Although this bullie seems to be the fish whisperer, most of us need to work to catch our fish.

In fact, here is a list of many great fly fishing states in the US. If I missed any, please let me know in comments.

Alaska
Although the season is short, it is a true experience in the great American wilderness. Enjoy salmon, steelhead, rainbows, grayling, and northern pike. Just be careful of grizzly bears.

Colorado
With over 9,000 miles of trout water, you have many options for that perfect cast. May we suggest the Fryingpan, the Gunnison, the San Juan, the Plattes (North and South) and the Colorado rivers as some of the most famous options.

Florida
Enjoy top saltwater flyfishing. You can find bonefish, tarpon, redfish, snook, and largemouth bass. Go inland to find some great jewels.

Idaho
Take on Big Wood, South Fork, or the Big Lost rivers to play in the big leagues. Silver Creek and Henry’s Fork are another great two options for top trout fishing.

Land Excitement with Orvis

Michigan
Salmon and steelhead are bountiful in this 4 season state. Enjoy the wilderness of the upper peninsula, and stop off for some craft brews when the day is done.

Montana
Often hailed as the best trout-fishing state in the country, there are many options to choose from. A trip (or several) should include stops at the Yellowstone, Big Horn, Madison, Beaverhead, and the Missouri.

New York
Enjoy some of the best striped bass, bluefish, and false albacore fishing in the US. With the Montauk, Long Island Sound, and Long Island’s southern beaches, you are sure to find a great spot. Journey to the Catskills to find the Beaverkill, Willowemoc, Neversink, and Delaware branches, which offer excellent trout.

Oregon/Washington
Both states have runs of wild salmon and steel head. Both have sea-run cutthroats. Although you may favor Oregon, home of the Clackamas, Deschutes, Klamath and Umpqua rivers.

Land Excitement with Orvis

What could be more stressful than coming home from a long day of work to find your living room looking like the frat house from the movie Animal House? As you start to pick up the mess, you make a mental list of the cost of everything your bully destroyed. You’re feeling bummed out and stressed out, and your bulldog knows it. You give your bully the best of everything: great toys, a fancy bed, and yummy chewies.

Why would she do this to you?

Why Is Your Dog a Destructive Chewer?

Dealing with a dog with destructive chewing behaviors can be one of the most upsetting challenges a dog owner faces. But chewing is a normal behavior for puppies and adult dogs. After all, a dog uses her mouth to explore her surroundings. So how can you teach your dog what she’s allowed to chew and what is off limits? The first step in solving the problem is understanding why your bully is chewing. Here are some of the reasons why dogs chew:

1. Medical Problems
Have you ever heard of pica? It’s a medical condition that can affect humans and dogs. When pica occurs in dogs, it is triggered by malnutrition, which is caused by a poor diet or parasitic infestation. Pica can cause cravings in your bully that lead her to chew on things that have no nutritional value. Tummy trouble and nausea can also cause your bully to chew, which she uses as a coping mechanism to ease her discomfort.

2. Improper Weaning
The appropriate age to wean puppies is about 7 to 8 weeks. Some puppies that are weaned too early develop fabric-sucking behavior, and the habit can continue into adulthood. In fabric-sucking behavior, a dog will lick or suck fabric, and the behavior can easily lead to fabric chewing. In the worst cases, a dog will spend extended periods of time compulsively suckling fabric, and she may become so focused on the habit that she ignores everything around her when she is engaged in the behavior.

3. Hunger
Has your bully packed on a few extra pounds? If so, you are probably limiting her food rations and caloric intake. A hungry bully may engage in destructive chewing behavior, in which case she will chew on things that smell like food. Anything you touch while preparing or handling food can become her target. Even your remote control is at risk if you use it while you are snacking.

4. Puppies That Are Teething
Just like human babies, bully pups go through a phase when they lose their baby teeth and grow their adult teeth. And like human babies, puppies experience pain when they are teething. Puppies start teething when they are 3 to 8 weeks old, and they complete the process when they are 4 to 6 months of age.

Chewing is how teething puppies attempt to relieve their sore gums, and it also helps their adult teeth emerge. However, some puppies develop a habit of chewing that they continue even after they are done teething.

5. Normal Behavior
Chewing a bone or a stick for a few hours is perfectly normal behavior for a wild dog or your pet. Dogs chew for stimulation, and they chew for entertainment. Healthy chewing is important because it helps keep your bully’s jaws strong and her teeth clean.

6. Boredom
Does your bully get plenty of exercise every day? What about play time and social interaction? If not, she may chew as a way to pass the time.

7. Seeking Attention
Because dogs are social animals, they require attention from their owners daily. If your bully wants your attention, she may chew on something that she knows is off limits. Why? Because to your bully, negative attention from you is better than no attention at all.

8. Stress, Fear, or Frustration
When your bully is feeling nervous or upset, she may chew to relieve her stress. What scares your dog? Thunderstorms or fireworks? And what frustrates your dog? Seeing squirrels outside that she is never allowed to chase? Chewing is a natural coping mechanism for dogs.

9. Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety is one of the most common causes of bad behaviors in dogs. If your dog primarily engages in destructive chewing when she is left alone, separation anxiety is the cause. Another sign is chewing that occurs mainly near windows and doors. More symptoms of separation anxiety include whining, barking, and pacing, as well as peeing and pooping inside the house.

Destructive Chewing Is Dangerous

When your bully chews up your remote control, your sunglasses, and a couple couch cushions, you know you have a problem. A big, expensive, stressful problem. The last thing you want is to feel angry at your bulldog, but destructive chewing behaviors can ruin a good day fast.

Not only is destructive chewing stressful and costly, it can also be detrimental to your bully’s health. She could suffer tooth and gum damage, and she could choke. Your bulldog’s internal organs are also at risk if she swallows something toxic, or if she eats something that her body cannot digest.

How to Stop Destructive Chewing

After you identify the reason that your bully is being so destructive, you can focus on correcting the problem. The good news is that there are many effective techniques for stopping destructive chewing behaviors. Here’s how you do it:

1. Take Your Bully to the Vet
You need to make sure that a health problem, such as pica or gastrointestinal distress, is not the reason your bully is chewing. A visit to the vet will help you determine if your bulldog is suffering from an undiagnosed medical issue. If so, your vet will prescribe medication and/or a special diet to cure your bully of her chewing problem.

2. Behavior Modification: The Do’s and Don’ts
Once you rule out health issues, it’s time to focus on behavior modification. Whether boredom, teething, stress, or separation anxiety is causing your bully’s destructive chewing behavior, you should make changes to your bully’s daily life to resolve her chewing problem.

DO have realistic expectations. Let’s be honest. When you bring a new dog home, it’s not a matter of IF she chews up something of yours; it’s a matter of WHEN. Give your bully time to adjust to the house rules.

DO have patience. The most important thing to remember is to be positive and consistent. If your bully chews up your favorite shoes, it can be hard to stay calm. But losing your temper will only lead to more problems, including chewing due to fear or stress.

DON’T be cruel. A few folks recommend some pretty awful techniques for curing your dog of chewing. They advise muzzling or binding your bully’s mouth closed. Not only are their ideas inhumane, but depending on your state laws, they could be felonies.

DO dog-proof your house. While your bully is learning not to chew up your things, help her out by keeping temptation out of reach. Shoes go in the closet. Dirty clothes go in the laundry. And books go on the shelf. The bright side is that your house will be tidy! Once you’re confident that your bulldog knows what is off limits for chewing, you can return to normal.

DON’T give your bulldog old pillows or shoes for play things. It will only confuse her as to which shoes are okay to chew and which are off limits. It’s best to make them ALL off limits.

DO give your bully plenty of chew toys. Make sure you rotate them every few days so that your bulldog does not get bored with her choices.

DO tell your bully “NO!” when you see her lick or start to chew something that is off limits. Then give her something she is allowed to chew and praise her.

DO buy your bulldog meat-scented nylon bone chewies as most dogs love them, and they last a really long time. Use the bone to play fetch with your bully a couple times a day. Playtime will make your bulldog more interested in the bone. And the more you play with the bone, the more it will smell like you, which appeals to your bully.

DON’T give your bulldog cooked bones. They can splinter and injure her.

DO praise your bully and offer her an edible treat when she chooses to chew on a toy or bone.

DO give your bulldog plenty of exercise, playtime, and social time. She will be less likely to feel bored and display negative attention-seeking behaviors. And exercising your bully, especially before you leave her alone, will help her to rest instead of chewing while you are gone.

DON’T chase your bulldog when she has something that is off limits. She will think it’s a game and run from you.

DON’T punish your bully if you come home and find she has chewed up something she shouldn’t. She is not capable of understanding that she is in trouble for something she did earlier in the day. If she has a guilty look on her face, it’s only because she can tell you are upset. She is not looking guilty for earlier bad behavior.

DO use a gate to restrict your bulldog to one area of the house while you are gone. Make sure she has water and plenty of chewies, but no access to anything of yours she can destroy.

DO give your bully a toy box to hold all her chewies and toys. Teach her that she can only chew and play with things from the box, and praise her when she chooses something from her toy box.

DO leave music playing to soothe your bulldog while you are gone. A recording of your voice works well too.

DO give your bully herbal calming medications if she is highly anxious at times, like during thunderstorms. You can find a variety of herbal treatments at most pet supply stores.

