Adopting a new best friend from a litter of So-Cal French bulldog puppies is an exciting, life-changing event. It can also be a time filled with uncertainty––you’re responsible for introducing a brand new dog to the world. Between house training, socialization, and basic commands, it can be a little overwhelming. One of the most important things you can do to give your So-Cal French bulldog puppy the best start in life is to make sure they get all the vitamins and nutrients a growing dog needs.
A nutrient-dense, high-quality diet is one of the best ways to keep your dog healthy and happy. We recommend all So-Cal French bulldog puppies get these critical nutrients to prevent allergies, maintain a healthy coat, and have good gut health.
Whenever you compare dog food brands, check to see if the first ingredient is a whole protein from chicken, beef, lamb, or fish. Avoid labels that mention: byproducts, meal, fillers, or artificial additives.
Adult dogs need 18 percent lean protein in their diet, and for So-Cal French bulldog puppies, that amount is higher. Protein helps puppies to build muscle and lean mass––both essential for growing dogs!
There are many grain-free foods available for dogs today. Still, research doesn’t show any specific advantage to a grain-free diet. Food allergies are relatively uncommon in dogs and more likely to respond to chicken or beef than one particular grain. Grain-free dog foods will substitute for other carbohydrates such as sweet potato, which some dogs have an easier time digesting.
Adult dogs need five percent fat in their daily diet, and puppies need slightly more. So-Cal French bulldog puppies need omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat. Most foods include these nutrients, but some owners opt to add fish oil formulated for dogs on top of the kibble.
Always consult with your vet before adding any vitamin or nutrient to your dog’s diet. While dog foods on the market meet regulations, you can easily give too much of a particular vitamin by adding supplements.
French bulldogs are prone to obesity despite their fast metabolism, and gaining even an extra pound or two can cause health problems. Make sure your food has an appropriate amount of calories. Adults need 25 to 35 calories per pound of bodyweight every day, and puppies need more as they’re growing.
When you give your dog food with whole ingredients, such as protein, carbohydrates, fruits, and vegetables, they’ll get most of their required vitamins and minerals. Suppose you feed specific small-dog puppy food to your So-Cal French bulldog puppy. In that case, you may notice phosphorus added to the formula.
Phosphorus supports your puppy’s growth into a happy, healthy dog. Other essential nutrients include:
Never give your dog any vitamins or supplements not formulated for dogs. Avoid giving “people food” as a treat. Many common foods, such as grapes, onions, macadamia nuts, and avocados, can cause serious harm to your pet, even in small amounts.
Royal Empire French Bulldog is the premier responsible breeder of pedigreed French bulldog puppies in Southern California. We raise all our dogs as members of our family, where they’re well-socialized and well-loved.
Our goal is to share our love of Frenchies with other families in California and across the country. We practice responsible breeding practices to ensure our litters are destined for a lifetime of happiness and health.
If you’re ready to add one of our So-Cal French bulldog puppies to your family, start by exploring our upcoming litters, review our health contract, and submit a non-refundable deposit for your dog!