Expert: English Bulldogs ( Marie ) e-mail me at mpmaltese@gmail.com - 10/11/2010

Question
Recently we adopted a 9 year old bulldog.  For the first few days he was not very active. Now we walk him 3 times in a day at his pace.  He really enjoys his walks. His energy level has improved.  Recently, I took him out for a walk and I notice he started having difficulty breathing, his breathing became really shallow, and shortness of breath to the point where it seemed he stopped breathing for a second, would not get enough air, he became very lethargic and just sat down, after 10 -15 minutes later his breathing was back to normal.  This has happen now two times.  The first incident we were taking a normal walk, the second time he got overly excited with two other dogs.  The previous owners were giving him the pedigree brand, we started transitioning him to BLUE and MAX for Seniors.  We also include different treats throughout the day.  Is he having a short lived asthma problem or is this age related respiratory problem?  We just recently scheduled an appt. with the vet.

Answer
Bulldog breathing problem ;  bulldog airways;
Hi Gina,  Your bullie may be overheated from the walk.  Even on a nice cool day a bulldog can have troubles when walking more than 1/2 mile at a time.  I would suggest you make the walks 1/4 mile or less.

At his age it could also be CHF - some congestive heart trouble.  
If it is CHF they will give you a water pill to reduce the fluid around the valve.  
Yes, it is wise that you made a Vet appointment.

Please let me know what the vet says?
My e-mail   mtnmom@gci.net

Check out my bulldog vitamin site:
http://www.apluspetcare.com/untitled4.html


Good luck

Marie Peppers LPN MA