DON’T make a big deal out of it whenever you have to leave your bulldog. That will only heighten her anxiety.

Let the Training Begin!

Working with your bully to replace bad behaviors with good ones can be fun. She will thrive on the attention, and the playtime will be a blast for you too! It is only natural to feel frustrated when your bulldog has a setback, but patience and positive reinforcement will give her a much better chance of achieving the good behaviors you seek. You will have a better outcome when you focus on her positive behaviors instead of the negative ones!

This loyal bulldog is warning its’ “movie human” that danger is lurking.

Lookout little girl, something creepy is coming down the hallway. As this brave bullie barks its warnings to its human, you can’t help but think how cute, funny, and loyal a bulldog can be, even if they don’t really need to warn about the danger. It seems like this bulldog is ready to jump right in to the TV and take care of the human. As close as they are, I can already here my mom telling me about my eyes and TV screens…

My mother would tell me, “if you sit to close to the TV, you’re gonna ruin your eyes”. Although I don’t want much TV anymore, it made me think about how bulldog’s have a number of health issues when it comes to their eyes. Being able to recognize problems before they get worse, is an important task for responsible fur parents.

There are a number of issues with the eye lids that can cause irritation, infection, and discomfort for your bullie. Bulldog’s can get dry eye, pink eye, and cherry eye. If you would like to learn more about eye conditions and bulldogs, I put an article together below.

See it here:

The Eyes Have It, 9 Common Bulldog Eye Problems

Summer will be over before we know it, and the kids will be going back to school. For many families, that means overloaded schedules. Running the kids back and forth to ball practice, then homework, dinner, bathing the kids, and bedtime.

But what about the family pet? Making time for your bully can be tough sometimes, and when your schedule gets crazy, your bulldog may have to spend time alone. Do you ever worry that he gets bored and lonely? Do you ever feel guilty that you’re not giving him enough attention?

Taking time out for your bulldog can be hard at the end of an exhausting day, but there are plenty of ways to meet his needs, even when life gets hectic. If your bully is bored, here are some ways that you can bring some excitement to his life!

Doggy Day Care

Working full-time can mean long, lonely days for your bully. But taking your bulldog to day care 2 or 3 times a week is a great way for him to have fun while you are slaving away at the office!

How do you find the best day care for your bully? Here’s a checklist:

Vaccinations. Does the day care require that all dogs are up to date on their shots and parasite-free? This is non-negotiable. You take your beloved bully to day care for a fun day out, not to get sick! A good doggy day care will require that your bully and all the other dogs on site have proof that their vaccinations are current.

Trained Staff. You should expect more than a dog sitter. It takes specialized skills to manage multiple dogs in a social setting, and a good doggy day care will have certified dog trainers on staff. Ask about the qualifications of the day care workers, and don’t be afraid to ask for proof of their credentials!

Emergency Plan. Is the day care prepared for a health emergency? Staff members should know pet CPR and first aid, and they should practice them regularly. What about veterinary care? A good doggy day care will have a nearby vet clinic on standby in case of an emergency. Ask about the facility’s emergency plan, including details for how they would transport your bully if he had an urgent medical problem while he was in their care.

Number of Employees. What is the dog-to-trainer ratio? Every trainer should have no more than 15 dogs in her care at any given time, but lower numbers are preferable. What about backup staff? Make sure that the day care has enough employees on duty so that they can cover for one another as needed. Who watches the dogs when a trainer goes on break? How many employees will be left at the day care if one has to leave to take a dog for urgent care? Are “backup” staff members trained and certified?

Cleanliness. Good cleaning practices are essential in order to prevent cross-contamination among the dogs. Do employees clean up messes promptly, and what type of cleansers do they use? Disinfectants should be strong enough to kill germs, but not so harsh that they are dangerous to your bully’s health.

Facilities. The play areas will be the focal point, but a good doggy day care will have a fenced outdoor area for bathroom breaks. And what’s the game plan when your bulldog needs rest? Your bully will need a safe and comfortable place to relax and nap during the day. Does the day care have adequate places for the dogs to sleep? Are they clean and monitored by staff?

Play Groups. How does the day care select play groups? Are the big dogs separated from small breeds? Are dogs assessed for aggression and matched according to their play style and energy level? Give careful consideration to the way the dog trainers group and introduce dogs. Dogs should not just be thrown together in a play area; they should be introduced carefully and methodically for safety.

Philosophy. What is the staff’s approach to training and dog handling? Good doggy day cares only use positive reinforcement techniques, and the staff should have an obvious love and enthusiasm for dogs. Harsh discipline, yelling, and rough physical encounters are NEVER acceptable.

Communication. A good doggy care should encourage communication between you and the staff. If your dog is involved in a dog fight, you should be notified. And your presence at the day care should be welcomed. Ask if you are allowed to visit and observe play time.

References. When you audition a doggy day care, don’t be afraid to ask for references! Other customers can offer helpful information. Ask them if they have ever had any negative experiences, and what they wish the day care would do differently.

Choose Wisely!

Doggy day care won’t replace quality time for you and your bully, but it can be a great addition to his weekly schedule. Finding a safe and fun doggy day care requires some research, but your bully is worth it!

Environment Enrichment

Did you know your bully can have a happy day even when he’s home alone? There are plenty of ways to stimulate your bulldog and keep him busy while you’re away at work for the day! You can enrich his environment to make sure he doesn’t get bored while he’s by himself.

Here’s how you do it:

Special Toys. Limit your bully’s access to some of his toys so that he is only allowed to have them when you are gone for the day. This will make the toys “special.” And rotating the toys so that you give your bulldog different ones each day of the week will help prevent boredom. Don’t forget that the more you handle your bully’s toys, the more he will enjoy them… because they will smell like you! And your bully will be less anxious when you leave for work if you offer him a toy that he loves.

Music. Stimulate your bully’s sense of hearing by leaving music playing for him while you are gone! Audio books and TV work well too. For an extra special day, record your child reading a book and play it for your bully while he’s alone. The sound of a familiar voice will soothe him!

Hide-and-Seek. Hide a few toys and/or treats around the room. Your bully will have fun sniffing out his prizes while he’s home alone!

Aromatherapy. Try sprinkling some lavender oil or spices on your bully’s bedding. Stimulating his sense of smell is another way to enrich his environment and keep your bulldog engaged during your long days at work!

Indoor Dog House. Your bully will benefit from having a variety of indoor hangouts to enjoy. A plush indoor dog house or doggy teepee will give your bulldog the option to enjoy a change of scenery during his time alone at home.

Pinterest/Florian Lemarie

Nylon Chewies. Nylon bones are great because they practically last forever! Unlike other chewies that your bully can consume in a few hours, nylon chewies will last for weeks. They are also great for your bully’s dental health!

Treat Puzzles. Want to give your bully an activity that he can enjoy when you’re not home? Try a treat puzzle! It will engage and reward his problem-solving skills, and keep him busy when you’re not available to play. A variety of treat-dispensing toys and puzzles are available for sale, but making them yourself is a fun and affordable option. Do you enjoy DIY projects? Here are some treat puzzles you can make at home:

Muffin Tin Puzzle #1. Place a small treat or piece of kibble in the bottom of each muffin cup, and then top each one with a ball. Your bully will have a blast figuring out how to remove the ball and score a yummy snack!

Pinterest/Paved By Paw Prints

Muffin Tin Puzzle #2. Turn a muffin tin upside down on the floor and place several pieces of kibble between the raised muffin cups. Your bully will have to use his brain power to figure out how to scoot and nudge the kibble between the muffin “obstacles.” But when he frees a piece of kibble from the muffin tin maze, he will have a tasty reward!

PVC Pipe Puzzle. Drill several holes into a foot-long piece of PVC pipe, and then firmly attach ends to each piece of the pipe. Use the drilled holes to insert a few pieces of kibble or small treats into the pipe. Now you have a treat-dispensing puzzle! Your bully will be able to smell the treats and hear them rattling around inside the pipe, but he won’t be able to free them until he moves the PVC around on the floor. As the treats are released from the holes in the PVC, your bully will be motivated to play even more!

Good Times!

Your bully doesn’t have to be bored and lonely just because you’re at work all day. You can enrich his environment and give him the tools to entertain himself while he’s alone! If you want to really stimulate your bulldog, you should appeal to all his senses. New sounds, smells, tastes, sights, and fun things to feel will keep your bully entertained and engaged until you get home from work!

Schedule a Play Date

Does your bully have a best dog friend? Then why not let him play at his friend’s house while you are at work? And then you can return the favor by hosting play dates at your house as well.

Here are some tips for a successful play date:

Find the Right Match. Size matters, but it’s not the only important thing to consider when choosing a playmate. Dogs of the opposite sex tend to make better playmates than dogs of the same sex. You may be surprised to learn that this rule still applies when one or both dogs are spayed or neutered.

When pairing dogs of the opposite sex, it can lead to a whole new set of problems if you are not careful. If your bully is an unspayed female, you need to take into consideration her reproductive cycle when planning a play date.

Avoid play dates when your female is in season or in the late stage of pregnancy. Finding the perfect playmate is a good start for planning a play date, so what’s next?

