Bulldog Anal Gland Problem and How to Treat It

Anal Gland Locations

Bulldogs, despite their robust appearance, are vulnerable to several canine diseases and demand significant care and attention from their owners. One rather unpleasant health issue that frequently affects bulldogs is anal gland blockage. What is it, and how can it be treated?

Understanding Bulldog Anal Gland Problems: Anal glands are small pouches located in a dog's anus that produce an oily substance dogs use to mark their territory. When these glands aren't completely emptied, they can become clogged and inflamed. Clogged anal glands can lead to discomfort, pain, and even infections.

As a bulldog owner, it's your responsibility to be vigilant for symptoms and provide proper gland maintenance.

Causes of Bulldog Anal Gland Problems: To comprehend why bulldogs commonly experience anal gland issues, a brief historical perspective is necessary. Bulldogs are recognizable by their loose skin and massive heads. Originally bred in England for the control of livestock, including bulls, horses, and boars, they were even used in bull baiting, a cruel sport where they would seize a bull's nose or neck to bring it down. Bred for their aggression, an 80-pound bulldog would jump, twist its body around the bull's neck, and subdue the animal.

With the ban on such brutal sports, bulldogs evolved into various breeds. British bulldogs became smaller, reducing from 100-120 pounds to their current 40-pound average. In Germany, bulldogs contributed to the creation of the boxer breed, and in the U.S., American bulldogs emerged as the original breed became rarer in the 1930s.

Bulldogs thrived in areas with challenging terrain and cattle, relying on them to establish territory. To aid in this task, bulldogs have two anal glands on either side of their anus, secreting an oily substance when they defecate. This is what dogs smell when they greet each other. Normally, these glands empty during bowel movements, but sometimes they don't fully empty, leading to drying and thickening of the unexpelled oil, causing gland blockage.

Symptoms of Bulldog Anal Gland Problems: If your bulldog experiences clogged anal glands, they are likely to be very uncomfortable. Common symptoms include:

Restless behavior

Persistent licking of the rear end

Growling and biting around the rear end

Struggling or unusual movements during defecation

Strong, unpleasant odor following a bowel movement

Swollen or red anus

Treating Bulldog Anal Gland Problems: Treating anal gland infections involves gently draining the clogged and inflamed glands manually. However, it's crucial to learn the proper technique from a vet or experienced individual to avoid harming your dog. Some dogs are receptive and understand that you're trying to help, but an assistant may be necessary to calm your bulldog and keep them still. Be cautious not to apply excessive pressure, as this can rupture the gland, leading to infection. If blood appears in the stool, consult a vet for antibiotics.

If blood persists, increasing fiber in your bulldog's diet may help, either through pills or dietary adjustments.

Preventing Anal Problems in Bulldogs: Despite their appearance, bulldogs are active dogs that require moderate exercise. Ensure they get around 15 minutes of walking, running, or fetching twice daily, along with additional playtime. Spend a few hours daily with your dog. The frequency of gland emptying is directly linked to the territory they have to mark.

To prevent anal gland issues, maintain a high-fiber diet for your bulldog. Pay close attention to their diet and exercise regimen, adjusting it based on your dog's size. Overweight small bulldogs can develop problems faster than larger dogs. Keep your bulldog fit and active to address and prevent various health issues.

Not everyone can closely monitor their dog's diet and exercise, but awareness of the issue is crucial. If you notice symptoms and your routine isn't promoting healthy anal glands, you may need to manually drain them. Dogs, especially bulldogs, are resilient, and sometimes the issue resolves on its own without intervention.

In Conclusion: Bulldog anal gland problems arise when the glands become clogged due to the accumulation of unexpelled oily substance. While not the most glamorous aspect of bulldog ownership, it's essential to provide proper care by gently draining the glands. To prevent these issues, maintain a high-fiber diet and ensure your bulldog gets adequate exercise. Recognize that bulldogs have various health concerns, and responsible ownership involves attentive care, including addressing anal gland problems.

French Bulldog Theft- Tips To Prevent It

 

French Bulldogs rank among the most popular dog breeds, as confirmed by the American Kennel Club, which unfortunately makes them susceptible to french bulldog theft.

What makes French Bulldogs a common target for thieves?

According to the American Kennel Club, French Bulldogs claimed the second spot on the list of the most popular dog breeds in 2020.

Brandi Hunter, Vice President of Public Relations for the American Kennel Club, explained, "They're incredibly adorable, their charm shines on social media, and their widespread popularity serves as an introduction to the breed."

However, recent news has shown that they are frequently singled out for theft.

Hunter pointed out that these dogs are favored by celebrities and are prominently featured on social media, making it relatively easy for thieves to identify and locate them.

