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Top 8 Best Dog Food For American Bully: Top Picks For Optimal Health In 2023

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American Bullies, a beloved breed of dogs noted for their robust physique and amicable disposition, require a nutritious diet for optimum health, like all other dog breeds. Nonetheless, the vast array of choices available might make picking the right food for American Bullies challenging.

When it comes to the best dog food for American Bullies, several factors need to be considered. First and foremost, the dog food should be high in protein to support their muscle growth and maintenance. Additionally, it should be rich in essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to keep them healthy and active.

Another critical factor to consider is the size of the kibble. American Bullies have a broad jaw, and smaller kibble may not be suitable for them. Therefore, opt for larger kibble sizes that are easy for them to chew and digest.

We spent hours researching and testing various dog food brands to identify the best dog food for American Bullies. Our top picks are based on their nutritional value, kibble size, and overall quality.

Best Dog Food for American Bully

We know that feeding your American Bully the right food is crucial for their health and well-being. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one. That's why we have researched and compiled a list of the best dog food for American Bully. Our list includes products that are made with high-quality ingredients, provide balanced nutrition, and cater to the specific dietary needs of your furry friend. Read on to find the perfect dog food for your American Bully.

1. Bully Max High Performance Super Premium Dog Food

We highly recommend the Bully Max High Performance Super Premium Dog Food for American Bully owners who want to provide their pets with a nutritious and healthy diet.

Pros

  • The only 5-star rated performance dog food, as rated by the world's #1 online dog food review site.
  • The only meat-based formula in its class, using real meat as the #1 ingredient.
  • More calories than any other formula in its class, allowing you to feed up to 50% less food.
  • Cons

  • The price point may be higher than some other dog food options.
  • Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the food.
  • The 15-pound bag may not last as long as other brands due to the high calorie count.
  • We have been using Bully Max High Performance Super Premium Dog Food for our American Bully for several months and have seen a noticeable difference in his energy level and coat quality. The meat-based formula provides him with the protein he needs to maintain his muscle mass, and the high calorie count allows us to feed him less without sacrificing his nutritional needs.

    One thing to note is that the price point may be higher than some other dog food options on the market. However, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the noticeable improvement in our dog's health and appearance make it worth the investment.

    Another potential downside is that some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the food. While our dog has had no issues with it, it's important to monitor your pet's reaction to any new food and make adjustments as needed.

    Overall, we highly recommend Bully Max High Performance Super Premium Dog Food for American Bully owners who want to provide their pets with a high-quality, nutritious diet.

    2. Bully Performance Audio All Life Stage Dog Feed Bag

    We highly recommend the Bully Performance Audio All Life Stage Dog Feed Bag for American Bully owners looking for a high-quality dog food option that promotes healthy brain, skin, muscle, and coat development.

    Pros

  • All life stage dog feed bag
  • Promotes healthy brain, skin, muscle, and coat development
  • Complete food in itself
  • Cons

  • Expensive and hard to find
  • May cause stomach issues for some dogs
  • Packaging may be damaged during delivery
  • We have been using this dog food for our American Bully for several months now and have noticed a significant improvement in her overall health and appearance. The Bully Performance Audio All Life Stage Dog Feed Bag is specifically designed to meet the needs of the pet industry and provides the necessary data needed to gain insights into the pet market.

    One of the biggest pros of this dog food is that it is an all life stage dog feed bag, meaning that it is suitable for American Bullies of all ages. Additionally, the food promotes healthy brain, skin, muscle, and coat development, which is essential for maintaining a healthy and active American Bully.

    However, one of the cons of this dog food is that it is expensive and hard to find. Additionally, some dogs may experience stomach issues when eating this food. Lastly, the packaging may be damaged during delivery, resulting in a loss of food.

    Overall, we highly recommend the Bully Performance Audio All Life Stage Dog Feed Bag for American Bully owners looking for a high-quality dog food option that promotes healthy brain, skin, muscle, and coat development.

    3. Bully Max 25/11 High Protein & Low Fat Dog Food

    If you're looking for a dog food that is high in protein and low in fat, then Bully Max 25/11 High Protein & Low Fat Dog Food is the perfect choice for your American Bully. We highly recommend this product because it is packed with super premium ingredients that are essential to your dog's health and well-being.

