Senior Bulldog Care: What to Expect as Your Bulldog Ages

As Bulldogs grow older, they become more prone to health challenges, and their needs change. With proper care and attention, you can ensure your Bulldog enjoys a high quality of life in their golden years.That’s why we decided to provide you with the tips about senior Bulldog care.

How to Care for an Old English Bulldog?

Caring for senior Bulldogs involves a mix of practical adjustments and consistent care. Here are essential practices to keep your aging Bulldog healthy and happy:

• Balanced Diet: Older Bulldogs need diets with joint-supportive nutrients (like glucosamine) and fewer calories to prevent obesity. It’s crucial to monitor their weight because excess pounds can worsen joint pain and breathing difficulties. We also need to remind you that senior bulldogs have especially sensitive digestive systems. It means that you should carefully choose ingredients and avoid feeding your pooch with a lot of carbohydrates, by-products, dairy products, and chicken. Allergies are common in senior bulldogs, so make sure you ask your vet for advice when feeding them.
• Moderate Exercise: Gentle walks and light activities can help maintain mobility. Avoid strenuous exercises, as older Bulldogs may tire more quickly or experience joint pain. Do not expect your bulldog to run or hike with you even when he/she is young. They’re simply not made for that. A bulldog would rather sit on the couch and enjoy cuddling with you than exploring the outside world. It doesn’t mean that they’re not interested. It means that their brachycephalic skulls don’t allow them to breathe normal during physical exertions.
• Joint and Mobility Support: Bulldogs often struggle with arthritis. Supplements containing omega-3s or turmeric can help. You might also consider ramps or orthopedic beds to ease strain on their joints. Our collection of English bulldog beds offers you practical solutions both for puppies and senior bulldogs.

• Regular Vet Visits: Older dogs benefit from twice-yearly veterinary check-ups. Early detection of conditions like dental disease, heart problems, or cognitive decline ensures better outcomes. During senior age, you should give your best to maintain their teeth strong and healthy. Make sure you brush them regularly and give your dog dental treats. Adding a dental water to your English bulldog’s bowl can also keep their breath fresh. In our store, you can find the English Bulldog Fresh Breath Spray that contains a pleasant peppermint scent and only natural and non-toxic ingredients.

• Grooming and Hygiene: Older Bulldogs are prone to skin infections, so regular cleaning of skin folds is essential. Grooming also prevents discomfort and keeps them looking and smelling fresh. Since bulldog’s fold trap moisture and dirt, we need to regularly clean them by using special wrinkle wipes. The English Bulldog Wrinkle Cleaning Wipes feature natural ingredients that soothe sensitive bulldog’s skin. You can use them daily and after use, we recommend you to dry the folds with a dry cloth or add a little bit of cornstarch inside.

Items That Every Senior Bulldog Needs

Since living with a senior bulldog is 24/7 care, we decided to provide you with the list of items you’ll need to have. these items will help your senior English bulldog stay healthy, fit, and in good shape.

1- Choose a quality English bulldog harness

One of the most important items to invest your money is a quality English bulldog harness. The Firm Modern Harness by English Bulldog Shop gives your dog a spine support and features reflective stitching that improves visibility. So, in case you take your dog outside in low light conditions, he/she will stay visible to drivers. 

Choosing a harness over a collar is a much better option for bulldogs. Since they have flat skulls and deal with breathing issues, we need to help them feel more relaxed during strolls. 

2- English bulldog carrier for seniors

As we all know, senior bulldogs can show mobility issues and can get tired very quickly. That’s why we recommend you to buy a sturdy and high-quality carrier for English bulldogs so you can carry your dog when needed. The English Bulldog Carrier features adjustable, nylon webbing straps, while mesh sides give your dog essential ventilation.

3- Cooling bed for summer months

Since English bulldog can’t regulate their body temperature, you need to provide them with a cozy spot where they can cool off in the summer. Our English Bulldog Cooling Corner Crib  features a cooling outer layer that helps a dog release excessive heat. You just need to place it out of sunlight and your dog will enjoy chilling on it during summer months.

4- Cozy English bulldog bed for chilly months

The Luxurious English Bulldog Bed is one of those must-haves for senior bulldog care. It features pp cotton filling and elevated edges that give your dog a spine and neck support. Since it’s very soft, your pet will feel like sleeping on the cloud.

5- Improve mobility in your English bulldog

Believe it or not, bulldog shoes can improve mobility in your sturdy gremlin. They can be especially beneficial while walking on slippery and icy terrains. Our Non-Slip English Bulldog Shoes feature a durable, ribbed sole, while the outer layer is waterproof.

At What Age Do Bulldogs Slow Down?

Bulldogs typically begin to slow down between 6 and 8 years old. You may notice changes in their energy levels, such as being less enthusiastic about playtime or needing longer naps. This is a natural part of aging, and owners should adjust activities accordingly to avoid overexertion and keep their Bulldogs comfortable.

For a senior English bulldog, it’s enough to provide them with two or three shorter walks. In that way, your gremlin will stay in good shape and maintain a healthy weight and joint mobility. Walks are very important for your bulldog’s legs and muscles. 

In case you take your senior bulldog outside in hot weather, make sure you put a cooling vest or a cooling collar around his neck. 

What Age is a Senior Bulldog?

Most Bulldogs are considered senior at around 7 years old, though individual health and genetics may affect when they show signs of aging. After this point, it’s important to start managing their diet and activity to prevent conditions like arthritis or obesity. Regular check-ups become even more crucial during these years to catch health problems early.

Can a Bulldog Live 20 Years?

Although Bulldogs typically live 8 to 12 years, some reach their early teens with excellent care. Unfortunately, it is highly unlikely for a Bulldog to live up to 20 years, given the breed’s predisposition to respiratory, joint, and cardiac issues. However, with proactive care—including proper diet, exercise, and veterinary attention—you can maximize your Bulldog’s lifespan and ensure they age comfortably and happily. In the end, your bulldog’s lifespan depends not only on your care but also on the genetics. If your English bulldog’s parents lived long, then it’s very likely that your pet will reach their age. 

Senior Bulldog Care: Final Thoughts

Senior Bulldogs need extra attention, love, and care as they age. From joint supplements and orthopedic beds to vet visits and mental stimulation, small adjustments can go a long way in enhancing their quality of life. Keep a close eye on behavioral changes, engage them with gentle activities, and maintain a balanced routine to ensure they thrive in their golden years.

Taking care of a senior Bulldog is about more than just physical health—it’s about making them feel loved and secure as they slow down. With the right care, your loyal companion can stay by your side, happy and comfortable, well into their later years.