7 Ways to Show Your Bulldog You Love Him

If you are lucky enough to be a parent to a bulldog then you know just how adorably sweet bullys can be! Here are eight ways that you can tell your bulldog “I love you” by using a language he’ll understand.

1. Train for 15 minutes per day

One way to show your bully you love him is by taking the time to review basic commands and teach him new tricks. Mental stimulation is as important for bulldogs as it is for humans, and dogs, like children, appreciate having rules and boundaries. It helps them feel safe and secure.

Daily training sessions also help strengthen the bond between you and your pup. Just one hour a week is all that’s needed, which works out to about 15 minutes a day. Review the commands your bulldog has already mastered and then take a few minutes each training session to work on a new skill or trick.

2. Look deeply into her eyes.

When your bulldog locks gazes with you, she is giving you a “visual hug.” By staring into your eyes, she is showing trust, submission and affection.

If you want to return the love, simply speak softly to your bulldog as you pet her gently and maintain eye contact. This action will flood her brain with oxytocin—the “happy hormone.”

Of course, direct eye contact can also be considered a challenge or threat if done with unfamiliar dogs—You never want to have a staring contest with the aggressive guard dog down the street. But staring into the eyes of your own pooch can help her feel relaxed and calm.

3. Lean on Your Bulldog—Literally.

Have you ever noticed your bulldog leaning up against you? That is actually his adorable way of giving you a hug! You can reciprocate by gently pressing your own weight against him. Obviously, you don’t want your bulldog to feel crushed or threatened. Just lean against him enough that he feels loved and trusted. 

4. Nap with your bulldog

When your bulldog sleeps in your presence, it is is the ultimate show of love and trust. That is because dogs are at their most vulnerable when they are asleep. You can show your bulldog you love and trust him back by sleeping next to him. This will also show him you consider him part of your pack.

It’s okay if you have a “no dogs in the bed” policy. Snuggling up with your bulldog on the couch or on the floor for a couple of minutes every day can help, too.

5. Talk to your bulldog.

Studies involving MRI scans have shown that dogs understand and respond to our language better than we previously believed. Talking to your bulldog shows him that you love and care for him. 

6. Create a morning cuddle routine.

Is your morning routine stressing you out? Instead of hitting snooze for the tenth time, get up about ten minutes earlier to create a morning routine with your bulldog. Start off with a quick trip outside with your bully to let them empty their bladder. Then, come back inside and spend five minutes cuddling with your bulldog. This will help set a great tone for the rest of the day—for both human and canine alike.

7. Reassure with touch.

We often instinctively pat our bulldogs on the head or hug them to show affection. While you may think you’re showing affection, your bulldog may see it as you demonstrating your dominance. Instead of patting her on the head or hugging her, massage her belly or behind her ears. Brushing her gently with a soft-bristled brush can also help, too.

8. Praise her.

Dog owners are often good about reprimanding when their pooch misbehaves, however, they tend to neglect to consistently offer praise when their dog is well behaved.

When your bully is being calm and quiet, praise him with a “good boy.” This not only helps to reinforce good behavior, but it also shows your bulldog you appreciate his efforts to behave. Bulldogs are like children—they want to please you and crave your attention and praise.

What not to do:

There are some signs of affection that we instinctively do as humans that won’t translate the same way to dogs. In fact, these affectionate gestures could wind up confusing your bulldog, or worse, make them feel threatened.

Try to avoid the following:

Kissing—Your bulldog may interpret a kiss on the head as a signal you’re trying to show dominance. This is because in a pack, an alpha dog will often playfully nip at another dog’s neck to say “I’m the boss” or “Fall in line.”

Treats—Treats should only be used for training or to reward good behavior. Giving your bulldog a treat just because he’s looking particularly adorable or because you just “love him sooooo much” may just confuse your bulldog.

Hugging—Hugging your bulldog may elicit the opposite reaction to the one you’re hoping for, so watch your bulldog for signs of discomfort or fear. Hugging can cause your bulldog to feel trapped.

About Cascade Bulldogs: Cascade Bulldogs is a website dedicated to informing bulldog owners on how to raise, train and show bulldogs (also commonly referred to as “English bulldogs”). Follow Cascade Bulldogs on Facebook and Instagram for weekly updates, cute photos and inspirational bulldog quotes.