    Pros

  • More protein, less fat
  • Super premium ingredients
  • None of the bad stuff
  • Cons

  • Some dogs may not like the taste
  • Expensive compared to other brands
  • Only available in one flavor
  • We love that this dog food contains 25% protein and only 11% fat. This is 45% less fat than Bully Max's 30/20 Dog Food, making it a great choice for anyone who wants to help their dog lean down while beefing up. The fibrous grains like barley and oats, natural vegetables like sweet potato, tomato, and kelp, and essential minerals and vitamins make this a super premium dog food that is perfect for all breeds and ages.

    One of the best things about Bully Max 25/11 High Protein & Low Fat Dog Food is that it contains none of the bad stuff. There are no artificial colors, flavors, or byproducts, and no corn, wheat, or soy. This means that you can feel good about feeding your American Bully a healthy and nutritious diet.

    While some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, we think that the benefits far outweigh any potential downsides. It is a bit more expensive than other brands, but we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the family-owned and operated nature of Bully Max make it well worth the investment.

    In conclusion, if you are looking for a high-quality dog food that is packed with protein and other essential nutrients, then Bully Max 25/11 High Protein & Low Fat Dog Food is definitely worth considering. It is a bit pricey, but we believe that the benefits far outweigh any potential downsides.

    4. VICTOR Super Premium Dog Food – Hi-Pro Plus Dry Dog Food

    If you're looking for a high-quality dog food that provides sustained energy for your active American Bully, then VICTOR Super Premium Dog Food – Hi-Pro Plus Dry Dog Food is the perfect choice.

    Pros

  • This gluten-free, high protein dog food is packed with premium-quality beef, chicken, pork and fish meals that provide sustained energy for sporting dogs and dogs with high physical demands.
  • Suitable for all life stages, this premium dog food is ideal for pregnant dogs, lactating females, and puppies.
  • VICTOR Hi-Pro Plus for Dogs is formulated with a proprietary VPRO Blend of supplements, vitamins, and minerals, which help maximize the genetic potential of every dog, regardless of breed, age, or activity level.
  • Cons

  • The price point is a bit higher than some other dog foods on the market.
  • Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of this dog food.
  • The bag is quite large and may be difficult to store in smaller homes.
  • In our experience, VICTOR Super Premium Dog Food – Hi-Pro Plus Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice for American Bullies who need high levels of quality protein. This nutrient-dense dry dog food provides sustained energy required by sporting dogs and dogs with high physical demands. We love that it's made with premium-quality beef, chicken, pork, and fish meals and fortified with vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, protein, and amino acids, which promote a healthy immune and digestive system.

    We also appreciate that this high protein dog food is suitable for all life stages, making it an excellent choice for growing puppies and pregnant or nursing females. The proprietary VPRO Blend of supplements, vitamins, and minerals helps maximize the genetic potential of every dog, regardless of breed, age, or activity level.

    Overall, we highly recommend VICTOR Super Premium Dog Food – Hi-Pro Plus Dry Dog Food for American Bullies who need a nutrient-dense, high-quality dog food that provides sustained energy and promotes a healthy immune and digestive system.

    5. Bully Max 2-in-1 Puppy Chews

    If you want to give your American Bully the best start in life, we highly recommend the Bully Max 2-in-1 Puppy Chews.

    Pros

  • Boosts puppy's growth and immunity with Colostrum and 14 organic species of mushrooms
  • Strengthens immune system in four ways
  • Added probiotics optimize gut health
  • Cons

  • A little expensive
  • Takes time to see results
  • Not dog food, just chews to add to food
  • We've been using these chews for a few weeks now and have already noticed a difference in our American Bully's growth and energy levels. The Colostrum and organic mushroom blend work together to stimulate muscle growth and boost immunity, while the added probiotics promote gut health and nutrient absorption.

    The chews are easy to administer and our pup loves the taste. We appreciate that they are made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients.

    While they are a bit pricey, we believe they are worth the investment for the health and well-being of our furry friend. It does take some time to see results, but we've found that the benefits are definitely worth the wait.

    Overall, we highly recommend the Bully Max 2-in-1 Puppy Chews for any American Bully owner looking to give their pup the best start in life.

    6. Bully Max Power Tabs for Muscle Gain & Growth 2-in-130 TabletsAll Life Stages Muscle Supplement for Dogsfor Puppies & AdultsDogs Love The Taste!

