Bulldogs are one of the most prevalent domestic dogs owned by homeowners. Bulldogs are sociable, brave, and peaceful dog breeds, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). The breed also received a breed popularity rating of 4 out of 193 dog breeds recognized by the AKC site. So, what distinguishes the apparently ordinary all-American bulldog? Continue reading to discover out.
How Does an American Bulldog Look?
The bulldog is a distinct and one-of-a-kind canine breed because it cannot be confused with any other breed. They feature loose skin on their heads, wrinkled brows, and a push-in snout, all of which are unique to the American bulldog. Apart from that, they are brave and are known to be protective of their owners. Bulldogs may weigh up to 50 pounds, which can make them seem sluggish. Owners would have to take them out for walks on occasion, and they would require modest exercise. Owners may help their Bulldogs’ health by providing them healthy food that is excellent for their digestive health and engaging them in physical exercises.
What Are the Common Nutritional Needs and Diets for American Bulldogs?
When it comes to your dog’s nutrition, you should not just offer them any food. One, it must be adequately provided and specially developed for the dog breed. You cannot give typical human food to a dog on a regular basis since canines’ digestive processes vary from those of humans. Dogs, namely American Bulldogs, have unique nutritional and dietary requirements. Here are a few examples.
Protein – Because certain American bulldog breeds are particularly active, they need more energy sources. Protein is one of the meals from which a dog’s system may get energy. It is advised that you give your dog a decent grain-free diet with around 28-30% protein to meet his daily protein requirements.
Fat – Adult dog breeds will need at least 5% fat in their diet. Puppies and pregnant dogs, on the other hand, need a greater minimum fat proportion in their food, with at least 8% fat. If you’re searching for dog foods, you should know that almost all of the components in most dry dog meals are high in fat content since it’s the most enticing to both dogs and dog owners. However, you should be cautious with your American bulldog’s nutrition. If you give him foods with a high fat content, your dog may become overweight or suffer from digestive issues such as an upset stomach and diarrhea.
It is advised to feed the typical American Bulldog food with 12 to 16% fat content, which is considered a reasonable quantity for their size.
Carbohydrates – These are crucial nutrients for your bulldog since they offer the energy he needs to go through the day. Aside from that, carbohydrates may provide fiber and other nutrients to your dog’s digestive system. It also includes simple carbohydrates and starches, which aid in the proper functioning of your bulldog’s brain. Complex carbs, on the other hand, may help your dog avoid sugar spikes or rushes by managing his or her glucose levels. It is also critical to keep your dog feeling weighty and full throughout the day. Fibers included in carbs may also assist control your dog’s digestion and metabolism.
Fiber – Fiber should be consumed on its own and not in conjunction with carbohydrate fibers. Fiber is often either soluble or insoluble. Soluble fiber, on the other hand, is often found in beet pulp, chicory, and inulin. This kind of fiber may slow down digestion by drawing water and transforming the substance into a gel; hence, it is known as soluble fiber. Insoluble fiber, on the other hand, may be found in cellulose and can aid in the digestion of your dog. If you have an overweight dog and want to lose weight, offer him meals high in insoluble fibers to help him feel full and digest the food that was previously consumed as quickly as possible.
The majority of dry dog meals on the market include 3 to 6% crude (or pure) fiber. However, you should assess the condition of your bulldog’s stools before selecting whether or not to feed him fiber-rich meals. If your dog’s feces has a high amount of fiber, you may need to switch to a dog food that contains somewhat less fiber.
Probiotics and prebiotics are two ingredients that you should look for in dog food. Prebiotics, commonly known as dietary fiber, support the development of beneficial bacteria in your dog’s digestive tract. Chicory and inulin are two of the most prevalent prebiotics present in dog food. Probiotics, on the other hand, are live creatures that are given to your dog’s food in order for them to create colonies with millions of healthy bacteria in your dog’s digestive tract. Once the probiotics have developed into your bulldog’s body, they may help with general digestion.
