You'll read within our breed, 'head nods' or 'tremors' aren't uncommon. However, in my decades of Bulldog ownership, I've only had one female suffer from these. I used to keep a packet of Custard Cream biscuits in the cupboard with her name on them (fortunately one of my least favourite biscuits, so I was never tempted to dip into them!).

I found no pattern or triggers for her head shakes, and after blood tests that showed no precise diagnosis, the vets ruled out poisons, toxins, pain, or infections. It's widely accepted that these tremors could be due to low blood sugar or calcium. Offering her a Custard Cream used to snap her out of the shaking ‘habit’, if nothing else!

​However, this same female did go on to show early signs of Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD), signalled by poor memory and unnecessary barking - so I have no doubt the two were connected. As dogs age, they may require additional care and attention to maintain their health and well-being. Just like humans, senior dogs can experience various age-related issues, including joint problems, decreased mobility, and cognitive decline. In this blog, I’ll share the common symptoms in ageing dogs, how to manage canine cognitive dysfunction and supplements that can help prevent the onset of age-related issues.

Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) is similar to dementia in humans and affects many older dogs. Here are some ways to care for a dog with CCD:

✅ Routine and Consistency: To reduce confusion and anxiety, keep a consistent daily routine. Regular feeding times, walks, and bedtime routines can help your dog feel more secure.

✅  Mental Stimulation: Engage your dog in activities that challenge their mind. Puzzle toys, scent games, and training sessions can help keep their brain active and slow cognitive decline.

✅  Environmental Enrichment: Provide a stimulating environment with toys, chew items, and interactive play. Rotate toys regularly to keep your dog interested and engaged.

​✅  Behavioural Support: Use positive reinforcement to encourage desired behaviours. Avoid punishment, as it can increase anxiety and confusion in dogs with CCD.

​Caring for an aging dog requires patience, attention, and a proactive approach to their health and well-being. Recognising and addressing common symptoms, managing canine cognitive dysfunction, and incorporating supplements can help support your dog's health as they age. By taking these steps, you can ensure your senior dog enjoys a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life!

It was a truly delightful day at the Bulldog Rescues and Rehoming 2024 Annual Picnic Fun Show. I was deeply honoured to be asked to judge such a significant event, especially considering my many years of attendance. What I initially thought might be a relatively easy day turned out to be a challenging and thoroughly enjoyable experience.
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The show was packed with wonderful Bulldogs, and I had the pleasure of judging various classes. Here's a glimpse into each one:

Lastly, a huge thank you to the incredible volunteers who worked tirelessly, not only at the picnic but throughout the year, to support neglected and needy Bulldogs. Your dedication ensures that these amazing dogs receive the care and love they deserve.
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The entire event was a day filled with joy, pride, and, of course, beautiful Bulldogs. I’m already looking forward to next year’s show!

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.
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• 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.

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.
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• 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 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. 

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) .

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.

Have you ever been captivated by Bulldogs' endearing wrinkles and charming snorts, only to wonder what's behind their cute exteriors?

If so, you're not alone.

As a dedicated Bulldog enthusiast, I longed for a platform where I could delve deeper into the realities of this beloved breed, sharing authentic insights with fellow admirers, owners, and breeders around the globe. This longing gave birth to the Bulldog Broadcast, a podcast dedicated to exploring the true essence of Bulldogs beyond the stereotypes and misinformation.

As the host of the Bulldog Broadcast, my journey with this podcast began somewhat serendipitously. During a scroll through a Facebook group, initially joined out of curiosity rather than active participation, I stumbled upon a post asking for advice on Bulldog puppies. The comments section was rife with misinformation and negativity about Bulldogs, portraying them as fragile and unhealthy.

This frustration sparked an idea: rather than engaging in a futile online debate, why not create a positive, informative space dedicated to Bulldogs? A podcast seemed the perfect medium to reach a wider audience, dispelling myths and offering real-life insights into Bulldog ownership and breeding.

Bulldogs often face unfair stigma, mainly pedigree and brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds. Critics claim they are prone to health issues and have short lifespans. As someone who has lived with and loved Bulldogs for over three decades, I felt compelled to address these misconceptions.

Why would I, a reasonably sensible person, choose to breed dogs supposedly "on death's door"? The truth is, with responsible breeding and proper care, Bulldogs can live healthy, fulfilling lives. This podcast highlights responsible breeders, dedicated owners, and real Bulldog stories that showcase the breed's resilience and vitality.

​This extensive experience has taught me that while Bulldogs are unique, requiring special care and understanding, they are incredibly rewarding companions. They are not just pets; they are little personalities wrapped in dog bodies, full of character and charm.

The Bulldog Broadcast is more than just a podcast; it's a community. Alongside each episode, you'll find show notes and resources on our website, Bulldogbroadcast.com. I also invite you to join our Facebook community, where you can ask questions, share your experiences, and connect with fellow Bulldog lovers.

While most podcasters ask for ratings and reviews, my primary request is simple: tell two people interested in Bulldogs about this podcast. By spreading the word, you help build a knowledgeable and supportive community dedicated to the love and welfare of Bulldogs.

Thank you for joining me on this journey, you can listen on any podcast streaming platform. I hope the Bulldog Broadcast becomes a valuable resource for you, offering insights, support, and a sense of community. Whether you're a seasoned Bulldog owner or considering bringing one into your life, this podcast guides and inspires you.

So, stay tuned and let's celebrate everything that makes Bulldogs truly special.

​Ta ta for now!

The Kennel Club published their 3rd quarter registration stats this week, and puppy registrations are down by 17%.

Even more surprising, Bulldogs are down by a whopping 39%, the second* most significant drop in the top ten most favoured breeds to under 6,000 born up to September 2023.

To give you an idea, there were over 21,000 French Bulldogs registered and over 30,000 Labradors - crazy numbers.

Remember, many popular 'fad and fashion' dogs can’t be KC registered because of their coat colour or type (which means they aren’t purebred) and don’t get me started on the XL bully ban. American Bullies are ABKC reg, and their number is unknown in this country - but it’s A LOT.

Now, this isn’t a bad thing, in my opinion.

Far too many puppies have been bred for a quick buck since the pandemic, so it’s good to see it normalise again. Also, global economic pressures were always going to impact demand. And I’m sure the rescue and rehome charities are singing their praises for the decline.

But it also means that buying a well-bred, quality Bulldog puppy is harder than ever. Any breeder that’s worth their sort will have a waitlist, so if you want to add a puppy to your family any time soon, make sure you get on a list and be prepared to wait.

* Pugs dropped by 42% and are no longer in the Top 10.

I was sent this intriguing study printed in the Telegraph that I think you'll find absolutely adorable. 

Researchers have found that our fascination with flat-faced dogs like Bulldogs, Pugs, and French bulldogs is due to their uncanny ability to tug at our heartstrings like babies. I've struggled to believe this because anyone who knows me knows my 'baby interest' is absolutely zero. Coo, I do not.

These brachycephalic breeds, known for their cute, baby-like faces and large eyes, have been gaining popularity for decades.

According to the study from Hungary, their helplessness is the key. When faced with a problem, they're more likely to seek help from humans rather than solve it themselves. 

I was dumbfounded by the above, but it's most certainly true from my years of experience, and I even wrote about my IQ and EQ differences with my Bulldog vs. Labrador emails.