The Ultimate Guide to What Bulldogs Can (and can’t) Eat

When it comes to our dogs, one thing is true…we want the best for them. And the best can be anything from the best bed around to the best veterinarian care. However, often, the best starts with the basics and nutrition is one of the first things where we can improve both our bulldog’s health and quality of life. But with all the options out there, many owners wonder what can my bulldog eat?

Bulldogs can eat any well-designed diet whether it is homemade or a commercial blend. The answer is as varied as bulldogs can be. From dry dog food to RAW, what can my bulldog eat has never been such a complicated question to answer.

However, it isn’t as cut and dried as that quick answer. In fact, there is a lot of information every bulldog owner should know before they head out on the hunt for their bulldog’s perfect diet. These include understanding nutrition, how often they should eat, what snacks and foods a bulldog can eat…and most importantly, foods that your bulldog shouldn’t. When you have a firm understanding of feeding your bulldog, there is no limit to how amazing and varied his diet can be.

What are the important factors with bulldog nutrition?

Before we start looking at the actual food, it is important to really look at the important factors when it comes to bulldog nutrition. These are the areas that all dog food, whether it is homemade, dry or canned commercial, should have to ensure that your dog is receiving optimal nutrition. And, surprisingly, these factors only include 6 areas, which we will look at below.

1. Proteins: While proteins can come from some plant-based foods, dogs require animal proteins as well as plant based. These are very important for providing your bulldog with the building blocks of life. These proteins will help with the growth of fur, nails, muscles and bones. They promote the production of antibodies, hormones and neurotransmitters in the body and they supply energy for a dog. Pregnant dogs and puppies require twice as much protein as an adult dog. Dogs should receive 2 grams of protein for every pound of weight so a 50lb bulldog should have 110 grams of protein in his diet.
2. Carbohydrates: Although some believe that carbohydrates are not healthy for dogs, the truth couldn’t be further from that statement. Carbohydrates are integral in giving your dog the fuel he needs for his body to function properly and to have the best energy supply for his needs. In addition, carbohydrates are often full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which offer a host of benefits for his overall health.
3. Minerals: At one time, the focus of dog food was on calcium alone, however, recent studies have shone the light on a host of other minerals that are beneficial to a dog’s overall health. Minerals that your bulldog will need include iron, selenium, magnesium, sodium, zinc and potassium to name a few. Each offer a different benefit to your dog from assisting in wound healing to aiding in nerve transmission to promoting excellent bone and teeth growth and health. Your dog’s diet should be full of mineral rich foods such as shellfish, like oysters and other foods.
4. Vitamins: Like minerals, vitamins are an important part of your dog’s nutrition. You should see a dog food with a variety of vitamins. These vitamins are crucial to excellent health and are used by your bulldog’s body to boost the immune system, aid in healing and blood clotting and working as antioxidants. Vitamins that you should offer your bulldog are A, C, E, K and Folate. Be cautious with adding vitamins on your own as fat-soluble vitamins can be toxic to dogs.
5. Fat: Important for healthy skin and coat, fat is also another nutrient that gives your dog his energy. Without the proper amount of fat, your bulldog won’t have enough energy to get through his day. In addition to energy, fat helps regulate body temperature, and is tantamount to a healthy nervous system.
6. Water: Although we don’t think of water as a nutrient, it is one of the most important nutrients your dog can receive both on his own and in his food. 70 to 80% of a bulldog’s body mass is water and it is important in keeping your bulldog’s body running smoothly. It has many functions including flushing waste from your bulldog’s body, regulating body temperature, transporting nutrients and cushioning the nervous system. Always make sure your bulldog has access to clean, fresh water on a daily basis.

And those are the most important factors when looking at nutrients in your dog’s food and daily calorie intake.

How many times a day should a bulldog eat?

The amount of times your bulldog should eat really depends on the age of your bulldog. As adults, your bulldog should never eat fewer than twice a day. One large meal every day can be difficult to digest, and it can increase the risk of gastric torsion, commonly known as bloat. For that reason, you should try to aim for 2 smaller meals in a day.

Before adulthood, however, you want to follow a few different feeding schedules for your bulldog. These are:

• 8 weeks to 3 months: 4 small meals per day
• 3 months to 6 months: 3 small meals per day
• 6 months to 1 year: 2 medium sized meals per day
• 1 year onward: 1 to 2 meals per day — ideally, 2 per day.

 What Can Bulldogs Eat?