Furthermore, French Bulldogs come with a hefty price tag. A purebred French Bulldog can range from $3,500 to $5,000, according to Hunter.

"People are always searching for bargains...they may attempt to acquire them through alternative means or seek the most economical options," Hunter added.

Another factor is their compact size. Smaller breeds are at a higher risk of being stolen since they can be easily transported.

To help keep your pet safe, Hunter offers some valuable tips:

1.Always keep a close watch on your dog. "Simply placing them in the yard and assuming they'll be safe to roam is a prime target for thieves," Hunter cautioned.

2.Exercise caution when sharing information on social media. "Thieves are technologically savvy and continually evolving," Hunter warned.

3.Consider microchipping your dog. "This procedure is painless for the dog but links to a database. If you keep your information up to date, anyone who finds your dog, whether at a vet's office or shelter, can scan for a microchip and contact you," she advised.

French Bulldog Puppy Dies After Contracting Lungworm- What You Can Do To Avoid This

There have been 16 reported cases of the parasite in Gloucestershire.

A tragic incident involving a French bulldog puppy recently unfolded in Rugby, where a routine operation led to complications and ultimately claimed the pup's life due to the presence of the deadly lungworm parasite. The family, who cherished their puppy named Minnie, was having her spayed when she began experiencing uncontrolled bleeding following the procedure. Lungworm can disrupt blood clotting, despite the veterinary team's best efforts to save Minnie, she tragically succumbed to the condition.

This insidious parasite resides concealed within the heart and lungs, often exhibiting no initial symptoms, making its detection quite challenging. Sian Reekie, Minnie's owner, expressed her shock, saying, "I had never heard of lungworm before Minnie's tragedy. We now understand it's often referred to as a silent killer, and this description couldn't be more accurate. Prior to her operation, Minnie was perfectly healthy and her usual playful self, little did we know that lungworm was silently deteriorating her from within."

Here are some important facts about lungworm:

1. How it's Contracted: Lungworm larvae are carried by slugs and snails, and dogs can become infected when they accidentally or intentionally ingest these creatures. This can occur while dogs explore fields, grassy areas, puddles, outdoor water bowls, or even when they ingest slime from these creatures.

2.The Act Against Lungworm Campaign: An organization is working diligently to raise awareness about the importance of preventing lungworm infections in pets, emphasizing how simple it is to protect them.

3.Diverse Worming Treatments: Not all worming treatments are effective against lungworm, and some may not provide any protection at all. Lungworm prevention should be administered monthly, as treating every three months can pose risks of disease and even death. It's crucial to consult your veterinarian to establish a monthly parasite prevention plan that ensures your dog is fully shielded from lungworm.

Evidence from the Royal Veterinary College indicates that lungworm has expanded its presence in the UK beyond its typical habitat in the South of the country. Consequently, veterinarians across the nation are urging pet owners to adopt a monthly preventive regimen to safeguard their beloved animals from this parasite.

Sian added, "We are utterly devastated by Minnie's loss. We were not prepared for the tragedy that befell Minnie, and we hope that sharing her story will help raise awareness about this parasite. Dog owners must engage with their veterinarians to learn how to prevent it."

Top 5 Best Dog Foods For English Bulldogs

After trying out close to a dozen different brands of dog food over the years its safe to say that I would recommend these top 5 kinds

1.Taste of the Wild Grain Free High Protein Dry Dog Food 

2.High Prairie Adult
3.Natural Ultramix
4.Wellness CORE Natural Grain Free Dry Dog Food, 
5.Earthborn Holistic Great Plains Feast Grain Free Dry Dog Food
6.Nulo Grain Free Dog Food: All Natural Adult Dry Pet Food for Large and Small Breed Dogs

Due to overbreeding, bulldogs can suffer from serious health problems. Proper nutrition can go a long way in ensuring longevity and good health in your bulldog.

We all know different dogs have different needs. So what should you look at in evaluating different food types?

1.Different breeds have different genetic dispositions
English bulldogs are prone to weight gain more than other breeds so it would make sense to reduce fat intake.  Great Danes should have food with lower fat and protein content because they are at risk over becoming overgrown and damaging their skeleton. 

2.evaluate the quality of the ingredients in your dog’s food
- no fillers like  wheat corn or soy
- no subpar meat products, such as road kill or expired dog meat.
- avoid preservatives and artificial flavors and colors.

3.Dog specific health issues
If your dog is having issues right now with something then you may want to add additional vitamins like glucosamine, as they are prone to joint problems.

