the English Bulldog or the stockiest heaviest version of the Bulldogs, balance is of utmost importance. Due to their build, Bulldogs are the most prone to health issues among the three kinds of Bulldogs. The Nulo Grain-Free brand would be a great choice for your Bulldog as it’s 100% natural. Grain, gluten, and potato-free, this special formula is easy on your dog’s digestive system and skin. Also filled with antioxidants from fruits and vegetables, your loyal friend will have the all-around care targeted at all of its health issues.

Are grain-free dog food formulas good for Bulldogs?

Yes, a grain-free diet is good for Bulldogs, especially for dogs who have grain-related allergies. Grains are one of the most common dog allergens, and since Bulldogs are very prone to allergies, feeding them grain-free dry dog food will do them good. Grain-free dog food provide your Bulldog with the proper nutrients they need as much as a grain-inclusive one. But they do it without fillers and grains like corn, wheat, and soy.

Are Bulldogs allowed to eat raw meat?

Yes, it most certainly is alright to feed Bulldogs raw meat. It’s actually better than processed foods or animal by-products. However, it’s not recommended for Bulldog puppies because raw meat is harder for them to digest. It’s also important to note that feeding your Bulldog ONLY raw meat is not suggested because they need a proper and balanced diet to grow healthily. And they need other sources of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals to thrive.

What foods should Bulldogs avoid?

Stay away from dog foods that contain fillers or animal by-products. Most specially processed foods because these are considered low-quality ingredients. Although some by-products are a good source of protein, there’s still no knowledge that they came from a safe source. Also, avoid food for Bulldogs that has chemical preservatives like artificial flavors or colors. You should also not feed your dog alcohol, avocado, caffeine, chocolate, garlic, onion, grapes, and milk.

What is the recommended calorie content for Bulldogs?

Your Bulldog’s recommended calorie intake per day will depend on many factors such as their age, weight, activity level, and health condition. But, adult male Bulldogs with an average weight of 50 pounds should have 25 to 30 calories per pound of body weight. That’s about 1250 to 1500 calories in a day. Meanwhile, adult female Bulldogs who weigh 48 pounds on average need about 1200 to 1440 calories a day.

Conclusion

All of the tips above are great things to know for general care. Your dog may not suffer from all the ailments that we have listed, so make sure you’re making a choice suitable for your dogs’ individual needs. Unfortunately, these adorable canines have been subjected to human intervention and bred to look a certain way. Their cuteness comes at the cost of their health. Make sure you are doing what you can to give your dog the best.

Expert Tip

Make sure you adjust their food and feeding sessions as they age. The average healthy bulldog should be fed 2-3 times a day. While senior dogs should be fed around 900 calories a day in smaller meals.

Did You Know?

Bulldogs have suffered the most airline-related deaths of any breed. This is due to their respiratory issues and the pressure and temperature changes on an aircraft. The next time you decide to take your best friend on vacation with you, think twice. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be done. Before a trip, consult with your vet to make sure you are making the best decision.

See more Bulldog facts here.

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