How Much To Feed Your Bulldog Puppy

Yay! You just welcomed home a new English Bulldog puppy. It is time to cuddle, bond, and learn all about your new pup. One of the most significant parts of puppy care is nutrition and feeding. A well-balanced diet is part of the foundation of lifelong health, starting from the very first day of life. Tools like this English Bulldog feeding chart are valuable resources for owners. English Bulldogs are instantly recognizable for their prominent, droopy jowls, wrinkly faces, and squat, sturdy frame. Their unique appearance earns them the nickname of Sourmug. This is a very people-oriented breed but retains watchdog instincts making them the perfect family pet. These pups love kiddos and get along with everyone, strangers or friends. Additionally, their smaller size makes them an ideal pick for apartment living. Feeding an English Bulldog is tricky, as his needs change as he ages. Puppies have different nutritional profiles and needs than active adults or seniors. It is normal for new pet parents to have questions and concerns about feeding. How much should I feed my English Bulldog? Is there a certain kind of food that works best? When should my pup switch to adult food? The list of questions is long, and these are just the beginning. We answer these questions and more in our comprehensive English Bulldog feeding chart and guide. Let’s get into it.

How Much Should An English Bulldog Puppy Eat?

English Bulldogs, like all canines, need a balanced diet full of protein and nutrients. They start by nursing from their mother for the first few weeks, then gradually start eating solid foods. Within the first few months, your pup will transition fully from mom’s milk to puppy food. Every puppy is different. However, you can refer to these general guidelines for feeding your English Bulldog puppy. One thing to note is that this Bully is a breed that needs higher protein than many others. This is due to their smaller, stocky frame and higher muscle mass. High-quality protein is an essential component of their diet from day one. Remember that this breed loves to eat, and is prone to obesity, so be careful not to overfeed them. At full size, these doggies weigh between 40 and 60 pounds. English Bulldogs are quite tiny at birth, weighing just four or five ounces on average.

Week 1 & 2

Newborn pups are born blind and deaf. They will do little more than nurse and sleep. They will stick close to their mom and should nurse as much as possible. If the mom cannot make enough milk, or the pups cannot get enough, talk to your vet about picking a puppy formula milk substitute. Mother’s milk is the best choice, as it is full of colostrum. Colostrum is loaded with antibodies, minerals, and other vital growth factors. Colostrum is uniquely suited to puppies’ needs and provides a boost to the immune system.

Week 3

His ears and eyes are opening now. Puppies are gaining weight but still do not do much more than nurse and sleep. They will need to eat regularly throughout the day. They will eat and sleep with small bursts of activity. Puppies will still be nursing and will be more and more hungry as they grow. Weaning will start soon.

Week 4

This is a big week in puppy development. Their eyes and ears are open, and pups will take short walks about their space. Pups are still nursing, but the weaning process is starting. Start offering bowls of fresh water, as well as puppy mush. Puppy mush is a mixture of water and puppy food. Right now, it will be mostly water. Right now, stick to at least three parts water to one part kibble. Do not be worried if your puppy is not super interested in the mush mixture just yet. Mother’s milk will still provide him with everything he needs. Offer this mush every day, as pups will make the transition over the next few weeks.

Week 5

At five weeks, puppies are much sturdier and starting to become active. They will still be nursing but should begin to enjoy the puppy mush. By now, they will be fairly steady on their feet and exploring the world around them. Puppy mush should be offered multiple times throughout the day. If you still need to introduce this, it is time. The weaning process happens between weeks 6 and 10, and your pup is growing rapidly. He needs proper nutrition to grow big and strong.

Week 6

Your pup is getting a little surer of the world around him at six weeks old. You will likely see puppy teeth growing in. Puppy mush should be offered throughout the day, and hopefully, by now, your pup will show interest. Some puppies may be readily eating puppy chow. If this is the case, gradually decrease the amount of water and increase the amount of solid food. If your pup is not interested in solid foods by now, this is an excellent time to reach out to your vet, to discuss nutrition and set up puppy vaccinations.

Week 7

It is hard to believe this seven-week puppy is the same tiny tot you brought home. Pups can be around five or more pounds by now. They should be well invested in eating solid food, with very minimal, if any, nursing. Mom may continue to produce milk for the next couple of weeks, but puppies have teeth growing so rapidly that milk alone cannot sustain them. By now, they have reaped many benefits from her milk, but solid food must be the majority of the diet. Try to space feedings out about every 6 to 8 hours.