4. Allergies seasonal or ongoing
- bulldogs are also prone to both seasonal and food-based allergies. If this is the case for your pet, select food free of common dog allergens, like wheat and chicken.soy

5. Adjust for age
My vet Dr. Scheider says older bulldogs should be fed around 900 calories a day, in 2 or 3 small meals. This will help them prevent the health problems associated with obesity, as well as help them avoid weight related hip dysplasia. You should also supplement glucosamine and chondroitin.

Bulldogs according to my vet should have between 10-20% fat, be fed 2-3 times a day

Some of the most common health issues for Bulldogs that can be treated with proper nutrition

• Hip Dysplasia: Bulldogs are prone to hip dysplasia, a joint malformation which is very painful for dogs. To help your bulldog avoid hip dysplasia, make sure to feed him an appropriate diet to avoid him carrying around excess weight. Also, if you have a puppy, limit his fat and protein intake to help him grow more slowly and allow his skeleton to catch up to the rest of his body. In addition, either ensure your pup’s food contains glucosamine and chondroitin or supplement his diet with it.
• Allergies: Like many other bulldogs, English bulldogs are prone to allergies. Medication can be prescribed to treat seasonal allergies. If you have an allergenic dog, you should avoid wheat, soy, and corn products and, if that doesn’t solve it, you should put your dog on a food that contains no chicken or egg proteins.
• Sensitive Stomachs and FLATULENCE: Every English bulldog owner knows that English bulldogs are tooty little fellows. To avoid stomach issues and excess gas, avoid wheat, soy and corn products, as well as artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. Feeding them more frequent, smaller meals can also help reduce gas.

So now you get the picture of what was considered before choosing these brands. Here are my top 5 picks and why

Taste of the Wild, Canine Formula 

This grain-free dog food is sure to please any puppy palate, formulated with real roasted meat like chicken, lamb, venison, and bison to provide high-protein content to support high energy with balanced fat levels for dogs prone to weight gain.

This dry dog food formula is based on a dog’s ancestral diet and high-quality protein sources also support the development and maintenance of lean muscle. These tasty morsels will also provide quality sources of complex carbohydrates such as peas and sweet potatoes, which are not only great sources of fiber but also important in maintaining energy levels as they will burn more slowly.
This formula will also provide fruit and veggie sources of antioxidants, which are important for the maintenance of a healthy immune system and in protecting your dog against disease and infection. Every bite of this yummy food is also enriched with probiotics, which ensure gut health and proper digestion.

Check Price & Availability The Bottom Line? This tasty, meat-based dog food is grain-free and thus great for dogs with prone to allergies, although it does contain chicken. This formula not only contains high protein to provide energy, it also provides great, natural complex carbohydrates to help your dog maintain his energy levels between feeding. High-protein but balanced fat levels make weight maintenance a no-brainer while probiotics and antioxidants help your dog’s tummy and immune system stay strong and healthy.
Get it here on Amazon

 Natural Ultramix Adult Dry Dog Food 

This dry dog food is made in the USA. Although it contains chicken, it contains no wheat, soy or corn so, as long as your dog doesn’t have a chicken allergy, this food is appropriate for a sensitive or allergenic dog. It also contains no artificial colors or flavors and no preservatives.
This food contains high protein balanced with lower fat levels, which make it great for a high-energy dog that is prone to weight gain.

This tasty dog food also contains sources of fiber such as barley, brown rice, and sweet potatoes that not only help keep your pup’s digestive system running smoothly but will also help him feel fuller, longer and provide complex carbohydrates that will give him the energy that lasts all day!
Enriched with Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, this food is sure to keep your dogs coat healthy and shiny while soothing any dry, irritated skin. These fatty acids will also help keep his heart healthy.
Each bite that your pup gobbles down also packs an antioxidant punch—real fruits and veggies provide antioxidants to help keep your dog’s immune system on point and keep you best friend free of infections and disease. Also enriched with calcium and phosphorous, this kibble is sure to keep your pup’s bones and teeth strong and healthy.

Check Price & Availability The Bottom Line? This dog food is a great choice for a dog prone to food related sensitivities and allergies. High protein and low-fat help your pooch maintain a healthy weight while complex carbs help him upkeep his energy levels between meals. This tasty kibble is also enriched with a plethora of other nutrients to keep his gut, coat, teeth, and bones healthful and protect his general health and disease resistance.

Get it here on amazon

3. Wellness CORE Natural Grain Free Dry Dog Food


The grain-free dog food brand is committed to filling your pup’s kibble with only the best, most wholesome natural ingredients. On top of being grain free, this premium dog food is also free of wheat, soy, and corn, as well as meat by-products, preservatives, artificial flavorings, and coloring.
This meat-focused recipe is packed with poultry-based protein to allow for lean muscle development and to sustain your pup’s energy levels. It also has fairly low-fat content to promote a healthy body weight. Flaxseed and fish ensure your pup’s diet includes adequate essential fatty acids, which prevents heart disease and ensures a silky smooth coat and healthy skin.

