Is Your American Bulldog Getting the Nutrition They Deserve? Discover the Top 17 Dog Foods of 2023 for American Bulldogs.
In our 25 years of breeding American Bulldogs, Rosebull, we have seen them grow in popularity, and one of the most common questions we get is what is the best food for my American Bulldog?
We have fed a large variety over the years, some dogs do better on some food than others. We are going to look at a number of foods in this article, covering the various life stages , puppy, adult and senior, and we’re also going to look at what you should consider for American Bulldogs that have allergies, sensitive skin or stomachs,
I found that Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe is the overall top choice for American Bulldogs
1
BEST OVERALL
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula
BLUE BUFFALO
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2
BEST FOR ADULTS
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Bulldog Adult Dry Dog Foodr
ROYAL CANIN
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3
BEST FOR PUPPIES
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Bulldog Puppy
ROYAL CANIN
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4
BEST FOR SENIORS
Blue Buffalo Wilderness Chicken Senior Dog Dry Food
BLUE BUFFALO
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5
BEST FOR SENSITIVE STOMACHS AND ALLERGIES
Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Dry Dog Food, Potato & Duck Formula
NATURAL BALANCE
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17 Best American Bulldog Dog Foods Reviewed
- Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Chicken & Brown Rice — Best Dog Food for American Bulldogs overall
- Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Bulldog Adult Dry Dog Food — Best Dog Food For Adult American Bulldogs
- Purina ONE Natural True Instinct High Protein Real Salmon & Tuna Dry Dog Food – Adult American Bulldog Food
- Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food – Best Grain Free Adult American Bulldog Food
- Natural Balance L.I.D. Potato & Duck Dog Food – Best Dog Food For American Bulldogs with a sensitive stomach or Allergies
- Nature’s Recipe Grain-free Salmon, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin – Grain Free American Bulldog Food
- Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Bulldog Puppy – Best American Bulldog Puppy Food
- CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Limited Ingredient Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food – Grain Free American Bulldog Food for sensitive stomachs and allergies
- Zignature Turkey Limited Ingredient Formula – Grain Free American Bulldog Food for sensitive stomachs and allergies
- Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe with Real Beef & Freeze-Dried Raw Pieces Dry Dog Food – Grain Free American Bulldog Food
- Wellness Large Breed Complete Health Adult Deboned Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food – Adult American Bulldog Food
- Nutro Limited Ingredient Diet Sensitive Support with Real Lamb & Sweet Potato Grain-Free Adult Dry Dog Food – Grain Free American Bulldog Food for dogs with allergies or a sensitive stomach
- Wellness CORE Grain-Free Large Breed Chicken & Turkey Recipe Natural Dry Dog Food – Grain Free Adult American Bulldog Food
- Rachael Ray Nutrish Natural Dog Food – Best Budget Adult American Bulldog Food
- Wellness CORE Grain-Free Dry Dog Food – Grain Free American Bulldog Food
- Gentle Giants Non-GMO Dog & Puppy Grain-Free Beef Wet Dog Food– Best Wet Food for American Bulldogs – all life stages
- OrgaNOMics Salmon & Duck Dinner Grain-Free Pate Wet Dog Food – Wet Dog Food for American Bulldogs
17 Best Dog Foods For American Bulldogs Reviewed
All the dog foods reviewed here meet the AADCO nutrition guidelines for dogs. We are not vets, always consult with your vet before making changes to your dogs’ diet.
1. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
Best Overall
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Chicken & Brown Rice
First Five Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Barley, Oatmeal
Key Features: No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, No Chicken or poultry by product meals
Guaranteed Analysis: 24% Crude Protein, 14% Crude Fat, 5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
Caloric Content: 377 kcal/cup
First two ingredients are chicken, good lower proteins formula to keep you American Bulldog growing a little slower
Pros
Glucosamine for joint health
No Artificial flavors or preservatives
Lifesource antioxidants
Probiotics to aid in digestion
Cons
Some dogs may be allergic to Chicken
Not grain free
Picky eaters may not like the lifesource bits
Review from Chewy…
Blue Buffalo dog food rocks
I’ve always had problems getting my lab mix to eat dog food – ANY dog food. I finally got her someBlue Buffalo dog food and we are now customers for life. She seems to like the food, and her energy has picked up as has her general mood. She’s more playful, maybe cause she is losing some unneeded weight, maybe from the dog food. Try it and see if you dog doesn’t like this better than what you are feeding it now.”