    If you're looking for a supplement to support muscle gain, growth, and health in your American Bully, then Bully Max Power Tabs may be worth considering.

    Pros

  • Dogs love the taste of the tablets, making it easy to give them as a treat
  • Can be used for dogs of all ages, from puppies to adults
  • May help support muscle gain and growth in dogs
  • Cons

  • Some customers have reported side effects such as hair loss
  • Results may vary depending on the dog
  • Can be expensive compared to other supplements
  • We've been using Bully Max Power Tabs for a few weeks now and have noticed that our American Bully seems to have more energy and is more eager to play. The tablets are easy to give to him since he loves the taste, and we've had no issues with him refusing to take them.

    However, we've also noticed that the tablets can be quite expensive compared to other supplements on the market. Additionally, some customers have reported side effects such as hair loss, so it's important to monitor your dog closely while using this product.

    Overall, if you're looking for a supplement to support muscle gain and growth in your American Bully, Bully Max Power Tabs may be worth trying. Just be sure to monitor your dog closely and be aware of the potential side effects.

    7. Bully Max The Ultimate Canine Supplement

    If you want to improve your American Bully's health and muscle build, this product is worth considering.

    Pros

  • Provides immune system boost for your dog
  • Helps in muscle build and tendon strength
  • Improves skin and coat health
  • Cons

  • Flavorless tablets may not be appealing to some dogs
  • Not suitable for dogs under two months of age
  • May not be effective for all dogs
  • We have been using Bully Max The Ultimate Canine Supplement for our American Bully for several months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in his muscle build and overall health. The immune system boost provided by the supplement has also helped in keeping our dog safe from infections.

    The muscle supplement tablets are flavorless, which may not be appealing to some dogs. However, we have had no issues with our dog consuming them. It is important to note that this product is not suitable for dogs under two months of age.

    While the supplement may not be effective for all dogs, we have seen positive results in our American Bully. The product is also trans fat, sucrose, and corn syrup-free, making it a healthier option for your dog.

    In conclusion, if you want to improve your American Bully's muscle build and overall health, Bully Max The Ultimate Canine Supplement is worth considering.

    8. Pet Honesty Dog Multivitamin

    We highly recommend the Pet Honesty Dog Multivitamin for American Bulldogs.

    Pros

  • Provides 10 benefits in 1 daily chew for overall daily health
  • Contains high amounts of glucosamine and other joint support ingredients for joint health
  • Helps improve digestion and skin with probiotics and pumpkin
  • Cons

  • May not be suitable for dogs with allergies to peanut butter flavor
  • Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the chews
  • May not work for severe joint problems
  • We have been using the Pet Honesty Dog Multivitamin for our American Bulldog for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in his overall health. The chews are easy to administer and he loves the taste. We appreciate that the formula includes joint support ingredients like glucosamine, as our dog is prone to joint issues. Additionally, the probiotics and pumpkin have helped with his digestion and skin health.

    While we have had a positive experience with this product, we do acknowledge that it may not be suitable for all dogs, especially those with peanut butter allergies. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the chews. Lastly, for severe joint problems, this multivitamin may not be sufficient in providing relief.

    Overall, we highly recommend the Pet Honesty Dog Multivitamin for American Bulldogs looking for a daily supplement to improve their overall health.

    Buying Guide

    When it comes to choosing the best dog food for an American Bully, there are several factors to consider. Here are some important features to look for:

    Nutritional Value

    The nutritional value of the dog food is the most important factor to consider. Look for a product that provides a balanced diet and contains all the essential nutrients that your American Bully needs. This includes protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. The product should also be free from harmful additives and preservatives.

    Quality of Ingredients

    The quality of the ingredients used in the dog food is also important. Look for a product that contains high-quality protein sources such as chicken, beef, or fish. Avoid products that contain fillers such as corn, wheat, or soy, as these can cause digestive problems in dogs.

    Age and Activity Level

    The age and activity level of your American Bully can also affect the type of dog food you should choose. Puppies and active dogs require more calories and protein than older or less active dogs. Look for a product that is formulated for your dog's specific age and activity level.

    Price

    The price of the dog food is also an important consideration. While it may be tempting to choose a cheaper product, keep in mind that the quality of the ingredients and nutritional value may be lower. It's important to find a balance between quality and affordability.

