How to Prepare for an English Bulldog Puppy

So you've decided that the newest member of the family will be an adorable English Bulldog puppy. Congratulations! Have you started puppy-proofing your home? You'll want your house to be ready for your pup before they arrive—the first step is to put away all the items that you wouldn't want them to get a hold of, including your brand new sneakers, gadgets, electrical cords, medicines, cleaning supplies, and poisonous plants. Stairs and pools are also major safety hazards to Bulldogs, so remember to cordon off these areas with baby gates. Make sure you've purchased your pup's food, toys, bowls, leash, harness, bed, crate, and grooming tools as well. During the summer, your Bulldog pup should have an air-conditioned room that they can retreat to. Like other flat-faced breeds, English Bulldogs can have a hard time breathing in hot and humid weather.

Another thing that should be taken care of prior to your pupper's arrival is their schedule. Or rather, your collective schedule. Figure out when and who will be in charge of feeding, walking, and playing with the puppy, if you live in a multi-person household. Some Bulldogs can become overweight if you let them stuff their face, so watch your pup's diet carefully. Your puppy should get three meals per day until they're about four months old. If you're not sure how much food you should be feeding them, talk to your vet during your pup's first checkup, which should be done by around 6 to 8 weeks of age. When it comes to potty training, your Bulldog pup will need to go to the bathroom every two to three hours, so if everyone in the house works full-time, consider hiring a Wag! dog walker to let Fido out during the day.

Get ready for a busy and demanding first week as everyone in the family adjusts to this big change in your lives. Make the adjustment period as stress-free as possible for your Bulldog puppy, who's still learning the do's and don'ts of their new home. Your pup may cry the first few nights, so have someone sleep in the same room for reassurance. Chew and tug toys will also keep your English Bulldog happy. Be patient and consistent, and your puppy should adapt to their new environment quickly!