Read more on Chewy
2. Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Bulldog Adult Dry Dog Food
Best Adult American Bulldog Food
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Bulldog Adult Dry Dog Food
First Five Ingredients: Brewers Rice, Oat Groats, Chicken By-Product Meal, Brown Rice, Wheat Gluten
Key Features: :Immune Support, Vitamins & Minerals
Guaranteed Analysis: 22% Crude Protein, 12% Crude Fat, 4.1% Crude Fiber, 10# Moisture
Caloric Content: 277kcal/cup
This food has been specially formulated for Bulldogs and will also serve your American Bulldog well.
Pros
Easily digestible carbs
EPA & DHA for skin and coat
Has Glucosamine and Chondroitin for joint health
Formula may reduce farts (otherwise known as bulldog fog)
–
Cons
Not grain or gluten free
Low quality ingredients
Includes Glucosamine, Chondroitin and Omega 3 fatty acids to support joint health in dogs. Glucosamine supports joint lubrication and flexibility, while Omega 3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation, further improving joint health.
Review from Chewy
Great for American Bulldogs too
This food helps my American Bulldog stay fit and gas free. I’ve tried other brands that require massive amounts of food to deliver the proper calories and nutrition only to find it makes my big guy sick, fat and gassy. This food gives a shimmering coat, nice muscular definition, healthy weight and no gas. Bravo!
3. Purina ONE Natural True Instinct High Protein Real Salmon & Tuna Dry Dog Food
Adult American Bulldog Food
Purina ONE Natural True Instinct High Protein Real Salmon & Tuna Dry Dog Food
First Five Ingredients: Salmon, Chicken Meal, Soy Flour, Whole Grain Wheat, Beef Fat Preserved With Mixed-Tocopherols
Key Features: Contains real salmon as the first ingredien
Guaranteed Analysis: 30% Crude Protein, 17% Crude Fat, 3% Crude Fiber, 12% Moisture
Caloric Content: 340 kcal/cup
Pros
No artificial flavors or preservatives
High Protein
Reasonable price
Cons
Not suitable for puppies
Sample review on Chewy
Love this food
My picky stubborn 102 lb. American Bulldog would not eat several of the high dollar brands that I bought him then 2 years ago I started giving him the Purina One True Instinct and have never bought another brand. His favorite by far is the Salmon and Tuna and will beg to be fed twice a day now. The minute I bring in the bag he is sniffing and wagging his tail waiting for it to be opened, even if it is not feeding time or the other bag is not empty. 5 stars for a great product.4
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4. Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Best Grain Free American Bulldog Food
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
First Five Ingredients: Water Buffalo, Lamb Meal, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas,
Key Features: First ingredient is real meat
Guaranteed Analysis: 32% Crude Protein, 18% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
Caloric Content: 422 kcal/cup
Uses only naturally sustainable ingredients in their food.
Pros
No artificial colors, flavors or preservatives
Includes Probiotics
Grain free
Contains Omega 3, 6 for healthy skin and shiny coat
Cons
Not all dogs like the taste
This grain free food has wild game ingredients like Bison and Venison which provide a great source of protein to support your American Bulldog’s muscle and strength. Taste of the wild uses only naturally sustainable ingredients in their food.
They have their own proprietary blend of probiotics to support your dogs microbiome and gut health and immune sysytem support.
Review from Chewy…
Great Food
This organic dog food is affordable without cutting back on quality ingredients. Both my Pitty and American bull dog love it!
Read more on Chewy
5. Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Reserve Grain-Free Duck & Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food
Best Dog Food For American Bulldogs with Allergies
Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Reserve Grain-Free Duck & Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food
First Five Ingredients: Duck, Duck Meal, Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes, Tapioca Starch
Key Features: Limited ingredients for American Bulldogs with allergies or a sensitive stomach
Guaranteed Analysis: 24% Crude Protein, 10% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
Caloric Content: 370 kcal/cup
No Grain, No Soy, No Gluten, No artificial colors or flavors
Ideal for dogs and pups with allergies, sensitive stomachs or skin irritations.