Each kibble is coated in a probiotic solution for a balanced gut and easy digestion. Every taste of this delicious dog food will also provide your pup with both glucosamine and chondroitin, which not only helps to maintain strong, healthy bones but will also ward off joint disease and problems as your pup ages. Complex carbs, such as broccoli and kale will not only provide your dog with fiber but will also help him sustain his energy levels.

Check Price & Availability The Bottom Line? This all-natural dog kibble contains premium ingredients and is free of many sensitivity-causing additives. It is also enriched with many healthy additional nutrients, as well as vitamins and minerals to help keep your dog healthy and happy.

Get it here on Amazon

4. Earthborn Holistic Great Plains Feast Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

This grain-free dog food is also chicken and is gluten-free. Chicken is an ingredient that owners don’t always realize can set off some serious allergies in dogs and English bulldogs can be particularly sensitive to allergies. Instead, the high-protein content comes from lean red meat, such as lamb and bison meal.

Concentrated meat meals can indeed provide up to 3 times the protein that meat can. Fruit and vegetable superfoods, such as blueberries and spinach provide antioxidant support and contribute to good health and a strong immune system. L-Carnitine is synthesized in the body and assists in maintenance of healthy body weight, as well as producing lean, strong muscle.

This delicious dog food will also supply you dog with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids in every mouthful. Omega-3 and 6 are important for heart health, as well as for a healthy coat and skin. Best of all, puppy parents reported that even the pickiest eaters hungrily wolfed this munch down!

Check Price & Availability The Bottom Line? If your English bulldog is highly allergenic, this may be the food for him! Not only is it grain and gluten-free but it also contains no chicken. This tasty kibble is also enriched with essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and other nutritionally dense ingredients for perfect pooch health!

Get it here on Amazon

5. Nulo Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

This delicious dry dog food is made in the USA. Not only is it grain-free but it is also free of chicken and chicken by-products, instead its protein comes from lamb, turkey, and salmon. A probiotics solutions aids in digestion and will keep your dog’s digestive system balanced and working properly.

It also contains essentials fatty acids for a healthy heart and to create a lipid barrier to protect the skin and keep the coat healthy.

High in protein but low in fat, this dog food will support energy while allowing your animal to maintain an ideal body weight. It also contains high-quality complex carbs such as chickpeas and sweet potatoes, which not only provide the fiber your dog needs to stay regular but also will allow him to sustain his energy between feasts.

Pet parents reported that their dogs ravenously wolfed down the food, that Nulo kept them regular, and that skin/coats had never been in better shape.

Check Price & Availability The Bottom Line? This dog food is a game changer for dogs with a sensitive stomach or suffers from severe allergies. No only is it free of most common dog allergens but it is also enriched with fatty acids and contain real whole ingredients that nourish your pooch while allowing him to maintain a healthy body weight.



Get it here on Amazon

Can You Eliminate Farting In Your Dog?

I hate to break it to you but cannot eliminate farting in Bulldogs unfortunately. Like us its natural and needs to happen. If you stopped it completely they just might explode! Bulldogs especially seem seem to have a genetic predisposition to farting.

There are ways you can improve the situation leaving 2 solutions.

1) Find ways to reduce the gas through diet. Making the diet is higher quality and ensuring that you are not feeding your pet anything that they are allergic to. Check out this article for more information on that

2)Make sure your dog doesn't have any of these health conditions
-Inflammatory Bowel Disease
-tumors
-Irritable Bowel Syndrome
-pancreatic disease 
-gastrointestinal disease
-parasites
-bacteria infection
 

3)Find ways to eliminate or reduce the odor from the farts with things like odor eliminating sprays or something like the Smelleze Reusable Pet Odor Eliminator Pouch. Or you can simply light a match to make the fart smell(Hydrogen Sulphide Gas) smells go away. You can learn more here

Anal Glands — Why Dogs Have Them & What To Do If There Are Problems

Dr Greg shows where anal glands are and how they are emptied or flushed out. Caution:graphic video and please wear gloves!!

Luckily there is a less gross way to deal with this problem!! You can get some soft chews like Glandex 60 Soft Chews For Gland Fiber & Probiotic Digestive Supplement for Dogs 

Ever Wonder Why Your Dogs Paws Smell Like Doritos?

Have you ever had a friend that said their dogs feet smelling like Doritos? Maybe.... you've noticed this yourself on your own dog?

Its pretty common in most dogs. Its a common side effect of the bacteria that live on even the cleanest dog paws.

The bacteria — called proteus or pseudomonas — that live on their paws give off an unusual yeasty smell, much like the smell given off by corn chips. It is also possible that its a yeast infection.