Now that we’ve looked at nutrition and how many times a day a bulldog should eat, let’s look at all the extras. Yes, you want to have your dog on a staple diet…however…that doesn’t mean he can’t enjoy a wide variety of foods that we enjoy. In fact, let’s look at a little snapshot of a large list of foods your bulldog can eat.

Can Bulldogs Drink Gatorade

A popular drink for many around the world, Gatorade is a safe option for your bulldog, however, it should only be given if your dog is needing extra electrolytes. If he isn’t, avoid this drink and just give Fido water.

• Benefits: Excellent for helping a dog overcome dehydration, Gatorade is a fast way to ensure recovery if your bulldog has not had enough water on a hot day or has begun showing symptoms of dehydration.
• Risks: Gatorade does have benefits; however, this sport’s drink does contain a lot of extra sugar, which can be a health risk for your dog. Because of this, never give your dog Gatorade unless it is absolutely necessary. In addition, make sure that you offer him a 50/50 blend of Gatorade with water or ice cubes.

Can Bulldogs Eat Bananas

When it comes to a healthy food for your bulldog, bananas are often found at the top of the list. In addition, bulldogs love the taste of them and will rarely turn them down as a treat.

• Benefits: Full of nutrients, bananas are an excellent alternative to fatty treats. They are high in B6, magnesium, potassium and Vitamin C. This makes them excellent at promoting bone growth, preventing some gastrointestinal issues in bulldogs.
• Risks: Bananas are high in natural sugars, which can upset your dog’s stomach. In addition, it can lead to obesity if they are given as treats too often. While not toxic, banana peels are hard to digest and bananas, in general, are high in fiber, which can lead to constipation if your dog eats too many.

Can Bulldogs Eat Chicken

Whether you offer it raw or cooked, chicken is a great treat and can even be a main ingredient in a well-rounded diet. Warning: never feed your bulldog cooked chicken bones.

• Benefits: Chicken is an excellent source of protein and is full of Omega 6 fatty acids. These fatty acids help ensure that your bulldog has healthier coats and skin. In addition, chicken can be used to help dogs suffering with diarrhea and are a great ingredient for a bland diet while your dog is recovering.
• Risks: There are no real risks to feeding your bulldog chicken. The only risk is the chicken bones and all cooked bones should be removed before you give chicken to your bulldog.

Can Bulldogs Eat Grains

Over the last decade or so, there has been a lot of debate on whether grains are healthy for a dog’s diet. The answer is that yes, they are perfectly healthy for dogs to eat on a daily basis. In fact, there are several healthy grains such as oatmeal and brown rice. The focus on grains is that your dog should eat a whole grain for the optimal benefits.

• Benefits: Whole grains are rich in vitamins and minerals and they are an excellent source of fiber. They have been linked to reducing the risk of kidney disease, obesity, heart disease and high cholesterol in bulldogs.
• Risks: No known risks, however, there have been some studies linking allergies to grains.

Can Bulldogs Eat Peanut Butter

Peanut butter is one of those foods that should be offered in moderation. It is a high fat treat and too much of a good thing can lead to obesity and other health problems.

• Benefits: An excellent source of protein, peanut butter can help with keeping your dogs coat healthy and shiny. It is a main ingredient in many dog treats and can be fed to a dog on its own.
• Risks: While there aren’t a lot of risks with peanut butter, bulldog owners should be careful with the ingredients of their peanut butter. In recent years, more and more peanut butters are using xylitol as a sugar substitute, which is deadly for dogs even in small quantities

Can Bulldogs Eat Eggs

Eggs can be fed raw or cooked, however, feeding your dog raw eggs could put him at risk for salmonella poisoning, which can be very dangerous. For that reason, try to stick with the cooked version…eggshell and all.

• Benefits: Another snack that is high in protein, eggs are excellent for promoting good skin and bones in your bulldog. They help keep your bulldog’s coat shiny.
• Risks: As mentioned, raw eggs can increase the risk of salmonella poisoning.

Can Bulldogs Eat Carrots

Besides being a lovely treat to munch on, I have found that most bulldogs love carrots and will eat them every day if they could. Perfect on their own or in dog food, carrots are an excellent treat.

• Benefits: While we all know that carrots help eye health and improved vision, they are also an excellent source of fiber, which works as a laxative. Finally, they are very good for keeping your bulldog’s teeth clean.
• Risks: While you may not realize it, carrots are high in sugar, which can lead to obesity and other health complications if fed too often to your bulldog.

Can Bulldogs Eat Strawberries

Strawberries are considered one of those powerhouse treats and are great for dogs. However, due to sugar levels, limit the amount to 2 to 3 strawberries a day. Strawberries can be fed stem and all.