A Feeding Schedule for American Bulldogs Based on Age
Because American bulldogs are such a unique breed, there is a set quantity of food that should be fed to them based on their age. You can’t feed a 3 month-old bulldog 5 times a day since his digestive system isn’t ready. Here’s a fast and easy approach to estimating how much food you should feed your pet.
If your dog is present:
- Your dog is still considered a puppy if it is between the ages of 0 and 3 months. As a result, you should be able to give him dog food designed exclusively for bulldog pups. They would need more frequent feedings than bigger breeds since they are still developing. Puppies of this age should be fed no more than four times each day.
A two-month-old puppy should be given 231–271 grams of dog food per day, while a three-month-old puppy should be fed 276–341 grams per day.
- 3 to 6 months of age – For this age, your dog is still considered a puppy. However, you should limit his food consumption to ensure that he does not develop any health difficulties or weight problems as your American bulldog ages. You should feed your puppy at least three times each day at this age.
A four-month-old puppy should be fed 297 to 371 grams of dog food per day, a five-month-old should be fed 304 to 410 grams per day, and a six-month-old American bulldog should be fed 304 to 446 grams per day.
- 6 to 12 months of age – During this period, your dog should be lively enough to burn up all of the food that he was able to consume when he was younger; your puppy may now be fed no more than twice a day.
However, since the frequency with which they are fed has been reduced, the serving size should be doubled. A seven-month-old bulldog should be fed 282 to 446 grams of dog food per day; an eight-month-old should be fed 240 to 387 grams per day; a nine-month-old should be fed 216 to 320 grams per day; a ten-month-old should be fed 215 to 318 grams per day; and a twelve-month-old bulldog should be fed 434 to 941 grams of food per day.
In general, if you’re having problems remembering how often and how much you should feed your bulldog, consider this principle:
The younger the dog, the more times a day you should feed him, however with smaller portion sizes or amounts. Conversely, the older the dog, the fewer times per day you should feed him, but with a greater portion size or volume of dog food. The serving size ranges will also depend on your dog’s build and how much dog food he can consume in one sitting.
Review of American Bulldog Food
1. Natural Dry Dog Food Nature’s Variety Instinct Raw Boost Grain + Free Recipe
Nature’s Variety Instinct Raw Boost grain-free Dry Dog Food is made with raw grass-fed lamb that has been freeze-dried. It is advised for your American bulldog, particularly if he requires a high-protein, grain-free diet. The major component in this bulldog dry dog food is grass-fed venison, which sets it apart from the others. Raw boost is also strong in probiotics, so feeding it to your bulldog can help maintain his digestive health and even offer him the best skin and coat he’s ever had. It’s also suggested, particularly if your dog is hypersensitive to food, since most bulldogs might develop food allergies with certain foods. There are no cereals, potatoes, corns, wheat, soy, or artificial colors or preservatives in the raw boost. As a result, it is completely safe for your dog’s allergies!
This dog food includes all of the nutrition your dog need. It’s also appropriate for any age of bulldog, whether he’s a puppy or an adult. The contents are also created from all-natural and genuine meat, as well as whole food items that are protein-packed and little processed, ensuring that your dog receives pure and authentic raw nourishment in every bowl.
Features:
- Grain-free and protein-rich
- Only the best components are used.
- It is said to be the first raw-boosted kibble.
- Can improve the health of your dog’s hair and skin
- There are no preservatives or artificial colors used.
Pros:
- Excellent for dogs that need a high protein intake.
- Food allergies in bulldogs are recommended.
- Made entirely of natural components
2. Adult Dry Dog Food NUTRO Wholesome Essentials
If your dog like chicken dinners, this is the greatest dry dog chow you can feed him. The Nutro Wholesome Essentials Dog Food is manufactured from farm-raised chickens, making it the number one ingredient that gives a delicious flavor and helps strengthen your dog’s muscles in order for them to be stronger. This is especially suggested for big size dogs since it is manufactured using all-natural glucosamine and chondroitin sources. This dog food’s recipe is designed specifically to support your dog’s healthy joints. It also contains important antioxidants like vitamins E and A, which are required for a healthy immune system.