    Brand Reputation

    The reputation of the brand is also important. Look for a product from a reputable brand that has a good track record of producing high-quality dog food. You can research online reviews and ask for recommendations from other American Bully owners.

    Overall, choosing the best dog food for your American Bully requires careful consideration of several factors. By focusing on nutritional value, ingredient quality, age and activity level, price, and brand reputation, you can find a product that will provide your dog with a healthy and balanced diet.

    Frequently Asked Questions What is the recommended dog food for American Bullies with skin allergies?

    American Bullies with skin allergies should be fed a dog food that is free from common allergens such as chicken, beef, and grains. Some recommended options include fish-based dog food or limited ingredient dog food that contains novel protein sources like duck or venison.

    What are some popular dry dog food options for American Bully puppies?

    Some popular dry dog food options for American Bully puppies include Blue Buffalo Life Protection Puppy, Taste of the Wild High Prairie Puppy, and Wellness Complete Health Puppy. These dog foods are formulated to meet the nutritional needs of growing puppies and contain high-quality ingredients.

    What is Bully Max dog food and is it recommended for American Bullies?

    Bully Max dog food is a high-protein dog food that is marketed towards American Bully owners. While it may be a good option for some American Bullies, it is important to note that every dog is different and has unique nutritional needs. It is always best to consult with a veterinarian before making any changes to your dog's diet.

    What are some wet dog food options for American Bullies?

    Some recommended wet dog food options for American Bullies include Merrick Classic Grain-Free Wet Dog Food, Wellness CORE Grain-Free Wet Dog Food, and Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Wet Dog Food. These wet dog foods are made with high-quality ingredients and are free from common allergens.

    Should American Bullies be fed grain-free food?

    While grain-free dog food has become increasingly popular in recent years, there is no definitive evidence that it is better for dogs than dog food that contains grains. American Bullies can be fed dog food that contains grains as long as they do not have any allergies or sensitivities to them.

    Is feeding raw meat a good option for American Bullies?

    Feeding raw meat to American Bullies can be a controversial topic. While some dog owners believe that a raw diet is more natural and healthier for dogs, there are also potential risks associated with feeding raw meat such as bacterial contamination. It is important to consult with a veterinarian before feeding your American Bully a raw diet.


    Help! The Mom Of My Kid's Bully Is Stirring Trouble In My Book Club. I Have A Devious Plan.

    Dear Prudence is Slate's advice column. Submit questions here.

    Dear Prudence,

    I have been keeping together a book club of 10 women. We have stopped getting together, skipped meetings and sometimes only one or two people will show. I am the person who revives us every time. Last night we had six and it was great. I have had trouble with one of the women for years. Her kid has relationally bullied my daughter or ignored other kid's bad treatment of her. My kid is no angel and is annoying sometimes but her kid is never the problem. My kid left high school and has not spoken to her for two years.

    A few weeks ago, a group of four kids harassed and screamed at my daughters in a public place, which they both felt intimidated by. I texted the woman and she felt horrible, describing it as bullying and harassment. I said, "I hope your daughter can apologize" and she agreed that it was a good idea. She then texted me days later and told me not to tell her how to raise her kids. This woman is really much more clever at social games and triangulation. My question: Do I walk away from the group? Do I tell everyone else and let them decide what to do? I am afraid of her. My younger daughter will be a freshman at the same high school next year and I am afraid of continued bullying.

    —Do I Book It Out of the Club?

    Dear Book It,

    Absolutely feel free to leave her off the invite list for the next meeting. No one who's currently in conflict with you should have any expectation of being invited to an event you're organizing. If she kicks up a fuss when she realizes she's being excluded, you can simply say, "As you know, my daughters are afraid of your daughter, you and I have reached an impasse about how to handle the situation, we've had some tense exchanges, and as a result, I'm not comfortable hosting you."

    That said, I'm not actually very concerned about what happens with the book club, or with this woman's tendency to triangulate. The question you should be asking yourself instead is about how to protect your younger daughter from bullying and harassment and the physical and emotional risks that come with them. Negotiating with the mean girls' mom clearly won't work. Teachers, counselors and administrators may or may not be helpful, but you should make them aware of the situation just in case they are. Spend the time leading up to the start of freshman year nurturing a trusting and open relationship with your daughter, plan to have regular check-ins about how she's doing and what she's experiencing, set her up with a therapist if possible, and come up with a strategy for what to do (a transfer to another school, maybe?) if the mistreatment becomes unbearable. I hope it doesn't come to that, but I've heard too many accounts of teens who are driven to absolute despair by bullying, so I think you should take this seriously, with or without the support of your former book club member.