Pros
No grain, no soy, no gluten
Flaxseed to boost immune system
No artificial colors, flavors or preservatives
Omega 3’s and 6’s for a shiny healthy coat
Cons
Some dogs do not like the flavor
If your American Bulldog suffers from hotspots or skin irritations, allergies or just has a sensitive stomach then consider this limited ingredient food which reduces exposure to common allergens.
It’s a high quality food made with great ingredients and taking into account your American Bulldogs overall health.
Fantastic for my dog’s food allergies!
My American Bulldog has an unknown food allergy – she was licking her paws (I thought she was just cleaning!), and she had reoccurring ear infections. We’ve knocked out the symptoms and switched to a limited ingredient diet to narrow down the issue. Before she went from being an eager eater to sometimes not eating for more than a day. As soon as we put her on this food, she was back to her normal eating within days!! Now a month in, there’s no sign of her allergies, and she loves this food. Highly recommended!
Read more on Chewy
6. Nature’s Recipe Grain-Free Chicken, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Recipe Dry Dog Food
Grain Free American Bulldog Food
Nature’s Recipe Grain-Free Chicken, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Recipe Dry Dog Food
First Five Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Tapioca Starch, Canola Meal
Key Features: Grain-free recipe contains no corn, wheat, soy, poultry by-products or artificial colors, preservatives or flavors
Guaranteed Analysis: 25% Crude Protein, 12% Crude Fat, 4.5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
Caloric Content: 365 kcal/cup
Good for all life stages
Pros
Sweet Potato and Pumpkin make digestion easier
Soft moist kibble
Good for all life stages
Cons
Smells bad
Bulldog allergies
My American Bulldog suffers from skin allergies. He is allergic to a host of food and environmental things. This food works wonderful with his temperamental system
7. Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Bulldog Puppy Dry Dog Food
Best American Bulldog Puppy Food
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Bulldog Puppy Dry Dog Food
First Five Ingredients: Chicken By-Product Meal, Brewers Rice, Brown Rice, Chicken Fat, Wheat Gluten
Key Features: Formulated for the needs of Bulldog and American Bulldog puppies
Guaranteed Analysis: 28% Crude Protein, 15% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
Caloric Content: 338 kcal/cup
Specialized kibble helps Bulldogs easily pick up and chew their food
Pros
Antioxidants and Vitamin E for immune system support
Glucosamine and Chondroitin for joint health
Prebiotics to aid with digestion
Designed to strengthen those little stocky bodies
Cons
Low protein
Not grain free
Superb Pet Food
Royal Canin should be your only choice of puppy or dog food. This company takes their task of creating a great food seriously. This is my 3rd American Bulldog. The shape of the food is made specifically for the breeds Brachia cephalic muzzle. The food also does not swell in liquid. And anyone who owns a Bully, knows that their gas can peel the paint off a brand new car! This food is sympathetically formulated for owners like us! Truly a great food. Expensive yes, but you will have peace of mind.
Read more on Chewy
8. CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Limited Ingredient Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food
Sensitive Stomach American Bulldog Food
CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Limited Ingredient Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food
First Five Ingredients: Salmon, Salmon Meal, Menhaden Fish Meal, Lentils, Sweet Potatoes
Key Features: Made with 8 real food ingredients
Guaranteed Analysis: 32% Crude Protein, 14% Crude Fat, 4.5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
Caloric Content: 459 kcal/cup
No filler or additives, a blend of probiotics, antioxidants, fatty acids and vitamins and minerals support your American Bulldogs vital systems and promote ongoing good health
Pros
Grain Free
No Wheat, No Corn, No Soy or fillers
No artificial flavors, colors or preservatives
Contains Probiotics, Antioxidants and Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids
Cons
Contains Canola Oil
Contains Legumes
Not only is this a great food but it is also designed for dogs with sensitive stomachs
No more Itchies!
I am an American bulldog that has had allergies ever since I can remember. Since my human owners have switched me for a chicken based food product to a fish based product, I have no more allergies and itchy spots. Thank you human owners – I now can sleep the whole night without licking myself to death!!!