Sometimes the odor can get out of control and becomes annoying to you or possibly a girl you've been dating and you don't want her to think you smell like Doritos. Ok..getting a little off track here. 

Fortunately its an easy fix. Here some easy tips

1)The easiest way to keep your dog smelling fresh is to stay on top of grooming, in particular by keeping the fur between his nails trimmed and making sure his paws are scrubbed.

2)You can try using baby wipes to clean their feet. The sensitive ones(no alcohol or fragrances)

3)Use an anti fungal and anti bacterial shampoo. Shampoo twice a week for a month. Evolution Pets is the highest rated one on Amazon.


4)Dogs tend to smell more or less depending on what they eat. Raw fed dogs tend to smell less most often as they are eating their proper diet and thus aren't having body chemistry balance issues. Infection can be bacterial or yeast/fungal. Diet can exacerbate it, but can also be because of breed, environment or simply just exposure that took root. Check for rash, hives, pimples or sores on the dog's skin. That would be everywhere, underside, ears, back etc.

5)Of course, if you’re finding the distinct smell completely unmanageable, it's always a good idea to get a veterinarian to check for infection, just to be safe!

It's all fun and games until the giant isopods come looking for Doritos :-0 

Learn How To Clean Your Dog's Ears

This is a great instructional video from a trained veterinarian on how to clean a dogs ear properly using vinegar, water and a Q-tip or cotton ball.

In the video she discussed what to use and mostly how to use it.

She does not however explain the ratio of water to vinegar. Always best to make it too weak rather than too strong otherwise it could really annoy you dog. Potentially even drying out their ear and causing a bigger problem.

Gross but good example of what they should and shouldn't look like

UI usually buy dog ear cleaning pads. Then you don;t have to worry about getting the right mixture of solution. They are cheap, portable and disposable. I usually buy this brand of Ear Cleansing Pads .

If your not a big fan of pads and prefer Q-tips or cotton balls there is a premade solution to clean dogs ear with. It has a ton of excellent reviews and is really cheaper than a bottle of vinegar. EcoEars Dog Cleaning Infection Formula can also be used to clean other areas of the dog as well.
 

This Bulldog Prefers To Have His Butt Cleaned Over His Ears

Learn how to clean your dogs ears properly

Everyone has to keep their bulldog clean and tidy in order to maintain optimal health. Some dogs ears can get infected with allergies, so ear cleaning is part of that and should be done on a regular basis.

Unfortunately for Reuben the Bulldog's owner he isn't interested in having his ears cleaned.

In fact when Ruben's owner whips out the Q-tip Ruben turns around and points his butt towards the Q-Tip.

I guess he wants his butt detailed rather than his ears! HAHAHA

Ruben like so many children don't like to get their ears cleaned

Video from veterinarian showing how to clean Bulldogs ears properly.

Think Ruben is as cute as I do? You wan to see more of Ruben you can check out his YouTube channel

How To Fix A Cherry Eye In A Bulldog

Found this great video on Youtube. It really does work. In case you are unsure though consult with a veterinarian before trying.

Why You Really Do Need Flea And Tick Maintenaince Year-Round

There are several reasons why you should make tick and flea medication a once a year practice.

You may be thinking as colder weather is approaching that you might not need flea and tick medication anymore.  He really doesn't need it when the weather turns colder.

Unfortunately, flea are very tenacious and can infest homes quickly. Nearly all veterinarians universally recommend continuing treatment all year long.

Fleas and ticks survive the winter and long after the temperatures drop.

The image below shows the four phases in the flea life cycle.

Adult fleas lay eggs on your dog or cat or leave them in the surrounding environment. Once the eggs hatch, the larvae continue to grow. They don't need to be on your cat or dog to survive; in their larval stage, they can live in cracks in the floorboards, among the fibers of your carpet or nestled in your sofa cushions. Larvae turn into pupae, which eventually emerge as adult fleas.

 These adults are what you're familiar with – black dots the size of grains of pepper that you can see in your pet's fur. Fleas actually spend most of their lives out in the environment, not on your pet. Fleas feed on the blood of your dog or cat by biting through the skin, causing itching and inflammatory reactions.

While extreme cold may kill adult fleas, fleas can survive temporary dips in temperature. If temperatures warm up above freezing, that's enough to thaw out the fleas and let them live to see another day. It takes about 10 days of prolonged freezing temperatures to truly kill off fleas.

 As for ticks, they're as resilient to the cold as fleas. Ticks hibernate under wet leaves on the forest floor during the winter to avoid detection from hungry predators, and to keep warm and moist. When temperatures plunge, they hunker down, allowing them to withstand several days of freezing temperatures.

