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Adapting the Lifestyle of Your Aging Bulldog

27/7/2024

Years ago, I rushed one of my aging girls to the vet because of her persistent cough. Concerned it might be pneumonia, I prepared for the worst and an overnight stay. Thankfully, my vet, known for his practical approach, performed an X-ray while she was awake and diagnosed her with a manageable heart condition. It was a relief! What surprised us both was the discovery of full arthritis in her spine, despite her trotting in and wagging her tail happily. I mentioned she'd been on a Golden Paste, a turmeric supplement, for 18 months, and he exclaimed we absolutely must continue because it seemed remarkably effective!

All dogs need extra care as they age. But Bulldogs, in my experience, can seem to age almost overnight. Therefore, maintaining their activity levels is vital for their overall health and happiness. In this blog, we'll delve into why keeping Bulldogs active is so crucial and ways you can support their mobility and comfort.

★ The Importance of Keeping Bulldogs Active

Bulldogs may not be the most energetic breed. Still, regular exercise is vital to prevent obesity, support joint health and maintain muscle tone (the breed standard states that a firm muscular condition is highly desirable). Here are some reasons why keeping your Bulldog active is essential:

Weight Management: Aging Bulldogs, particularly when spayed or neutered, are prone to weight gain which leads to numerous health issues, including joint problems. Regular exercise helps keep their weight in check, reduces joint stress, and improves overall health. If you kibble feed, consider switching to a high quality senior food that tends to be lower in calories with additional joint aid supplements.
Joint Health: Aging dogs can be susceptible to joint issues such as hip dysplasia and arthritis. Keeping them active helps maintain joint flexibility and strength, reducing the risk of these conditions.
Mental Stimulation: Exercise isn't just about physical health; it's also crucial for mental well-being. Engaging activities, including basic training commands, scent games, and playtime, keep your Bulldog mentally stimulated whilst reducing boredom and promoting a happier demeanour. If your Bulldog does a lot of 'zoomies,' they’re telling you they want more exercise and engagement.
Cardiovascular Health: Regular physical activity supports heart health, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Even moderate walking can significantly benefit your Bulldog's heart and overall longevity. Raw garlic also has a huge benefit in helping blood flow around the body and improving cardiovascular condition.

★ Recommended Activities for Bulldogs

While Bulldogs don't require intense exercise, incorporating moderate activities into their daily routine can make a big difference…

Short Walks: Daily walks of 15-30 minutes help keep your Bulldog active without overexertion. Ageing Bulldogs can develop BOAS (Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome) in their later years as their throat muscles lose elasticity, making previously-manageable-exercise-sessions more challenging. Always avoid walking during the hottest parts of the day to prevent overheating. Cooling down effectively also becomes more difficult with age.

Interactive Play: Engage with toys and encouraging movements, such as tug-of-war ropes for physical exercise or lickimats for mental stimulation.
Hydrotherapy: Many dogs enjoy swimming, which isn't always beneficial for Bulldogs due to their front-heavy body, short muzzle, and necks. However, a water treadmill is a great alternative where the water depth can be suitably adjusted for the correct buoyancy whilst offering low-impact exercise that's easy on the joints. It also builds muscle strength and provides a great break from a fixed routine, offering mental engagement. Also avoiding full water immersion helps keep any tail pockets dry and help prevent infections.

Rissa Recuperating from Injury in a Water Treadmill (2023)

★ Joint Supplements for Bulldogs

As Bulldogs age, they may benefit from joint supplements to support their mobility and reduce discomfort. Here are some of my highly recommended joint supplements:

Turmeric: Top of my list is The Golden Paste Co., which offers the correct blend of turmeric containing curcumin, a natural anti-inflammatory. It must be given every 12 hours to be effective, so you'll need to feed your dog twice daily (which I strongly recommend), The Golden Paste Co.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce joint pain and inflammation. Fish oil supplements are a great source of omega-3s for dogs. Krill oil is believed to be the best quality fish oil and most effective for dogs.
Green-Lipped Mussel: This supplement is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin, making it a powerful option for joint support. Joint Plus Pro by Riaflex is an extremely popular brand.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin: These supplements help maintain healthy cartilage and support joint function. They are commonly used to manage arthritis and other joint conditions in dogs. Often paired with MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) as it is also known for its anti-inflammatory benefits and can help improve joint flexibility and reduce pain. Riaflex offer a specific Joint Plus product.

★ Conclusion

Keep an eye on your Bulldog aging, so you can take proactive measures to help your Bulldog live a long, healthy, and joyful life! Always consult your vet or a canine nutritionist if you are concerned about the impacts of any supplements.

