Testimonials
Just as you and I watch our weight (or at least try to), we need to do the same for our pets, especially those of us that have English Bulldogs. Experts say that obesity is the fourth leading cause of death in pets. With odds like that, we must learn to be more aware of our pets’ weight and exercise routine. Daily walks, plenty of playtime at home and the right foods is the perfect start for a diet and a long, healthy, happy life – for you and your Bulldog.
Do a quick rub down of your Bulldog. Can you feel a hint of his ribs? Or does it seem your pup’s skeletal structure is made from the left-overs of last night? If you cannot feel the ribs, this may be a good indication that he needs a bit more exercise. But before you strap on the tennis shoes and snap on the leash, you must take your dog’s physical condition into consideration. Bulldogs are very sensitive to heat because of their short snouts. Also, their stocky build and short legs makes exercise more of a task – they have a lot of weight to pull around for the size of their legs.
Short, leisurely walks in the cooler temperatures of the summer evenings should be the starting point for you and your Bulldog, especially if he is overweight. Allow him to get used to these walks, going a little further each time. You want the walks to be fun, not dangerous. If you sense your Bulldog is getting tired, shorten the walk or slow the pace. Overheating is a serious condition which can cause exhaustion, fainting and even death. Take along extra water and a bowl to keep him hydrated and cool.
If you feel a walk may be too arduous for your Bulldog at this point, try a little extra play time in the house. Get a favorite toy and play fetch! Any kind of romping around will greatly help your pup’s metabolism, heart rate and circulation.
And, of course, keep a close eye on your English Bulldog’s food intake. Try cutting back on the table scraps, treats and that extra scoop of food. Consult with your veterinarian to find an appropriate amount of food to be feeding your pup along with how many meals per day. Getting our English Bulldogs on a regular feeding schedule along with some extra play and exercise will dramatically help their weight and, even more important, their health.
Tags: english bulldog, English Bulldog health, English Bulldog weight, english bulldogs
Hi, To the contrary, my worry is that my English bulldog is underweight. She is 8.5 months old, in perfect health but weighs only 34 pounds. Her parents are big. I’d like her to be of normal size. I am feeding her with 3 cups of Candidae lamb & rice per day, in two meals. Anyone has an answer for that?
Hello, Elizabeth!
First, you want to be sure that your new puppy is not sick in any way. Worms and other illnesses can cause your dog to be underweight or even to lose weight. We recommend a check-up at the vet, complete with a stool sample, to be sure there aren’t any underlying causes. Also ask your vet if you are feeding her the right amount or enough meals per day.
If everything checks out at the vet, a few tricks to adding weight to your dog is with “people” foods such as meats, eggs, fish or vegetables. Be sure to check which foods are harmful to pets first. You can find a list of them at http://www.puppymatch4you.com/blog/puppy-care/why-cant-dogs-eat-that.
Try mixing in vegetables, meats or eggs that equal half of your dog’s normal dry food amount. For example, if you are feeding her 1 cup and a half each meal, mix in another 3/4 cup veggies or meats. This will add in some extra calories without the high fat content that some dog foods contain.
Thank you for your question, Elizabeth! And be sure to let us know how your little girl is doing!
- PuppyMatch4You.com