• Benefits: Believe it or not, strawberries are an excellent treat that will help whiten your dog’s teeth. In addition, they are full of powerful antioxidants that will fight free radicals in your dog’s body.
• Risks: Strawberries should only be fed to your dog in raw form. Never give him strawberries in syrup as there are higher levels of sugar. Feed occasionally and not as a regular treat due to sugar levels.

Can Bulldogs Eat Blueberries

Just like strawberries, blueberries are a powerhouse fruit that can offer a lot of benefits for your bulldog. Again, like all fruit, they should be fed in moderation.

• Benefits: Full of antioxidants, blueberries are linked to aiding in the fight against cancer in dogs.
• Risks: Blueberries can be a choking hazard for bulldogs so always watch your dog while he eats them. In addition, like many fruits, blueberries are high in sugar, which can lead to obesity if your dog eats them too often.

Can Bulldogs Eat Cheese

Cheese can be an excellent snack, but only when given in moderation. It does have some benefits but for many dogs, cheese can lead to severe stomach upset so always monitor your dog if you give him a small treat of cheese.

• Benefits: High in calcium and a great motivator for training, cheese can be excellent for bones and teeth.
• Risks: Avoid cheeses with a lot of mold in the processing. The mold in cheeses have been linked to vomiting, fever, seizures and diarrhea when fed in excess.

Can Bulldogs Eat Yogurt

Yogurt is mixed bag when it comes to dogs. While some love it and have no problems, other dogs can be allergic to it. In addition, you should only offer plain, whole dairy yogurts. Avoid any with fruit or flavoring added.

• Benefits: Yogurt can be an excellent treat to add to your dog’s dry food by one or two tablespoons a day. It can help with digestion and can add a little boost of probiotic to your bulldog’s diet.
• Risks: Some dogs can be allergic to dairy and yogurt can cause digestion problems such as diarrhea. However, the main risk for yogurt is that many have xylitol in it, which is toxic to dogs.

Can Bulldogs Eat Nuts

Whether your bulldog can eat nuts is dependent upon the nut. Some nuts are perfectly healthy for bulldogs to eat, including peanuts, Almonds, Brazil nuts and hazelnuts. Other nuts should be avoided completely as they are toxic for dogs. These include cashews, pistachios, walnuts, pecans, hickory nuts, and macadamia nuts. Regardless of the type of nut, they should only be fed in moderation.

• Benefits: There is some debate on whether nuts are healthy for dogs, however, we do know that nuts contain protein and Omega 3 fatty acids, which help your dog have a shiny coat and strong bones.
• Risks: Nuts can be a choking hazard for dogs and should only be fed in moderation due to their high fat content, which can lead to obesity. In addition, the nuts listed as toxic can cause hives, neurological damage, seizures, vomiting and diarrhea and have been linked to pancreatitis so it is imperative that you never offer them to your bulldog.

Can Bulldogs Eat Oranges

Oranges can be hit or miss with bulldogs with some bulldogs absolutely living for a slice of orange and others not wanting anything to do with them. Regardless of your dog, oranges should only be offered with one or two slices a day at the maximum. Never feed your bulldog that rind of the orange.

• Benefits: They are high in vitamin C and can help boost the immune system of your bulldog.
• Risks: While not a risk to dogs, too many oranges can lead to stomach upset, which includes diarrhea and vomiting. Only feed oranges in moderation.

Can Bulldogs Eat Kiwi

Kiwis should always be fed in moderation to a bulldog. In addition, always remove the skin as it can cause stomach upset in most dogs, although the skin is not toxic.

• Benefits: Often used as a laxative when a dog has constipation, kiwis are high in fiber, which have many health benefits for a dog.
• Risks: Kiwi is high in fiber and while not a risk for dogs, too much fiber can lead to constipation in dogs. Only feed kiwis in moderation.

Can Bulldogs Eat Apples

Apples offer your dog a host of benefits from healthier teeth to a boost in vitamins, making them a great treat to give your dog. However, like all sugary treats, apples should be fed in moderation.

• Benefits: Filled with vitamins, apples are known for keeping bad breath at bay when it comes to bulldogs.
• Risks: When feeding apples, always remove the seeds from the apple. While the occasional seed is not harmful, apple seeds contain small amounts of cyanide, which accumulates over time. If your dog eats too many apple seeds over his lifetime, he could be affected by cyanide poisoning.

Can Bulldogs Eat Pears

Pears are a sweet snack that many bulldogs enjoy and are a great alternative to apples when you want to mix up his daily treats.

