Dog Nutrition: Selecting the Best Diet for Your Bulldog
What is the best dog food to feed your bulldog? Bulldogs are quite atypical dogs prone to several health problems and with unique dietary needs. The right choice of food can really make a difference in helping your bulldog achieve a long, healthy and happy life. More and more dog food manufacturing companies are crafting diets formulated for specific breeds. Many people may think that a dog is a dog and as such can be fed in the same way as any another dog. However, there is no doubt that each dog breed is prone to different congenital problems, have unique body features,and therefore, have different dietary needs. The following is an example of how a bulldog may thrive on a diet specifically crafted for the breed.
An example of bulldog diet
Digestive Issues
Many breeders are fully aware of the fact that bulldogs are blessed with quite an active digestive tract. This translates into increased motility, more digestive issues and flatulence, which may cause bulldog owners to desperately open all the windows as they gasp for air. A highly digestible diet for this breed should be recommended. The diet should comprise high-quality proteins for digestive health, insoluble minerals to absorb moisture and a good balance of fiber to help reduce flatulence, a problem this breed is notorious for. With a premium diet, bulldog owners may rejoice since there will be less flatulence, reduced stool volume ( which means smaller feces) and less fecal odor.
Skin Issues
There is no denying that the bulldog's body is covered with lots of wrinkles and some loose folds located right beneath the lower jaw. The constant rubbing of skin as the bulldog paces around and the moisture trapped within the skin folds predisposes this breed to an annoying inflammation of the skin known as dermatitis. Your bulldog's diet may benefit from a diet rich in antioxidants, amino acids and essential fatty acids. These supplements will help promote healthy skin which lowers the chances for bacteria to set in.
Orthopedic Issues
Sadly, some statistics reported from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals indicate that bulldogs tend to rank top spot when it comes to hip dysplasia. A healthy diet for the bulldog breed should contain glucosamine and chondroitin to promote healthy joints and Omega 3 fatty acids to protect them from inflammation. Bulldog puppies will need a specific diet to ensure a healthy weight and take care of the proper growth of the limbs.
Brachycephalic Issues
Bulldogs have distinct facial features comprising that irresistible pushed in face, short muzzle and prognathic jaw. Such adorable features though comes with a price: bulldogs, indeed, are quite predisposed to mouth and tooth disorders. Choose the right size and shape of kibble to ensure your bulldog thoroughly chews. Kibble that is easy to grasp and has a texture that helps scrape away harmful plaque and tartar is optimal.
Low Activity Issues
Many dogs are placed on a maintenance diet which is the ideal diet for a dog that is past its growth age. Yet, bulldog owners may be well aware of their favorite breed's phlegmatic, almost lazy disposition. If your adult bulldog tends to like to nap a lot and has low energy levels, you may want to invest in a diet that provides the right amount of calories but at the same time is lower in fat. Weight gain in this breed should be avoided since the brachycephalic features and the extra pounds may lead to respiratory distress, according to veterinarian Brent Mayabb.
Whether you decide to purchase a premium dog food or prepare your bulldog a home-made diet consisting of home-made food or raw meat and bones, keeping in mind your favorite breed's needs and health problems will help prevent issues and promote a healthy, longer life. Always consult with your vet or nutritionist to decide which diet and supplements benefit your bulldog the most.