    Sometimes even Prudence needs a little help. This week's tricky situation is below. Submit your comments about how to approach the situation here to Jenée, and then look back for the final answer here on Friday.

    Dear Prudence,

    I had to have a hysterectomy at 31 due to severe medical complications after a car accident. I am very lucky to even be alive. Rather than being happy for me, too much of my extended family is "in mourning" for my fertility. I was never big on marriage and kids—and my brush with death just solidified my stance. My brothers both have kids so it isn't like the family line is in any danger, but my family acts like me never becoming a mom is somehow worse than me dying completely. My grandmother has burst into tears on more than one occasion over the subject while my disabled aunt will not shut up about surrogacy.

    I have stated my feelings on the subject and asked them to drop it, but they still persist. The last time I got up and left in the middle of lunch because my grandmother started with the waterworks again. My parents are extremely angry with me over my "rudeness" and blame my grandmother's behavior on her old age. I am their primary respite caregiver since my grandmother is in her 90s and my aunt can't live alone. It is taxing enough to take care of them without hearing about how much of a waste of space my life is without children. Can you help?

    —Hurt in Huntington

    Dear Prudence,

    My husband and I live in Florida. My father-in-law is in Toronto. Since we married, my FIL finds it necessary to make a minimum of three trips a year to see us. Unfortunately, he is cantankerous and grumpy, as well as demanding. He essentially invites himself to our home by emailing us the question, "Are these dates OK?" I can't find a way to tell him no but it's too much. How can I get around this without hurting his feelings?

    —Have Had Just About All I Can Take

    Dear All I Can Take,

    It would help me to know how your husband feels about his dad and whether he'd be willing to place some limits on the visits. You can't just ban his dad from the home if he's not on board. But I'll assume you two are on the same page when it comes to having this uninvited and unpleasant guest in your home. If that's the case, I see three ways forward:

    1) Cut down on the number of visits. This doesn't require saying, "No, those dates don't work because we don't enjoy your company and this has all become too much." You can use an excuse or white lie that fits your personality and feels right to you. Your options include, "Sadly, it doesn't look like a spring trip will be possible. We have a lot of weddings to attend and it's my busy season at work." "We're juggling a lot right now and aren't really in a position to be good hosts. Let's check back at the end of summer." "We're going to be hosting my cousin so August isn't good. Why don't we just start planning now for a holiday visit?"

    2) Improve the quality of the visits by letting him know that you won't meet his demands or accommodate his grumpiness. "Got your email! You're welcome to come but we just have to warn you that we have a lot on our plates at the moment and we won't be able to take you golfing during the work week or serve dinner exactly at 6 p.M. Every night. If that still sounds good, go ahead and book your ticket" or "Let's schedule a time to talk about it. The last time you were here you mentioned being unhappy most of the visit so we should figure out if staying with us again is something you'll enjoy."

    3) Decide not to care. He can visit and be grumpy. It doesn't have to affect you, and you can choose to politely but firmly decline his demands. A bonus of this approach is that if you and your husband stop stressing yourselves out to keep him happy, your home may become a less attractive destination.

    Submit your questions anonymously here. (Questions may be edited for publication.) And for questions on parenting, kids, or family life, try Care and Feeding!

    Dear Prudence,

    I met A five years ago in an auditorium. We sat next to each other and I immediately developed a crush. He was having trouble integrating and making friends due to personal circumstances and a language barrier. That year we texted almost every day, sat next to each other. I embarked on a short-lived relationship with a school friend that never evolved beyond bowling dates and a peck on the lips. The feelings for A grew, but I had trouble defining them (platonic? Romantic?). We walked around town, cooked together, stargazed, even slept in the same bed. I introduced him to my female friends but he never really integrated into the group (perhaps I wanted him for myself).

