Introduction
As a bulldog owner, you want to make sure your furry friend is getting the best nutrition possible. With so many options available, it can be tough to know what to choose. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of top picks for the best dog food for bulldogs in 2023:
- Wellness CORE Grain-Free Dry Dog Food – Our Pick
- Merrick Classic Grain-Free Dry Dog Food – Runner Up
- Taste of the Wild Wetlands Grain-Free Dry Dog Food – For Active Bulldogs
- Royal Canin Bulldog Puppy Dry Dog Food – Best Puppy
- Royal Canin Bulldog Senior Dry Dog Food -Best Senior
- Blue Buffalo Life Protection Grain-Free Dry Dog Food – Best Grain
Grain-Free vs. Grains
Bulldogs are known to be sensitive to grains, making a grain-free diet the best choice. Grain-free dog foods are made without the use of grains like corn, wheat, or soy, which can cause digestive upset and skin irritation. Grains are typically used as a filler and can also cause allergies in some dogs. Grain-free dog food provides a balanced diet with high-quality proteins and carbohydrates from alternative sources like sweet potatoes and legumes.
Wet vs Dry
Wet dog food is a great option for bulldogs because it provides added moisture, which is important for their short snouts. Wet food can also be more flavorful and enticing for picky eaters. However, dry dog food has a longer shelf life and is more convenient for on-the-go feedings. It also helps keep your dog’s teeth clean through chewing.
In conclusion, grain-free is the best option for bulldogs, but wet and dry dog food both have their benefits. Make sure to choose a high-quality product with balanced nutrition and the right ingredients for your bulldog’s specific needs. The top 6 dog foods for bulldogs in 2023 listed above are a great place to start.
Check out our article on Wet vs. Dry Dog Food for more information!
Mini Reviews
Wellness CORE Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
- First 5 ingredients: Duck, Lamb Meal (source of Glucosamine), Chickpeas, Chicken Meal (source of Chondroitin Sulfate), Peas
- Crude protein: 34% (min)
- Crude fat: 16% (min)
- Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars (based on over 6,100 customer reviews)
Wellness CORE Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is packed with high-quality protein from lamb and duck meal. This food also includes peas, potatoes, and dried ground potatoes for added nutrition.
We really like how there is plenty of gamey meat included in this option, which provides what would have been a more natural diet for your furry friend. In addition to the duck and lamb there is also some wild boar and rabbit mixed in.
This food also has an impressive collection of natural vitamins as opposed to supplemented, with plenty of super greens along with other fruits and vegetables. These will all ensure that your dog’s digestive system is in tip top shape and that they will be in healthy condition. Additionally, they have plenty of natural fatty acids from sources like flaxseed to keep their skin healthy and coat shiny.
With a minimum of 34% crude protein and 16% crude fat, this food is ideal for keeping your bulldog strong and healthy. With over 6,100 customer reviews and a 4.8-star rating, this food is a great choice for bulldog owners looking for a nutritious and tasty meal for their furry friend.
Merrick Classic Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned Beef, Pork Meal, Salmon Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes
- Crude protein: 34% (min)
- Crude fat: 15% (min)
- Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars (based on over 6,300 customer reviews)
Although we don’t own a bulldog, we are big fans of Merrick Classic Grain-Free Dry Dog Food ourselves. It boasts a blend of three proteins in the first three ingredients, accompanied by sweet potatoes and potatoes to provide some easily digestible carbs. The protein content of 34% will ensure that your bulldog’s bones are healthy, and the slightly lower than average fat content of 15% will help them to not get overweight.
With plenty of fruits and veggies, your friend should feel great with this food in their system. Additionally, the salmon meal will help provide some extra fatty acids which maintain a dog’s coat. This is especially important in breeds that can get baggy skin like bulldogs.
With over 6,300 customer reviews and a 4.7-star rating, this food is a popular choice among bulldog owners.