Health Matters. One way to prepare for a fun play date is to make sure your pup’s playmate has a responsible pet owner. You work hard to protect your bully’s health, and you want to make sure that your dog’s playmate is healthy too! Talk to the pet owner about her dog’s vet care. Here are the things you need to know: Is the playmate current on his shots? Does he have fleas? Is the dog worm-free?

You may feel a little awkward, but if the pet owner is responsible, she will completely understand your concern. I like to take a non-confrontational approach.

Instead of asking a bunch of questions, I have a conversation with the pet owner about my vet care protocol. Usually the conversation will naturally lead to the pet owner’s sharing her information as well.

Neutral Territory. The problem with hosting a play date at your house is that your bully is the king of his castle. Your dog may be mild-mannered, but bringing a new dog into your home can bring out his inner beast.

There are a couple easy steps you can take to convert your living room into neutral area for a play date. Make sure you completely remove your dog’s food and treats from the area, and you also need to put away all the dog toys.

That probably seems like a weird step to take for a play date, but toys are serious business to dogs. You can introduce toys after the dogs meet and settle down, and after you have a chance to assess their behavior.

Keep Calm. One of the most important things you can do to ensure a successful play date is relax. It’s only natural to feel excited, but don’t let your nerves get the best of you. If you are feeling anxious, your dog will sense it and will become anxious as well.

Your dog’s behavior will reflect your energy, and if you are concerned, your dog may think you feel threatened by his new playmate. If your dog’s protective instinct is triggered, he will be in no mood to play. So just remember the point of the play date; it’s to have fun!

Start with Leashes. Leashes are essential when introducing your dog to his new playmate. Sniffing his playmate is your dog’s version of a handshake, and you need to give your dog and his playmate the freedom to check each other out.

The leash is simply a precaution in case either of the dogs suddenly displays aggression. Once the dogs have enough time to get acquainted and show you that they are friendly, you can remove the leashes.

Don’t try to force an interaction between your dog and his new playmate. You want to take your cues from him, and he may not be comfortable enough to start playing right away.

Respect your dog’s boundaries and those of his playmate, and let him and his new friend initiate contact and play.

Play Time!

A play date is a great way to exercise your bully and satisfy his social needs. Once you’ve found a good playmate for him, you and the playmate’s owner can alternate hosting play dates. That will give your bully the opportunity to have a fun day with a friend while you are away at work!

Hire a Professional

Hiring the services of a responsible dog walker or dog sitter is another way for your bulldog to have fun when you’re busy. Your vet may be able to recommend someone with a good reputation, or you can check a professional pet sitter association online. In addition, there are several websites where dog sitters and dog walkers advertise their services, rates, and qualifications.

Here are some things to consider before you hire:

Proof of Insurance. A qualified pet sitter will have liability insurance that covers accidents and negligence. Also, if the pet sitter is going to be in your home, she will need to provide proof that she is bonded, which protects you against theft.

Qualifications. Loving dogs is important, but a good dog sitter or dog walker needs more than just a love for animals. Find out about her experience with animals, and if she knows how to take care of your dog in case of emergency. Does she know pet CPR and first aid?

Recordkeeping. A good dog sitter will keep records regarding your bully. She will make notes regarding his health, medications, phobias, allergies, likes, and dislikes.

Transportation. What will happen if your bully is involved in an accident or has a health emergency? A qualified pet sitter or dog walker will have reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license. She should make an effort to learn the name and location of your bully’s vet, as well as the nearest vet emergency clinic.

Outsourcing. Does the dog sitter or dog walker intend to provide all your services herself, or does she have employees to whom she will delegate your bully’s care? If she has a staff, what are their qualifications and certifications? What can she do to ensure you of her staff’s competency?

Contract. Once your find a good sitter for your bully, you should consider a contract to establish the services and pay. This will help prevent any misunderstandings regarding expectations, and also define the sitter’s responsibilities for the protection of your bulldog and home.

Schedule. Make sure your schedule is compatible with that of your pet sitter or dog walker. Also, discuss your expectations for the amount of time you expect her to spend with your bully, as well as any preferences you have regarding the time of day you want her services. If you are hiring someone to take your bully out for a bathroom break while you are at work, you don’t want her to wait until an hour before your get home from work. Agree to a schedule that will best serve your bully’s needs.

References. A good pet sitter will provide you with a list of references, and it’s worth your time to check them out. Make sure that her other clients are happy with her services, and that the clients have never had any problems with either their pets or their homes.

Let Your Bully Help! You should never hire a dog sitter or dog walker without first introducing her to your bulldog. You need an opportunity to observe her with your bully, and see if she treats him with love, kindness, and respect.

Does she appear to have patience? Is she hands-on with your bully? And don’t forget that your bully is a good judge of character too. Watch closely how your bulldog responds.

The whole reason that you’re doing this is so that your bulldog can have fun while you are busy. You want a responsible pet care professional, and you also want someone that your bully enjoys.

There’s No Such Thing as Too Careful

Hiring a dog sitter or a dog walker is a great way to entertain your bully when your schedule gets busy. But safety, not fun, is your first priority. Take the time to make sure that you are hiring a knowledgeable and responsible professional who has a true love for animals! Bulldogs have specific characteristics and needs, and you want to make sure you choose someone who is a good match for your pet.

Could It Be Time for Another Pet?

You and your family can meet all of your bully’s needs for love and attention without ever adding another pet to your household. And if you are already struggling to find enough time to spend with your bulldog, getting another pet is a bad idea.

But if you have plenty of time for your bully most days, then another pet can provide companionship during those times when you are not around. You may find that adding another dog to your family is just what you need to entertain your bully when you are busy!

If you have determined that you have the money, time, and attention to devote to a new dog, then how can you make sure that your bully will love the new dog as much as you do? Well, you can never be 100% sure, but there are plenty of things you can do to help your bully and a new dog live in harmony!

Here’s how to get started:

Picking the right dog. Make sure that you choose a dog that does not have a history of dog aggression. Also, choosing a dog that is already spayed or neutered will reduce the chances that the new dog has problems with your bully.

Respect Your Bully’s Boundaries. It’s always important to remember that your bully may feel territorial over your home, your family, and his belongings. The best place to introduce your bully to a new family dog is away from your house. Make sure both dogs are leashed, and give them the opportunity to observe each other from a distance at a neutral location.

Be prepared to reward each dog with treats for calm behavior. Both dogs should remain leashed throughout the process, and they should be walked in a common area with plenty of distance between them. Forcing an introduction too soon is never a good idea; time and patience are the keys to a smooth and successful introduction.

Respect the boundaries of each dog, and pay careful attention to their body language. If they remain calm in the presence of one another, continue to reward them. Don’t allow a stare down or a standoff. Gradually allows the dogs to walk in areas that are closer to one another until they are able to walk calmly together.

Continue rewarding the dogs in order to reinforce their good behavior, and remember to take your time. If either dog shows signs of aggression at any point during the meeting process, then redirect his attention and start the process over from a greater distance apart.

Bringing Your New Dog Home. You need to make your home as neutral as possible by initially removing any toys, foods, or treats that your dogs could fight over. You should always start the dogs out in separate rooms, and a strong baby gate is the best way to keep them apart. A baby gate will give them the chance to observe and smell one another while being safely separated.

As with the first introduction, time and patience are important. You don’t want to rush moving the dogs into the same space, and you don’t want to leave them alone together until you are sure that they are safe with each other. You should continue to reward calm and positive behavior with plenty of treats.

Once the dogs have demonstrated that they have no aggression toward one another, you can move them into the same space. You should continue to closely monitor their interactions, and be sure to keep your kids at a safe distance until you have established that the dogs are friendly with each other.

If either dog is persistently aggressive despite giving him plenty of time and positive reinforcement, you should keep the dogs safely separated until you can consult with a professional trainer for assistance.

Two Times the Love

Adding another pet to your family is never a decision to be taken lightly. But if you have the resources, time, and attention to devote to a new pet, you may find that your bully’s new companion will help keep him entertained when you are busy. And once you are sure that both dogs know the house rules, they can keep each other company when you are not at home!

If You’re Worried That Your Bulldog Is Bored and Lonely

I have a busy schedule, but I can almost always make time to devote to my beloved bully. Every once in a while though, I have late work meetings, and that’s when I worry that my bulldog could be lonely and bored.

Every family is different, but we all have one thing in common. Sometimes, life can be hectic! And even the best dog owners can have days when they don’t have enough time to devote to their pets.

When your schedule gets too busy, your bully doesn’t have to suffer! There are plenty of things you can do to make sure he is entertained when your time is consumed by work or family. With a little planning and preparation, you can make sure that your bully gets the attention that he deserves.

Whether it’s a trip to doggy day care or a play date with a new friend, your bully will love the adventure! You can be guilt-free and have peace of mind knowing that your bulldog is happy, even when you can’t be with him.

BRITTNEE MCELROY

We have all seen a person with a disability holding onto a dog with a vest that says “Service Dog” on the side. You may have also seen a military veteran walking through your local department store with a dog glued to his side. What you may not have seen recently is a dog in a hospital or at a nursing home.

Whether it is a therapy dog, emotional companion or a true service dog, any dog can fulfill these roles with some training and certification. In this article, you will find what you need to know if you want your bulldog to fulfill that need.

Service Dogs

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a service dog to be any guide or signal dog, or other animal that is trained to assist someone who is disabled. A service dog works with and for their handlers by helping their handler stay safe.

