English bulldog puppies are soft, wrinkly balls of fur. Luckily, most don't shed a lot—although it's more than you might expect, especially when the seasons change. If your bulldog puppy is shedding excessively, some small changes may lessen the fur flying around your house.
Food Choices
The first step in reducing your puppy's shedding is to check his food's ingredients. Bullies often have food allergies or sensitivities that show up as excessive shedding, itching and skin infections. Look for a high-quality puppy food with at least 28% protein and no grains, byproducts, artificial colors and sweeteners. If your puppy has a food allergy, the simple step of changing his food can improve his coat and reduce shedding.
Omega-3 Supplements
Your pup may be shedding because of a lack of omega-3 fatty acids in his diet. Fish and flaxseed have high levels of omega-3s, but green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale are also good sources. If you choose a fish-based food, your pup will already be getting lots of omega-3s. But, if he still sheds a lot, you might add a fish oil or flaxseed oil supplement to make his skin and coat even healthier, which will help reduce shedding.
Oatmeal Baths
Bulldogs have more sensitive skin than many other breeds, so avoid harsh shampoos with your puppy. Never use a human shampoo on your pup, as they are often very strong and can cause skin irritations. Oatmeal baths are gentle and can help make the skin and coat healthier. Don't wash your puppy more than once a week, though. Too much bathing will have the reverse effect, washing away all the natural oils in the skin and leaving it dry and flaky.
Daily Brushing
Even though bulldogs have short fur that doesn't get tangled, they do need regular brushing. Choose a brush with soft bristles for your pup and run it down your arm. If it doesn't feel good to you, it won't feel good to your pup, either. If you brush your puppy every day, his skin and coat will be healthier and he'll likely shed less.
A Trip to the Vet
Before rushing to schedule a vet appointment, try making changes to food, supplements and grooming. Give your puppy a few weeks on his new regimen and see if his shedding decreases. If he is still shedding excessively on a grain-free food, with added supplements and regular bathing and brushing, it's time for a consultation with the vet. Parasites, skin infections and fleas can all cause excessive shedding, and all require medication from your pooch's vet.