Expert: English Bulldogs ( Marie ) e-mail me at mpmaltese@gmail.com - 2/10/2009

Question
My fiance has a 1 1/2 year old American Bulldog that drives me absolutely insane.  His skin flakes, he sheds like crazy, has a terrible smell, gas that is extremely offensive and I can't stand the snoring at night.  My boyfriend insists that he sleep in the bedroom with us because he says it's a bonding thing.  I would have a much easier time liking the dog and wanting to be around him if it weren't for the above problems.  He is on no medications and he is fed a very high quality food with no grains in it. (I am not sure what the name of the food is but he is fed well)  Also he is given a lot of table scraps which I have suggested stop because it does seem to make the gas worse.  Is there anything you can suggest?  Also is it NECESSARY for the dog to sleep in our room?  Please, Please, Please help!!!

Answer
Hello, Well this is a common question about Dog Smell/ flaking skin... and even the gas!  American bullies and bullies in general tend to have high amounts of gas!
Use a raised feeding system - Raised dishes / this will help to decrease his AIR intake when eating.
Also, YES, you are correct that the Table scraps are an major problem for this boy's gas and skin situation.

Tell your boyfriend that the dog needs the following:

1. Raised Feeding Center

2. NO stuff from the table unless it is the following:
peas, green beans, sweet potato, squash, beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, or buffalo.
That is it , ok.

3. tell him this boy needs a NUVET vitamin/ supplement - it will help the skin get 80 to 100% better in just a few weeks you will see some changes.
Order NuVET here:
http://www.apluspetcare.com/untitled4.html

4. Salmon oil / 100% pure salmon oil/ give 2 teaspoons per day: mix into his food ; He should be getting 2 meals per day.
( not just one)

If he has any questions tell him to visit my site:
http://www.apluspetcare.com/untitled4.html
He can ask me a question at   mtnmom@gci.net


BEST wishes

Marie Peppers LPN MA