9. Zignature Turkey Limited Ingredient Formula Dry Dog Food
Grain Free Sensitive Stomach American Bulldog Food
Zignature Turkey Limited Ingredient Formula Dry Dog Food
First Five Ingredients: Turkey, Turkey Meal, Chickpeas, Peas, Sunflower Oil
Key Features: No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy
Guaranteed Analysis: 32% Crude Protein, 14.5% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
Caloric Content: 395 kcal/cup
Limited ingredient diet with Turkey as the main protein is good for American Bulldogs with skin hot spots, allergies and sensitive stomachs
Pros
Turkey is high in riboflavin and selenium
Fortified with probiotics for gut health
Features real meat as the first Ingredient
Grain, Soy, Corn and Gluten free
Cons
Contains sunflower oil
Sample review on Chewy…
Dogs LOVE this
I have an 8 year old American Bulldog and a 1 year old Golden Retriever. They absolutely LOVE this food and clean their bowls the second I fill them. My Bulldog has never cleared her bowl in one sitting. They both run to their bowls when they hear me open the bag.
Read more on Chewy
10. Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe with Real Beef & Freeze-Dried Raw Pieces Dry Dog Food
Grain Free Adult American Bulldog Food
Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Recipe with Real Beef & Freeze-Dried Raw Pieces Dry Dog Food
First Five Ingredients: Beef, White Fish Meal, Herring Meal, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols and Citric Acid), Peas
Key Features:Boosted nutrition with high-protein kibble + freeze-dried raw
Guaranteed Analysis: 35% Crude Protein, 21% Crude Fat, 3.5% Crude Fiber, 9% Moisture
Caloric Content: 499 kcal/cup
Pros
Contains freeze dried raw beef
Probiotics for gut health and digestion
No grain, potato, corn, wheat, soy, by-product meal, artificial colors or preservatives.
Cons
Some dogs do not like the raw boost pieces
Expensive
Sample Chewy Review…
EXCELLENT QUALITY FOOD
Was tired of buying different expensive dog foods and not having anything good come out of it!! This excellent brand is by far the BEST! My American Bulldog absolutely loves this and has NO ISSUES with her stomach! Don’t waste your money on ANYTHING plant based…..dogs are carnivores and NEED real protein! Highly recommend this food.
Read more on Chewy
11. Wellness Large Breed Complete Health Adult Deboned Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
Adult American Bulldog Food
Wellness Large Breed Complete Health Adult Deboned Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
First Five Ingredients:Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Ground Brown Rice, Barley, Peas
Key Features: Developed without any GMOs, meat by-products, fillers or artificial preservatives. .
Guaranteed Analysis: 26% Crude Protein, 12% Crude Fat, 5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
Caloric Content: 340 kcal/cup
No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy
Designed for sensitive stomachs with a single source of protein (Duck) and grain free fiber (potato)
Pros
Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids for healthy skin and shiny coat
Glucosamine and Chondroitin for joint support and health
Probiotics for microbiome and gut health, aids in digestion
–
Cons
Some picky eaters do not like the flavor
Some dogs may be allergic to chicken
Sample review on Chewy…
Pricey but great dog food.
I have two male American Bulldogs, one is a ‘senior’ at 12 years old and the other is 3 years old. They both devour this food like it is a treat!! I have no weight concerns with either of my boys and this brand of food seems to help them both with staying healthy. This brand of Wellness does seem to promote extra ‘gas’ but for those of you who have bulldogs, you are used to gas! The only downfall is the price but it’s money well spent!
Read more on Chewy
12. Nutro Limited Ingredient Diet Sensitive Support with Real Lamb & Sweet Potato Grain-Free Adult Dry Dog Food
Sensitive Stomach American Bulldog Food
Nutro Limited Ingredient Diet Sensitive Support with Real Lamb & Sweet Potato Grain-Free Adult Dry Dog Food
First Five Ingredients: Deboned Lamb, Lamb Meal, Chickpeas, Dried Potatoes, Dried Sweet Potatoes
Key Features: Crafted with 10 key ingredients
Guaranteed Analysis: 26% Crude Protein, 12% Crude Fat, 5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
Caloric Content: 340 kcal/cup
Pros
Grain Free, Non GMO
Easily digestible
No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, No Chicken
Cons
Low in fiber
Although designed for all life stages puppies may find the kibble too big
Sample Chewy review…
Pup loves this food!
My American Bulldog Mix has a very sensitive stomach and I tried a lot of different grain free/limited ingredient foods. He wasn’t interested in any of them except this one he gobbles down. And he’s been a happy and healthy boy.