• Benefits: Pears are full of vitamins including vitamin A and C. They are also rich in fiber and can offer your bulldog fiber that may be lacking from his regular diet.
• Risks: Like apples, pear seeds contain small amounts of cyanide so avoid feeding your bulldog any pear seeds. In addition, pears can be a choking hazard so cut them into bite sized pieces for your bulldog.

Now these are just a few foods your bulldog can eat; however, you can offer other fruits and vegetables but make sure you take the time to research every food before you offer it to your bulldog.

What Can’t Bulldogs Eat?

While every food can have benefits and risks, these foods are not foods you should offer your bulldog. They can result in lasting health problems for your dog and may even be deadly to them.

Bulldogs Shouldn’t Eat Grapes and Raisins

Grapes and raisins are very appealing to dogs and, when given a chance, bulldogs will scarf them down. While one or two won’t hurt your dog, you should avoid feeding them as they can be deadly for dogs and are very toxic.

Symptoms of grape or raisin poisoning are:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Pain, especially in the abdomen
• Oral Ulcers
• Dehydration
• Seizures
• Lethargy
• Loss of Appetite
• Coma
• Kidney Failure
• Death

Bulldogs Shouldn’t Drink Tea and Coffee

While there is debate on whether tea and coffee are toxic to dogs, in general, you should try to avoid giving it to your dogs. Caffeine is not good for dogs, although in small amounts, one or two licks, it does not affect a dog. However, more than one or two laps of coffee or tea could result in caffeine toxicity.

Symptoms of caffeine toxicity are:

• Restlessness
• Abnormal Heart Rhythm
• Hyperactivity
• Seizures
• Hyperthermia
• Vomiting
• Hypertension
• Elevated Heart Rate

Bulldogs Shouldn’t Eat Kale

While Kale isn’t as toxic as caffeine or raisins, it isn’t helpful for our canine friends. In fact, kale is full of calcium oxalate and while it is healthy for people, in bulldogs, it leads to an increased risk of kidney and bladder stones. For that reason, it is important to avoid feeding it to your dog, even in small amounts.

Symptoms of kidney or bladder stones in your dog are:

• Straining to urinate
• Pain while urinating
• Blood in urine
• Loss of appetite
• Frequent urination
• Vomiting

Bulldog’s Shouldn’t Drink Milk and Ice Cream

While it is not toxic to dogs, milk is not a recommended food for bulldogs. In general, many dogs are lactose intolerant, which means that they will suffer digestion problems when eating milk or dairy products. If you choose to feed milk to your bulldog, use goat’s milk as it contains less lactose than cow milk.

In addition, ice cream can lead to the same discomfort. There are also many ingredients in ice cream that can be toxic to dogs, including xylitol.

Symptoms of lactose intolerance in dogs are:

• Severe Gas
• Bloating
• Abdominal Pain
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

Take Caution Feeding Pork to Bulldogs

While cooked pork is safe for dogs, it is important to note that cooked pork bones are a hazard to them. In addition, uncooked pork can be extremely dangerous to dogs due to the parasite found in undercooked/raw pork known as trichinosis.

Symptoms of a trichinosis infection are:

• Muscle Inflammation
• Upset stomach
• Fever
• Vomiting
• Joint Pain
• Stiffness
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy

Take Caution Feeding Tomatoes to Bulldogs

While ripe tomatoes are generally considered safe for dogs, unripe and ripening tomatoes, along with leaves and stems, can be quite dangerous to dogs due to tomatoes containing an alkaloid named tomatine.  This alkaloid metabolizes in the tomato as it ripens, posing a risk to your bulldog if the tomato hasn’t ripened enough.

Symptoms of tomatine toxicity are

• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Muscle Weakness
• Increased Heart Rate
• Abnormal Heart Rhythm
• Loss of Coordination
• Seizures

Bulldogs Shouldn’t Drink Alcohol

We’ve all seen the movies where the dog downs a beer with his own, however, alcohol is very toxic to dogs and even small amounts can have devastating effects on your bulldog’s health and wellbeing

Symptoms of alcohol poisoning are:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Dehydration
• Slow Heart Rate
• Abnormal Heart Rhythms
• Metabolic Acidosis
• Respiratory Distress
• Loss of Consciousness
• Loss of Bodily Control
• Depressed Mood
• Seizures
• Death

Before you decide on what to feed your dog or not, be sure to do the research to make sure that it is not harmful to your bulldog.