If the animal meets this definition, they are considered a service animal even if they are not certified or licensed and are protected under the ADA. The ADA also protects the rights of those with service dogs to be escorted in public places such as businesses, restaurants, hotels, etc.

A service animal performs actions that the disabled person cannot do for himself. Seeing eye dogs are the most familiar type of service animal. There are other types of jobs that a service animal can also do. They can pull wheelchairs or carry things for their handler.

If their handler has a hearing impairment, they alert them to sounds. They can also help their handler keep their balance. They service dog can go through rigorous training to learn these tasks.

Therapy Dogs

A therapy dog provides physiological and psychological therapy to patients that are not their handler. They are calm and friendly dogs with stable temperaments. They can visit schools, hospitals, and nursing homes where they socialize with many different people. They need to certification by any one group and must take part with that group. These dogs are not protected by the ADA and are not allowed in places where pets are prohibited.

Therapy dogs have many jobs other than just visiting hospitals. They can spend time with children that have a learning disability gain confidence in reading aloud. They also are trained to provide affection and a calming presence within medical settings or disaster areas. Many colleges allow therapy dogs on campus to help students lessen their stress and relax before mid-terms or their finals.

Emotional Companion Dogs

Emotional support dog’s main job is to give emotional comfort for their disabled handler. If a person suffers from devastating depression, an emotional support dog can counter the effects by showing unconditional love and affection. They do not have to go through any training to provide emotional support. To call your dog an emotional support animal, you need a physician or other medical professional to prescribe it to you.

You must also have a verifiable disability to qualify for that prescription. Under federal law, a person must meet the federal qualifications to a disability. They must also have a letter from their doctor saying that having an emotional support dog would be beneficial.

Landlords cannot turn away a possible tenant due to having an emotional support animal and is covered under the Federal Fair Housing Amendment Act of 1988 (FHAA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This allows a property owner to give a tenant accommodations with will allow a person to rent a place to live. A person can also ask for a waiver for the “no pets policy” many landlords have.

If you, or someone you know, suffer from a physical, mental, or emotional disability, there is a role for any dog. Bulldogs make great emotional support or therapy dogs because they just want to show affection. They love to snuggle and sleep and with their calm personality, they are sure to provide the right kind of affection for anyone. Make sure you check your local laws and regulations to avoid any complications.

Photo Credits: Natural Chicken Keeping / Star Phoenix / BroJSimpson

Brittnee McElroy

It’s not rocket science but giving your bulldog a bath takes time and patience. There are many wrinkles and rolls that need attention. With little attention paid, those wrinkles can get smelly sometimes, especially in the summer. You only need a few things to getting your bulldog to smell so good.

The items you will need are:

• A soft bristled brush or one with round bristles
• A mild dog shampoo with parasite repellent
• A bathtub or wading pool
• Towel
• Cotton swabs

Step One: Set a Schedule

While humans need to bathe every day or every other day, bulldogs only need a bath every month or every two months. That beautiful coat has tons of protective oils that are a natural parasite repellent. These oils keep your bully’s sensitive skin from getting too dry.

Choose a time every day to brush your dog’s coat. Brushing his coat every day will help get rid of dead hair and any dirt that he may have picked up during the day. It is a good idea to brush your dog before every bath. It will keep the amount of hair in the tub down and lessen the time it will take to clean up when you are done. The best brush to use is a soft bristle brush or one that has rounded bristles to shield his sensitive skin. Go against the grain first to get all the dead hair and anything gross out and then go with the grain.

Step Two: Suds It Up

You will need to fill up the tub or pool with warm water so your bully doesn’t get too cold. You only need a few inches of water so don’t worry about your dog taking a swim. Starting with his neck, pour water on your dog until he is wet. Do not get water in his ears or on his face; that will come later.

Next, you need to get him soapy. Using small amounts of shampoo, massage it gently into your dog’s coat. By using a shampoo with a parasite repellent, you are helping to rebuild the oils back in his fur. Start at the neck and wash him back to his tail. Use small circular movements and your fingertips to gradually lather him up. Don’t forget under his chest, stomach, legs and under his tail. Once he is covered in a good lather, rinse him off, again starting at the neck and working your way back to his tail. Use your fingers to lift the fur to make sure you rinse all the shampoo out.

Step Three: Dry That Puppy Off

Now you can let your bully out of the water and start to dry him off with the towel. Softly rub the towel up and down to make sure you get as much water as you can. Watch out for the shower he will definitely give to you!

While you both wait for his coat to air dry, you can start to clean his ears and face like you do every day. Use the cotton swabs dipped in warm water to clean each wrinkle. Keep doing so until the swabs are clean then, use a dry swab to get any moisture out of the folds. If this step is not done, you could be creating a place for bacteria to grow.

You don’t have to worry about neglecting your bully if you don’t give him regular baths. He actually won’t mind much at all. By spacing out the bath time ritual, you are helping protect his skin by not stripping any oils that are beneficial to his sensitive skin. Follow these steps and both of you will love bath time, every time!

Photo Credits: Frenchie with yellow duck – Batpig & Me,

Why the feet? Because your bulldog’s paws do a lot of important work! Not only do they walk your bully everywhere, but the pads of his feet also help cushion his bones and joints when he walks.

And that’s not their only job! Your bully’s paws protect the tender tissue of his feet against rough walking surfaces and extreme surface temperatures.

Taking care of your bully’s feet is your first defense against serious paw problems. Here are the best techniques for bulldog foot care:

An Ounce of Prevention Is Worth a Pound of Cure

Good detective work is the first step toward taking care of your bully’s feet. You should regularly patrol your floors and yard for anything sharp or pointy that could cause a cut or a foot injury. Here’s the rule of thumb: if you don’t want to walk on something barefoot, then neither does your bully!

You should also monitor your bulldog’s pads during a strenuous walk or hike; make sure the bottoms of his feet are not becoming raw or irritated. If your bulldog cuts his foot, then you should administer first aid.

For small foot wounds, washing the cut with antibacterial soap and protecting the injury with a bootie will be sufficient.

If the foot wound is deeper than one-half inch, you should consult your vet for advice regarding treatment.

Give Your Pooch a Pedicure!

You always want to keep your bully’s nails trimmed so that they don’t quite touch the ground when he walks. Every dog is different, and your bully’s nail cutting schedule will depend on his activity level and nail strength.
If you can hear your bully’s nails click on the floor when he walks, it’s time for a trim.

Some dogs misbehave during nail trimming, and some dog owners are nervous about the task. If you are worried that you might accidentally hurt your bully by cutting his nails too short, your dog groomer or vet can trim your bully’s nails for you.

Regularly checking between your bully’s toes should also be part of your dog foot care routine. Tweezers are good for removing foreign objects from between toes, and after cleaning, you should moisturize your bully’s pads to prevent them from becoming dry and cracked. Be sure to use a moisturizer that is specially made for dog paws as lotion for people can make your bully’s pads too soft to protect his feet.

Protect Your Bully’s Feet from Extreme Weather!

Walking on hot pavement or sand can quickly cause painful injuries to your bully’s feet. During the summer, you should always check surface temperatures with your hand, and don’t let your bully walk on anything that is hot to the touch.

If your bully’s pads get burned, they will have blisters, loose flaps of skin, and/or red ulcers. You can treat minor burns the same way you do minor cuts, but serious paw burns require immediate vet care.

Extremely cold temperatures can be just as dangerous to your bully’s feet as extreme heat. Repeatedly walking on extremely cold surfaces can cause your bully’s pads to become chapped and cracked.

Chemicals such as rock salt are dangerous to your bully’s feet too; they can cause foot sores, infection, and blistering. The chemicals can also make your bully sick if he licks them off his feet.

Dog booties are great for protecting your bulldog’s feet against cold surfaces and dangerous chemicals, and petroleum jelly is another way to protect the feet against rock salt.

If your bully’s feet are exposed to salt or ice-melting chemicals during a winter walk, you should rinse his feet in warm water as soon as possible.

Happy Feet

You work hard to take good care of your bully’s skin, teeth, and nose; don’t forget about his feet! They carry the most precious cargo, and they deserve extra care and attention to keep your bully feeling comfortable. Pampered feet are happy feet, and your bully is worth it!

Caring for Bulldogs with Pododermatitis

In this section, we will focus on two foot ailments that are common to bulldogs.

What is Pododermatitis, and What Causes It?

Image: Brad’s Bullies

Pododermatitis is the term that vets use to describe inflammation of the feet or paws. It’s not a specific disease, but it’s a condition that can be caused by many other medical problems.

English bulldogs and French bulldogs in particular are vulnerable to pododermatitis. Here are some of the underlying disorders that can cause foot inflammation:

• Allergies
• Demodex red mite mange
• Infections
• Poor grooming
• Hormonal disorders
• Immune diseases
• Tumors/cancers
• Environmental contaminants

What Are the Typical Symptoms of Pododermatitis?