But as soon as the temperatures warm above freezing, they climb the nearest branch or blade of grass to find a host they can feed upon. If the next critter that passes by is your dog or cat, flea and tick medication during the winter will be your first and best line of defense.

 Flea and tick medication protects your pet during all seasons Most flea and tick medication disrupts the life cycle of the insect in some way. For example, some medications paralyze ticks so that they cannot feed. They starve and drop off the host animal, unable to survive or reproduce.

This prevents new ticks from breeding and kills the adult ticks before they finish feeding on your pet. Fleas and ticks can and do wake up during the winter, and when they wake up, they're hungry.

Why take a chance and leave your pet unprotected from the voracious pests? Using flea and tick medications year-round can prevent ugly infestations, diseases and more. In this case, an ounce of prevention is indeed worth a pound (or more) of cure!

Invest in the right medication
There are a variety of different treatments to prevent fleas and ticks for an entire month, so discover which is best for your pet.

   . Frontline Plus Flea and Tick Control for Dogs and Puppies 8 weeks or older, 3-Doses
   – This over-the-counter medication works in only 12 hours to kill ticks and fleas, as well as lice and mites. It’s also an easy-to-apply topical medication that’s waterproof and provides 30 days of protection.
    K9 Advantix II Flea, Tick and Mosquito prevention 6 doses
    – This medication doesn’t just protect against ticks, fleas and lice, but also mosquitoes, killing all within 12 hours of application. Advantix is safe for pooches older than 7 weeks and protects for a full 30 days.
    Advantage II for Dogs 10 lbs and Under - 6 pack
    – Advantage II protects from new fleas in two hours after it’s taken and kills all eggs, larvae and fleas after 12 hours. While Advantage doesn’t protect against ticks, it’s perfect for dogs who live in areas where lice are a far bigger issue.

5 Dog Chew Toys You May Not Want To Use

Periodontal disease has been on the rise as of late in dogs. Once it has set in, bacteria can enter the bloodstream from the gums and lead to more serious conditions of the kidneys, lungs, or heart. there Dental chew products that when used daily can help remove plaque and tarter. Some are obviously better than others. The 5 types of chew toys listed below do have some risks, and I believe should be avoided:

 #1 – Rawhide: Surprisingly, rawhide sprayed with enzymes are still one of the most popular dental chews. Many veterinarians have been cautioning dog owners about the dangers of rawhide. Rawhide causes problems because dogs will sometimes swallow the whole thing, causing intestinal blockages. They are also high in calories and can contribute to pet obesity

# 2 – Antlers & Hooves: While these products provide great chewing action, their hard surfaces can easily cause a chipped tooth.

 #3 – Cooked Bones: While most veterinarians recognize raw bones as a great way to keep teeth and gums healthy, there’s no question about cooked bones. The hard surface can chip teeth, or possibly splinter when being swallowed which can cause  even worse, the splintering can cause issues in the digestive system

#4 – Fatty and Calorie-Rich Snacks: Pay close attention to the calorie content in dental chews. The positive impact of enhanced oral health might be undermined by a surge in calorie intake, potentially contributing to weight gain and obesity.

#5 – Chew toys containing a large list of ingredients. The K.I.S.S. rule applies here.

What you should use

Grain Free, Low Calorie, Dental Chews in my opinion are the best. This is the brand I have been buying for the last year and will continue to do so.

6 Natural Remedies For Itchy Skin

Many dogs, especially English bulldogs have a lot of skin folds on their face.  This leads many times to issues with itchy or inflamed skin more so than other breeds. Lucky for you we have 6 quick remedies for that problematic skin condition

1.Proper bathing and grooming

Using oatmeal in the shampoo can be soothing and reduce environmental allergies they might be susceptible to. Usually once a week a good ideas. A word of caution on doing it too much though and you could dry out their skin. Brushing you dogs hair removes dead skin and promoted new hair growth

2.Feed them a wholesome diet

Usually grain free dog foods are the best. If not grain free then maybe organic grains? The better your dogs diet is the better their immune system will function

3.Try out apple cider vinegar

Organic raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar works really well. try a 50/50 water to cider mix on itchy skin. A side befits to it is that it'll repel ticks and fleas. You can use it to clean out your dogs ears with as well. Put it in a spray bottle for easy usage

4.Manage the heat and moisture

Don't use a blow dryer on your dogs after a bath. If its too moist in your house consider a dehumidifier or humidifier if its too dry. If its too hot consider an AC unit and heater for colder temperatures

5.Try out Calendula

Made from flowers usually coming in gel or tea reduces inflammation or from allergies. It is also anti-fungal and anti yeast properties. It is supposed to aid the immune system as well. You can get it in supplement or oil form.You can get a cheap bottle for 10$ like this Herb Pharm Certified Organic Calendula Oil 

6.Omega 3 supplements

They will help with your dogs skin and coat.They are also anti-inflammatory Project paws is what I use.Nordic Naturals - Pet-Omega-3, Promotes Optimal Pet Health and Wellness, 180 Soft Gels

Recall Alert: Addiction Foods Recalls Select Canned Dog Food Products

Addiction Foods (based out of Seattle) is is voluntarily recalling select quantities of their canned dog food entrées due to possible quality standard issues.

