Bulldog Care
Tips on Bulldog Care
Before bringing home your new bulldog pup, it will be necessary to brush up on some bulldog care tips. A few simple tips and strategies will ensure a happy, healthy pup.
Your new pup is likely to be feeling misplaced after being separated from its mother, litter mates and the only home it has ever known. Plenty of attention and loving bulldog care will be needed to help your new pet through this transitional period. Cuddling and showering him with love will begin the bonding process with you.
Feeding your pet should be a routine. Try to maintain the breeder’s feeding schedule when bringing your pet home to continue its established routine, and then if necessary change it slowly and over time. Feed the pup the same food the breeder has been supplying the brood, and if you desire to change the kibble, begin by adding some to the familiar food in increasing amounts over time. Feeding twice a day should be the ultimate goal as the pup grows; free feeding only encourages overeating.
Worming is a necessary part of bulldog care for pups and adult dogs alike. Commercial preparations at regular intervals as suggested by package directions will ensure that any parasites such as roundworm, tapeworm and heartworm will be eradicated before doing any harm to your pet.
Your pup will enjoy being groomed if begun at the earliest age possible. Smooth, short coats will require only weekly brushing. Bathing is for the most part unnecessary, and not particularly healthy if done too often. All dogs have a natural oil that protects their skin which bathing only serves to remove. Once or twice a year will be sufficient for this basic bulldog care.
Regular inspection of your pet’s feet and tail are a necessary component of bulldog care. A common complaint with bulldogs is the formation of cyst between their toes. It is often not externally caused, but a result of being flat footed. Hair between the toes can also trap foreign matter which can aggravate the tender skin there. If cysts are found, try soaking the affected foot in warm, salt water for several minutes, after which apply a drop of iodine to the sore area. Preventative measures can be keeping the hair between the toes clipped weekly. For the tail, keep it dry especially in warm weather when infection could set in as a result of damp areas.
As your pet ages, bad breath may become an issue. Talk to your vet early on about how dental health relates to bulldog care so as to work toward prevention of tartar buildup that causes halitosis.
Bulldog care can be a relatively easy matter once you know what will be required. Good health and a happy dog will be your reward.