What Human Food Can English Bulldogs Eat?

When it comes to our furry friends, one thing is true for all fur-parents: they want the best for them. For this reason, they try as best as they can in providing the best dog nutrition and overall care. The food you feed them is the fundamental element that improves their health and quality of life. However, with so many options out there, people wonder what foods are best for Bulldogs. 

What food is best for English Bulldogs?

Bulldogs, as a breed, whether it be an English Bulldog or American Bulldog can conveniently eat homemade or commercial recipes. That means bulldogs can eat human treats and stay in good health. Even though dogs can be highly selective of dog foods, you can never go wrong with a dog diet when it comes to the following.

 

Proteins

Your Bulldog requires proteins from animal and plant sources. Proteins are known to be building blocks in both humans and animals (dogs); therefore, providing your pet with dog food rich in proteins promotes the growth of fur, nail, muscle, and bone. Furthermore, proteins work to foster the production of antibodies, hormones, and serve as a source of energy to your dog.

Carbohydrates

There is a general belief that carbohydrate-rich food is terrible for dogs; this is not true. Your dog needs carbohydrates for proper grooming and to maintain high energy levels. However, they are not required in large quantities.

Minerals

Based on recent findings, your English bulldog needs to eat iron, selenium, magnesium, sodium, zinc-rich treats, etc. for optimum growth. Many dog lovers believe that Calcium’s most important mineral is its Germaine to bone function and development. Each mineral offers different benefits to the dog and contributes to overall growth.

Vitamins- food rich in vitamins (Vitamin A, C, E, K, and folate) are crucial to a dog’s immune system. They aid in healing and blood clotting. 

Fat

Fat is excellent for dog energy and temperature regulation. They make sure the nervous system stays healthy.  

Water

Water may not fall primarily into the category of nutrients, but it has numerous health benefits. About 70 to 80% of an English Bulldog’s body mass is made of water. Hence, water keeps the digestive system running smoothly. 

 

What human food can English Bulldogs eat?

 

 

Now that we know the kind of nutrients that should be present in a dog’s diet let’s look at a range of human foods dogs can eat.  

Gatorade

This is a popular drink around the World. It is considered safe for your pet since it is rich in electrolytes. The drink helps the dog overcome dehydration and could serve as a great recovery option for dogs on a hot day. The only risk associated with Gatorade is that it contains extra sugar. However, consider blending it with water when adding it to dog treats. 

Bananas

These are excellent alternatives for foods high in fat. In addition to this, your bulldog will love the taste since it’s full of nutrients. They are a rich source of vitamins and curtails GIT challenges. If you feed your dog banana, make sure it is not often, as it could upset dogs stomachs. 

Chicken

Chicken is an excellent source of protein for your dog. It is rich in omega 3 fatty acids. Fatty acids ensure healthier coats and fur. However, never feed your dog cooked chicken bones. 

Peanut butter

It is a major ingredient in many dog treats, but peanut butter may be fed to a dog individually. 

Eggs

This is a raw or cooked food for your English Bulldog. However, it is better to stick to the cooked version since excessive intake of raw eggs could predispose to salmonella poisoning.

Carrots

Your Bulldog will love baby carrots and have them every day if they could because they are colorful and great for eye health. They also double as fiber in dog diet while keeping the teeth in good condition.

Berries

Berries are a powerhouse of antioxidants. Strawberries help whiten your dog s teeth. Allow them to eat raw strawberry because syrups are not ideal. Blueberries have antioxidant capacities as well and fight against adverse health problems. These fruits could be a choking hazard for your dog, so watch while they eat.

Cheese

High in calcium. Great for bones and teeth development. Cottage cheese should be made into small treats as they could instigate stomach issues. Also, avoid cheese with mold. 

Yogurt

Feed yogurt to dogs in small amounts; one to two tablespoons per day. It aids digestion and acts as a probiotic boost in dog food.    

Nuts

An ideal nut for dogs to eat is the Macadamia nuts -rich in Lauric acid. It provides your Bulldog with Omega-3s and should be served in little amounts. Nuts could be a choking hazard to dogs with sensitivities. 

Apples

Occasional apple seeds are not harmful, but extensive ingestion could cause cyanide poisoning. Overall, apples keep bad breath away and keep your Bulldog full of vitamins.  

 

You may consider other foods are air-popped popcorn, cooked sweet potatoes, crunchy fish skins, plain green beans, and more. 

 

What your bulldog should not eat.

Now that we know that every food has its benefits and risks, here are specific items dog owners should not consider putting in the food bowl as they are considered potentially toxic to dogs.

  • Grapes or raisins

    Never give dogs to eat. It could make dogs vomit, lose appetite, have seizures, etc.

  • Tea or coffee

    In minute amounts, it has no toxic effects. However, it can cause caffeine toxicity, restlessness, hyperactivity, etc.

  • Ice cream and milk are not bad for a bulldog owner…

    But excessive ingestion could make dogs lactose intolerant, thereby causing indigestion. You want to consider goat’s milk instead of cow’s.

  • Unripe tomatoes

    They contain an alkaloid that causes muscle weakness, loss of coordination, and diarrhea. These symptoms may be implicated in canines who have difficulty walking.

Avoid green beans spiked with salt, flavored yogurt, chewing gum (especially because of xylitol). Share home-made dough-based items like cookies in small amounts as their ingredients could be unhealthy for your bulldog.

 

Bear in mind that access to certain treats is linked to an increase in flatulence. For this reason, certain diets that are safer for humans may be potentially harmful to dogs. However, every dog is different, and giving your dog a little bit of occasional treats is not out of place. To ensure your dog’s safety, considering sending an email to online experts or talking to a veterinarian nearby. Remember, this applies to processed meals only, and not anything home-made. You would want to keep it all in moderation to ensure your English Bulldog’s health. For more information on feeding English Bulldogs check out our guide on what to feed your English bulldog.