Week 8

Puppies are growing more independent right now and may also start to develop a bit of an attitude. They should be fully on puppy mush or soft chow by now. If mom permits, some pups may still try to nurse once or twice a day. However, most have moved on from needing that. Vaccinations should be scheduled, as pups may start leaving for new homes shortly. This is another reason to ensure they have made a healthy transition to puppy food and are no longer dependent on their mom for nutrition. Remember to be careful with this breed, as they are prone to obesity. He should eat between a cup and a cup and a half of food total per day.

Week 9

Your pup should be weaned and eating puppy chow by nine weeks old. This can still be soaked in water, broth, or a puppy formula substitute. However, it should be more food than liquid. Pups are growing very rapidly. They will need to eat at least three times a day. Remember that this breed uses a ton of energy, as they carry a lot of weight on a shorter frame. Puppies will weigh between 9 and 12 pounds by now, so puppy chow is very important.

Week 10

By now, you and your pup should have an established feeding routine and schedule. Do not free-feed the English Bulldog. These pups will eat anything and everything they can. They have no self-control. It is easy for them to gain weight and become overweight. This can lead to long-term health issues, including obesity, diabetes, and overworking of their joints. Keep to regular mealtimes with a few treats throughout the day. If your pup does not eat at mealtime, make him wait so he learns to eat, and you can control portion sizes.

Week 11

Your pup is a roly-poly ball of fun and energy. Aim for three or four meals daily with a few treats or snacks mixed in. Refrain from overdoing it on these, as the English Bulldog will never turn down a treat. Try to avoid giving him human food. Stick with high-quality puppy chow and some tasty canned or fresh meals mixed in. The amount of food will increase slightly as he grows. Right now, he eats about 2 cups of food a day.

Week 12

At 12 weeks, your Sourmug will weigh between 12 and 18 pounds. They are fully on puppy food and should get plenty of water. A puppy formula is best. This breed needs high-quality protein throughout their lives. Protein is particularly important; remember, this breed uses more energy than many others due to their stocky build. You will start adding more food to his meals, but stick to three a day if possible.

3 Months

At three months old, a puppy should be well established on their solid food diet. You can start to feed them three meals a day. The amount will depend on your pup’s size, activity, and digestive situation. However, 2 to 3 cups a day is about right. You can try a puzzle feeder if your pup is a fast eater or is constantly looking for more food.

6 Months

Your pup will weigh between 25 and 35 pounds at six months. They will continue to need regular meals three times a day. Keep him on puppy chow for another few months. He still needs those high-calorie, high-protein puppy recipes. Expect him to eat between 2 and 3 cups of food a day. They are divided into three meals.

9 Months To 1 Year

At nine months, you can begin the transition to adult food. Do this gradually by slowly mixing in the adult chow. Stick to a high-protein option if possible. This breed needs that protein for energy and health throughout their lives. Some owners may choose to keep feeding puppy food until around 14 months, which is perfectly fine if you feel this is best for your pup. Adults will eat about 2 to 4 cups a day. Full-grown Bullies weigh between 40 and 60 pounds. They will continue to need high-quality diets high in protein but fewer calories than puppies. Senior dogs will start to eat a little less and will need food that has fewer calories. Males are larger than females, but all English Bulldogs have short, sturdy frames and carry a lot of weight for their small to medium size.

Age	Type Of Food	Amount	Meals Per Day
1 to 2 weeks	Mother’s milk	unlimited	unlimited
3 weeks	Mother’s milk	unlimited	unlimited
4 weeks	Mother’s milk and mush	1/4 cup mush	6
5 weeks	Puppy food	1/2 cup to 1 cup	4 – 6
6 weeks	Puppy food	1 cup	4 – 6
7 weeks	Puppy food	1 cup – 1 1/2 cup	4
8 weeks	Puppy food	1 cup – 1 1/2 cup	4
9 weeks	Puppy food	1 – 2 cups	3 – 4
10 weeks	Puppy food	1 – 2 cups	3 – 4
11 weeks	Puppy food	1 – 2 cups	3 – 4
12 weeks	Puppy food	1 – 2 1/2 cups	3 – 4
6 Months	Puppy food	2 cups 2 1/2 cups	2 -3
9 months	Puppy food/adult food	2 – 3	3
1 year	Adult food	2 – 4 cups	2 or 3
Adult	Adult food	2 – 4 cups	2 or 3
Senior	Adult food	2 – 3 cups	2

Different Types Of Puppy Food

There is more to puppy food than a label and a cure picture on the bag. Puppies have different nutritional needs. Puppy chow is specifically designed to cater to a growing pup’s unique dietary requirements during their first year of life. Since puppies experience rapid growth, they need a diet that provides them with sufficient energy and the right balance of nutrients. Adult dog food, no matter how high-quality it may be, cannot meet the specific needs of a growing puppy. Owners want to pick the best dog chow they can. There are five different types of food available for owners to choose from.