  The Addiction Foods recalled products were shipped to select distributors and online retailers between between February 11 and March 19, 2016. They include:

Addiction New Zealand Brushtail & Vegetables Canned Dog Food Entrée, 13.8oz/390g
UPC Code - 8 885004 070028
Lot Number – 8940:02Dec2018
Expiration Date – December 2018

Addiction New Zealand Venison & Apples Canned Dog Food Entrée, 13.8oz/390g
UPC Code – 8 885004 070462
Lot Number – 8936:01Dec2018
Expiration Date – December 2018

During testing Addiction Foods identified elevated levels of Vitamin A and slight variance in calcium/ phosphorous ratios in the affected lots.

According to a statement released by the company (PDF), “Exposure to excessive Vitamin A levels for an extended period of time may cause adverse health consequences in young, growing animals.”

At the time of the release there were no reports of animal health concerns. However, Addiction Foods recalled these products out of an abundance of caution.

Addiction Foods advises customers who have purchased products listed above to discontinue the use of the food immediately and return any unused cans to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Questions and concerns related to this recall may contact Addiction Foods at 425-251-0330, or via email at info@addictionfoods.com. Their office hours are Monday - Friday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM PST.

Source: Addiction Foods

Bulldog Swallows Record 7 Rubber Ducks

COLORADO SPRINGS - A Colorado Springs pet owner is warning fellow pet owners about the dangers of animals swallowing small objects after her bulldog swallowed seven rubber ducks.

 Sassie the bulldog had surgery after she swallowed seven small rubber ducks around the same time she gave birth to nine puppies, her owner Lynette Marchetti told News 5 via Facebook.

According to a Facebook post, Dr. Germeroth at High Country Veterinary Hospital said Sassie has recovered well -- but that this incident should serve as a warning to other pet owners out there.

Marchetti said the rubber ducks and anything else Sassie may be capable of swallowing will stay far out of reach from now on for her own safety. Hopefully, Sassie will stay busy with her nine new puppies, and far away from the rubber duckies.

Skin Folds: The Number One Thing New Bulldog Owners Neglect

A Bulldog puppy's wrinkles are usually shallow and easy to keep clean. When you think of the words "wrinkle care," the first thing that might come to mind is a special heat cycle on your clothes dryer. If your heart has been stolen by a bulldog, however, you owe it to your furrowed friend to learn everything you can about the special grooming that this delightful breed requires to stay happy and healthy. While your bully has a short coat that generally needs minimal care, when it comes to the folds around the face, the bulldog's beauty is more than just skin deep. There are health issues that can arise if the wrinkles in your bulldog's face are not properly and routinely cleansed. Always consult your veterinarian for your bulldog health needs.

Necessity 

 Your bulldog's sagging skin and undershot jaw gives them that adorable, concerned expression. But deep inside those wrinkles, moisture can accumulate and create the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. This infection-prone area can quickly evolve into a condition known as fold dermatitis. The wrinkles in your bulldog's face must be cleansed regularly and dried thoroughly to ensure the skin stays healthy. It's easier to use preventative care than to undergo diagnostics and medical treatment for skin diseases, which can be costly, painful and time consuming.

Routine Care 

For routine care, use a warm washcloth free of shampoo or soap to remove buildup, saliva or food from the wrinkles. You can also use a baby wipe with lanolin and aloe. Glide the cloth gently in, through and around the wrinkles, paying special attention to the deep nose wrinkles on the top and side of your bully's head while avoiding the eye area. If your vet advises, use a soap or shampoo. Mostly likely they'll recommend a gentle soap with germicidal properties that can be purchased from your vet or pet store. After the application of soap or shampoo, rinse thoroughly to remove all traces of residue. Dry your bully's wrinkles with a soft, dry cloth. For extra protection against moisture, use cornstarch, baby powder or a specialty grooming powder in the wrinkles.