Read more on Chewy
13. Wellness CORE Grain-Free Large Breed Chicken & Turkey Recipe Natural Dry Dog Food
Grain Free Adult American Bulldog Food
Wellness CORE Grain-Free Large Breed Chicken & Turkey Recipe Natural Dry Dog Food
First Five Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal (source of Glucosamine), Turkey Meal (source of Chondroitin Sulfate), Lentils, Peas
Key Features: Crafted into a larger kibble size for easy eating
Guaranteed Analysis: 34% Crude Protein, 12% Crude Fat, 6% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
Caloric Content: 342 kcal/bowl
Pros
Contains flaxseed oil
No fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Contains Omega 3’s for a shiny coat
Cons
- Contains plant-based proteins
He loves it!
My American Bulldog, Buster, LOVES this food. He devours it every time. But it makes him a bit gassy 😛
Read more on Chewy
14. Rachael Ray Nutrish Dish Natural Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe with Veggies & Fruit Dry Dog Food
Best Budget American Bulldog Food
Rachael Ray Nutrish Dish Natural Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe with Veggies & Fruit Dry Dog Food
First Five Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Dried Peas, Brown Rice, Brewers Rice
Key Features: Premium dog food inspired by real recipes from Rachael Ray′s kitchen. A portion of proceeds helps animals in need through the Rachael Ray Foundation
Guaranteed Analysis: 26% Crude Protein, 14% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
Caloric Content: 364 kcal/cup
Pros
A portion of proceeds go to charity
No poultry-by-product meals or fillers
First Ingredient is Real Chicken
Contains added vitamins, minerals and taurine, and no added corn, wheat, soy or gluten Soy
Cons
Chicken flavor may cause alleriges
Contains peas
My dogs love this!!!
We have 3 dogs in our home, a pit/American bulldog mix, a border collie & a pomeranian. This food meets the needs of every single fur baby & they scarf this stuff down like it’s the best they’ve ever tasted! Our border collie is extremely finicky & typically will not touch dry food unless she has something mixed in with it (shredded cheese, wet food, coconut oil, etc) but if we set this in front of her, she eats every bite with no issue. Thank you Rachael Ray!!!
Read more on Chewy
15. Wellness CORE Grain-Free Original Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal & Chicken Meal Recipe Dry Dog Food
Grain Free American Bulldog Food
Wellness CORE Grain-Free Original Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal & Chicken Meal Recipe Dry Dog Food
First Five Ingredients: Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal (source of Glucosamine), Chicken Meal (source of Chondroitin Sulfate), Peas, Dried Ground Potatoes
Key Features: Developed without any meat by-products, fillers, corn, soy, wheat-gluten or artificial preservatives, colors or flavors.
Guaranteed Analysis: 34% Crude Protein, 16% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
Caloric Content: 417 kcal/cup
Pros
Grain and Gluten Free
Pumpkin Fiber to aid in digestion
Cons
Contains some Pea Protein
Love this product
I have a deaf American bulldog/Pitt mix with terrible allergies and a sensitive digestive system. Since switching him to wellness grain free he has stopped itching and his coat is beautiful!
Read more on Chewy
16. Gentle Giants Non-GMO Dog & Puppy Grain-Free Beef Wet Dog Food
Best Wet Food for American Bulldogs
Gentle Giants Non-GMO Dog & Puppy Grain-Free Beef Wet Dog Food
First Five Ingredients: Beef, Beef Broth, Chickpeas, Natural Flavor, Sweet Potatoes
Key Features: 90% beef that does not contain any fillers, corn, wheat, soy or grains
Guaranteed Analysis: 10% Crude Protein, 7% Crude Fat, 1.5% Crude Fiber, 78% Moisture
Caloric Content: 417 kcal/13 oz. can
Pros
Made for all life stages and sizes of dogs
No Grains, Wheat, Corn or Soy
No fillers
Contains Omega 3, 6 and Biotin for a shiny coat
Cons
Most consumers mix with dry food
Can be expensive
Review from Chewy
Gentle Giant Beef in a can.
My Boxer of 2 years loves it with his GG kibble. I would recommend this to any friend or family. We thought if this wet food because we already feed the dry kibble to our English Bulldog Rosie wanted to put some weight on our Boxer Sir Loomis. Sir Loomis is really enjoying this wet food tremendously…Thanks Chewy!!!