Treat Your Aging Bulldog Like Royalty: Essential Tips for Their Golden Years

1/7/2024

I'm sure you know "The Princess and the Pea" fairy tale?

If you don’t, it's about a young woman whose sensitivity tests her royal identity. One stormy night, a bedraggled girl arrives at a castle, claiming to be a princess seeking shelter. To test her authenticity, the queen places a pea under twenty mattresses and twenty featherbeds where the girl is to sleep. Despite the plush bedding, the girl spends a restless night, feeling the discomfort of the pea. Her sensitivity confirms her royal status, as only an actual princess could be so delicate, leading to her acceptance and marriage to the prince.

But as our Bulldogs age, they become the Princess in the fairy tale. It becomes crucial to monitor their health closely and make necessary adjustments to ensure they remain comfortable and happy. Like all senior dogs, ageing Bulldogs can experience various age-related issues that may require changes in their care routine. These small changes can significantly impact their well-being, from softer bedding to dietary adjustments. So, given the fairy tale, let's look at bedding first!

Comfort and Bedding

One of the first things to consider is their sleeping arrangement. As dogs age, they can develop bald spots on pressure points, joint pain, and arthritis, making it crucial to provide a comfortable place to rest.

Softer Bedding: Investing in a high-quality orthopaedic bed can help alleviate pressure on their joints and prevent calluses. Look for beds with memory foam or other supportive materials that can cushion their body and offer extra comfort. I like Meg Beds as they are wipeable and have a raised edge.
Elevated Beds: For Bulldogs with severe joint pain, an elevated bed can make it easier to get in and out without straining their legs.
Raised Edged Beds: Bulldogs can develop Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) with age. A rimmed bed allows the dog to rest and sleep with their head elevated, helping to avoid sleep apnea.

Diet & Nutrition

As Bulldogs age, their dietary needs change. Ensuring they get the right nutrition is vital for maintaining their health and preventing common issues like obesity and digestive problems.

Softer Food: Senior Bulldogs may have difficulty chewing hard foods and kibble, which then become a choking hazard. Transitioning to softer food, whether wet food or moistened dry food (my top tip is moistening with bone broth), can make eating easier and safer for them. This also helps alleviate constipation, a common issue in older dogs.
Senior Dog Food: Consider switching to a specially formulated senior dog food that provides the right balance of nutrients for aging dogs. These foods often contain added joint support supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin.

Joint Care & Mobility

Joint issues are common in senior Bulldogs, so it's important to take steps to support their mobility and ease any discomfort they may experience.

Regular Exercise: While your Bulldog may not be as spry as they once were, regular gentle exercise is still important. Short, frequent walks can help keep their joints flexible and maintain a healthy weight.

Joint Supplements: Supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids can support joint health and reduce inflammation.

Grooming & Hygiene

Maintaining proper grooming and hygiene becomes crucial for the health of your senior Bulldog. As they age, their skin and coat may require additional care.

Regular Baths: Older Bulldogs may benefit from more frequent baths to keep their skin clean and free from irritants. Use a gentle, moisturising shampoo to prevent dry skin.
Nail Trimming: Senior Bulldogs may be less active, leading to overgrown nails that can cause discomfort or mobility issues. Regular nail trimming is essential to keep their paws healthy.

Regular Vet Check-Up

One of the most important aspects of caring for a senior dog is ensuring they receive regular veterinary care. Frequent check-ups can help catch potential health issues early and allow for timely intervention.

Routine Screenings: Regular blood tests, dental exams, and other screenings can help monitor your Bulldog's health and detect any changes that may require attention.
Monitoring and Preventatives: Ensure your Bulldog is up-to-date on vaccinations (or better still, titre immunity blood testing and worm counted and preventative treatments for parasites like fleas and ticks (consider natural preventatives like raw garlic) .

Environmental Adjustment

Making minor changes to your home environment can significantly improve your Bulldog's quality of life.

Non-Slip Surfaces: As mobility decreases, slippery floors can become hazardous. Adding rugs or non-slip mats can help prevent falls and make moving around easier for your Bulldog.
Washable Puppy Mats: If reliability in toileting has become a challenge, washable puppy mats can help reduce anxiety for you and your dog by managing accidents more efficiently.
Accessible Spaces: Ensure your Bulldog can easily access their favourite spots. Use ramps or steps to help them get onto furniture or into the car without straining their joints.

By making these thoughtful adjustments and providing attentive care, you can help your ageing Bulldog enjoy their golden years with comfort and happiness. Check out my other blog posts for more detailed tips on senior Bulldog care.