Do English Bulldogs Shed? A Bulldog Dad's Guide

Hey Bulldog Dads,

It's Lee here, back with another tail-wagging story from my life with Luna, our adorable English Bulldog. Today, we're tackling a question that often leaves many bulldog parents scratching their heads (and maybe sweeping their floors): Do English Bulldogs shed?

Do English Bulldogs Shed?

Let's clear the air: Yes, English Bulldogs do shed. But before you start imagining a home covered in dog hair, let me share some insights. Despite their short, smooth coat, bulldogs shed just like any other breed, but with a few twists.

My english bulldog is shedding like crazy 🤯

Seasonal Shedding: What to Expect

Firstly, understand that bulldogs experience seasonal shedding. During spring and fall, Luna, like many of her bulldog buddies, begins to shed more. This is her body's natural way of preparing for the changing weather.

Shedding Intensity: A Bulldog’s Perspective

Now, if you're wondering about the intensity of shedding, here’s the scoop: it's usually moderate. Not as intense as some breeds, but definitely not negligible. Luna's shedding phase involves a fair amount of hair, but nothing that a good grooming routine can't handle.

According to the American Kennel Club, Bulldogs are rated 3 out of 5 on the scale from 'no shedding' to 'hair everywhere', so urr you cannot argue with the science.

The coat, seen in a variety of colors and patterns, is short, smooth, and glossy. – American Kennel Club

Although, according to the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) studies have shown that dogs can shed excessively, let's take a look at the common reasons:

• Cancer
• Immunocompromised
• Parasites like fleas, lice or mites
• Fungal or bacterial infections
• Pregnancy or lactation
• Alergies or interolerants
• Kidney, liver, thyroid or adrenal disease
• Certain medications
• Poor nutrition
• Self inflictions like licking themselves too much

The good news is the majority of these can be prevented by taking good care of your Bulldog's health as well as taking a DNA test to understand the triggers for excessive shedding. The UK Kennel Club advises this for Bulldogs.

Grooming Tips for Managing Bulldog Shedding

Speaking of grooming, let's dive into some tips that have been game-changers for Luna and me:

1. Regular Brushing: I use a rubber grooming glove or a soft bristle brush on Luna. This not only removes loose hair but also distributes skin oils throughout her coat, keeping it healthy.
2. Bathing Routine: Bulldogs benefit from occasional baths. I make sure Luna gets a bath every few weeks with a gentle dog shampoo to keep her coat clean and reduce shedding.
3. Diet and Supplements: A well-balanced diet can impact your bulldog's coat. I include omega fatty acids in Luna's diet, which helps in maintaining her coat's luster and health.
4. Veterinary Check-ups: Regular check-ups are crucial. Sometimes excessive shedding can be a sign of underlying health issues.

Creating a Bulldog-Friendly Home

To keep our home comfortable and fur-free, I’ve adopted some handy practices:

• Invest in a good vacuum cleaner specifically for pet hair.
• Use washable throw rugs and furniture covers.
• Keep a lint roller handy for quick clean-ups.

Wrapping Up: Shedding is Part of the Bulldog Charm

So, Bulldog Dads, while English Bulldogs do shed, it's nothing to worry about. With the right care and grooming, managing shedding is a breeze. It's all part of the joy of having these lovable, wrinkly companions in our lives.

I’d love to hear your stories and tips on managing bulldog shedding. Drop a comment below and let’s share our experiences!