The Inside Information on Bones and Your Bulldog

While we looked at foods your bulldog can and can’t have, we didn’t touch on bones that you should feed your dog. So, before we answer a few remaining questions on bulldog nutrition, let’s look at a few of the inside information regarding bones.

Bones Your Bulldog Should Chew

When it comes to bones, the best bones to offer your bulldog are raw bones. They are generally less dangerous for your dog’s teeth and have less risks for your dog. When you feed bones, always monitor your bulldog. If the bone starts to splinter, take it away from your dog and offer them a different bone.

Bones that your bulldog can chew are:

• Edible Bones: With edible bones, you are looking at soft, pliable bones. The best are non-weight bearing bones of chickens, turkeys and other birds. They can be chewed easily with the meat, such as a chicken wing, and you can even grind up the bone and add it to their food as a meat grind.
• Recreational Bones: Another raw bone, these are excellent for mental stimulation. They are usually femur, hip or knuckle bones that offer big chunks of meat to chew off and lots of tendon and other goodies to chew.

Bones Your Bulldog Should Avoid

Although we have bones to offer your bulldog on a daily basis, it is important to look at other bones available on the market that you should avoid with your bulldog.

These include the following:

• Rawhide: Considered one of the most dangerous bones, or chew toys, you can give your bulldog, rawhide is full of chemicals that can have lasting health effects on your dog. In addition, it is not easy to digest. They are known for causing blockages, which can result in death if not caught early.
• Cooked Bones: These bones offer no nutritional value to a dog and are full of risks. They can easily chip and splinter, which can lead to perforation of the intestines as the splinters move through the digestive tract. This can lead to serious health problems and even death for your dog. In addition, those splinters can jam themselves into your dog’s gums, which can lead to dental problems. Avoid all cooked bones and not just cooked chicken or turkey bones.
• Marrow Bones: Marrow bones can be an excellent raw bone, however, they can be dangerous, so I recommend just avoiding them. Marrow bones can chip teeth, dislocate jaws and can even slip over a dog’s lower jaw when they are chewing on them. If you choose to offer them, always monitor your dog while he does.

Alternatives to Bones for Your Bulldog

Finally, let’s look at a few options you have if you are looking for something other than a bone to give to your bulldog. Like bones, you should watch your bulldog when he is chewing on these to intervene if he chokes.

• Antlers: Antlers are a natural, odorless way to offer your dog a chew toy/bone. They offer mental stimulation and can clean and massage the teeth and gums. They are not recommended for voracious chewers as they are very hard and can break or crack teeth if a dog is not careful.
• Pig Ears: Just what they sound like, pig ears offer a great chew for your bulldog, but they should only be given in moderation. They are very high in fat and this can result in loose stools and obesity if they eat pig ears frequently.
• Fish Skin: Fish skins don’t offer a lot of chewing time, but they do offer a few minutes. The skins are like jerky and they are very healthy for your bulldog since they are full of protein and Omega 3 fatty acids. They make a great alternative for dogs who aren’t really into chewing.

And that should offer you many different options for bones and treats for your bulldog. As always, monitor your individual bulldog when offering anything on our list of safe foods and pick and choose the best foods for your bulldog.

Other Things to Consider When Feeding Your Bulldog

When feeding your bulldog, it is equally important to consider the following:

• How many calories should my bulldog get per day
• How much should my bulldog puppy eat
• Can RAW be a good diet for bulldogs
• Will some foods make my bulldog fart more

How many calories should my bulldog get per day?

Although many people don’t really think of dog nutrition in terms of calorie intake, this is an important detail that all bulldog owners should know. In general, a bulldog of average energy levels should consume about 25 to 30 calories for every pound of weight. What this means is that a 50lb bulldog should consume 1250 to 1500 calories per day. Dogs with higher energy levels – requiring over 3 hours of exercise a day, will have higher calories up to about 3 times the amount. In addition, low energy bulldogs may only need half of the recommended calorie intake to maintain their optimal weight.

How much should my bulldog puppy eat?

This answer is dependent on the type of food that your bulldog puppy is eating. Hopefully, you have him on a high-quality commercial diet or a high-quality homemade diet. If it is commercial, there are usually feeding guides for recommended amounts, however, the universal average that you will see is between ¾ to 1 cup-3 times per day.

Can RAW be a good diet for bulldogs?

There are many benefits for a RAW diet and there are risks involved with the diet as well. Before you feed a RAW diet, make sure you do your research so your bulldog is receiving the proper nutrition and the proper amount of calories per day. When fed correctly, RAW diets can be very good for bulldogs and will benefit their jaws, teeth, bones and coat quality.

