American Bulldog Care Kit

Caring for Your American Bulldog

The American bulldog is truly a jack of all trades. Humans originally bred this dog breed from Old English Bulldogs that they brought with them from Europe. People used them to guard their farms and help catch feral pigs. The American bulldog has a unique background and build, and this means you must tailor their care to match.

  American Bulldog Care Kit 

Leashes & Harnesses

Features

American bulldogs have a relatively short muzzle. Sometimes this makes breathing more difficult. While walking, you need:

  • A non-choking harness.
  • Durable material.
  • A 31-33″ chest fit on average (measure your bulldog).
  • Avoid dangerous retractable leashes.

Expert Picks

Basic Toys

Features

Muscular and active, the American bulldog can be destructive when bored. You want toys that are:

  • Indestructible.
  • Exciting/fun.
  • Allow you to play too.

Expert Picks

  • TUFFY – Soft but sturdy, you can toss this toy with your bulldog, and they can also play unsupervised.
  • Mammoth Flossy Toys – An extra strong dog needs and XL-sized rope!

Mentally Stimulating Toys

Features

This breed has lots of energy. When you aren’t outside playing, keep your pup’s brain fit with toys that:

  • Keep them busy.
  • Replicate natural hunting behaviors.
  • Require problem-solving.

Expert Picks

  • KONG Wobbler – Put your dog’s kibble in this and let him work for his food.
  • KONG Extreme Dog Toy – Features: Indestructible, dishwasher-safe. Tip: Fill with pumpkin and peanut butter, then freeze.

Chews

Features

Your bulldog has a strong prey drive. Provide chews to alleviate some of those natural foraging behaviors. Chews should be:

  • Digestible.
  • High-Value.
  • Time consuming.

Expert Picks

  • Braided Bully Stick – This bully stick should take hours to chew and eat.
  • Himalayan Dog Chew – Features: Made with yak’s milk. Tip: Take small pieces and microwave for a yummy cheese puff.

Dog Beds

Features

Bulldogs need lots of exercise, so you should provide a comfortable place for them to rest. You need a bed that’s:

  • Comfortable.
  • Durable.
  • Large.

Expert Picks

  • The Dog’s Bed – Features: Durable and chew-proof, easy to clean, soft and comfortable.
  • AmazonBasics Elevated Pet Bed – For a more affordable, but Features: More affordable, equally indestructible, elevated for comfort.

Dog Crates

Features

American bulldogs are devoted and love spending time with you. When you do leave your dog, ensure they are secure with a crate that’s:

  • Indestructible.
  • Large.
  • Includes a divider.

Expert Picks

Dog Treats

Features

American bulldogs are eager to please. Show them you’re proud with treats! Choose treats that are:

  • Soft/Chewy.
  • Tasty.
  • Protein-based.

Expert Picks

Travel Supplies

Features

Your bulldog has lots of energy! They love going for walks, hikes, and swims. When you bring them along, make sure you have:

  • Seat covers.
  • Seat belt adaptor.
  • Travel supplies.

Expert Picks

Anxiety Reduction

Features

Some American Bulldogs don’t like being separated from their owners. If your dog shows signs of anxiety, try:

  • Mentally stimulating activities.
  • Chews.
  • Compression.

Expert Picks

  • IQ Treat Ball – Keeps your dog working for treats. Features: Easy to clean, hard to destroy.
  • ThunderShirt – Features: Compressing material to reduce anxiety. Tip: Measure before purchase.

Housebreaking

Features

Consistency is important in housetraining your dog. For best results:

  • Crate when unsupervised.
  • Use gates.
  • Supervise strictly.

Expert Picks

  • MidWest Homes Crate – Tip: Use your divider to reduce the size of the crate. Your dog shouldn’t have room to eliminate at one end and lay at the other.
  • Glad for Pets Charcoal Puppy Pads – If you struggle with accidents, this can reduce the mess. Tip: ONLY use when you leave your dog for longer than they can hold it.
  • Regalo Easy Step Extra Tall Dog Gate – American bulldogs can jump incredibly high. This extra tall gate should keep them confined.

Dog Foods

Features

This breed is muscular and full of energy. Fuel their growth and activity with food that has:

  • High protein.
  • Low-allergy protein.
  • Quality ingredients.

Expert Picks

Hair Clippers

Features

American bulldogs have short coats, you shouldn’t need clippers.

Expert Picks

  • You should not need clippers.

Shampoos

Features

You should bathe your bulldog every two weeks or so. Look for shampoo that:

  • Is non-irritating.
  • Safe for dogs.
  • Pleasant scent.

Expert Picks

Brushes

Features

Though they do shed a little, bulldogs are low-maintenance groomers. Here’s what you need in a brush:

  • Soft, stiff bristles.
  • Clears away dead hairs.

Expert Picks

Hair Dryers

Features

You can easily towel-dry your American bulldog. Their short coat dries very quickly, so you shouldn’t need to blow-dry.

Expert Picks

  • You shouldn’t need to blow dry your bulldog.