This dog chow is likewise made using actual, identifiable components rather than genetically engineered organisms (GMOs). It contains no chicken by-product meals, maize, wheat, or soy protein, and it has no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
Features:
- Specially designed to help your dog’s joints.
- Vitamins A and E are present.
- Made entirely of natural components
- There are no artificial foods or preservatives present.
- Chicken grown on a farm
Pros:
- Excellent for dogs that have protein sensitivities.
- The recipe is designed for dogs of all ages and breed sizes.
- Contains genuine and identifiable substances
3. Grain-Free PURE Dry Dog Food CANIDAE (Lamb)
Canidae pure dry dog food contains only genuine food components, ensuring that your bulldog receives the nutrition he needs. The Enoch ingredient is composed of 7 to 10 plainly identifiable essential constituents. Lamb, turkey, chicken, sweet potatoes, chickpeas, peas, chicken fat, and Menhaden fish meal are the ten important components. This dog food has no food preservatives, artificial flavors, or genetically modified organisms (GMO). All of which are derived entirely from natural sources. If you have a hypersensitive dog, you should know that this dog food contains no corn, wheat, or soy, so you shouldn’t be concerned about your bulldog developing food allergies as a result of this. You can give your dog the delicious flavor they want while still providing them with the nourishment they need.
Features:
- Made entirely of natural components
- There are no artificial flavors or colorings.
- It has no genetically modified components.
- Contains ten essential components
- High in protein and other nutrients.
Pros:
- High protein content
- It contains no wheat, soy, or corn.
- Food allergies in bulldogs are recommended.
4. Bulldog Royal Canin Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
Adult bulldogs should be fed Royal Canin dog food. It is particularly formulated to suit the dietary demands of purebred Bulldogs aged 12 months and above. It is specifically designed for big breeds to effortlessly pick up and chew their dog. Aside from that, the highly digested proteins, exact fibers, and high-quality carbohydrate sources in this dog food help prevent gas and stool odor. It may also strengthen the skin barrier by providing all of the vital nutrients required to promote healthy skin and wrinkles. You can also feed this dog food to your dog to promote short and stocky bulldog bodies by maintaining bone and joint health with EPA and DHA.
Because bulldogs have delicate skin, this dog food designed exclusively for purebred bulldogs is ideal for their diet. The kibble itself is tailored to your bulldog’s exact jaw anatomy.
Features:
- Designed specifically for purebred bulldogs.
- Can improve your dog’s bones and joints by strengthening them.
- It contains vitamins and minerals that will nourish the skin and coat of your bulldog.
- Kibbles are made to fit various jaw structures.
- Made from natural and healthy ingredients
Pros:
- Assist in reducing stool odor
- Promotes intestinal health
- Promotes bone and joint health.
5. Adult Dry Dog Food Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula PLUS (Chicken & Brown Rice)
The first component in Blue Buffalo dog food is genuine beef. It contains high-quality protein that can only be obtained from genuine chicken, which may aid in the development and maintenance of healthy muscles in your dog. They also include nutritious whole grains, garden veggies, and fruits. It’s also designed particularly for adult dogs, with important proteins and carbs to assist satisfy their energy demands, as well as omega 3 and 6 fatty acids to support a lustrous coat and healthy skin. It also includes a specific combination of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals chosen by veterinarians and animal nutritionists. This diet will aid your dog’s immune system, life stage needs, and oxidative balance. Aside from that, it’s created with just the best natural ingredients, which are fortified with vitamins and minerals.
Features:
- There are no chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors or preservatives in this product.
- The main component is actual beef.
- Adult purebred bulldogs are recommended.
- Whole grains, garden vegetables, and fruits are included.
- Contains omega 3 and 6 fatty acids.
Pros:
- Available in a variety of delectable tastes
- Vitamins and antioxidants are present.
- Recommended for dogs that have joint issues.
