This updated guide reviews the best dog foods for english bulldogs this year.
The English Bulldog, known for its adorable smooshed face and a tank-like muscular body, is probably used as a mascot for more sports teams than any dog in history. Its fearsome origin as a bull-baiting dog is offset by the fact that it has a fantastic sense of humor. Bulldogs are funny, and they make great family pets. Their charm is irresistible.
For all that they give us, we want to make sure that we feed them well to prolong their all too short lives. With that in mind, we’ve come up with this list to help you pick the best dog foods for English Bulldogs.
Read on to find out how to best feed your English Bulldog!
The Best Dog Foods for English Bulldogs
| Top Products | Rating | Top 5 ingredients |
| 1. Merrick Texas Beef and Sweet Potato | 4.5 | Deboned Beef, Lamb Meal, Salmon Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes |
| 2. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Healthy Weight | 4.6 | Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Barley, Pea Fiber |
| 3. Purina Beyond the Wild Grain-Free Wet Food | 4.6 | Beef, Beef Broth, Chicken, Liver, Potatoes |
| 4. Taste of the Wild Limited Ingredient Dog Food | 4.7 | Water Buffalo, Lamb Meal, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas |
| 5. American Journey Active Life Formula Salmon with Brown Rice | 4.6 | Deboned Salmon, Menhaden Fish Meal, Brown Rice, Peas, Rice Bran |
How to Change Dog Food Without Getting Your Pup Sick
English Bulldog Dog Food Reviews
1. Merrick Texas Beef and Sweet Potato
Top 5 Ingredients: Deboned Beef, Lamb Meal, Salmon Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes
If you are concerned that your English Bulldog could have allergies, you might need to stay away from grain. That is where this choice from Merrick comes in. This recipe is more than a third lean protein and contains plenty of healthy fats, and is high in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and other great ingredients. This recipe uses animal fats and proteins and includes salmon, which provides plenty of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. It is difficult to beat this option from Merrick for your English Bulldog.
2. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Healthy Weight
Top 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Barley, Pea Fiber
This delicious recipe from Blue Buffalo provides your bulldog with everything it needs without having to worry about calories. This recipe contains a wide variety of vitamins, minerals, and protein that will provide your dog with plenty of support for his or her bones, joints, and teeth. Even though this recipe does contain grain, it keeps the calorie content low for the figure-conscious bulldog.
3. Purina Beyond the Wild Grain-Free Wet Food
Top 5 Ingredients: Beef, Beef Broth, Chicken, Liver, Potatoes
Purina Beyond the Wild has natural ingredients to provide your English Bulldog with high-quality nutrition. This recipe is a good choice for bulldogs that have problems chewing regular kibble. With a rich, meaty flavor, your dog will fall in love with this option immediately. Furthermore, this is also a great way to build plenty of lean muscle, which is important for a stocky English Bulldog. Even though it can be a bit pricey, the quality ingredients are worth it.
4. Taste of the Wild Limited Ingredient Dog Food
Top 5 Ingredients: Water Buffalo, Lamb Meal, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas
If your bulldog has a history of allergies, then this limited ingredient diet from Taste of the Wild might be the right choice. Fewer ingredients mean there are fewer chances for an allergy to develop. It uses Angus beef for the main protein and contains high-quality vitamins and minerals to keep your English Bulldog healthy while avoiding common allergens, including grain. This formula will help you keep your funny bulldog fit and trim.
5. American Journey Active Life Formula Salmon with Brown Rice
Top 5 Ingredients: Deboned Salmon, Menhaden Fish Meal, Brown Rice, Peas, Rice Bran
Another option that you might want to consider is this one from American Journey. It contains lots of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids thanks to the high salmon content. There are also lots of complex carbs from brown rice. Even though this formula contains more calories, making it ideal for active bulldogs, the lean proteins are great for bulldog muscles.
6. Wellness Limited Ingredient with Turkey and Sweet Potato
Top 5 Ingredients: Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal, Potatoes, Peas, Dried Ground Potatoes
This turkey and sweet potato dry dog food from Wellness is a good choice for the English Bulldog. Because bulldogs are prone to developing allergies, this limited ingredient diet limits their exposure to common allergens. Even though this recipe is limited in ingredients, it is full of the flavor your bulldog will love.
7. Merrick Power Bites Real Texas
Top 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Potatoes, Peas, Potato Protein, Potato Starch
These Merrick power bites could be just what your English Bulldog needs for a boost of healthy protein. These chewy dog treats are a delicious option for your furry friend and are completely grain-free to minimize the chances of your dog developing an allergic reaction. As with all things, give treats in moderation, and your bulldog will enjoy the muscle-building bites without packing on the pounds.
