How Much Do Bulldogs Shed?
Most dog breeds will shed to some degree, but it might benefit you to find a breed where excessive shedding is not an issue. This could be because of allergies that you or someone in your family has or simply because you don’t want your home and clothes to be covered in dog hair.
English Bulldogs typically have short, smooth coats that are relatively easy to maintain. Regular brushing and bathing will help remove dead and loose hair and dirt.
Bulldogs are not recognised as being heavy shedders and would be considered average.
Do Bulldogs Shed More During Certain Seasons?
Excessive shedding with Bulldogs is not typically an issue though they shed all year round, and the only times this will get worse is during their two shedding seasons.
During Spring and Autumn, your Bulldog can start excessively shedding as it loses its winter and summer coats and prepares for the next season. While this can be frustrating for a short period, it allows the dog to regulate its temperature.
A thicker winter coat protects your dog from the cold, and a thinner coat during the summer means cutting or shaving a Bulldog is unnecessary.
Do Bulldogs Shed More as Puppies?
Bulldog puppies will shed more than adults, but they are smaller, so there is less hair that requires cleaning up. The rate they shed typically slows down as the coat matures and you get into a good grooming regime with the dog.
What Type of Hair Do Bulldogs Have?
English bulldogs have short, glossy hair that is typically fine and straight. The Bulldog’s skin is soft and loose, resulting in wrinkles or folds.
Bulldog Shedding Tips: How To Minimise
Dogs will shed, but there are things that you can do to minimise how much they do and to manage the hair that comes off.
Your Bulldog is likely to shed all year round, with heavy shedding seasons in spring and autumn. If you find your English Bulldog is shedding more than it should, many causes should be investigated.
Some causes of excessive shedding in Bulldogs include;
- Poor diet
- Allergies
- Sunburn
- Excessive licking
- Parasites
- Bacterial or fungal infections
- Pregnancy
- Lactation
- Cancer
- Medication
- Immune disease
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Thyroid disease
- Adrenal disease
If you have concerns that your dog is shedding more than it should, consult your vet for advice.
If your dog is shedding as normal, here are some top tips to help minimise it.
Regular grooming
Brushing your dog, trimming its nails, cleaning between its wrinkles, and other parts of a proper grooming regime will help remove loose or dead hair and minimise the risk of dirt or infections causing your dog to scratch and shed.
Bathe your dog
Bathing your dog with high-quality shampoos and conditioners will keep it clean, remove dirt and old hair, and minimise the risk of fungal or bacterial infections. Rinsing the shampoo and conditioner off thoroughly and drying the dog afterwards is essential.
Provide a healthy diet
A healthy, nutritious diet will promote a healthy coat, healthy skin, and a healthier dog. Supplements or foods with fatty acids and Omega-3 can also help reduce shedding.
Use a high-quality collar
A poor collar can lead to scratching. This is true of harnesses or jackets, so always ensure your dog is comfortable.
Vacuum regularly
Don’t let dog hair build up in the home, and vacuum regularly to minimise hair and allergens on furniture and clothing.
Are Bulldogs Hypoallergenic?
Bulldogs are not hypoallergenic and are considered high-allergen compared to some other breeds.
Final Thoughts on Bulldog Shedding
If your primary concern is ‘Will a Bulldog shed excessively in my home?’, the answer is no. They are not big shedders, but they will shed throughout the year and heavily during spring and autumn. They are not an ideal choice for those with allergies but are great for anyone looking for a low-maintenance breed.