Image: Southwest Veterinary Hospital

The signs of pododermatitis vary according to the causes. Here are some of the common symptoms:

• Excessive licking and/or chewing of the paws
• Reddish-brown staining of the paws
• Painful and itchy paws
• Abnormal foot odor
• Redness and swelling in the skin of the paws
• Hair loss on the paws
• Lameness
• Fluid buildup in the paws
• Scabs, blisters, and nodules on the paws
• Discharge from the paws
• Thickened and raised foot skin that is flat on top
• Loss of the top layer of the skin of the foot
• Swelling in the tissue around the toenails

Type 1 – Image: SkinVet.org

What Should You Expect at the Vet’s Office?

If your bulldog has some of the symptoms of pododermatitis, you should take him to the vet to protect him from long-term foot damage. After an initial physical examination of your bully and his inflamed feet, your vet will perform 2 diagnostic tests.

The first test will use skin scrapings to check for the presence of demodex mites that cause red mite mange. Additional samples will be taken to check for bacteria and yeast on the skin of the feet.

Occasionally, an allergy work-up will be started if an allergy is suspected as the cause of pododermatitis. Rarely, biopsies, cultures, or exploratory surgery will be required to establish a diagnosis.

Is There a Cure for Pododermatitis?

Treatment and prognosis are determined according to which underlying condition is causing the pododermatitis, as well as whether or not there are any secondary infections. If a secondary bacterial infection is present, antibiotic therapy will be required for 4 to 12 weeks.

Secondary fungal infections require medication for at least 6 months, and sometimes removal of the affected toenails is the only option for completely ridding your dog of the fungus.

Image: bakirkoyveteriner.com

Pododermatitis Sounds Awful! What Can I Do to Protect My Bully?

Maintaining a foot care routine for your bully can help prevent some of the issues that lead to pododermatitis. Daily inspection and removal of any debris from between the toes is especially critical. Unfortunately, most of the contributing factors for pododermatitis are genetic in nature and caused by irresponsible breeding.

Therefore, you may not be able to stop the onset of the condition in your bully.

The best thing you can do to help your bully is to take him to the vet if he starts licking his feet excessively and has redness and swelling between his toes. With prompt medical attention, you can help prevent chronic, recurring pododermatitis in your bulldog.

Caring for Bulldogs with Interdigital Furunculosis

In this last section, we will discuss interdigital furunculosis, a condition that commonly affects English and French bulldogs.

What is Interdigital Furunculosis, and What Causes It?

Interdigital furunculosis is the technical name for inflammation between the toes. Most people use the term interdigital cyst, and English bulldogs and Frenchies tend to suffer from the problem more often than most breeds because they have short bristly hairs on the webbing between their toes.

In addition, English bulldogs with splay feet, or spread out toes, are more likely to have interdigital furunculosis. Finally, obese dogs and dogs with allergies have a higher risk for developing interdigital cysts.

Interdigital furunculosis starts when short shafts of hairs are forced back into their hair follicles as your bully moves. Once a hair follicle gets plugged, sweat that should normally drain through the bottom of the foot stays in the foot and becomes infected. The infection then tries to rise to the top of the foot to escape and often spreads to surrounding hair follicles.

What Are the Typical Symptoms of Interdigital Furunculosis?

Image: Baggy Bulldogs

The early signs that your bully will soon develop an interdigital cyst are as follows:

• Color change of the skin and hair between the toes to red, brown, and/or black
• Swelling and redness of the webbed skin between the toes
• Discharge from between the toes
• Excessive licking or biting between the toes
• Limping

An interdigital cyst may look like any or all of the following:

• A fleshy welt
• A hairless bump
• An ulcerated sore

What Should You Expect at the Vet’s Office?

If your bulldog develops an interdigital cyst, you need to take him to the vet for treatment. The vet will most likely prescribe oral antibiotics or steroids, and he will inspect the cyst to check for a foreign object.

If the cyst is caused by something simple like a splinter, your vet can remove it with tweezers.

If the vet determines that your bully has demodectic mange that is causing interdigital furunculosis, he will prescribe mange treatment.

Image: Henri Hopper

In some cases, your vet may determine that surgery is the only way to treat your bully’s interdigital cyst. If that is his recommendation, ask your vet if he is instead willing to prescribe a foot soaking and cleaning protocol.

Although healing a cyst with cleaning and soaking is a lot of work and can take 6 – 8 weeks, it is a much healthier option for your bully than foot surgery.

Surgery to remove an interdigital cyst causes permanent changes to the confirmation of your bulldog’s foot. Recovery from foot surgery is lengthy, painful, and difficult.

After foot surgery, your bully will be prone to more interdigital cysts, foot pad problems, and orthopedic issues.

How Can I Protect My Bully from Interdigital Furunculosis?

In order to protect your bulldog from interdigital cysts, you should help your bully maintain a healthy weight. Most importantly, you should make foot cleaning and inspection a regular part of your bully care routine. Any debris between your bully’s toes should be promptly removed and followed up by cleaning between the toes.

As with all foot problems, you should seek vet attention at the first sign of trouble. Remember that surgery may seem like a quick fix, but it could cause long-term suffering for your bulldog.

Treating foot problems in your bully requires diligence and patience, but educating yourself regarding the foot health of bulldogs will help you and your bully stay on your feet for years!

You may also be interested in:

Eye Care: The Eyes Have It: 9 Common Bulldog Eye Conditions and Treatments

Nose Care: Sniffing Out Trouble: 3 Common Bulldog Nose Ailments

Mouth Care: 5 Steps For Keeping Your Bulldog’s Mouth Healthy and Clean

By: Brittnee McElroy

It’s summertime and that means we humans are generally watching what we eat. You should also be watching what your dog eats. Would it surprise you to know that there are some foods, while healthy for us, are unhealthy for your dog?

You may think that because you enjoy something that it will be ok for your dog. Some foods are toxic and can even be poisonous to your dog. All dogs have different metabolism rates – the method of breaking food down and turning it into energy.

Before you try to feed your bully snacks that aren’t made for dogs, take a look at the following list of foods first. You would be surprised what are good and bad!

Fruits

Apples – While the pulp of the fruit is ok for your dog, the seeds are not. The casing of the seed releases cyanide when it is being digested. The rest of the apple is completely fine and is an excellent source of vitamins A and C and fiber. They are also low in fat and protein. You can even freeze some slices to help cool your dog down this summer.

Bananas – They are low in calories, sodium, and cholesterol but high in vitamins and fiber. They are also high in sugar so bananas should only be given as a treat and not a regular staple of their diet.

Grapes – No matter the breed or weight of your dog, grapes and raisins are incredibly toxic. In fact, their toxicity level is so high that it can lead to sudden kidney failure.

Watermelon – Since it is 92 percent water, it is a great way to keep your bully hydrated this summer. Be sure to remove the rind and seeds to avoid intestinal obstruction. This fruit packed with vitamins A, B-6 and C.

Strawberries – They are full of fiber and vitamin C and they contain an enzyme that helps whiten your dog’s teeth while they are eating it. Give this fruit to your dog in moderation, as they are high is sugar.

Pears – These are a great snack for your dog because it contains copper, fiber and vitamins K and C. As with the apple, pear seeds contain cyanide. Make sure to remove the pit and seeds first and cut them into bite-size pieces.

Cherries – Do not feed these to your dog. Cherry plants contain cyanide which disrupts the flow of oxygen to your dog’s blood cells. If your dog gets into some cherries, watch for dilated pupils, red gums and difficulty breathing. Get your dog to the vet if these signs are present. They are signs of cyanide poisoning.

Vegetables

Carrots – They are great low-calorie snacks that are great for your dog’s teeth. They are also high in beta-carotene which helps produce vitamin A.

Tomatoes – It is best to avoid this food altogether. It can be ok for your dog to eat a red tomato but eating a green, or unripe, tomato can get sick from a toxic ingredient called solanine.

Avocado – It is an incredibly healthy snack for humans but can be harmful for your bully. The pit, skin, leaves and flesh contain persin that can cause diarrhea and vomiting.

Broccoli – In small quantities, broccoli can be safe for your dog as a treat. While high is fiber and vitamin C, it also contains a toxin that can cause gastric irritation. The stalks also can cause bowel obstruction.

Celery – This crunchy snack contains vitamins A, B and C. It also has nutrients to help heart health and fight cancer. It also can help freshen up your bully’s doggy breath.

Sweet Potatoes – This root vegetable is high in nutrients and vitamins. As with regular potatoes, make sure you wash, peel and cook them without seasoning before you give to your dog. You should avoid sugary sweet potato dishes and casseroles.

Green Beans – These are a good choice for your dog that is loaded in iron and vitamins. Fresh green beans or canned with no salt are the ones to give your dog. They are also a low-calorie snack that your dog will love.

Whole Grains

Rice – Grains like rice are a good thing to feed your dog in moderation. White rice is often recommended to help settle an upset stomach or firm up stools. Brown rice is higher in fiber than white rice and a good source of manganese. It is also rich in antioxidants, helps stabilize blood sugar and helps maintain healthy weight loss.

Oats – If eaten plain, oatmeal is a low-calorie food that is high in fiber, protein and is naturally gluten free. It can help reduce the risks of high blood pressure and clogged arteries. It can also help boost your dog’s immune system.

Meats

Raw Meat – Your dog still has predatory instincts and eating raw meat is one of those instincts. It has valuable protein that is beneficial to your dog. You can feed your bulldog small pieces of uncooked types of beef. If you are serving your dog raw meat treats, stick to quality lamb, beef and turkey. These choice cuts of meat can reduce the risk of parasitic disease and illness.