Read more on Chewy
17. OrgaNOMics Salmon & Duck Dinner Grain-Free Pate Wet Dog Food
Wet Dog Food for American Bulldogs
OrgaNOMics Salmon & Duck Dinner Grain-Free Pate Wet Dog Food
First Five Ingredients: Salmon, Duck, Organic Carrots, Organic Peas, Organic Sweet Potatoes
Key Features: Made in the USA with zero grains or gluten for sensitive sidekicks.
Guaranteed Analysis: 10% Crude Protein, 7% Crude Fat, 1.5% Crude Fiber, 78% Moisture
Caloric Content: 347 kcal/can
Pros
No fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Salmon and Duck are excellent sources of Protein
Cons
Contains plant based proteins
Blade, Zulie and Crazygirl go nuts for it!
The dogs love this food. Their American Bullies and their coats are shiny and healthy. No chicken in some formulas works the best for us.
Read More on Chewy
How to Choose Food for your American Bulldog
While the American Bulldog has grown dramatically in popularity on the past couple of decades, there are not enough to warrant a pet food company making breed specific food for them,
In the choices above we did list English Bulldog specific foods as they’re needs are similar.
Due to their muscular nature and high activity levels you should consider a food with good protein sources such as chicken, beef, duck, and fish.
Macronutrients for your American Bulldog
Much like their human owners a well-formulated diet takes into account the ratio of Protein, Fat, and carbohydrates needed for a healthy diet
Puppy and adult foods are specifically designed for the different stages of life and take into account increased or decreased needs for proteins, fats, and carbs.
Protein
- Due to their large size and muscles American Bulldogs need a diet rich in proteins. We recommend looking for foods made with real ingredients such chicken, beef, and fish.
- Puppies should be fed a food with a lower protein and higher fat content, to slow down their growth a bit.
- Senior dogs should be fed a lower calorie food, consider foods with lower protein and gts
Carbs
- There are no nutritional requirements for carbohydrates in dogs and like humans, their bodies will synthesize glucose from glycogenic amino acids and glycerol [1]
- Most commercial foods contain a high proportion of carbs, your dog can easily digest them and they are inexpensive when compared to Protein. Beware of cheap fillers like corn and rice.
Fats
- Fats are also essential in dogs’ food.
- Healthy fats help the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins.
- Fats are also a good source of calories. American Bulldogs need high-calorie diets because of their fast metabolisms. Fats in dog food can help provide your American Bulldogs caloric needs.
Kibble Size
American Bulldogs unlike most large breeds tend to have terrible teeth, especially the bully type. You will notice their front teeth are barely there.
- Smaller kibble size makes it easier for your American Bulldog to eat the food, as they don;t generally have great teeth.
- High caloric content can help your American Bulldog maintain their energy levels and support their metabolism, which is important for their overall health and well-being. Be careful not to overfeed as they are prone to getting fat.
High-Calorie Density
American Bulldogs have high energy needs look for a higher calorie dog food, meaning more calories per cup of food.
Easily digestible
Look for foods with moderate protein to serve the nutritional needs of your American Bulldog
Sensitive Stomachs
Fiber and Probiotic Supplements
If your American Bulldog is prone to stomach upsets then foods rich in fiber and probiotic supplements should be sought out.
If your American Bulldog suffers from a sensitive stomach or food allergies then a limited-ingredient diet may be beneficial
Fibers are essential to healthy digestion and a healthy gut microbiome. Look for fiber sources like Beet Pulp in foods to help improve nutrient absorption from food.
Dogs do not rely on dietary fiber as a primary energy source but these fibers help nourish the gut microbiome and help to break down food for easy absorption.
Some dog foods also include probiotic blends and supplements to boost digestibility. These Probiotics introduce good bacteria into your dog’s microbiome. Seniors and Puppies can benefit the most from Probiotics.
Elimination or limited ingredient Diets
- Limited-ingredient diets eliminate exposure to common food allergens by using a simple recipe to meet nutrient requirements.
- These formulas generally use a single source of animal protein. Since most allergens are proteins, a single protein source limits the potential development of new allergies.