Will some foods make my bulldog fart more?

Of course, bulldogs are notorious for farting, however, some foods will make your bulldog fart more than others. Every dog is different, however, some foods that are linked to an increase in flatulence in bulldogs are peas, soybeans, beans, oat bran, milk and other dairy products, broccoli and spicy foods. And these are just a few so be on the lookout for foods that cause your bulldog’s stomach to be unsettled.

Bulldog Anal Gland Problem and How to Treat It

Bulldogs, for all their tough looks, are susceptible to many dog diseases and need a lot of care and attention from their owners. One rather unappealing health issue, which occurs in many bulldogs, is clogged anal glands.What is it and how to treat it?

What are bulldog anal gland problems? Anal glands are pouches in the anus that produce oily substance that dogs mark their territory with. When they are not fully emptied, their anal glands can become clogged and inflamed. If the anal glands become clogged, they can cause irritation, pain, and infection.

It’s your responsibility as a bulldog owner to watch for symptoms and clean out the glands.

What can cause bulldog anal gland problems?

First, we need a quick history lesson. This background and history all contributes to why the issue of anal gland is such a big deal with the bulldogs.

Bulldogs are unmistakable with their baggy skin and massive heads. The quintessentially English dog, the breed was originally created to control livestock – bulls, horses and boars. Bulldogs were also used in the barbaric sport of bull baiting, when a dog would latch to bull’s nose of neck to bring it down. Bread for their aggression, an 80 pound bulldog would jump, cork screw its body around bull’s neck, and bring the animal down.

With that “sport” banned, bulldogs broke up into several breeds, British bulldogs becoming smaller from 100-120 pounds to the current 40 pounds. In Germany, bulldogs were bred into what is now a boxer. In the U.S., American bulldog appeared as the species was becoming increasingly rare in the 1930s.

Bulldogs thrived in areas where there were cattle and fencing was difficult due to terrain. Fiercely loyal and protective of humans, bulldog has become a symbol, most famously of U.S. Marines.

For bulldogs to perform their original duty of herding and controlling cattle, bulldogs had to make their territory. To that end these dogs have two glands or sacks, located on either side of their anuses. Sacks generate oily substance that dogs spray when defecating. By the way, this is what dogs smell when they greet each other.

These glands empty out when dogs defecate. However, in some instances, they don’t empty out completely – and this is where problems start. The oily substance that doesn’t get out dries out and thickens – and as a result these glands clog.

Symptoms Of Bulldog Anal Gland Problems

So what happens if your bulldog has clogged anal glands? Definitely this is going to make him or her very uncomfortable. What will the dog do?

Here are some of the symptoms:

• Lots of hustling around
• Endless licking of the read end
• Sometimes growling and biting the rear end
• Lots of moving around when defecating, a “walk it out” situation
• Massive, Mordor-style foul odor after a bowel movement
• Swollen or red anus

How To Treat Bulldog Anal Gland Problems

Anal gland infection treatment is a relatively easy but not the funnest procedure. You will need to gently drain the clogged and inflamed anal glands with your hands. Don’t try this without having someone show you the proper way first – preferably a vet. Plus this may make them uncomfortable. Some dogs are intuitive and know you are trying to help, but you may need an assistant to help calm your bulldog and help them stay still.

You don’t want to get it wrong – if you squeeze too hard, you can rupture the gland and the dog will get an infection – that’s a bad outcome.

If you get to blood in the stool, then you and your bulldog  is surely going to see the vet – this means there is an infection that has developed and we are going to need antibiotics.

If blood oozing doesn’t stop, your bulldog needs more fiber in their diet – this could be done via pills or by changing the feed makeup.

Prevention Of Anal Problems in Bulldogs

Bulldogs are active dogs, don’t let their exterior fool you. They need moderate exercise – walking, running, fetching for about 15 minutes twice a day and extra bouts of play here any there.

You should be out with your dog a couple of hours every day. If your dog doesn’t get enough exercise, the issue with anal glands could be coming up and not going away for a long while – these glands emptying out has a direct correlation to how much territory the dog has to mark.

To avoid any issues with your bulldog’s anal glands, please make sure that there is plenty of fiber in his or her diet. Many people make the mistake of not watching this closely – and this is where simply watching what the dog eats could fix massive health issues going forward.

Also, adjust your routine based on the size of your bulldog. Small dogs that get overweight can develop unwanted symptoms much faster than bigger animals. Keep your dog fit and running – and this is going to take care of many issues that are yet to develop.