Dry Food (Kibble)

Dry dog food, known as kibble, is available in various flavors and types. Brands of high-quality kibble undergo multiple rounds of testing to ensure it is both appetizing and provides dogs with well-balanced nutrition. Kibble is often a more economical option and is available in large bags. However, avoiding kibbles soaked in gravy is suggested, as they are typically higher in unhealthy fats. One drawback of kibble is the use of preservatives to prevent spoilage. Lower-quality kibble brands may contain excessive fillers, carbohydrates, substitutes, and sugar. It is essential to read the ingredient labels on kibble, just like you would for human food. Kibble is believed to have dental benefits as it helps remove plaque from a dog’s teeth, reducing tooth pain from teething and improving dental health. Along with dry kibble, newer, freeze-dried options are hitting the market. These offer top nutrition, with a longer shelf life, without over-processing.

Wet Food (Canned)

Wet dog meals can be found in cans, pouches, or plastic containers and are generally pricier than dry food. Many dogs prefer the taste and texture of wet meals, especially those with gravy or thick broth, which can contain high levels of fats. It is not recommended to solely feed your furry friend wet food as it may not be as beneficial to their health as premium quality kibble. It is fine to offer canned meals to complement high-quality dry kibble.

Fresh (Human-Grade)

If money were no object, human-grade, fresh meals would be every dog owner’s first choice. These meals are made using human-grade ingredients in human-quality kitchens. Veterinarians and pet nutritionists generally design them. These fresh meals are incredibly nutritious and of top quality. A growing number of options are available, including several customizable subscription services that deliver meals directly to your door. Some can be purchased at pet stores and are a fantastic treat, even if owners cannot always afford fresh meals.

Raw Or BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food)

It is essential to proceed cautiously and consult your veterinarian if you are interested. Raw diets are risky for young stomachs, as they are hard to digest. This is best for adult dogs. Owners must work closely with their veterinarians to ensure they are nutritionally getting everything they need.

Home Cooked

Home-cooked meals are an option some pet owners look into. This can be especially true for dogs with food allergies or sensitive stomachs. Many owners may be interested in fresh options but are still deciding whether to commit to a subscription. Cooking meals at home for your pup is a delicate process. This differs from simply dishing out an extra serving of whatever you make for dinner. Dogs should not eat the majority of human seasonings, including high levels of salt, garlic, onion, or spicy flavorings.

Adult vs. Puppy Food

Puppies and adults have different dietary needs. Puppies require more calories, fat, protein, and minerals due to their high levels of growth. Adult dogs do not need as many calories, as eating too many leads to obesity. Puppies who eat adult dog chow too early may receive only some of the necessary vitamins and minerals for proper development and growth. Adult dogs who eat too many calories can become overweight, leading to a higher risk of long-term health issues like diabetes and heart disease. Looking for an appropriate puppy, adult, or senior dog formula is integral to keeping an English Bully healthy. Amino acids are essential to puppy development. In fact, they need around twice as many as adult dogs. Puppies who do not get enough of these may have a delay in growth and poor mental development. Puppy kibbles have a higher fat level to support rapid growth. Adult dogs eating that fat level will experience rapid and unhealthy weight gain. English Bulldogs require high protein throughout their lives, but adult dogs do not need as much as puppies. Nor do they need as many calories as puppies. Because of this, adult recipe dog chow may have more filler ingredients than some puppy formulas. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) provides regulations and guidelines for dog nutrition. Their standards are as follows*:

• Arginine – 0.62 for puppies and 0.51 for adults
• Protein – 22% for puppies and 18% for adult dogs
• Fat – 8% for puppies and 5% for adults
• Calcium – 1% for puppies and 0.6% for adults
• Phosphorus – 0.8% for puppies and 0.5% for adults
• Sodium – 0.3% for puppies and 0.06% for adult dogs
• Lysine – 0.77% for puppies and 0.63% for adults
• Leucine 0.72 % for puppies and 0.59 for adults
• Chloride – 0.45 % puppy 0.095 for adults
• (*This is not a complete list)

Healthy adult English Bulldogs need about 1,500 calories every day. A general rule of thumb is about 25 to 30 calories per pound. Of total body weight every day. So, an adult weighing 55 pounds would need about 1,375 to 1.650 calories daily.

