Bulldogs are known for being affectionate, calm, and extremely loyal, but they’re also one of the breeds with the most special needs. From respiratory issues to skin irritations and a tendency toward obesity, this breed requires constant attention and smart decisions from its caretakers.
However, not everything has to be complicated or expensive. With a bit of observation, love, and creativity, it’s possible to prevent and solve the most common problems that affect bulldogs. Here are practical, accessible, and effective solutions you can apply right at home.
Problem 1: Breathing difficulties
Bulldogs have a brachycephalic facial structure, meaning they have short muzzles and narrower airways. This makes them prone to snoring, excessive panting, and overheating.
Creative solution: Adapt their environment to help them breathe more easily. Use rotating tower fans to improve airflow and avoid walks during the hottest times of day. At home, place their bed in a cool, well-ventilated area. You can also slightly elevate the head of their bed with a firm pillow to help them sleep more comfortably and breathe with less effort.
Problem 2: Obesity
Bulldogs gain weight easily, especially if they live a sedentary lifestyle. Excess weight can worsen respiratory, joint, and digestive problems.
Creative solution: Use interactive feeders or “slow feeders” that make your dog eat more slowly and in smaller amounts. You can also use treat-dispensing balls so they have to move around to get their food. These tools turn every meal into a mini exercise and mental stimulation session.
Problem 3: Skin fold irritation
The adorable wrinkles on a bulldog’s face and body can trap moisture, dirt, and bacteria, leading to infections and unpleasant odors.
Creative solution: Turn daily wrinkle cleaning into a positive experience. Use pet-safe wipes and store them in a decorative container near their resting area to help you remember. Create a weekly “spa” routine where you clean, dry, and apply a natural barrier cream (like calendula balm). Pair it with treats or cuddles so your bulldog sees it as a pleasant routine.
Problem 4: Separation anxiety
Bulldogs are very attached to their humans and may suffer from anxiety when left alone at home.
Creative solution: Prepare a “calm box” for when you need to leave. It can include their favorite toy, an item of your clothing with your scent, a plush toy, and a frozen natural snack. You can also leave a playlist of calming dog music playing. Studies show that certain rhythms reduce stress levels in pets.
Problem 5: Lack of interest in exercise
Although they’re playful, bulldogs aren’t always motivated to move, which can worsen issues like obesity or lack of mental stimulation.
Creative solution: Turn exercise into an adventure. Create a mini indoor obstacle course with pillows, tunnels, boxes, and low hurdles, guiding them through it with a treat or toy. Do it for 10 minutes a day. Also, find quiet, shady spots for short but frequent walks. Consistency matters more than intensity.
Problem 6: Joint problems
Bulldogs, especially when older or overweight, can develop discomfort in their elbows, hips, or knees.
Creative solution: Replace their regular bed with an orthopedic memory foam one. These beds distribute body weight better and reduce pressure on joints. If you can’t buy one, make a homemade version using an old yoga mat topped with a thick blanket. Ensure it’s placed in a warm, accessible area.
Problem 7: Frequent flatulence
Bulldogs often suffer from gas, usually due to their diet or the way they eat.
Creative solution: Check if they’re swallowing too much air when eating. To prevent this, raise their food bowl 15–20 cm using a stand or base. Switch their food to more digestible proteins like lamb or salmon, and reduce grains. You can also add a small spoon of plain, unsweetened yogurt to improve gut health.
Problem 8: Ear infections
Bulldogs’ droopy, closed ears easily trap moisture and dirt.
Creative solution: After baths or rainy walks, dry their ears with a soft cloth and let them lie on their side while listening to music. This keeps them calm while you gently clean their ears with gauze and pet-safe ear solution. Never use cotton swabs, as they can push debris further in.
Problem 9: Poor hydration
Many bulldogs don’t drink enough water, especially in mild weather or when eating dry food.
Creative solution: Place several small water bowls around the house and change the water frequently to keep it fresh. Add a splash of natural chicken broth (unsalted, unseasoned) to make it more appealing. Some owners also use automatic pet fountains that keep the water flowing, which encourages more drinking.
Problem 10: Boredom and destructive behavior
Boredom can lead bulldogs to act out—chewing furniture, crying, or barking excessively.
Creative solution: Rotate their toys every three days so they feel “new.” You can also make homemade toys using empty (capless) plastic bottles, old socks, or toilet paper rolls stuffed with treats. Spend at least 10 minutes a day playing together, and you’ll see a big improvement in their overall behavior.
A Healthy Bulldog Is a Happy Bulldog
Knowing your bulldog’s most common issues is just the first step. Applying creative, tailored solutions is what really makes the difference. You don’t need to be an expert or spend a fortune—just observe, care, and commit. With a bit of love and imagination, you can give your bulldog a fuller, healthier, and happier life.