Now, not everyone has the time to watch dog’s diet and exercise routing closely. The main thing is to be aware of the issue. If you realize that the dog has the symptoms, and your routing is not promoting healthy anal glands, there is still a way forward.

You will have to squeeze in the dry muck by hand. However, don’t rush to do it – dogs – especially bulldogs – are very resilient. The muck that didn’t exit the glad today may exit tomorrow – without you laying a hand on your dog’s anus.

Rectal Anal Glands Tip Of The Iceberg

As you go about fixing your bulldog’s anal issues, be mindful that bulldogs happen to have a lot of health issues. Some of the other common ailments include cardiac and respiratory disease, cherry eye, hip dysplasia, among other issues. Read more on common bulldog health problems. Bulldogs commonly perish from cardiac arrest can’t really swim and often fall victim to drowning in swimming pools, ponds or other large bodies of water, and can’t clean their skin – having to rely on humans to solve their issues.

We as humans are to blame for these issues bulldogs have. We have gone too far in challenging Mother Nature, and in making these dogs more likable. Certain popular traits were coming in and out of fashion and went against the grain of what is natural for the dogs.

For instance, human owners of bulldogs like the fact their faces are flat, making their mimic closer to human and easier to understand. However, shortening the muzzle created breathing issues for bulldogs. We did make them cuter – but now they can’t breathe.

The other issue is bulldogs’s heads. They are much larger than with many other breeds. The heads of puppies are so big that 80 percent of bulldogs are delivered via a Cesarean section. This is hardly how bulldogs were supposed to breed in the wild!

Tis list goes one – the legs have shortened, the under bite is huge, the face is almost flat. All these cosmetic issues had a direct impact on health of the breed which us not great.

So please tread carefully with your best friend – his or hers well-being depends on how well trained you are in looking after bulldogs, including anal gland problems, as unappealing as that sounds.

Conclusion

Lets recap the anal gland issues in bulldogs. First, the two sacs in the bulldogs anus are filled with an oily substance used to mark their territory. When the oily substance does not get fully excreted, the substance can become dried out and clog the glands. When this happens, the bulldogs anus becomes irritated and inflamed and cause a lot of discomfort during bowel movements or even just sitting down.

Bulldogs are unable to reach their anus to clean it and otherwise take care of problems behind them. You will need to provide the proper care and relief for your bulldog by gently draining the anal glands. I recommend reading this post on How to Wash a Bulldog. This is definitely not the most glamorous part of being a bulldog owner, but it has to be done and your bulldog will thank you with extra cuddles once they feel that relief. You can help to prevent anal gland problems with proper exercise and extra fiber in your bulldogs diet.

Can Bulldogs Run Long Distances?

Bulldogs require regular exercise for their physical and emotional health. A bulldog that is active will have a happier disposition and a little more spunk. As a new bulldog owner, or perhaps you are hoping to add bulldog to your family, you might be hoping to have your fur friend be an exercise companion as well.

Can bulldogs run long distances? On average, a bulldog can jog an average of 1 mile. This is not to say that all bulldogs can run for a mile or that no bulldog can run beyond a mile, it all depends on the bulldog. Stop exercising at the first signs of exhaustion such as excessive panting. 

A healthy, active bulldog will fair much better on an active jog than a bulldog that irregularly participates in any level of exercise. Bulldogs can move their butterball bodies fairly quickly when the need calls for it. But most cannot hold a true sprint for very long.

Another plus of running with your pet bulldog is that both you and your bully will get some exercise. Not to mention a little one-on-one time outside of the house.

Bulldogs Physical Limitations

It is general knowledge that bulldogs have many physical health issues: hip dysplasia, respiratory, commonly overweight, etc. These characteristics are common in most of the popular bulldog breeds whether French, English, or American. These health impairments can be an obstacle in most aspects of their lives. This does not mean that they cannot run at all, it only means that certain measures come to play when a bulldog is involved in running.

Should Bulldogs Run at all?

The importance of exercise for the general well being of bulldogs cannot be emphasized enough. But any exercise should be kept within certain boundaries. Don’t push your bulldogs limits.

Some people argue that exercising a bulldog should not necessarily involve running with it or making it run. Because there are a thousand and one ways to effectively exercise a bulldog.

While this may have some truth to it, we cannot deny the fact that bulldogs are a naturally excited species. If there is one thing they love to do, it is exerting their energy through active playtime and exercise. If that includes a little running here and there, even better!

Your bulldog will let you know what type of exercise it likes and dislikes. Although their health may be an impediment at times, they are usually open to some exercise, walking, and even running. Bulldogs won’t use their health limitations as an excuse to enjoying their time outdoors with their owner.

