Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hello All,

I have had an English Bulldog since she was a pup (2.5 years now). She has always slept in excess and she is not really active. She is a great dog to have, but she never ever plays with any toys that I have purchased for her. She doesnt chew on anything. WHen i take her out for walks she gets excited when she smells other dogs urine, but that is about it.

IS this normal? I have seen other bulldogs and they are active and like to play and chew on things. THis paticular one is more people orientated, loves to be petted and constantly follows me around the house. One friend say she looks depressed. Any Suggestions?

She is due for her pallet surgery as well, could this be a cause?

>>Hello All,
>>
>>I have had an English Bulldog since she was a pup (2.5 years now). She has always slept in excess and she is not really active. She is a great dog to have, but she never ever plays with any toys that I have purchased for her. She doesnt chew on anything. WHen i take her out for walks she gets excited when she smells other dogs urine, but that is about it.
>>
>>IS this normal? I have seen other bulldogs and they are active and like to play and chew on things. THis paticular one is more people orientated, loves to be petted and constantly follows me around the house. One friend say she looks depressed. Any Suggestions?
>>
>>She is due for her pallet surgery as well, could this be a cause?

>>>>>>>>>>

The fact that she needs pallet surgery could certainly be a factor. Your veterinarian is a good one to ask, since he can examine her. There is a lot of physical strain on any Bulldog's body.
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Kathy Diamond Davis, author, "Therapy Dogs: Training Your Dog to Reach Others," 2nd edition, and the free Canine Behavior Series articles at http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=SRC&S=1&SourceID=47

It's quite common for dogs with mulitple physical exaggerations (as all bulldogs have) and particular acute issues (as your dog's issue with it's pallet) to have low levels of energy.

Imagine if, through selective breeding, your physical coformation was as distorted as the bulldog's is. (Compare the bulldog's body shape and head type to a natural breed like huskies.) Vitality would most likely be one of the first things to go.

Best of luck with the surgery.