6. Grain Free Easy to Digest Dry Dog Food by Nature’s Recipe
Nature’s Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is the closest thing you can get to a raw food diet for your American Pitbull dogs. It is a delectable grain-free mix developed to meet your dog’s high-energy requirements. It’s made with genuine chicken, peas, sweet potato, pumpkin, and garbanzo beans. It contains all of the protein and fiber needed for proper digestion. It has no artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, or by-products, so you may give it to your dog with confidence. It has a crude protein content of 25%, a crude fat content of 15%, a crude fiber content of 4%, and a moisture content of 10%. Your adult American Bulldog’s coat will be healthier, and he will have an easier time consuming this wet kibble. Although the fiber level of this brand is somewhat lower than that of others, pet owners may supplement with other fiber sources like as treats or vegetables.
Features:
- Real chicken flesh is used.
- Has a good balance of protein, carbs, fiber, and fat.
- Soft grain-free kibbles
- Satisfies your pet’s high energy requirements
- Simple on the stomach
Pros:
- Simple to understand
- It has no effect on indigestion or bloating.
- Kibbles that are soft and wet
- A high fat content ensures a healthy coat.
- Ideal for all phases of life
7. ORIJEN Biologically Appropriate & Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
The Orijen Original Dry Dog Food is intended for dogs that have a biological requirement for a diet high in numerous nutrients and minerals found exclusively in fresh whole animal components. It contains 38% protein and 20% carbs, which are two of the most important critical nutrients for your bulldog. The components in this dog food are not derived from rendered poultry meals. One-third of the meats are dehydrated chicken and turkey, which are air-dried at low temperatures from fresh meat for a more concentrated source of healthy protein. The remaining two-thirds of the meats are either fresh or raw, flash-frozen meats with no preservatives. It also includes nutrient-dense WholePrey ratios of fresh meat, organs, cartilage, bones, fresh whole fish, and whole eggs to provide your dog with a natural source of every nutrient he needs.
Features:
- Ideal for big dog breeds.
- Dehydrated chicken and turkey were used to make the meat.
- There are no artificial flavors or preservatives in this product.
- It has 38% protein and 20% carbs.
- There are no GMOs in this product.
Pros:
- With nutrient-dense WholePrey ratios of several vitamin and mineral sources
- Other dog meals cannot compete.
- Can work with your dog’s biological requirements
8. Adult Dry Dog Food Purina Beneful Healthy Real Chicken
Purina Beneful Dry Dog Food contains genuine farm-raised chicken. Because this is the key component in dog food, dog owners can be confident that their bulldogs will get the appropriate quantity of nutrients they need. Aside from that, genuine peas and carrots have been included to the dog chow, so canines may find the dish appealing. Overall, the antioxidants in this dry dog food may assist maintain your dog’s healthy immune system. This is especially suggested for dogs who are controlling their weight since it has 10% less calories than other dog diets of this class and contains no sugar as an addition.
Features:
- Chicken grown on a farm
- This product contains 23 critical vitamins and minerals that might help your dog’s overall health.
- There are real peas and carrots in the mix.
- Antioxidants abundant
- Can help strengthen your dog’s immune system
Pros:
- Because of its lower calorie content, it is ideal for overweight dogs.
- There is no additional sugar.
- A tasty and healthy treat for your dog.
9. Adult Breed Specific Dry Dog Food IAMS ProActive Health
IAMS Proactive Health Adult Bulldog Food is appropriate for both American and English bulldogs. The components in this dog food are tailored to the nutritional requirements of bulldogs for a healthy and balanced diet. This dog food contains L-Carnitine, which is necessary for dogs to maintain a healthy metabolism and digestion. It’s created with genuine chicken and has no soy, wheat, or fillers that might cause an adverse response in your dog. A portion of this dog food also provides your bulldog a better working heart as well as stronger and more solid muscles.
Features:
- Enhances digestion and metabolism in dogs
- Makes bones and joints stronger and more durable.
- Keeps your dog’s skin and coat healthy.
- Infused with proteins derived from chicken and eggs
- There are no preservatives or by-products of chicken meal in this product.