Frequency 

If you begin cleaning your bulldog's wrinkles when your bully is still a pup, they'll get used to the grooming process quickly. As your bulldog gets older, the wrinkles may become deeper and problems may occur with more frequency. According to certified veterinary technician Kimm Wuestenberg, dogs with skin folds should be wiped at least once a day while Bulldog Voice.com says it's better to clean your bulldog's face wrinkles more than you think you should. The frequency in which you clean your dog's face wrinkles really depends on your dog. For example, if your dog is a messy eater or water slurper, you may want to wipe immediately after eating or drinking. Overweight dogs are at greater risk of developing a skin infection because the excess fat makes the wrinkles more pronounced. Only you can tell if your bulldog's face wrinkles require more attention and care.

Symtoms of Infection 

 Fold dermatitis symptoms include excessive moisture in the wrinkles, a foul odor, and redness of the skin or discharge from the folds. If your bulldog is suffering from fold dermatitis, the Merck Veterinary Manual advises to clip the hair so you can access the skin, then clean the folds one or two times each day with a mild skin cleanser or with a product containing benzoyl peroxide. Dry the folds thoroughly with a towel or a blow dryer set on a cool temperature, and then apply a topical diaper rash cream to the area. See your veterinarian first, however, to make sure this treatment is effective and safe for your pet. Deep skin infections also respond well to medical treatment such as topical steroids, or oral or topical antibiotics prescribed by your vet, according to Wuestenberg.

References & Resources 

The Merck Veterinary Manual: Lip Fold Dermatitis and Cheilitis 

Clinical Small Animal Care: Promoting Patient Health through Preventative Nursing; Kimm Wuestenberg More on Keeping Your Dog Clean and Healthy

The Top 10 worst Foods For Your Bulldog and 25 Of The Best

Every Bulldog owner wants the best for their dog. Looking at those adorable cheeks ho could you not? The majority of Bulldogs have more health issues than most breeds so as a bully owner you need to be on point with their diet .

Below are 2 diagrams that will give you a good idea of what you can and cannot feed your dog. The worst foods in no order consist of Alcohol, garlic, chocolate, sugar, peach/apricot pits, onion, grapes/raisins, mushrooms, and yeast dough.

The best foods in no order consist of apples (minus the seeds), strawberries, carrots, green beans, bananas, cooked squash, sweet potatoes, blueberries, watermelon, peanut butter, spinach,lettuce, chicken, popcorn

Tips To Keep Your Dog Safe For The Winter

When it's cold outside, winter pet safety measures can spare your beloved animal any needless snowy mishaps. Dogs need special care during the winter months to stay healthy. Not only must they deal with the cold as we do, but also snow, ice, and road salt on paws and fur, which could cause potential health issues. When the mercury drops, these eight safety tips can keep your dog happy, healthy and comfortable during the winter months.

Keep dogs inside: Although it's true that Alaskan Malamutes spend much of their time in the snow and ice, most pets get just as cold as we do when outside for prolonged periods of time. Dogs can succumb to hypothermia and frostbite, too. If temperatures drop below freezing, bring your cat inside.
Shorten walks and wipe paws when you get home: During bitterly cold days, you may have to shorten your dog's walks to prevent frostbite or exposure to cold. Use your best judgment; if you don't want to be outside, chances are good that your pet doesn't want to be outside for too long, either.

Road salt may become embedded in the pads of your dog's feet, causing harsh drying, cracks and even bleeding. A dog can also accidentally poison themselves if they lick road salt off their feet, too. Keep a cloth near the door of your home and wipe your dog's feet after any walks.

Take your dog in for a checkup: Make sure your dog is up-to-date on all vaccinations. Older dogs, and dogs with joint issues and arthritis, should also be checked by a veterinarian. They may need their pain medications adjusted to compensate for flare-ups during cold weather.

Learn the signs of hypothermia: Dogs who shiver, whine or appear weak may be suffering from hypothermia. Get them inside and call your veterinarian immediately.

Make sure dogs have collars, identification tags or a microchip: This is a good idea all year round, but it makes even more sense during cold weather. If your dog gets lost, identification tags or a microchip may save a life by bringing them home quickly and safely to you.

Avoid icy areas: Dogs can slip and fall just like people can. Iced-over ponds are difficult to judge; a dog's weight may be just enough to break through the surface.

Clean up antifreeze spills: Antifreeze is poisonous to dogs. A spill can be extremely dangerous to a curious pet! Clean up any antifreeze spills promptly.

Be prepared: Emergency preparedness isn't just for people. You've probably got some bottled water, batteries, flashlights and canned food stored somewhere in your home in the event of a blizzard or power outage. But what about supplies for your pets? Make sure you have plenty of dog food and any medications stored for your pet in the event that a snowstorm makes roads impassable.

When the weather outside is frightful, you can make your pet's experience delightful by taking extra steps to ensure their comfort and safety. Prepare now to keep your dog warm and safe during the cold winter months.