How to Take Care of an English Bulldog

Responsible ownership of an English Bulldog is much like the responsible ownership of any dog breed. What differs is the breed’s unique characteristics and personality, which have an affect on they way English Bulldog owners approach their responsibilities. Use these steps to learn about the breed and the care it will need as a best approach to welcoming your healthy and enjoyable companion.

Things You'll Need

  • Veterinarian
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Instructions

    • 1

      Feed your bulldog four times a day as a puppy. Feed your adult bulldog twice daily. Choose dog foods high in protein with balanced nutrients.

    • 2

      Exercise your bulldog. Begin implementing exercise routines as a puppy, if you can. Walk your dog as often as possible, but twice a day is best: morning and night. Start with short distances and a casual pace. Build up to longer distances at a brisk pace. Be cognizant of your bulldog’s energy and endurance to keep exercise at a tolerable level.

    • 3

      Groom your bulldog at least once a week. Use a simple bristle brush or even a textured rubber pad. Bathe your pet occasionally (couple times a year), or when necessary, to preserve the natural oils in his coat that protect his skin.

    • 4

      Schedule routine veterinarian check-ups for annual vaccinations, rabies vaccinations (every 3 years) and internal parasite prevention (annually or as needed). Administer preventative medication for internal parasites, such as heartworm, regularly and according to the medication’s or veterinarian’s instructions.

    • 5

      Care for the bulldog’s tail as it is prone to irritations. Know that tail irritations are caused by moisture buildup in the folds of skin. Bathe such irritations using mild soap and dry thoroughly, applying talc or similar powder to maintain dryness.

    • 6

      Watch for cysts and lesions on the pads of the paws. Bulldog paws can be sensitive areas, susceptible to infection due to excessive hair between toes or foreign bodies pressed into the skin during normal movement. Relieve swelling or pain by soaking the afflicted paws in a warm sea-salt-water bath. Clip hair between toes regularly and inspect paws after exercise or travel.

    • 7

      Clean the tear stains from your bulldog’s eyes on a weekly basis. Tear stains are common with bulldogs, and present a hospitable breeding ground for bacteria and yeast infections. Use a specialized cleanser, available at pet stores, trying different brands for desired effectiveness since brands can vary. Try an alternative to store-bought cleansers with a 50/50 hydrogen peroxide-water solution and a cotton ball.

    • 8

      Request that your veterinarian or groomer express the anal glands on a regular basis (weeks to months). The glands are located on either side of the anus and are used to mark scent. Look for signs of anal gland impaction: scooting on bottom or licking hind legs. Understand that impaction of the glands causes irritation that can lead to infection and abscesses.

    • 9

      Prevent the hosting of external parasites (fleas, ticks) by using a flea/tick control products. Consider the use of preventative medications, like that found in some heartworm medications. Refrain from using flea collars, if possible, as bulldog do not tend to favor them. Instead, use spot-on control products designed to kill external parasites in all stages (maturity, larvae, eggs).