Living with a bulldog is an experience filled with affection, patience, and very specific care. This breed, known for its unique appearance and calm temperament, also has particular needs. From respiratory issues to sensitive skin, every detail matters when it comes to their well-being.
The key to keeping a bulldog healthy and happy lies in the daily routine. But it’s not just about repeating tasks—by incorporating a few smart hacks, you can turn everyday activities into opportunities to boost your dog’s physical and emotional health.
Here are a series of routine tricks every bulldog owner should try. They’re simple, effective, and designed to fit perfectly into your bulldog’s lifestyle.
Establish a Routine with Fixed Schedules
Bulldogs thrive on predictability. Setting regular times for meals, walks, naps, and playtime not only helps them feel secure, but also supports hormonal and digestive balance.
Hack: Use daily alarms or reminders on your phone for each activity. Free apps like Pawtrack or Pet Planner let you organize your dog’s routine and track behavior over time.
Use Walks as a Health Tool, Not Just for Exercise
Although bulldogs aren’t hyperactive, they need daily walks to stay in shape. Walks not only burn calories, but also stimulate their senses, improve digestion, and strengthen joints.
Hack: Opt for short, frequent walks instead of one long one. Three 10–15-minute walks spaced throughout the day are more effective than a single 45-minute outing. Change the route at least once a week to offer new visual and scent stimulation.
Set a Daily Facial Cleaning Routine
A bulldog’s facial folds trap moisture, food particles, and bacteria. Without proper cleaning, these areas can develop odor, redness, and infections.
Hack: Keep a pack of unscented, alcohol-free wet wipes next to their food bowl, and clean the folds immediately after meals. You can also use a dry cotton swab to reach deeper creases. Doing this consistently turns cleaning into a natural part of the routine.
Weekly Brushing as a Bonding Ritual
Even though bulldogs have short coats, regular brushing removes dead hair, stimulates circulation, and helps check for skin issues.
Hack: Make brushing a special bonding time. Use a soft rubber grooming glove and pair it with a treat or kind words. Create a Sunday evening brushing ritual—right after the last walk—so your dog associates it with calm and affection.
Raise the Food Bowl for Better Digestion
The way your bulldog eats can affect digestion and breathing. Eating from the floor often causes them to swallow air, leading to gas and discomfort.
Hack: Elevate the food bowl 15–20 cm using a sturdy stand or decorated box. This aligns the neck and reduces pressure on the airways, making digestion easier and more comfortable.
Create a Cozy Rest Spot with Temperature Control
Bulldogs are very sensitive to both heat and cold. Their resting area should be thoughtfully set up for seasonal comfort.
Hack: In summer, use a cooling mat or place a fan near their bed with a damp towel to cool the air. In winter, place a low-heat thermal blanket under the mattress. Move their bed depending on the season—closer to a window in winter or away from direct sunlight in summer.
Include Mental Stimulation in the Daily Routine
A mentally stimulated bulldog is a happy bulldog. Lack of mental challenges can lead to boredom and behavior problems.
Hack: Create a “mental play hour” every afternoon. Use puzzle toys, hide treats in a snuffle mat, or play hide-and-seek around the house. Just 15 minutes of mental stimulation per day can significantly improve their mood and behavior.
Fresh Water Available in Multiple Spots
Many bulldogs don’t drink enough water—especially when eating dry kibble—leading to urinary or digestive issues.
Hack: Place small water bowls in different areas of the house, not just the kitchen. Add a few drops of unsalted broth to make water more appealing. On hot days, offer ice cubes with shredded carrot for a refreshing, hydrating treat.
Weekly Weight and Skin Check
Bulldogs can gain weight without you noticing, and skin issues can progress quickly if untreated.
Hack: Set a “quick check-up” every Sunday. Weigh your dog (if possible), check the belly, paws, folds, and ears. Use a notebook or app to record changes like hair loss or red spots. This habit helps you catch problems early before they become serious.
Create a Calming Nighttime Routine
A good night’s sleep is vital for your bulldog’s health. A relaxing bedtime routine can help them wind down and rest better.
Hack: 30 minutes before bed, turn off the TV, dim the lights, and play calming music. Gently pet your dog or leave their favorite toy near the bed. If they suffer from anxiety, place one of your worn T-shirts in their bed to help them feel more secure.
Stay Flexible, but Consistent
Consistency is key—but flexibility is also necessary. Some days the routine may change due to travel, visitors, or bad weather.
Hack: Always have a “Plan B.” If you can’t go for a walk, do a nose-work game indoors. If you miss brushing, do a quick visual check. The idea is to maintain structure even when the details shift. This helps your bulldog feel stable and cared for.
A Well-Cared-For Bulldog Lives Better
Incorporating these routine hacks into your bulldog’s life not only improves their quality of life but also strengthens your bond. With small daily actions, you can prevent health issues, support emotional well-being, and become the best possible caretaker.
Most importantly, observe your dog, learn their preferences, and adapt routines to suit their personality. What’s boring for one dog could be the highlight of the day for another. Your attention and love are what truly make the difference.