Cooked Meat – Lean ground turkey and chicken is a great meat if you are looking to make your own dog food at home. You can also give your dog cubed or ground beef that is unseasoned. Raw or cooked liver is also a great snack but be careful to limit your dog’s exposure to avoid a toxic buildup of vitamin A. You can also give your dog most cooked fish. Tuna and salmon are great sources of protein and good fatty acids.

Dairy

Eggs – You can feed your dog eggs in any form as long as you limit it to a couple times a week. You can scramble, poach or even hard boil the eggs. It can help build muscle and repair tissue thanks to its level of protein. If you decide to hard boil, you can give the whole egg – shell and all – to your bulldog. Raw eggs should be avoided to avoid excess levels of avidin that can interfere with your dog’s metabolism.

Milk – Like many humans, there are dogs that have a problem digesting milk due to the nutrient lactose. It can cause diarrhea, gas and even vomiting. It is easy to determine if your dog has an allergy; loose stools and excessive gas are good indicators of the allergy. Dairy products like cheese and yogurt have less lactose than milk and may be better snacks for your dog.

Bones and Rawhides

Bones – The general consensus in the veterinary world is that bones, even raw, can severely harm your dog. The bones can splinter and cause dehydration, inability to vomit or pass stool. The nutrients that some say bones provide come from the connective tissue and not the actual bone. The minerals in the bone can also be found in regular food.

Rawhides – There are some small risks that come with giving your dog a rawhide. They can be contaminated with trace amounts of toxic chemicals, it can cause digestive irritation, and it can also create a choking hazard.

Chewing is a natural instinct for your bulldog and can help reduce anxiety. You might be better to select a good nylabone for strong chewers Keep a constant eye on your dog and you can help keep him happy and healthy.

Now that you have a good idea what foods are safe and unsafe for your dog, you may even want to look into creating your own homemade dog food. A quick call into your vet can tell you what ratio of meat to vegetables and fruits are good for your bulldog. The key to a healthy diet is always moderation and knowledge. Your bulldog will enjoy these new treats and you will too!

Comprehensive Healthy Diet: Make Your Own Doggy Treats – Healthy Snack Recipes to Make for Your Bulldog

In the snack aisle of your local pet store, there are many different snacks to choose from. There are meaty flavored ones. There are crumbly cookies in the shape of bones and even ones to help clean your dog’s teeth.

The only problem is these treats can be expensive and may contain ingredients that are less than desirable. Why not make your own at home? You can control what ingredients you use and tailor it to your dog.

Any one of the recipes below is sure to please your bully!

Use Your Leftovers

Let’s face it; Cesar Milan knows his stuff when it comes to dogs. Over on his blog, Cesar’s Way, he gives a list of homemade treats for your dog. One of them is a trail mix using the leftovers you can find in your fridge.

• You can use whatever meat and veggies you have but make sure you rinse off any seasoning.
• Dice them into half inch cubes and spray them with a light layer of cooking spray.
• Then pop them into a 200-degree oven and take them out when they are dry.

This snack would be great for those afternoon hikes or after a short walk. The protein will help your dog’s muscles while the veggies are low in calories.

You can also mix in some fruit but make sure that it isn’t toxic for your bulldog.

Who’s a Good Dog?

Just like most dog owners, you have a box of dog biscuits waiting in the pantry. You grab a couple when you are training your bulldog and give him one when he did something good. Wouldn’t you like to make your own? The wonderful chefs over at myrecipes.com have a delicious recipe for dog biscuits.

With ingredients like whole wheat flour, wheat germ and brewer’s yeast, you are ensuring that there is only good grains in your dog’s treat.

Chunky peanut butter is a great source of protein and healthy fats. It also has vitamins B and E and niacin.

An egg is another good source of protein and low sodium chicken broth will add a good flavor.

• You first need to mix the wet ingredients in a small bowl.
• Then mix the dry ingredients in a separate bowl.
• Combine the wet with the dry and mix until you have a rough dough.
• Knead the dough a few times to bring it all together.
• Roll it out then use a bone shaped cookie cutter to cut out the treats.
• Cook on a parchment lined cookie sheet in the oven for about a half hour.
• Let the cookies cool completely to ensure they harden.
• Keep the two dozen treats in an airtight container and you can feed them to your bulldog for days to come.

Happy, Happy Birthday

Who says cake is only for humans? This year you can make your bully a special cake to celebrate his/her birthday or his/her adoption day. The chefs at food.com have a simple carrot cake recipe with ingredients you already have in your pantry.

• You’ll need to mix an egg, peanut butter, honey, vanilla and carrots together.
• The recipe calls for cooking oil but you can substitute applesauce to make it healthier for your dog.
• Then stir whole wheat flour and baking soda together.
• Then, combine the wet ingredients with the dry.

The recipe says to use a ring, or bundt mold, but a regular loaf pan would be just fine. Once your oven is hot enough, you need to cook the cake for about 40 minutes. Then cool completely before frosting with a dog safe frosting and decorations.

With safe ingredients, you can make homemade treats for your dog. It allows you to control what they eat and make sure they are getting all the nutrients and vitamins they need. These snacks are great for grabbing on the go or celebrating your bully’s special day.

Comprehensive Healthy Diet: Is Your Bully Overweight? Tips for Getting and Maintaining a Healthy Weight

We all have to eat. Our dogs are no different. Bulldogs need a diet that helps them maintain a healthy weight. Overweight dogs have more stress on their joints and organs. They also will suffer from lower energy levels if they are carrying around a few extra pounds. If you are wondering about your dog’s weight, here are some ways to ease your concern.

Causes of Weight Gain

While some dogs are overweight due to physiological problems, there are some common causes. Lack of exercise is one of the most common reasons for those extra bully pounds.

We as humans are affected by this reason also. If you work all day, then your dog is most likely kept inside. They aren’t getting the needed exercise.

By taking scheduled walks every day, you can keep your dog active.

The second most common reason is overeating. You may feel that giving your dog constant access to food is a good thing for them. It isn’t. You don’t need to feed your bulldog huge amounts of food or lots of snacks throughout the day, even if they give you the “puppy dog eyes”.

As natural born scavengers, they learn quickly that a certain look will produce food. Keep your bulldog on a feeding schedule recommended by your vet.

There are other reasons beyond food and exercise that could cause your bully to gain weight. In some cases, a dog’s metabolism can become lower if they are spayed or neutered. This is extremely rare, however, according to the people over at dogtime.com.

There are also hormonal disorders and a naturally slowing metabolism that can cause your bully to gain weight.

Fit or Fat

One of the most effective ways to track your dog’s weight is to take them to regular vet checks. Your vet will weigh your dog and chart its growth and weight gain. They will also be able to help you set up a feeding schedule with the correct amount of food per feeding. Check out this article for a comprehensive list of foods your bulldog can and cannot eat.

Another easy way is to feel your dog’s ribs and spine. With your hand and gentle pressure, feel your dog’s rib cage. There should be a thin layer of fat between the skin and the bones.

If there is a thick layer, your dog may be overweight. Your dog may be obese if you cannot feel their spine or ribs at all.

Look down at your dog’s silhouette. You should be able to tell where his ribs and hips are. The abdominal tuck – the area behind the ribs – needs to be smaller than your dog’s chest.

Bulldogs are deep chested so the difference will be great. If your dog’s breathing becomes more difficult after a little effort, there could be a problem also.

Let’s Get Healthy

If you have an overweight bully, you can help get him back to a healthy size. Consult with your vet and make an appointment. They will do blood tests as part of the physical for your dog.

The vet will also ask about your bully’s eating habits. Once they have received all the information they need, they will help you start your dog’s weight loss plan.

They will most likely give you a list of dog foods that are lower in calories. You will also be instructed to give your dog more fiber and water. You will also be given examples of exercise for your dog.

Your veterinarian may ask you to keep track of what your dog eats. You will need to be able to observe your dog’s progress by keeping a log of what your dog eats, how much and how often.

You may find yourself becoming obsessed and even measuring out an exact amount of food.

Whether it’s only a few pounds or more, your bulldog can lose the weight. It will be a slow process. Some dogs may take up to a year to lose the weight so stay patient. This is all to keep your bulldog around a lot longer.

By following a strict diet and increasing the exercise, your bulldog will be fit in no time!

Comprehensive Healthy Diet: Let’s Get Physical – 3 Fun Exercises to Get Your Bulldog Fit

You have decided that your bulldog’s weight may be a little heavier than it should. You made some healthy snacks for your bulldog to help him lose the weight. You are keeping track of what your bulldog eats.

Now, you want to get your bulldog on an exercise system. Here are some fun exercises to help get your dog back on track to a healthy life.

Hide and Seek

If you personally have limited mobility, a game of hide and seek is the perfect way to exercise your dog. Enlist a friend or member of your family to help with this game.

Your dog will need to know the stay command or it will not be a fun game for either of you. Have your helper go hide in a place that is somewhat easy to find the first time. When they say they are ready, release your dog to go find his “reward”.

When your bulldog finds your helper, have them reward your dog with a healthy treat.

As you continue to play this game, you can make it more difficult for you dog to find you. Add more obstacles and challenges to the game to make your dog work. You can also extend the amount of time your bully has to wait to find your helper.

Come on in, the water is fine.