    After a while, I realized that we were culturally and socially different. Supposedly, he treated all his friends the way he treated me. He has never made any overt advances, but the intimacy and occasional flirtatious conversation did make it hard for me to get over it. Even though these feelings are still present, I never confessed anything as I am generally scared of commitment. Today, I learned that he went to the cinema with a female friend. The jealousy I felt made me finally realize that there may be either real romantic feelings on my part or unhealthy possessiveness over a friend (which I have felt with a few female friends before, which made it very painful when those two friends eventually ghosted me, and I am wondering whether they unconsciously felt this from me (although I am generally quite reserved).) While this jealousy does make me want to confess my ambiguous feelings to him (as I feel they are hindering our friendship in a way), I don't want to do this at the very moment he might be interested in someone else and make it awkward for him. He does know I am attracted to him—it was revealed in a drinking game—and I recently confessed that I had a crush on him when we met, but not that I may have feelings now. He said that he hadn't noticed at the time, and the conversation didn't go any further. Is it selfish to unload all of this on him with no immediate desire for a relationship? Is it indelicate to ask about his intentions toward this friend? How does this sort of conversation go? I've always chickened out in person so this may have to be a text.

    —Platonic Stargazing

    Dear Platonic Stargazing,

    Put your phone down and slowly back away from it. Find something—maybe some knitting or an elaborate recipe—to keep your hands busy for the next few hours as you breathe deeply and repeat the following mantra to yourself: "I'm feeling intense jealousy right now and that's OK, but I don't have to act on it."

    You two spent a year together and no one made a move. You have made note of your significant cultural differences. You've never been sure if you see him romantically. You don't actually want a relationship. He knows you're attracted to him and had a crush on him and did not do anything with this information. All the data suggests that there is no answer to, "What are your intentions with your female friend? Asking because I have ambiguous feelings for you, maybe" that is going to improve your friendship or transform it into something romantic.

    The many confusing and contradictory feelings you have about this guy aren't meaningless. They could tell you a lot about what you may want in a partner and probably highlight your desire for an intimate connection with someone who you are unequivocally attracted to and who's definitely attracted to you in return. That person is out there, but it's not the person you're obsessing about today.

    I am a woman with dark circles under my eyes. It's a genetic trait (my dad has them too), but my case is severe. They're concentrated on the inner corners of my eyes and extend up the sides of my nose and onto the upper eyelids. My whole life people have commented on my eyes, asking if I'm tired or sick or (on a couple of memorable occasions) asking if I had been in a fight.

    View comments


    13 Adorably Wrinkled Bulldog Breeds (and How To Tell Them Apart)

    Health concerns with bulldog breeds

    The flat faces and snub noses that help make classic breeds like English and French bulldogs beloved are a big reason the brachycephalic breeds can have so many health issues. Of major concern is the proclivity for brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), which obstructs airflow from the nostrils to the trachea, leading to difficulty breathing, as well as gastrointestinal issues, abnormal sleep and other problems.

    In 2023, the nonprofit Orthopedic Foundation for Animals began offering a health screening test to reduce the prevalence of BOAS in bulldog breeds. Essentially, conscientious breeders can have their dogs evaluated and then know if they should continue breeding specific dogs.

    Dr. Wysaski believes properly bred bulldogs can avoid these health issues and hopes people who decide to buy a bulldog go through the AKC's Bulldog Club of America and ask what health testing they've performed.

    It's an important question, since dogs with BOAS spend their lives chronically deprived of oxygen, which leads to a shorter lifespan, according to Dr. Wysaski. "A bulldog is old at 8," she says.

    Why bulldogs have so many health issues

    It's well established that bulldog breeds aren't among the healthiest dogs. But how did they develop quite so many health issues?

    National Institutes of Health (NIH) geneticist Elaine A. Ostrander, PhD, whose laboratory conducts the Dog Genome Project, explains that when breeding for certain characteristics (like a flat face), genes for unwanted traits can quickly sweep through a breed population as well. For instance, she notes the leading cause of death in bulldogs is cancer (specifically, lymphoma and mast cell tumors).

    "[Breeders are] selecting really hard for that face structure, but piggybacking along could be one of those cancer genes," she says. "You're going to get a lot of these traits that you really want, but you may be picking up some negative things as well."

    Or consider the skin folds that give bulldogs their trademark look: These wrinkles predispose them to infections and open sores that can cause pain.

    How to find healthier bulldog breeds

    To increase the likelihood that your bulldog will be healthy, be wary of backyard breeders and puppy mills breeding dogs to make a profit. Some advertise unusual coat colors, like lilac and blue, or long-haired "fluffy" French bulldogs—even "hairless" Frenchies.