Importance Of High-Quality Dog Food

This Bully breed is prone to various health issues related to their diet. One of the most common health issues is obesity. Obesity in bulldogs can lead to heart disease, diabetes, and joint problems. An unbalanced diet can also cause digestive issues like diarrhea, constipation, and vomiting. Nutrition is a cornerstone of lifelong health for the English Bulldog and every other breed. It is essential that this is not an area where owners cut corners or try to save a few dollars. These doggies need well-balanced nutrition with high-quality protein throughout their lives. Some cheaper brands use lower-quality ingredients, fillers, preservatives, and artificial additives. Many of these additives have little to no nutritional value and can be low in elements like minerals, vitamins, Omega fatty acids, and protein. It is essential to avoid foods that use a lot of wheat fillers. This can cause indigestion and gas in English Bulldogs. Wheat products are hard to digest, as is corn which can sometimes cause irritated skin and hives. A consistent feeding schedule is vital for maintaining your English Bulldog’s health. Feeding your dog at the same time every day can help regulate metabolism and digestion. Additionally, it helps prevent overeating and obesity. In addition to a consistent feeding schedule, it is also important to always provide your pup with access to fresh water. Dehydration can lead to a variety of health issues, including kidney problems. There are several human foods that should be avoided in any canine’s diet. These include chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and avocado. These can be toxic to dogs and lead to health issues such as vomiting, diarrhea, and even death. Avoid feeding your English Bulldog table scraps, which can be high in fat and calories. These can contribute to obesity and other health issues.

What Nutrients Do English Bulldog Puppies Need?

English Bulldog puppies need a balanced diet with all the nutrients they need for growth and development. Some of the most essential nutrients for puppies include:

Protein

Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues and a source of energy. High-quality animal protein is vital for building and repairing muscle, skin, and bone tissues. It is also important for the production of enzymes and hormones. Bully puppies need at least 22% protein during their high-growth phases and 18% protein when they are adult dogs. Bullies do very well with lamb, beef, and fish-based foods. Bulldogs tend to have chicken allergies, so many owners choose to avoid this protein.

Fat

Fat provides energy, helps to absorb vitamins, and keeps skin and coat healthy. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids will help puppies have healthy skin and coats. Puppies should have at least 8% fat in their diet, while adults need 5% fat.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates provide energy and fiber. Healthy carbs are one of the body’s primary sources of energy. They are also crucial in producing glucose, the brain’s primary energy source.

Fiber

Fiber helps to keep the digestive system healthy. It also helps to bind toxins and remove them from the body. Fiber is very useful in regulating digestion.

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamins are essential for many bodily functions, including growth, development, and immune function. Puppies need a variety of vitamins, including vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K. Minerals are fundamental for many bodily functions, including bone growth, muscle function, and fluid balance. Bully puppies need a range of minerals, including calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, and copper. A diet rich in calcium and phosphorus will help develop strong bones and teeth. In addition to these nutrients, puppies also need plenty of fresh, clean water. Water is essential for hydration and helps to flush out toxins from the body. Feeding your Bully pup a high-quality diet formulated explicitly for puppies is essential. This will ensure they get all the nutrients they need for growth and development.

How Much Do English Bulldog Puppies Grow Each Week?

Like every other breed, these guys will experience periods of rapid growth and lulls and plateaus. Some weeks will show a rapid increase in weight gain, while others will not have much action. This is perfectly normal while dogs are going through their heavy growth cycles. For the first few weeks, they will just put on a few ounces and then start putting on 1/2 a pound to about a pound a week. Expect to see the most rapid growth and weight gain between the ages of three to six months. Around 10 or 11 months, you will notice less growth, and your pup will be close to full adult size. Please remember that this is simply a guideline of what to expect. We cannot make an exact prediction. Every dog’s growth varies depending on breed, gender, size, and lifestyle. With most canine breeds, males tend to be larger, and females are a little smaller. If you have any concerns about your English Bully’s growth or development, check with your veterinarian to help monitor growth and milestones.