8. American Journey Chicken and Sweet Potato
Top 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal (a source of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate), Turkey Meal, Peas, Sweet Potatoes
You need to make sure that your English Bulldog gets plenty of vitamins and minerals along with lean protein, and this option from American Journey delivers. The sweet potato is not a common source of allergens, and it contains macronutrients, including complex carbs. Chicken is a great source of lean protein for your English Bulldog as well. Even though this is a bit more expensive than some of the other choices, it is a great one for your furry friend.
9. Purina SmartBlend Classic Grain-Free
Top 5 Ingredients: Turkey, Turkey Broth, Chicken, Pork Lungs, Liver
If your English Bulldog is overweight or has a history of allergies, then you might be looking for a grain-free option. This grain-free recipe from Purina might be what you want. It is packed with extra vitamins and minerals to help your English Bulldog remain healthy. This recipe also contains turkey and venison as the main sources of protein. It also has plenty of fiber to protect his or her digestive tract. This lean muscle-building option from Purina may be just what your bully boy needs.
10. Taste of the Wild High Prairie Puppy Formula
Top 5 Ingredients: Water Buffalo, Lamb Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Egg Product, Pea Protein
If you have a bulldog puppy at home, then you need extra calories to help your bulldog grow stout and strong. This recipe from Taste of the Wild provides everything a growing bulldog puppy needs without using grain. It contains lean protein sources with added vitamins and minerals to support the growth of your bulldog puppy.
11. CANIDAE All Life Stages for Less Active Dogs
Top 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, White Rice, Rice Bran, Peas
English Bulldogs are not exactly the most active dogs, so this kibble from CANIDAE is a great choice. It contains a wide variety of protein ingredients, including turkey, lamb, fish, and chicken. The fish is a great source of fatty acids, which are important for keeping your dog’s skin and coat healthy. In addition, the calorie count in this food is relatively low, helping you prevent your dog from gaining weight. Whether you have an adult dog or a senior bulldog, this choice from CANIDAE could be the right one for your dog.
12. Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet with Salmon
Top 5 Ingredients: Salmon, Salmon Meal, Potatoes, Peas, Dried Ground Potatoes
Another choice that you might want to consider is this one from Wellness. This limited-ingredient diet includes plenty of nutrients despite only having a single source of protein, salmon. Salmon is a great source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, along with plenty of lean protein. This highly digestible formula also minimizes the chances of an allergic reaction developing in your bulldog.
13. Merrick Grain-Free Wet Dog Food
Top 5 Ingredients: Deboned Beef, Beef Broth, Vegetable Broth, Beef Liver, Dried Egg Product
Canned wet food is a good option for some senior bulldogs, and that is where this option from Merrick delivers. Even though this choice is a bit more expensive than some of the other options, it does contain lean, high-quality steak protein that is easy to chew. It also has numerous vitamins and minerals that can keep your senior dog healthy without going overboard on the calories.
Bonus. Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Healthy Weight Wet Food
Top 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver, Carrots, Brown Rice, Peas
This option from Blue Buffalo is also easy on the teeth and gums. It contains plenty of concentrated protein to ensure your dog can maintain a strong skeletal structure. In addition, fiber is also plentiful in this recipe, helping to protect the GI tract of your bulldog.
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Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Dog Foods for English Bulldogs
Some of the most common questions people ask about the best dog foods for English Bulldogs include:
If I have an English Bulldog at home, what should I feed him or her?
You need to make sure that your English Bulldog has a well-rounded diet filled with plenty of nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, healthy fat, complex carbs, and protein.
Is it okay for me to feed my English Bulldog raw meat?
If you’re giving your English Bulldog raw, lean meat, that should be okay; however, you should make sure that you do not give your English Bulldog anything that you would not serve a human being. Otherwise, you run the risk of making your English Bulldog sick.
Is chocolate bad for English Bulldogs?
Yes. Chocolate is bad for dogs, and English Bulldogs are not different. This sweet treat might be good for you and your friends; however, it is not something that you should be giving to your English Bulldog.
Are there any foods that people can eat that English Bulldogs cannot?
In addition to chocolate, there are several other foods that people eat that English Bulldogs cannot. For example, avocado has a substance called persin in it that can be toxic to your dog. You should also stay away from grapes when it comes to your English Bulldog. Finally, do not give your English Bulldog any alcohol.
Is it okay for me to give chicken to my English Bulldog?
Yes, if you would like to give your English Bulldog chicken, this is a healthy, lean meat that should be good for it. On the other hand, you need to make sure that you do not give your English Bulldog any chicken bones. Chicken bones pose a choking and obstruction hazard to your bulldog.
How many times per day do I need to feed my English Bulldog?
You should try to feed your English Bulldog twice per day. When your English Bulldog is a puppy, he or she has a smaller stomach. You might need to feed your English Bulldog more often during his or her younger years.