Taste of the Wild Wetlands Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
- First 5 ingredients: Duck, Duck Meal, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas
- Crude protein: 32% (min)
- Crude fat: 18% (min)
- Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars (based on over 5,400 customer reviews)
Taste of the Wild Wetlands Grain-Free Dry Dog Food offers a unique protein blend with duck and chicken meal as some of the first ingredients. These will provide high-quality protein sources which are paired with nutritious and harmless carbs such as sweet potatoes. This is a good alternative to grains for bulldogs since they are typically a sensitive breed.
Taste of the Wild also includes plenty of fruits and vegetables along with ingredients like dried chicory root which can boost your pups immune system as well as helping their digestive tract.
Like other foods there are plenty of supplemented vitamins and minerals to ensure that your dog’s coat and skin are in great condition. The natural ingredients will also provide the same benefits.
With a minimum of 32% crude protein and 18% crude fat, this food will keep your bulldog feeling strong and healthy. With over 5,400 customer reviews and a 4.8-star rating, this food is a top choice for bulldog owners.
Royal Canin Bulldog Puppy Dry Dog Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Brewers Rice, Chicken By-Product Meal, Wheat Gluten, Wheat, Chicken Fat
- Crude Protein: 28%
- Crude Fat: 17%
- Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Royal Canin has created a special formula just for bulldog puppies with this dry food. The first five ingredients include plenty of protein and carbs to provide a balanced and delicious meal. Although it should be noted that this is not a grain-free dog food. Puppies can do fine on either a grain or grain-free diet, so if you notice your pup having problems, get them on a different diet ASAP.
With 28% crude protein and 17% crude fat, this food supports the growth and development of bulldog puppies. There are also plenty of natural and supplemented vitamins which will support bone and muscle development, along with skin and brain development.
Owners rave about this food, giving it a 4.7-star rating for its effectiveness in promoting healthy growth and its irresistible taste.
Royal Canin Bulldog Senior Dry Dog Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken By-Product Meal, Brewers Rice, Wheat, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken Fat
- Crude Protein: 25%
- Crude Fat: 16%
- Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
For senior bulldogs, Royal Canin offers this specially formulated dry food. The first five ingredients include Chicken By-Product Meal, Brewers Rice, Wheat, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken Fat for a balanced and tasty meal. Again, it is not grain-free, but we like how Royal Canin supplements their foods to provide maximum nutrition for young or aging dogs.
With 25% crude protein and 16% crude fat, this food provides the necessary nutrients to support the aging process in bulldogs. Owners have given this food a 4.7-star rating for its delicious taste and its effectiveness in promoting healthy aging in their senior bulldogs.
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Dry Dog Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Barley, Oatmeal
- Crude Protein: 24%
- Crude Fat: 14%
- Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
This grain-free formula from Blue Buffalo is packed with high-quality protein from real deboned chicken and chicken meal. Brown rice, barley, and oatmeal provide a balanced source of carbohydrates for sustained energy.
This is our single grain option on the list, if you’ve had a conversation with your vet and are planning on feeding your bulldog a grain based diet, this is the choice for you.
With a 24% crude protein and 14% crude fat content, this food is a great choice for adult bulldogs looking to maintain their muscular build. Boasting a 4.7-star rating, this food has received high praise from bulldog owners for its delicious taste and nutritious ingredients.
FAQs
What should I look for in a dog food for bulldogs?
When choosing dog food for bulldogs, look for high-quality protein sources, limited ingredients to avoid potential allergens, and a balanced blend of nutrients to support their unique needs. Grain-free options are often recommended for bulldogs as they can be sensitive to grains.
Is grain-free the best option for bulldogs?
Yes, grain-free is typically the best option for bulldogs as they are often sensitive to grains. This can help avoid potential allergens and digestive issues.
Are wet or dry dog food options better for bulldogs?
Both wet and dry dog food options can be appropriate for bulldogs, depending on the individual dog’s needs and preferences. Wet food can be a good option for dogs that need to stay hydrated, while dry food can be a more convenient and cost-effective option.
What are the most important nutrients for bulldogs?
