How Much Do You Feed a Bull Terrier

The Bull Terrier, often recognized for its distinctive egg-shaped head and keen expression, is a breed full of energy, personality, and loyalty. Keeping a Bull Terrier healthy requires not just love and exercise, but also the right amount and type of food. With a plethora of dog food options available in the market, it can be a daunting task for a Bull Terrier owner to determine the right quantity and type of food. This article aims to guide you through the nuances of feeding your beloved Bull Terrier.

1. Understand Your Bull Terrier’s Caloric Needs

Bull Terriers, like all breeds, have specific caloric needs based on their age, weight, activity level, and health. On average, an adult Bull Terrier requires about 1,000 to 1,400 calories per day. However, these values are highly variable:

Puppies: Growing Bull Terrier puppies may require more calories, as much as 1,500 calories per day, divided into 3-4 meals.
Active Adults: Bull Terriers involved in sports or intense training might need even more.
Seniors: Older dogs, on the other hand, may see a decline in their metabolism and activity, requiring fewer calories.

2. Types of Dog Food

There are several types of dog food available:

Dry Kibble: This is a popular choice due to its convenience and longevity. It also helps in keeping the dog’s teeth clean.
Wet Food: Usually more palatable, it provides hydration but can be pricier and has a shorter shelf life once opened.
Raw or Homemade: Some owners opt for raw diets or homemade meals. If you decide to choose this route, ensure you consult with a vet to maintain a balanced diet.

3. Ingredients Matter

When deciding on the type and brand of dog food:

Look for high-quality animal protein as the first ingredient.
Ensure the food doesn’t have fillers or by-products.
For Bull Terriers with allergies, grain-free options might be suitable.

4. Measuring the Food

While the back of your dog food bag will provide general guidelines:

For an average adult Bull Terrier with moderate activity, 2.5 to 3 cups of dry food per day is a good starting point.
Remember to adjust based on your dog’s specific needs and monitor their weight.

5. Treats and Extras

While it’s tempting to pamper your Bull Terrier with treats:

Ensure treats don’t make up more than 10% of their daily caloric intake.
Opt for healthy alternatives like carrots or blueberries.

6. Hydration is Key

Make sure your Bull Terrier always has access to clean, fresh water, especially if feeding primarily dry kibble.

7. Regular Vet Checkups

Regular vet visits ensure your Bull Terrier’s dietary needs align with their health, weight, and activity level.

8. Cost of Feeding a Bull Terrier

The monthly cost of feeding a Bull Terrier varies based on the type and brand of food. On average:

High-quality dry kibble: $50 – $80 per month.
Wet food or a mix: $60 – $100 per month.
Raw or homemade diets can vary widely but typically lie in the higher price range.

9. Potential Food Allergies

Bull Terriers can be prone to allergies. If your dog shows signs of allergies, consult your vet. They might recommend a special diet or an elimination process to identify the allergen.

10. Transitioning Foods

Change in diet should be gradual, over 7-10 days, to prevent gastrointestinal issues.

Our 5 Top Foods for Bull Terriers

The diets were selected by our founder Justin Palmer, a certified canine nutrition expert, specifically with Bull Terriers in mind:

Food	Pros	Cons
Check Today's Price on: Amazon iHeartDogs	No filler carbohydrates, mostly animal protein Freeze dried is the closest you can get to homemade/fresh. Retains 95% of nutrient value Single source protein (many to choose from) ideal for dogs with allergies. Available in Chicken or Beef Rich in Omega-3 and probiotics, which retain their value in a freeze dried food.	Pricier Option Dog may never go back to kibble after trying!
Check Today's Price on: Amazon	Multi-meat formula, which exposes your dog to multiple protein sources, which can reduce chance of allergies later in life For a dry dog food, contains VERY high protein (38%). Most kibbles contain less than 25%. Contains fish, providing a good source of Omega-3 fatty acids	For a dry dog food, its on the pricier side Uses some legumes for protein, which is less ideal for dogs
Check Today's Price on: Amazon	For a dry dog food, contains moderately high protein (27%) Quality protein from free-range chicken, eggs, and turkey Added fish oil and probiotics can help skin, coat, and digestion	Less protein than options above Uses some grains for protein, which is less ideal for dogs
Check Today's Price on: Amazon	Human grade ingredients that look fresh and homemade Smells like actual human food! Minimally processed and cooked at temperatures much lower than kibble, retains more nutrients. Many flavor & protein options available	Pricey on a per meal basis Your dog may not go back to eating cheaper food!
Check Today's Price on: Amazon	Canned wet food cooked at lower temperature than kibble and retains more nutrient High quality free-range chicken protein Added antioxidants from Artichokes, Cranberries, Pumpkin, Tomato, Blueberries, Broccoli, Cabbage, Kale, Parsley that you can actually see in the food	When buying wet food, you're paying for water weight More expensive than dry food

Conclusion

Feeding your Bull Terrier requires a balance of understanding their individual needs and ensuring the quality and quantity of their diet. Regularly monitor their weight, seek high-quality ingredients, and adjust as required. Your Bull Terrier’s energy, coat quality, and overall health will reflect the care you put into their diet.

Frequently Asked Questions About Feeding a Bull Terrier

1. How many times a day should I feed my Bull Terrier?

Adult Bull Terriers should ideally be fed twice a day – once in the morning and once in the evening. Puppies require more frequent feedings, typically 3-4 times a day, to support their rapid growth and development.

2. Are there specific ingredients to avoid in Bull Terrier’s food?

Yes, avoid foods with fillers, by-products, artificial preservatives, and colors. Bull Terriers can also be prone to allergies, so ingredients like corn, soy, and certain proteins might cause reactions in some dogs.

3. Can Bull Terriers eat grain-free food?

While some Bull Terriers might benefit from a grain-free diet, especially if they have allergies, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian before making this switch. Recent studies have also linked certain grain-free diets with heart issues in dogs.

4. What kind of treats are suitable for Bull Terriers?

Opt for healthy and low-calorie treats. Veggies like carrots and green beans can be excellent treats. Ensure that treats do not make up more than 10% of their daily caloric intake.

5. How do I know if my Bull Terrier is overweight?

A healthy Bull Terrier should have a visible waist when viewed from above and a tuck in the abdominal area when viewed from the side. If you cannot easily feel their ribs without pressing hard, it might indicate that they’re overweight.

6. Is it okay to feed my Bull Terrier human food?

While some human foods are safe for dogs in moderation, others can be toxic. Always ensure the food is safe (e.g., no grapes, onions, chocolate) and given in limited quantities. It’s best to consult with a vet before introducing any new foods.

7. My Bull Terrier seems to have food allergies. What should I do?

If your Bull Terrier is showing signs of allergies like itching, redness, or gastrointestinal issues, consult with a veterinarian. They may recommend an elimination diet to determine the allergen or suggest switching to hypoallergenic dog food.

8. Should I give supplements to my Bull Terrier?

Unless prescribed by a veterinarian, it’s usually not necessary to give supplements if you’re feeding a balanced and high-quality commercial dog food. If you’re considering supplements, consult with your vet first.

9. How much water should my Bull Terrier drink daily?

Bull Terriers should always have access to fresh and clean water. On average, a dog should drink about an ounce of water per pound of body weight daily, but this can vary based on activity levels and diet.

10. I’m considering a raw diet for my Bull Terrier. Is it recommended?

Raw diets can have benefits, but they also come with risks, such as bacterial contamination. If you’re considering a raw diet, it’s crucial to do thorough research and consult with a veterinarian to ensure your Bull Terrier’s nutritional needs are met.

Ejay Camposano