Do I need to bathe my English Bulldog?
Yes, you should make sure that you bathe your English Bulldog as well. Try to bathe your English Bulldog every four weeks at a minimum. If you have an active dog, you should bathe your English Bulldog every two weeks.
What human food is it okay for me to give to my English Bulldog?
It is okay for you to give your English Bulldog a variety of human food items. For example, you should be able to give your English Bulldog eggs, cheese, salmon, and carrots. Anything that has a lot calories or fat in it needs to be limited.
Is there a way for me to tell if my English Bulldog likes his or her food?
Yes, if your English Bulldog finishes his or her food without throwing up or suffering diarrhea, this is a good sign. If your English Bulldog has a wagging tail, this is another sign that he or she is happy.
Is it okay for me to give rice to my English Bulldog?
Yes, if you give your English Bulldog rice, just make sure to cook it thoroughly. White rice is a good option if you need to put your English Bulldog on a bland diet.
Is it okay for me to give bananas to my English Bulldog?
Yes, it is okay for you to give bananas to your English Bulldog as well. Remember that these are high in sugar, so feed bananas in moderation.
Why are simple carbs bad for my English Bulldog?
Simple carbs are not necessarily bad for your English Bulldog. They simply need to be limited. Simple sugars can cause the blood sugar of your English Bulldog to spike. If you do this continuously, it could lead to the development of diabetes.
How can I save money on my dog food for my English Bulldog?
Dog food can be expensive. If you are looking for ways to save money on your dog food for your English Bulldog, try to buy it in bulk. Or, see if your vet is giving away any samples.
Is it possible for my English Bulldog to have allergies?
Yes, some dogs have allergies. There are a few common sources of allergens in English Bulldogs. These include corn, wheat, soy, eggs, and dairy.
How do I know if my English Bulldog is suffering from allergies?
There are a few signs that your English Bulldog could be suffering from allergies. First, if you notice that your English Bulldog is losing weight, this could be a sign of an allergy. Second, you might also see your English Bulldog throw up after eating food. Finally, if you notice blood in the stool, this might be a sign of inflammation due to allergies.
Can my English Bulldog eat cheese?
Yes, your English Bulldog can eat cheese; however, this must be in moderation. Cheese is high in fat and calories, so try to limit the amount of cheese you give your English Bulldog.
Why does my English Bulldog always smell bad?
An English Bulldog has many folds that can trap moisture and bacteria, leading to a yeast infection.
Is it okay for me to give my English Bulldog peanut butter?
Yes, you can give your English Bulldog peanut butter; however, make sure that there is no xylitol present, as this is toxic to English Bulldogs.
How often do I need to take my English Bulldog to the vet?
You should try to take your English Bulldog to the vet at least once per year for an annual exam. If your English Bulldog is still a puppy, then you might need to take your English Bulldog to the vet more often.
How long should I expect my English Bulldog to live?
If you give your English Bulldog a healthy diet and take care of him or her, the average lifespan is between 8 and 10 years. Exercise your bulldog daily, and feed him a well-rounded diet to maximize his lifespan.
A Buyer’s Guide to the Best Dog Foods for English Bulldogs
Many dogs are called bulldogs; however, they are often referring to an English Bulldog when someone is talking about a bulldog. The English Bulldog is known for its cute, wrinkled skin and friendly demeanor. Therefore, this dog breed is particularly good for kids. It is also easy to train an English Bulldog, and they get along well with just about everyone they meet, including not only people but also other dogs and cats. At the same time, if you want your English Bulldog to be healthy, you need to think carefully about the dog food you give to him or her.
Even though English Bulldogs are not the most active dogs, they are still very friendly. When they are fully grown, they usually weigh between 40 and 50 pounds. In addition, they live between 8 and 10 years. If you take care of your English Bulldog, he or she could live much longer than that. Furthermore, if you get a mixed dog that contains an English Bulldog and another breed, he or she might live longer, allowing you to love your furry friend for even longer.
The English Bulldog has a short, stocky build and wrinkled skin. The English Bulldog also has a massive build with plenty of muscle that could cause it to look a bit intimidating. With an undershot jaw, bulldogs also have a unique shape. On the other hand, the English Bulldog also has a soft heart that everyone loves once you know them! For this reason, it should come as no surprise that the English Bulldog is also one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. Maybe this is why you have an English Bulldog as well!
If you are looking for dog food for your English Bulldog, there are many factors to consider. For example, the English Bulldog is prone to developing various health concerns that could impact the food you decide to give to your dog. These include:
- Brachycephalic Syndrome: This refers to the unique anatomy of the English Bulldog, which could cause his or her breathing to be restricted. Because of how the English Bulldog’s build, it could be difficult for them to breathe, particularly as your English Bulldog puts on weight, which can impact the overall quality of life of your bully boy or girl.
