Like all dogs, a bulldog's diet is important to their long-term health and quality of life. If you own a bulldog, you might be wondering what diet is best for them specifically. Here, our Orange vets discuss the best food and diet for bulldogs.
A dog's dietary and nutritional needs vary depending on their breed, size, age, and existing state of health. With this in mind, many types of bulldogs may benefit from a diet tailored to their particular breed.
Below, our Orange vets list some foods that are generally good for bulldogs at different stages of their lives.
Best Food for Puppy Bulldogs
The best food for puppy bulldogs - English bulldogs in particular - is usually easy-to-chew kibble which is high in protein and fat.
The flat-faced nature of bulldogs can make it a bit challenging to eat very small pellets of food. As a result, larger chunks of food or misshapen kibble can be best for your bulldog puppy. This applies in particular to any bulldog that has a flat face.
Puppy Puzzle Bowls
As puppies, it is also a good idea to introduce your bulldog to smart dishes or "puzzle" dishes. These are food mats and bowls that have physical barriers so as to slow your dog's eating process. As most bulldogs have respiratory issues due to their flat faces, it can be difficult for them to swallow and breathe properly while eating.
Getting your bulldog puppy used to puzzle dishes at a few months old can not only help with eating slower but also challenge them mentally and keep their cognitive skills sharp.
Best Food for Adult Bulldogs
Adult bulldogs typically benefit from diets with a higher fatty content in order to maintain their stocky build.
Bulldogs tend to have excess loose skin, leading to rolls. As a result, you might consult your veterinarian for dog foods that are best for skin and coat health. If your bulldog has a healthy, strong coat, they are less likely to experience skin irritation or ingrown hairs within the many folds of their skin.
Some types of bulldog, such as the English bulldog and Bullmastiff, tend to be a bit on the lazier side. To prevent them from getting overweight, look for foods with higher fiber content and lower calories in order to boost your dog's metabolism.
Senior Bulldogs
The best food for bulldogs is generally the same for adults and seniors except for a few key differences.
As your bulldog enters their geriatric years, you'll want to feed them food with higher levels of protein and fewer fats. This can help your bulldog maintain muscle mass without putting on too much extra weight.
Additionally, your senior bulldog may benefit from omega fatty acids in their diet, as well as DHP concentrates, which can benefit joint health in their golden years.
One Size Does NOT Fit All!
It's important to keep in mind that your bulldog's diet does not depend entirely on their breed. Age, size, health conditions and bulldog type are all contributing factors to what food and diet will be ideal for a dog.
If you have a bulldog and you're wondering what diet would benefit them the most, consult your veterinarian. They should be able to take into account the physical state and age of your dog in order to recommend the best possible foods for them.