Grooming

• It is vitally important to get an English bulldog used to being groomed as soon as possible, because they are not able to clean their own faces. Because of their folded skin and squat face, Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook says they are especially prone to contracting skin fold pyoderma, a painful condition caused by bacterial growth. English bulldogs are affectionate and enjoy being fussed over. Verbal praise for allowing their faces to be touched works just as well as a food treat. Start with sessions of only a minute and gradually work up to longer sessions.
  
  

Success

• According to the ASPCA, English bulldogs are lazy and would often rather sleep than learn a trick. One way to train them is when you see them about to do something you want them to do (such as sit), say "Sit!" and praise them for sitting. This can help reinforce commands. Have everyone in the home use the same word for the same command. Use positive reinforcement with toys, affection, verbal praise or treats; hitting a bulldog leads to a scared bulldog. A scared bulldog bites, and bulldogs have powerful bites.
  
  

Diet & Neutering

• English bulldogs have large appetites and a lazy nature, so they are in danger of putting on weight, leading to health problems. Monitor his diet. Keep low-calorie treats in your pockets; offering them at unexpected times can make your bulldog pay attention to you, no matter how tired he is. Neutering is recommended by the ASPCA, because he will be less likely to mark things with urine, wander off and get into fights.