- In addition, English Bulldogs commonly develop food allergies as well. If your English Bulldog is exposed to allergens to which it is allergic, it could make it hard for them to absorb the nutrients that it requires. The inflammation present in the GI tract will cause the nutrients to pass right through your dog instead of being absorbed and used.
- Your English Bulldog might also develop something called gastric torsion, twisting in the GI tract that can cause blood to stop flowing to this part of your English Bulldog’s body leading to a medical and surgical emergency. It is common in dogs that have a deep chest.
- Finally, the English Bulldog is also prone to developing bladder stones. These are mineral deposits that can collect in your English Bulldog’s urinary tract, blocking the kidneys and causing toxins to back up into your dog, which can lead to major health concerns and might even require surgery for removal of the stones.
These are a few of the most common health conditions that the English Bulldog could develop. To keep these problems at bay, you need to take your English Bulldog to the vet on time, every time. Furthermore, you also need to think carefully about the food you provide him or her, selecting wholesome, natural ingredients that will allow your English Bulldog to live a long and healthy life. With all of this in mind, some of the factors you need to consider include:
- The English Bulldog does not have nutritional needs that are significantly different from other dogs. Because they are a stocky breed, they need plenty of protein to support their musculature. Therefore, do not hesitate to reach for dog food that has extra protein in it.
- If you find that your English Bulldog suffers from food allergies, you might want to target a dog food option with a limited amount of protein and carbs to restrict possible allergens. Numerous potential sources of allergies could lead to your dog’s reactions; however, the common culprit is grain. You can take your dog to the vet for more testing; however, you might want to switch over to a limited ingredient diet that can prevent the development of more allergic reactions.
- You can also target unusual protein sources if you are worried about allergic reactions in your English Bulldog. For example, venison is a relatively rare protein source in dog food. Therefore, this might be a source of protein you can share with your English Bulldog that might not lead to an allergic reaction.
- In addition, fat is a very concentrated source of energy for dogs. On the other hand, it contains nine calories per gram (on average, depending on the type of fat) compared to 4 calories per gram of protein and carbs. Therefore, stay away from dog food that contains too many grams of fat.
- Furthermore, you should also try to stick to food sources that contain plenty of complex, healthy carbs. Complex carbs are a great energy source; however, if the dog food has too many grams of carbs, it could lead to weight gain. Great sources of carbs include oatmeal, brown rice, and vegetables that contain starch.
Next, it is important to highlight some of the serious weight issues that English Bulldogs can develop. Clearly, with the extra skin folds, obesity is a common problem among English Bulldogs. There are several points you should keep in mind when it comes to maintaining a healthy weight. These include:
- Take a look at the serving size and calorie content on the back of the dog food. Depending on how big the serving size is, you might need to multiply this to reach a single helping for your dog. Be aware of how many calories you are giving your English Bulldog.
- Keep in mind that the average dog needs about 30 calories per pound of bodyweight to support your dog’s metabolism. Smaller dogs usually need a bit more than 30 calories per pound of weight. Larger dogs might need a bit less. English Bulldogs fall in the middle, so use this as a benchmark for how many calories you want to give to your dog.
- Because English Bulldogs are prone to gaining weight, try to avoid dog food with many simple sugars in it. Simple sugars can lead to the development of diabetes if there are too many of them. Diabetes and obesity go hand in hand, particularly in heavier dog breeds, such as the English Bulldog.
- Remember that English Bulldogs have skin folds that can collect moisture and bacteria. If you notice that your English Bulldog is starting to smell bad, there might be a yeast infection in the skin folds. If you want to limit this, keep your English Bulldog at a healthy weight.
- English Bulldogs are prone to having weight problems. Therefore, you need to protect their joints as well. Look for dog food options that contain plenty of chondroitin and glucosamine. These are important ingredients for keeping your English Bulldog’s joints healthy while also preventing the development of chronic musculoskeletal issues.
If you do not protect the skin of your English Bulldog, he or she might develop something called eczema. Also called canine atopic dermatitis, this is the most common skin problem in the English Bulldog and can lead to the development of itchy, dry skin that can also lead to open sores or scaly bumps. If you notice this problem in your English Bulldog, be sure to reach out to your vet to see what you can do about this issue. If you ignore it, your English Bulldog could develop open sores, leading to major skin infections.
Finally, you might also be wondering about the price of dog food for your English Bulldog. Fortunately, it is usually not any more expensive than dog food for other types of dogs. At the same time, if your English Bulldog has to go on a limited ingredient diet, this can get pricey. Talk to your vet to see if he or she has access to any samples. Then, talk to the local pet store to see if they are running any sales to help you find the best dog food for your English Bulldog at a price you can afford. You do not have to break the bank on your dog food for your English Bulldog.