Most people will agree that bulldogs don’t swim; they sink. Your dog can learn to swim and can have great success. You will need a lifesaver to help keep him buoyant and he has to be within reach.

The water will help older dogs with joint pain. The water will take the weight off the joints so your dog can move easily. All you need is 10-15 minutes in the pool and your dog will be well on his way to a healthy weight in no time.

Make them pant.

Bulldogs are not built for agility courses. You can build a course that is a little easier for your bulldog to complete. By using PVC pipes, you can make a jump that is the perfect height for your bully.

Just make sure that the bar can be knocked off to keep your dog safe.

Tunnels are great obstacles for your dog. Be mindful that the first few times can be scary for your dog because it is a dark and enclosed space. It needs to be wide enough for your dog to pass through and sturdy enough that your dog will not tear it up.

You can find an inexpensive dog’s tunnel at many toy stores and even online.

PVC pipes make great weave poles too. Soccer cones are also great items to use if you don’t want poles sticking up all over your yard.

Make sure your dog has enough room between poles and on each end so your bulldog cannot hurt himself. It should be far enough away from other obstacles in the course and things like the fence and patio.

You want the best for your bulldog. That is why you feed him the best and healthiest foods and treats. You track how much food he eats and made an effort to cut out calories. You buy him the best toys.

Exercise should also be a top priority when it comes to your bully. With these fun exercises, your bully will be back in shape before you know it!

You may also be interested in:

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Mouth Care: 5 STEPS FOR KEEPING YOUR BULLDOG’S MOUTH HEALTHY AND CLEAN

This article will help you identify ailments that could afflict your bulldog’s eyes. Eye problems in bulldogs are serious business. If you even suspect that your bully’s eyes are bothering him, you should respond quickly because good vision is essential to your bulldog’s quality of life. In some cases, delaying treatment could result in permanent eye damage or even blindness.

By: Mary Timmons

#1. Cherry Eye

Cherry eye is probably the most common bulldog eye problem, and it typically only occurs in young dogs. If you see a red, irritated mass of fleshy tissue protruding from the inside corner of one or both of your bully’s eyes, your dog may have cherry eye. Cherry eye is a condition involving the prolapsed gland of your bulldog’s third eyelid. Other possible symptoms include excessive tearing, discharge, or draining from the eye. Cherry eye is likely caused by weak connective tissue, eye trauma, or horseplay.

The good news is that cherry eye is usually not painful, and it’s never life-threatening. The bad news is that if cherry eye is not treated properly, it can lead to more serious eye complications. Cherry eye is not an emergency, but it should be treated as soon as possible to lessen your bully’s risk for future problems.

Credit: By Joel Mills via Wikimedia Commons

Some bully owners attempt to treat cherry eye at home by massaging the protruding gland back into place, but an experienced veterinarian is your best option for successfully resolving cherry eye. Vets have two treatment options for cherry eye. One is to suture the gland back into place, and the other is to surgically remove the gland completely.

If you choose to have your vet suture the gland, you should be aware that the gland may pop back out of place and require additional treatment. Surgical gland removal will prevent future incidents of cherry eye, but it could lead to more serious complications. That’s because the gland involved in cherry eye is responsible for most of your bully’s tear production. Removal of the gland could cause your bully to develop dry eye, which is a much more serious condition than cherry eye.

#2. Dry Eye

The medical term for dry eye is keratoconjunctivitis or KCS, and the term means inflammation of the cornea and surrounding tissues from drying. That’s just a fancy way of saying that your dog doesn’t make enough tears. If your bulldog is not making enough tears, his body will try to compensate by making thick, yellow or green mucus that will discharge from his eyes. You may also notice your bully squinting, excessively blinking, or holding his eyes shut. Your bully’s eyes may be red and irritated, and your bully may be in pain.

Early Stage Appearance – Credit: MSD Animal Health

Dry eye most commonly occurs in middle aged or older bulldogs. It usually affects both eyes, but one eye may appear to be worse than the other. Dry eye may be the result of cherry eye removal; it may be a congenital defect, or it may be caused by disease or medication. There is no cure for dry eye, and if it is left untreated, it could result in the loss of normal eye functions.

Management of dry eye is a daily, lifetime commitment, and it involves the use of eye drops or ointment. Some of the eye medications are used to stimulate tear production, while others are used to provide lubrication to the eye. The treatment of dry eye always requires a veterinarian, and any deviation from the treatment protocol can lead to permanent eye damage.

#3. Corneal Ulcers

Corneal ulcers are one of the most serious eye problems that any dog can experience, and Frenchies in particular are at risk for them. Ulcerative keratitis is the medical term for corneal ulcers. They are incredibly painful and require urgent veterinarian care as failure to receive timely treatment can result in blindness or losing an eye completely. A bully with a corneal ulcer will most likely try to relieve his pain by rubbing the affected eye with his paw or on the carpet. He may close his eyes tightly, and he may have eye discharge.

Refractory Corneal Ulcer Credit: By Joel Mills (Own work) via Wikimedia Commons

One common cause of corneal ulcers is eye trauma, which may be the result of rubbing, a cat scratch, or contact with a sharp object. Corneal ulcers are also commonly caused by chemical burns that occur when a bully gets soap or shampoo in his eyes. Bully owners must take every possible precaution to protect their bulldogs’ eyes from shampoo exposure during bathing. Other causes of corneal ulcers include untreated dry eye, infection, and disease.

Treatment of corneal ulcers depends on how deep an ulcer has penetrated, and it always includes antibiotics that require frequent applications. Treatment sometimes includes medications for pain and inflammation, and corneal ulcers may take several weeks to heal. The most severe corneal ulcers will likely require surgical intervention.

Protecting Your Bully’s Vision

No one wants his beloved bully to suffer pain or vision loss. Unfortunately, something as simple as a scratched eye or dog shampoo can cause eye problems that could jeopardize your bully’s health. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of eye conditions are the best way to protect your bully’s vision. You should always take any signs of eye discomfort seriously, and if you have any doubt about your bully’s eye symptoms, call your vet immediately.

Credit: Nikolai K. Hicker

The most important thing to remember when dealing with your bully’s eyes is that any problem can become seriously quickly, and you should always contact your vet at the first sign of problems. Here are some of the ailments that could affect your bulldog’s eyelids and eyelashes.

#4. Entropion

The two words that best describe this eyelid problem are ABSOLUTE TORTURE. Entropion is a genetic problem that will hit your bully very suddenly, and bulldogs with droopy eyelids are more likely to suffer from this painful and irritating condition. Entropion occurs when the eyelid rolls inward toward the eye, and then the eyelashes scratch the eye every time your bully blinks. If left untreated, entropion can cause eye scarring, infection, and blindness.

The first signs that your bully is suffering from entropion are tearing, eye rubbing, bloodshot eyes, and/or a milky cloud that develops over part or all of the eye. If entropion persists and your bully’s eyelashes scratch his eye for a prolonged period of time, the blood vessels in his eye will bulge, and his cornea may appear to protrude or bulge from his eye.

Credit: Veterinary Specialist Services

Entropion requires an immediate trip to the vet, and until you and your bully arrive at the vet’s office, you should use eye lubricant to protect against eye damage. In order to treat your bully for entropion, your vet will perform surgery in which he removes the problem eyelashes. The good news is that the surgery is almost always successful the first time, and after surgery, your bully will be able to blink smoothly without pain. Your vet may prescribe some steroid eye drops after surgery to help reduce swelling.

#5. Ectropion

Ectropion is another eye problem associated with the genetic trait of droopy eyelids, and it usually affects both eyes. Bulldogs that are under one year of age are the most common victims of this illness, and they develop the problem when their lower eyelids sag or roll outward. The problem with ectropion is that it causes the delicate tissues that line the inner surface of the lower eyelids and cover the eyeball to become exposed.

The drying of tissues that occurs with ectropion can cause pinkeye, corneal inflammation, and corneal ulcers, all of which are very painful. Corneal inflammation and corneal ulcers can lead to scarring, which can cause permanent vision loss. If your bully has ectropion, you will notice a severe sagging of his bottom eyelids, and you will probably see a thick, slimy discharge along the inside of the bottom eyelids.

Credit: Vetoculistica

Your bully’s eyes may appear red or swollen, and your bully may paw at his eyes. You may also notice tearing from the inside corners of your bully’s eyes, and the tearing will cause brown stains under his eyes.

As with all bully eye conditions, ectropion requires treatment from a vet. If your bully’s ectropion is not very severe, you will treat it with lubricating eye drops or ointment, as well as antibiotic eye drops. Unfortunately, the worst cases of ectropion require surgery in order to correct the sagging eyelids. Most cases of ectropion can be successfully treated, but your bully may require eye drops for his entire life.

#6. Abnormal Eyelashes

Several eye problems that may affect your bully are genetic and involve abnormal eyelashes.

Distichiasis is a condition that occurs when the eyelashes grow in an abnormal location on the eyelid, or they grow in an abnormal direction. Sometimes, a bulldog may grow an entire extra row of eyelashes. Even though bulldogs don’t normally grow eyelashes on their lower eyelids, distichiasis can affect the upper or the lower eyelids, and it usually affects both eyes.