- L-carnitine is included, which may assist enhance your dog’s digestive health.
Pros:
- Ideal for either an American or a British bulldog.
- Real chicken, whole grains, carrots, and beet pulp are included.
- Designed specifically for Bulldogs
Food Allergies in an American Bulldog
Although American bulldogs are regarded one of the strongest dog breeds in the world, this does not imply that they are immune to food allergies. As a result, it’s important to provide your Bulldog safe food, particularly if he has any food allergies. The following are the most prevalent dietary allergies in an American Bulldog that you should be aware of:
- Grain allergy – Grain allergy is the most frequent kind of food allergy in American bulldogs. This may be prevented if your dog avoids any grain-containing dog food. You may give your dog a grain-free and gluten-free diet with this.
- Carb allergy – The most prevalent carb allergy source in American bulldogs is potatoes. However, this does not imply that all dog diets containing carbs are dangerous to your dog. If your dog already has a carb allergy, you may purchase potato-free dog food for your American bulldog.
- Peanut allergy – Peanut allergies, also known as nut allergies, are your dog’s reaction to a protein that is harmful to his system. Peanut allergy in dogs causes itchy, puffy skin, as well as wheezing, ear infections, and gas pains. You may prevent this kind of food allergy by purchasing nut-free dog meals.
- Soy allergy – If your bulldog is allergic to soy, it might induce hypersensitive responses in your dog, causing extreme itching and misery. You can prevent this by limiting your dog’s exposure to soy-rich foods.
- Chicken allergy – Some chicken foods might cause your dog discomfort or allergic responses. Chickens are a kind of fowl that may induce food allergies in dogs, resulting in symptoms such as dyspepsia, ear infections, and breathing difficulties.
- Beef allergy – Some commercial dog feeds include chicken or beef; if you wish to offer your dog nutrition from meat, stick to lamb alternatives.
There are many more dietary allergies to which your dog may be reactive. You may prevent worrying your dog by purchasing dog meals that do not include such substances.
Common American Bulldog Food-Related Health Issues
Bulldogs are one of those huge dog breeds that may get overweight if they are overfed. Worse, they are one of the most hypersensitive dogs when it comes to eating. As a result, you must exercise extreme caution while feeding your dog in order to prevent food-related health complications. Here are some health difficulties caused by dogs that your dog may face:
- Hip dysplasia is a bone-related condition caused by a calcium deficiency. This is frequent in underweight dogs and may cause difficulty moving as well as minor discomfort in the hip bone region and joints.
- Bloating is a common digestive health concern with American Bulldogs. It is mainly caused by gassy food, and dogs with sensitive stomachs are more prone to this kind of sickness. Untreated, it may cause indigestion and constipation.
- Obesity – Obesity in dogs may be caused by a low-fat diet. When left untreated, it may potentially cause joint and thyroid issues.
What is the Calorie Recommendation for American Bulldogs?
A average American bulldog’s daily calorie consumption should be at least 1,358 calories. This is based on a bulldog weighing at least 50 pounds enjoying a healthy and active lifestyle, according to the National Research Council of the National Academics. Older bulldogs, on the other hand, would need less calories since they are less active than the average active bulldog. However, developing bulldog pups need more energy, even if they aren’t as active as fully grown bulldogs. A juvenile bulldog of roughly 50 pounds may need at least 1,451 calories per day.
If you have problems remembering the standard calorie intake, consider this: the younger and more active your American bulldog is, the more calories you should give him. In contrast, the older and less active your bulldog is, the less calories he should consume. In any event, you should ensure that your bulldog is getting enough food to live a healthy lifestyle.
Conclusion
Both American and English Bulldogs are as valuable as any other breed of dog. However, since they are more susceptible to food-related health issues including as obesity and hip dysplasia, as well as food allergies, you may want to offer him the nutritious treat he deserves. You should also consider the age and lifestyle of your dog. You, as their owner, should be responsible for finding the Best Dog Food for American Bulldogs – it should be healthy, full of nutrients found in fruits and vegetables, and affordable.