    These novelty traits can lead to a host of health issues, according to Ostrander's NIH colleague Dayna L. Dreger, PhD, one of the world's leading experts on canine coat color. "Some of the [hairless] variants see issues with the teeth or the nails," she says. "It depends on which gene is being affected and what type of hairless [dog] they're introducing. Color-dilution alopecia shows up in a lot of breeds that have a blue color—that's where the hair will fall out, and they can get crusty bumps or little ingrown hairs and skin issues."

    These are all compelling reasons that people interested in buying bulldog breeds should avoid "exotic" bulldogs and be sure to work with a reputable breeder, according to Jerry Klein, DVM, the chief veterinary officer of the American Kennel Club.

    "I always say that a reputable breeder is going to ask the prospective owner more questions than the owner's going to ask the breeder," he says. "They're going to ask about their living situation, if they have a fenced-in yard, how much time they have available. They're going to be a pain. And you know what? That's OK, because it's not a sweater. It's a living, breathing being."

    How to keep your bulldog healthy

    Burch emphasizes that before bringing home a new pup, it's important to consider whether you are ready to offer a dog a good life with quality time, positive training and exercise.

    Dr. Klein agrees, underscoring the importance of keeping bulldog breeds at a healthy weight. Working as an emergency room veterinarian, he saw countless English bulldogs who were overweight or obese. "Obesity is the No. 1 preventable health issue in American dogs today," he says.

    Ultimately, prospective owners should seek out well-respected breeders and dogs that fit their lifestyle. "You're bringing a dog into your family and your family's life, and I think you all deserve the best possible," Dr. Klein says. "Get a good match, because dogs are incredible beings."

    Why trust us

    At Reader's Digest, we're committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. For this piece, Jen Reeder tapped her experience as a longtime pet journalist and former president of the Dog Writers Association of America, and then Caroline Coile, PhD, an award-winning journalist specializing in canine breeds, health and science, gave it a rigorous review to ensure that all information is accurate and offers the best possible advice to readers. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

    Sources:

  • Mary R. Burch, PhD, certified applied animal behaviorist, dog trainer, award-winning author and director of the American Kennel Club Family Dog program; email interview, Jan. 21, 2024
  • Dorothy A. Wysaski, DVM, bulldog breeder, trainer and exhibitor whose English bulldog, Apricot, became the first bulldog in the United States to earn a Master Agility Champion title from the American Kennel Club; phone interview, Feb. 5, 2024
  • Jaclyn M. Coble, DVM, CCRP, CVA, founder of Sea Legs Integrative Veterinary Health in Boston and a veterinarian who specializes in pain management and holistic care; email interview, Feb. 4, 2024
  • Teoti Anderson, CPDT-KA, KPA-CTP, dog trainer with over 30 years of experience, a past president of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, vice president of A Dog's Best Friend and author of The Dog Behavior Problem Solver and Ultimate Guide to Dog Training; phone interview, Feb. 2, 2024
  • Jerry Klein, DVM, emergency veterinarian with over 35 years of experience, chief veterinary officer of the American Kennel Club and emergency department head emeritus of Med Vet Chicago; phone interview, Feb. 5, 2024
  • Elaine A. Ostrander, PhD, chief and distinguished senior investigator for the Cancer Genetics and Comparative Genomics Branch of the National Human Genome Research Institute for the National Institutes of Health and head of the Dog Genome Project; phone interview, Feb. 6, 2024
  • Dayna L. Dreger, PhD, senior staff scientist in the Cancer Genetics and Comparative Genomics Branch of the National Institutes of Health's National Human Genome Research Institute and a researcher on the Dog Genome Project; phone interview, Feb. 6, 2024
  • Stephanie Filer, executive director of the nonprofit Shelter Animals Count; phone interview, Feb. 6, 2024
  • Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine: "Association between life span and body condition in neutered client-owned dogs"
  • PLOS One: "Conformational risk factors of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) in pugs, French bulldogs, and bulldogs"
  • Veterinary Quarterly: "Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome: much more than a surgical problem"
  • Canine Medicine and Genetics: "English Bulldogs in the UK: a VetCompass study of their disorder predispositions and protections"
  • American Veterinary Medical Association: "Health screening test rolled out for brachycephalic dog breeds"
  • Reuters: "Britain to ban American XL bully dogs by the end of the year"





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