With distichiasis, the eyelashes are usually short and tucked deep into the eye socket behind the eyelid. Distichiasis is often very painful, and your bully may feel like he has needles poking him in the eye. The symptoms of distichiasis are the same as those for entropion, and you will need to take your bully to the vet for diagnosis and treatment.

Credit: Veterinary Specialist Services

Treatment for distichiasis depends on the severity of the problem, and sometimes it only requires eye lubricant. If your bully’s abnormal eyelashes are damaging his corneas, he may require surgery to permanently remove the problem eyelashes and their follicles.

Ectopic Cilia are eyelashes that grow through the mucous membrane that lines the inside of the eyelid, and they cause intense pain. Most commonly occurring on the upper middle eyelid, ectopic cilia rub against the cornea and can cause dangerous corneal ulcers.

If your bully has ectopic cilia, his eyes will be red and swollen, and he will have excessive tearing and eye discharge. Your bully may rub his eyes, and he will probably hold his eyes tightly closed and blink uncontrollably. Ectopic cilia must be surgically removed, and most surgeries are successful. However, your bully may develop additional ectopic cilia later in life and again require surgery.

Trichiasis is a condition in which the eyelashes grow inward toward the eyeball. If your bully has trichiasis, you may notice swollen eyes, excessive tearing, eye twitching, and a pigment change in the colored portion of his eye. Mild cases of trichiasis are controlled by trimming the problem eyelashes, while more severe cases require surgery to permanently remove the eyelashes.

Eye Health Care in Bulldogs

Credit: imgur

Unfortunately, some bulldogs inherit eyelid and eyelash problems that may threaten their eyesight. Like all eye problems, these conditions require veterinary treatment, and using a vet that is experienced with bulldog care is especially helpful when dealing with genetic problems. The good news is that you can avoid permanent damage by seeking help at the first sign of trouble.

The conditions covered below are usually less serious than the previously discussed ailments.

#7. Persistent Pupillary Membranes (PPM)

Before your bully was born, he had a membrane that nourished the lenses of his eyes. PPM occurs when strands of the membrane remain on a puppy’s eyes after he is born, and it is an inherited condition. The problem only occurs in puppies, and often the strands break down on their own by 8 weeks of age. However, strands that persist can cause vision problems.

Credit: helstonrampersad

White spots on your puppy’s eyes and impaired vision are signs that your pup may have PPM and will need veterinary treatment. Strands that are attached to the cornea or lens can cause swelling, or clouding of the cornea. PPM can also cause cataracts. Medicated eye drops are enough to resolve most cases of PPM, but if your puppy develops extensive cataracts, he may need surgery.

#8. Pinkeye

Pinkeye, or conjunctivitis as your vet may call it, is an itchy inflammation of the tissue that coats the eye. Pinkeye also occurs in humans, and bulldogs can develop pinkeye at any age. Eye irritation, allergies, or a more serious eye disease can cause pinkeye.

Credit: Study Blue

Eye redness, puffy eyelids, and stringy eye discharge are some of the symptoms of pinkeye. Other symptoms include watery eyes, squinting, eyelids that stick together, and pawing at the eyes. Even though pinkeye is often not serious, you need to take your bully to the vet right away if he develops any of these symptoms in case he has a more dangerous eye problem. Most cases of pinkeye are healed easily and quickly by medicated eye drops.

#9. Tear Stains

Tear stains are most noticeable on light colored or heavily wrinkled dogs, and they are a common problem in bulldogs. The cause of tears stains is simple; it’s the overflowing of tears from your bully’s eyes. For the most part, the only problem with tear stains is that they look bad, but occasionally they can be more troublesome.

Sometimes the constant moisture associated with tear stains can become a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast. In other cases, tear stains may indicate that your bully has a serious eye problem that is blocking, inflaming, or infecting his tear ducts. If you notice that your bully’s eyes are itchy or sensitive, or that his tear stains have an offensive odor, you should take him to the vet to see if the stains are more than a cosmetic problem.

In healthy bulldogs, treating tear stains may be a part of your normal care routine, and it involves two steps. You have to clean the tear stains, but you also have to determine what’s causing them so that you can treat the source of the problem.

Credit: Groomers

Pet supply stores offer a variety of products that are specifically made for cleaning tear stains, and many homemade remedies work well too. Applying a 50/50 solution of hydrogen peroxide and water with a cotton swab is one option, but regardless of the cleanser you choose, you should always be sure that none of it gets in your bully’s eyes. Drying after cleaning is also important, and applying talcum powder to your bully’s wrinkles will help keep him dry.

Sometimes, allergies are the cause of tear stains, and choosing a dog food with no artificial additives and preservatives may alleviate your bully’s tearing problem. In other cases, changing your bully’s pH will help prevent tear stains, and you can achieve this by feeding him ½ of a fruit flavored antacid twice daily or adding a teaspoon of vinegar to his drinking water. However, some bulldogs won’t drink water that has been treated with vinegar, so you need to make sure that your bully’s water intake does not decrease.

Good Vision Is Important for Quality of Life

Protecting your bully’s vision is important to his quality of life and overall health. Many eye problems can become serious and cause permanent damage quickly, so you should always contact your vet if you suspect your bully is having any eye discomfort. Almost all eye problems are curable with the proper treatment, and your bully will be happier and healthier when his vision is good and his eyes are pain-free.

This article is dedicated to Brutus, our beloved OEB and most popular family member for 8 years. Bubba, we will love you and miss you always.

You may also be interested in:

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Mouth Care: 5 STEPS FOR KEEPING YOUR BULLDOG’S MOUTH HEALTHY AND CLEAN

General Care: 5 Quick and Easy Ways You Can Help a Homeless Animal

By: Brittnee McElroy

Believe it or not, celebrities have normal lives when they are not filming blockbuster movies or jet setting across the world. They have dogs that need loving and kids that need cleaning. Here is a list of celebrities who own those cuddly bulldogs.

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1. Jessica Biel

Credit: Buzzsharer

An actress and a mom, Jessica Biel has a busy life. When you throw in a bulldog, it can get downright crazy. East, her English and American bulldog mix, is a bit of a klutz, according to her. She is aware of the health issues that are most common with the breed. She even opts out of flying if she brings East with her. “He’s great in the car. He sticks his head out the window and his big floppy lips flap in the wind. He’s so cute.”

2. Chrissy Teigen

Credit: Celebrity Dog Watcher

Chrissy Teigen and her husband, John Legend just welcomed a baby girl to join the ranks of their fur babies. Penny, a three-legged Frenchie was the most recent bully to join their family. Pippa, also a French bulldog and Puddy who is an English bulldog, have welcomed Penny with open paws. Both Frenchies and English bulldogs have a number of health issues to consider.

3. Reese Witherspoon

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She portrayed an animal advocate in Legally Blonde 2: Red, White & Blonde. In real life, she recently welcomed a blue French bulldog named Pepper. Witherspoon also as a bull terrier named LouAnn. She also paid tribute to Moonie, the Chihuahua who played Bruiser in both Legally Blonde films. Keeping your pets up to date on immunizations is important.

4. Adam Sandler

Credit: Buzzsharer

Best known for his comedic movies, Adam Sandler has two bulldogs, Matzoball and Meatball. When he married in 2003, Meatball was a part of the wedding party. Since then, Meatball crossed the rainbow bridge. He was spotted recently with a white bulldog puppy. Could it be a possible sister for Matzoball?

5. Joe Jonas

Credit: Buzzsharer

Winston is the Jonas brother’s and girlfriend, Ashley Greene’s, English bulldog. It was early Christmas present from Shrink-A-Bulls. Winston is a rare blue and white tri purebred bulldog with blue-green eyes. Upon meeting for the first time, Joe Jonas got down on the ground to play with his new friend. With his Mickey Mouse markings, Winston’s registered name is Shrinkabull Sir Winston Johan Jonas.

6. Ice-T

Credit: NBC

Ice-T and wife Coco have two bulldogs, Spartacus, and his son Maximus. Coco was present for the birth of Maximus and siblings, which was filmed on their reality show Ice Loves Coco. She has been quoted as treating her dogs like family and keeps them healthy with diet and exercise.

7. Brad Pitt

Credit: Buzzsharer

Voted the most attractive man quite a few times, you can be sure he has the most attractive dog. A member of the Jolie-Pitt family since at least 2011, Jacques is one of the least seen members of the family. With six kids, there is definitely no shortage of love!

8. David Beckham

Credit: Buzzsharer

Coco is the seventh member of the Beckham family. David is one of the best professional soccer players around and his wife, Victoria, made her way as one of the Spice Girls. The couple has four kids so Coco has all the friends she will ever need.

9. Jason Aldean

Credit: People

Country superstar, Jason Aldean, brought home Athens, in 2009. She is just as big a Georgia football fan as he is. “I had a Georgia helmet on the floor and she went right up to it.” It makes perfect sense that she loves football. Athens is a distant relative of the Georgia mascot, Uga. He contacted the breeder of the white bulldog and his two daughters instantly fell in love.

10. Rob Dyrdek

Credit: WeHeartIt

Dyrdek is most famous as a professional skateboarder and then for his show on MTV, Rob & Big. When the show started, he had an English bulldog names Meaty and then got a companion, Ms. Beefy. Equally as talented as Rob, Meaty loves to ride on a skateboard. Both Meaty and Ms. Beefy are best friends and are virtually inseparable.