How to Prevent Problems in a Bulldog Puppy

The common bulldog, sometimes referred to as the British bulldog or English bulldog, makes an excellent addition to many homes. They enjoying being indoors, they do not require a lot of space and they are renowned for their gentle and affectionate nature. Like all breeds, bulldogs do have their share of challenges, though, and you will want to face these challenges while your dog is still a puppy so he may grow into a well-behaved, loving adult.

Things You'll Need

  • Meat-based puppy food
  • Dog toys
  • Leash
  • Soap
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Instructions

    • 1

      Spend time petting and playing with your puppy every day. Bulldogs are extremely social as a breed and will become depressed if you deprive them of personal attention. If you spend a lot of time away from home, a bulldog puppy will not be the best choice for you.

    • 2

      Begin socializing your bulldog puppy right away. Place her in situations where she can interact with a number of different people and animals. This will help your bulldog to fully develop her natural social instincts. If you fail to socialize your bulldog, she may develop aggressive traits, according to Dog Obedience Training Review.

    • 3

      Teach your puppy basic obedience commands, like "Sit" and "Come." Bulldogs love the mental stimulation, and you will need to establish yourself as the leader before your bulldog tries to exert dominance over his human caretakers. Bulldogs respond very well to praise and treats, so use a firm but positive approach when training. Speak with authority, repeat the commands as many times as needed and reward your bulldog for a job well done.

    • 4

      Feed your puppy a healthy, meat-based commercial dog food and take her for a daily walk. Puppies should eat three to four small meals a day combined with modest exercise to maintain a healthy weight and avoid the obesity that bulldogs commonly develop. Bulldogs enjoy lounging indoors for the most part, but you must make sure she gets at least one short walk each day.

    • 5

      Feed your puppy separately from other pets. Bulldogs can become very protective of their food and may respond aggressively if another animal gets too close during feeding time.

    • 6

      Keep your puppy in a cool, air-conditioned environment and do not allow him to remain outside in extreme weather conditions for more than a few minutes at a time. Bulldogs have extreme sensitivity to hot and cold weather, so you will need to protect him from the elements in order to prolong his health.

    • 7

      Clean beneath your puppy's face folds once a day with soap and warm water. If you allow the moisture to build up, the skin may become infected. EngBulldogs warns that bulldogs are one of the most susceptible breeds to fold dermatitis.

    • 8

      Provide your puppy with plenty of toys. Bulldogs love to chew constantly, and if you do not provide her with objects to meet that need, she just might chew on your household items.

    • 9

      Keep your puppy away from swimming pools and other bodies of water. If your puppy has access to a yard with a pool, you will need to closely watch him while outside. Traditionally, bulldogs are not very good swimmers.