Are Bulldogs the Most Troublesome Dogs? 6 Common Complaints About Them 

Are you wondering what the common complaints about bulldogs are? Bulldogs are a unique and endearing dog breed. Dog lovers around the world love their wrinkled faces, short, stocky build, loud snoring, and friendly personalities. However, like all dog breeds, bulldogs have quirks that most dog owners complain about. In addition, the American Bulldog has a reputation for being one of the most dangerous dog breeds in the world! 

Let’s explore the wonderful characteristics that make many people fall in love with bulldogs and the various common complaints associated with the breed. We’ll also answer the question, “Are bulldogs the most troublesome breed?” and provide tips on how you can deal with the most common challenges dog owners face owning bulldogs. 

Characteristics of Bulldogs 

Many characteristics of bulldogs make them attractive to families looking for the perfect companion. Let’s look at a few examples: 

• The perfect family pet: Bulldogs make the best family pets, as they are gentle and patient with children. Many dog lovers will seek out bulldogs as they have protective instincts that allow them to be the best guard dogs. So don’t be put off by their small, stocky builds! 
• Unique appearance: Bulldogs have wrinkled and pushed-in faces, giving them a unique and adorable appearance that is hard to resist! 
• Laid back: Bulldogs are often associated with a laid-back lifestyle due to their physical appearance and low energy levels. They are the perfect companion for families looking for a low-maintenance pet that enjoys lots of cuddle time. 
• Friendly personality: Bulldogs are well known for their friendly and loyal personalities. Because of their approachable nature, they attract many people looking for a dog companion. 

6 Common Complaints About Bulldogs 

While bulldogs are charming, loyal, and make wonderful pets, they have a few troublesome issues that people complain about. Let’s explore the six main common complaints people experience owning bulldogs. 

1. Slobbering

One of the first things we think about when we imagine owning a bulldog is the amount of slobber we may encounter daily! Bulldogs are known for their drool and may cause several complaints from impatient dog owners. This is due to the amount of cleaning one has to do with all the drool around the house!

Bulldogs slobber most when eating, drinking, feeling nervous, or excited. The best way to manage slobber is to keep a cloth or paper towel close to clean up the drool. In addition, keep your dog’s food and water bowls in areas where it’s easy to clean.

Another way to manage excessive drool is by giving your bulldog a place to go where he can feel safe when anxious or upset. A crate or indoor dog house is perfect in this situation. Bulldogs who are not feeling their normal selves produce extra saliva, which will return to normal once they feel safe and secure again.

2. Skin Infections

Bulldogs are susceptible to skin infections and must be bathed every 4 to 6 weeks. Regular bathing will ensure your bulldog has a healthy coat and skin. If you don’t clean your bulldog regularly, bacteria can build up between all the extra skin and folds, causing skin fold pyoderma.

Skin fold pyoderma is caused when deep skin folds rub together and retain moisture. These areas are typically warm and are difficult to air out properly. This creates the perfect environment for yeast and bacteria infections, resulting in skin inflammation. The skin inflammation is also known as dermatitis and often leads to pyoderma.

To prevent skin fold dermatitis:

• Regularly clean your bulldog’s skin folds and use products that are safe for use around the face and eyes.
• Ensure the areas you clean are properly dry.
• If your bulldog gets any skin conditions, contact your vet for medical treatment.

3. Brachycephalic Syndrome

Brachycephalic Syndrome is a term used to describe upper airway problems commonly found in dogs with flat faces, like bulldogs. These problems often include stenotic nares, which are narrowed nostrils, and an elongated soft palate.

If you own a bulldog, you may have experienced your dog having trouble breathing. You may hear sounds like snoring or wheezing, which you might then consider Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) at play.

BOAS can lead to problems like:

• noisy breathing
• exercise intolerance, such as struggling to keep up during playtime
• difficulty in getting enough air when breathing in

If your dog struggles to breathe, and it is one of your most common complaints, contact your vet to assist with medical care. Your vet will likely recommend surgical or medical solutions to treat the problem.

If your bulldog shows signs of BOAS or seems to be struggling to catch their breath, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with your vet.

4. Stubbornness

One thing you may have complained about is a bulldog’s stubborn personality! These four-legged animals are typically difficult to train and may not always want to follow commands. Despite their stubborn streak, bulldogs are an intelligent dog breed.

These issues can be overcome with the right training techniques, patience, and positive reinforcement. Bulldogs respond well to consistency and tasty treats when rewarded for their cooperation.

5. Joint Disorders

Joint disorders are a common complaint about bulldogs. These joint disorders include elbow dysplasia or hip dysplasia, which are very painful for dogs. These disorders mean a dog’s joints don’t form how they should, leading to degenerative joint disease.

You’ll be happy to hear that bone and joint problems can be managed. There are screening programs available that will provide information on how likely your bulldog will suffer from these joint issues.

To avoid joint issues, you should explore these screening programs. As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure!

6. Overheating

Bulldogs are highly susceptible to overheating due to their short noses, making it difficult for them to cool down. Because of this, bulldogs are prone to overheating.

While bulldogs pant to cool down like all dogs do, they struggle to cool down as their breathing system is shorter than other dogs, making breathing a struggle. This means they may not cool down as quickly as we’d like them to.

If your dog is outside in hot weather, you must watch them closely. Early signs of heat stroke to look out for include:

• Restlessness
• Excessive panting
• Excessive drooling
• Excessive thirst
• Glassy eyes
• Purple or red tongue or gums
• Seizures
• Increased heartbeat and pulse
• Increased body temperature of 104 F and higher
• Signs of agitation, whining, or barking
• Weakness or collapse
• Unconsciousness

Therefore, avoiding strenuous exercise and providing plenty of shade and water is crucial. In addition, you can also invest in a cooling mat or vest to keep your bulldog comfortable in the heat.

Final Thoughts

While some bulldogs, like the American Bulldog, have a reputation for being one of the most dangerous dogs in the world, the overall breed is friendly and makes the perfect companion for any family. They are affectionate and enjoy cuddle time.

While dog owners have common complaints about bulldogs that possibly make them the most troublesome dogs, the breed is affectionate and loyal to its owners. By being aware of these common complaints and addressing them proactively, bulldog owners can ensure their furry friends have a long and healthy life!