With that in mind, should you go running with your bulldog? Absolutely, health permitting. A brisk 15 minute run for about 1 mile would suffice for most bulldogs.

How Many Miles should my Bulldog Run?

Being brachycephalic (flat-faced), bulldogs find it difficult to maintain body temperature, it is, therefore, difficult to tell when they are getting tired unless you pay close attention.

The distance a bulldog can run depends on the time of the day, the weather and the temperature. In other words, the cooler the temperature, the longer a bulldog may run.

It also depends on the speed with which the bulldog runs as well as the age of the bulldog. A race around the block may be okay for a bulldog puppy running at a high speed but the same distance might be too much for a more senior bulldog.

On the whole, a bulldog can safely run ¼ to 1 miles. Some bulldog breeds are able to exceed this distance. Especially if some of the more undesirable traits have been bred out, like respiratory issues.

When should I take My Bulldog Running?

The cooler times of the year are best. That is, early in the morning, late in the evening or during winter, would be the best time for this. This is because a cooler atmospheric temperature would help bulldogs last longer and avoid overheating.

While mornings and evenings are best, it is important to note that any temperature above 70 degrees Fahrenheit is bad for your bulldog. Read Can English Bulldogs Stay Outside in the Heat?

How Many Hours a Day can My Bulldog Run?

When it comes to bulldogs and running, hours should not be contemplated, thirty minutes of active running is generally too much for a bulldog (of any age).

For a bulldog puppy, 20 minutes of active running and a 10-minute walk should be the maximum time limit, while 10 minutes of active running and a 20-minute walk would be adequate for an older bulldog.

You can even break this up to do 15 minutes in the morning and 15 minutes in the evening. That way you are putting your bulldog at less risk.

Be mindful of the temperature (not too hot for your bulldogs body), proper hydration, and the physical abilities of your bulldog. If you question its capabilities or feel that your bulldog is straining too much while running, ease off a bit. It is also recommended to seek a veterinarian about what would be most recommended for your dog.

At what Age Should Bulldogs Start Running?

Generally, dogs can start running between 6 months and 9 months. At this point, their joints and bones can manage the stress. However, for Bulldogs, who are brachycephalic, it is a different ball game.

An average bulldog is not ready to run until about 9 to eleven months. At this age, they can at least, manage the very short distances.

How do I Introduce my Bulldog to Running?

Bulldogs quickly love going on walks on doing short runs, especially in their youth. But these excited pets need training to limit themselves to certain distances and surroundings. This is partly to over over exertion and getting overheated.

In introducing your bulldog to the running routine, start with very short distances and familiar environments. Down the block for example, would be a good place to start. With time, you may increase the distance of how far you run as your bulldog builds strength and stamina.

It is important to start small because bulldogs have fragile health. They aim to please their owner, especially as they grow fond of getting outdoors. That being said, if your bulldog pushes itself too much it could be detrimental to them because of their common health conditions.

Where should my bulldog run?

Running is generally an outdoor event, but with bulldogs you need to be slightly creative do to the potential of overheating. Preferably bulldogs should run in a shaded environment. An average bulldog could die from overheating if running too long under direct sunlight and temperatures over 70 degrees.

What other things are important for running my Bulldog?

While running your bulldog, it is necessary to have cool water on hand. You can buy speciality water pouches or bowls for your dog when you are out running. Always make sure that your bulldog is properly hydrated before running. If your bulldog is well hydrated, it will have better endurance while running and its internal body parts will run smoother.

It is recommended to bring a nice, damp towel. This would be primarily if you are away from your home and need something to cool down your bulldog after a nice run, especially if its hot.

If your bulldog gets too tired, they will show it. These stubborn pets will just plop down where they are at sometimes. To avoid embarrassing yourself trying to motivate your bulldog to move, you can get dog carrier. This is great for situations where your bulldog has tired or its not feeling the whole long distance running on that specific day. In these instances, let you bulldog walk a bit and than give it a breather in the carrier. Your bulldog will probably end up feeling like royalty with you pulling it around while it rests.

Bulldog Running Wrap Up

It is important to note that overheating is not the only problem that results from over-exertion for a bulldog. Other possible negative effects are joint problems, respiratory issues, and even broken bones. These problems are even more disturbing because Bulldogs have a high tolerance level and may not show the extent of the injury or pain they are feeling.

Bulldogs can learn to love running and some breeds will be more capable of running than others. With practice and taking proper precaution, you and your bulldog can have a safe, enjoyable run.