Elimination diets typically do not include fillers or artificial additives. Many dogs with food intolerances experience digestive upset when they consume these ingredients.
American Bulldog Health Issues
Hip Dysplasia
- A common issue in large breed dogs and particularly in American Bulldogs, also referred to as DJD or Degenerative Joint Disease. Think of it as a form of arthritis.
- Look for breeders who screen for this disease, this means they take hip x-rays of the parents, the two most widely screening test come from PennHip or the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals). These test are performed by local vets and sent to these organizations for evaluation
- It is recommended to grow your large breed dogs slowly, that means lower protein and moderate exercise levels.
- Look for foods that have Glucosamine and Chondroitin, these additives help with joint mobility
Elbow Dysplasia
Elbow Dysplasia – a genetic condition where the elbow joint doesn’t form correctly, leading to pain and difficulty walking. It can be screened for with genetic testing and dogs dispalying this condition should not be bred,
Allergies
- Allergies are fairly common in many breeds of dogs. In American Bulldogs this will usually present itself in skin rash or hives, as well as hotspots
- Experiment with foods that contain different sources of protein, beef, chicken, lamb, salmon etc. to see if this helps
- Try LID diets, Limited Ingredient Diets, many large pet food manufacturers have such offerings
Obesity
- Because many people equate size with a great American Bulldog many bulldogs are oversight. If your American Bulldog is putting on the pounds cut back o nhow much
- A good rule of thumb is to look at their ribs: you should be able to feel them, but not see them. If you need to help your American Bulldog lose weight, you can either reduce the amount of food you’re providing at each meal or increase your dog’s activity (or both). How much exercise does your Amrican Bulldog need, exactly? American bulldogs need a couple of brisk walks each day, or some time in a fenced yard to burn of some energy.
NCL
Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis otherwise known as NCL is a hereditary genetic disease that is debilitating and fatal to American Bulldogs. Fortunately there are simple genetic tests that can be performed, unfortunately few breeders screen for them.
Ichthyosis
Unfortunately another genetic disease which can be easiy avoided but few breeders DNA test and screen for these diseases.
Ichthyosis is a skin condition producing a scaly appearance to the skin which often which accompanied by yeast infections of the skin and itchiness.
Eye Issues
The most common eye issues in American Bulldogs in Entropion and Ectropion.
Entropion is a genetic condition that can affect American Bulldogs, where the eyelid folds inward, causing the eyelashes to irritate the cornea and potentially leading to discomfort and eye damage.
Ectropion is a genetic condition that can also affect American Bulldogs, where the eyelid turns outward, causing the inner eyelid and conjunctiva to be exposed and potentially leading to irritation, inflammation, and eye infections.
Brachycephalic Syndrome
-A condition common in short-nosed breeds, including American Bulldogs, where the shape of their skull and airways can cause breathing difficulties. The main reason most airlines will not accepts Bully breeds as cargo.
Demodex
Sometimes confused with Ichthyosis to the naked eye, your veterinarian can easily diagnose this skin condition caused by a type of mite that causes skin irritation and hair loss in dogs, often due to a weak immune system.
FAQ
What kind of diet should I feed my American Bulldog?
American Bulldogs require a balanced diet that is rich in protein and fat, with moderate levels of carbohydrates. Look for high-quality dog food that lists real meat as the first ingredient and avoid fillers and by-products. You may also consider a raw food diet or home-cooked meals under the guidance of a veterinarian or canine nutritionist.
How often should I feed my American Bulldog?
American Bulldogs should be fed twice a day, with the amount and frequency of meals depending on their age, weight, and activity level. Puppies may need more frequent feedings, while adult dogs may do well with two larger meals a day.
Can American Bulldogs eat human food?
While some human foods are safe for American Bulldogs to eat, it’s best to avoid giving them table scraps or high-fat, high-sugar foods that can cause digestive upset or obesity. You should also avoid feeding your American Bulldog foods that are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, and onions.
Should I give my American Bulldog supplements or vitamins?
Most American Bulldogs can get all the nutrients they need from a balanced diet, but some may benefit from supplements or vitamins. Consult with your veterinarian or a canine nutritionist to determine if your American Bulldog needs additional nutrients, and to ensure that any supplements or vitamins you give them are safe and effective.
[1] Merck Veterinary Manual Overview of Nutrition: Small Animals