Keeping Your English Bulldog At The Right Weight

Because this breed is prone to overeating and developing obesity, keeping them at a healthy weight regardless of their life stage is critical. This is essential for them to live the longest, healthiest lives possible. From the very first days of puppyhood, owners must be aware that this breed is highly food motivated and will never stop trying to find or sneak extra snacks. They are pretty clever at finding table scraps and sneaking bites from people’s plates. This will add to their weight gain, and though they will appreciate the treats, there are better choices than this. It is important to avoid feeding your Bully people foods and to stick with a high-quality, well-balanced, high-protein formula. Always stick to the appropriate formula for your dog’s life stage. It is crucial to monitor this Bully breed’s meal times regardless of age and never to free-feed this breed. They will eat anything in front of them and sometimes seem to have a never-ending hunger. Additionally, regular, daily exercise is vital to keep this breed healthy. Because they have a propensity to overeat, a couple of sessions of vigorous physical play every day, along with regular walks and opportunities to run, are essential to physical health. Maintaining a healthy weight is important for your fur baby’s overall health and well-being. Here are some tips for successful feeding and weight management:

1. Use a measuring cup to portion out your dog’s meals.
2. Avoid feeding your dog table scraps or human foods.
3. Provide your dog with regular exercise and activity.
4. Monitor your dog’s weight and adjust the feeding schedule as needed.
5. Choose high-quality chow appropriate for your dog’s age and weight.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much should I be feeding my English Bulldog?

Puppies will eat less, around 1/2 a cup to a cup daily, gradually increasing to two to four cups daily, depending on size. Smaller dogs will eat less. On average most adults eat between two and three cups a day. This is usually divided into two or three meals. The amount your pup needs to eat will fluctuate based on health, weight, age, and activity level.

What do you feed an English Bulldog?

It is best to stick with high-quality, high-protein recipes. These pups love a good meal and tend to overeat, so purchase the best quality dog meals you can and carefully monitor them when they eat. Portion control is vital for this breed. Because they carry around a denser amount of body weight on a more petite frame than most breeds, high-quality protein is very important. This breed can sometimes develop stomach sensitivities, so steer clear of known allergens and hard-to-digest ingredients like corn, wheat, and chicken.

How many times a day do English Bulldogs eat?

Puppies will eat more often than adult dogs. Expect your hunger-driven pooch to eat anywhere between three and six times a day. Younger pups may even want to eat more. Adults should eat at least two meals daily; some will like three. Once a day is not enough to sustain this breed, as they expend a large amount of energy just to move around. They need replenishment of this energy at least twice a day.

Why won’t my English Bulldog eat?

Your pup might not want to eat for a few different reasons. These can range from disliking the taste and texture of the kibble or chow being offered. Your pup may be experiencing some sort of stomach or gastrointestinal distress or may be stressed out. A pup refusing to eat for more than a day or two must be seen by the veterinarian. A few different things, including a stomach virus or other underlying medical conditions, like food allergies, may be the culprit. Any time your dog refuses to eat, is low on energy, and is uninterested in treats or special snacks, it’s time to involve your vet. Owners may want to consider pet insurance for this breed as they can be prone to a number of health conditions, including breathing issues due to their smooshed-in faces.

Final Thoughts

A new pup is a happy addition to the family and brings many hours of joy and smiles to your home. English Bulldogs are intelligent, cute, cuddly, and love people. They make fantastic additions to the family but require much attention and care. Responsible pet owners must be ready to invest significant time and money into providing top-quality nutrition. Along with picking the best quality food you can, it is important to feed this breed the proper amount. They are prone to overeating, love food, and can quickly develop obesity, diabetes, heart issues, and gastrointestinal distress if they overeat or have an unbalanced diet. Remember to buy the best quality dog food you can, and always communicate with your veterinarian about any significant changes or concerns you have about your dog’s eating habits. Do not make substantial changes to their nutrition or diet suddenly, and pay attention to your dog’s bowel movements and behavior. Nutritional needs will change from when English Bulldogs are newborn pups to adult dogs and seniors. Our feeding chart and comprehensive guide are fantastic tools to help owners stay on track To provide proper nutrition. Remember that this information is to educate only and is not an exact prediction nor a substitute for advice from a licensed veterinarian or pet nutritionist.