Bulldogs require a balanced blend of nutrients to support their unique needs, including high-quality protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. It’s important to choose a dog food that meets these nutritional requirements and is formulated specifically for bulldogs.
Can bulldogs have food allergies?
Yes, bulldogs can have food allergies, just like any other breed. It’s important to choose a dog food with limited ingredients and monitor your bulldog for any signs of an allergic reaction, such as skin irritation or digestive issues.
Buyer’s Guide
Bulldog Macros
Bulldogs have specific dietary needs that must be taken into consideration when choosing the right dog food. They are prone to obesity and skin sensitivities, and therefore require a balanced diet with the right amount of protein, fat, and carbohydrates.
Although bulldogs are not as active as some other breeds, they require high-quality protein sources to support their muscular build. Chicken, lamb, and fish are excellent protein options for bulldogs. The protein content should be between 18-30% in their diet.
Fat is important for bulldogs as it provides a source of energy and helps keep their skin healthy. Look for dog food with healthy fats such as fish oil and flaxseed oil. The fat content should be between 8-20% in their diet.
That being said, we know that bulldogs can sometimes be lazy. Our old bulldog, Trouble, loved to just lay in the sun all day. He only ever got up to sprint to the fence and bark at another dog walking by. That behavior is a stark contrast to our Buddy who needs at least one run per day to keep him from going crazy.
Carbohydrates provide a source of energy and are important for bulldogs. However, bulldogs are prone to skin sensitivities and grain-free dog food options are best for them. Sweet potatoes, peas, and lentils are good carbohydrate options for bulldogs.
Vitamins and minerals are essential for bulldogs to maintain good health and strong bones. Look for dog food with added vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, D, and E, and minerals like calcium and phosphorus. Vegetables like carrots, green beans, and spinach are also great sources of vitamins and minerals for bulldogs.
Bulldog Health Issues
Bulldogs are prone to certain health issues, and it’s important to take these into consideration when choosing the right dog food. Some of the common health issues that bulldogs face include:
Bulldogs are prone to skin sensitivities and therefore, it’s important to choose dog food with limited ingredients and no artificial preservatives or fillers. Grain-free dog food options are best for bulldogs. It also makes it equally important that you look for ingredients like flaxseed or fish meal (preferably salmon) in their food. These are great sources of natural fatty acids to help their skin and coat stay healthy and prevent outbreaks.
Bulldogs have a tendency to gain weight easily and therefore, it’s important to choose dog food with a balanced amount of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to maintain a healthy weight. The only food on our list with a potentially high fat content for a bully is the Taste of the Wild, so if your friend is especially lazy, consider going with a different option.
Bulldogs have a stocky build and are prone to joint and bone problems. Look for dog food with added glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint and bone health.
Bulldogs have a flat face and are prone to respiratory problems. Look for dog food with added antioxidants to support respiratory health.
Bulldogs are prone to stomach sensitivities and it’s important to choose dog food that is easy to digest. Wet dog food options are best for bulldogs as they are easier to digest compared to dry dog food.
When choosing dog food for your bulldog, it’s important to take into consideration their specific dietary needs and health issues. Make sure to read the ingredient list carefully and choose dog food with high-quality ingredients, added vitamins and minerals, and no artificial preservatives or fillers. Always consult with your veterinarian for the best dietary recommendations for your bulldog.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right dog food for your bulldog is essential for their health and wellbeing. With their sensitive digestive system, it’s important to opt for a grain-free diet and pay close attention to the ingredient list, protein, and fat content. The 6 options we’ve reviewed in this article are all excellent choices, but it’s important to remember that every bulldog is unique and may have different dietary needs.
When in doubt, consult with your veterinarian to determine the best food for your furry friend. Remember to also keep in mind any specific health issues that your bulldog may have and consult with your vet on how to address those through diet. Feeding your bulldog a balanced and nutritious diet, rich in proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, and vegetables will help keep them happy, healthy, and full of energy for years to come.
