Poisons and Toxins in Bulldogs and French Bulldogs

Five things account for most of the poisonings I saw in bulldogs, and four of them are already in your house or your garden. The tablet in the cupboard, the sweetener in the peanut butter, the fruit bowl, the bait in the shed and the plant by the door. Here is what each one does, and what has to happen if it gets eaten.

Jump to:Aspirin and NSAIDsXylitolGrapes and raisinsRat poisonSago palm

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Poisons and toxins can pose serious risks to bulldogs and French bulldogs, stemming from seemingly innocuous sources in our homes and environments. These breeds, like many others, may inadvertently consume harmful substances commonly found in everyday items. Some of the toxins include food products such as

• chocolate
• grapes and raisins
• chewing gum: everyday items like chewing gum (which may contain xylitol)
• household and outdoor plants such as cannabis and sago palm
• OTC: over-the-counter medications like aspirin; pesticides
• RX: and even prescription medications that are not intended for them.

Here is a list of some of the common toxins I encounter in my veterinary practice with bulldogs and French bulldogs – things not to do with a bulldog:

#1 Poisons and Toxins in Bulldogs and French Bulldogs: NSAIDs

NSAID is an acronym that stands for “non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug.”

This class of drugs includes popular pain, ache, swell, anti-clotting,  and anti-inflammatory medications such as:

• Aspirin
• Ibuprofen
• Advil
• Motrin
• Aleve

Unfortunately, those drugs are often manufactured as a palatable chew or are sweetened, which makes them a prized treat for your bulldog or French bulldog pet.

Aspirin Poison in Bulldogs and Fr. Bulldogs

Bulldog Gastric Ulcer Due to Aspirin Can Lead to

1. Pain
2. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
3. Gastric bleeding and gastric perforation lead to peritonitis and possible death

Bulldog Kidney Failure Due to Aspirin, Can Lead

1. Depressing and Listless
2. Excessive drinking and urinating
3. Anorexic

Bulldog Blood Clotting Due to Aspirin Can Lead to

1. Pale gums/anemia
2. Bleeding and bruising
3. Weakness and panting

Other: liver toxicity and seizures.

Aspirin Poisoning in Bulldogs Diagnosis

1. Abdominal imaging, like radiographs and ultrasounds
2. Blood tests and urine analysis

Aspirin Poisoning in Bulldogs Treatment

1. Induce Vomit
2. H2B medication like Pepcid to reduce stomach acid (anti-acids)
3. Gastric protectants to prevent absorption
4. IV fluids to preserve the kidneys and maintain hydration
5. Blood transfusion, if needed
6. Emergency surgery if the gastric wall is perforated.

NSAIDs Poisoning in Bulldogs Warning

1. DO NOT Give your bulldog any human NSAIDs
2. DO NOT Keep NSAID’s uncovered bottle or areas accessible to your bulldog
3. DO NOT Give your bulldog pet NSAIDs without consulting your vet first

From Dr. Kraemer’s inbox

“Daisy got into my bag and ate most of a packet of sugar-free gum about twenty minutes ago. She seems completely fine, she is wagging and asking for dinner. Should I just watch her overnight and see how she is in the morning?”

A typical message from a Bulldog owner, shortened, with the name changed.

Dr. Kraemer’s reply

No. Call an emergency clinic now, while she still looks fine, and take the packet with you so they can read the ingredients. “She seems fine” is the most misleading sentence in all of toxicology, because with several of the things on this page the window where treatment is easy closes well before the dog looks unwell. Twenty minutes is a good position to be in and it does not stay that way. This is the one category on the whole site where waiting to see is the wrong instinct, and where a phone call costs you nothing if it turns out to be nothing.

Dr. Roy Kraemer, DVM

Poisons and Toxins in Bulldogs and French Bulldogs: Xylitol

Xylitol is a natural sweetener that many of you might recognize and possibly use in your daily routines. It’s favored as a sugar substitute because it has fewer calories and a lower glycemic index than regular sugar.

You can typically find xylitol in the low-calorie food aisle of your local grocery store, as well as in sections dedicated to weight management and diabetic products. Additionally, it is commonly included in dental care products, as it is believed to help reduce tooth decay.

Xylitol Poisoning in Bulldogs Products

• Toothpaste & Mouthwash.
• Chewing gum & Sugar-Free candy
• PEANUT BUTTER & Jellies
• Chocolate & Breath Mints
• CHILDREN VITAMINS
• A long list of food products advertised us:
  • “Sugar-Free
  • “Low Sugar”
  • “Natural Sweetener”
  • “aspartame-free,”
  • “Low Calorie”
• Dental products advertising
  • “anti-cavity”
  • “anti tooth decay”

Xylitol Poisoning in Bulldogs Poison Control

1. Safely store all Xylitol-containing products
2. Safely cap all Xylitol-containing products
3. Safely hang, close, and cap your hung bags, purses, pockets, and contents.
4. Don’t let your dog loose in a picnic, park, or public area.
5. Don’t use your toothpaste or Dental Rinse on your bulldog. Dr. Kraemer offers multiple Bully dental PlaqueLess rinses and chews that are safe to use
6. If you use peanut butter to hide and administer Rx or supplements, carefully read the label for any trace of Xylitol
7. If you have children to whom you offer multivitamin-sweetened tabs or chews, educate them about the risk it poses to your bulldog

Xylitol Poisoning in Bulldogs: Clinical Signs

Even a trace amount of xylitol can be highly toxic to dogs. If you suspect your Bulldog or French Bulldog has ingested any product containing xylitol, it is crucial to seek veterinary help immediately. Quick action is vital in preventing serious health issues or potentially fatal outcomes for your pet.

Due to the immediate hypoglycemic effect of Xylitol ingestion, your bulldog is likely to exhibit:

• Weakness
• Depression
• Seizures
• Tremors
• Hypoglycemic coma
• Liver toxicity and failure
• Death

Xylitol Poisoning in Bulldogs Diagnosis & Treatment

There is no specific test of Xylitol Toxicity

Low blood sugar, clinical signs listed above, and any suspicion of your bulldog digesting a Xylitol product should prompt Xylitol Toxicity as a high likelihood and immediate course of action

There is also no specific antidote to xylitol, the treatment is symptomatic and supportive

1. Induce vomiting
2. If your bully is hypoglycemic, we can start fluid mixed with dextrose (sugar-like) to help raise blood sugar 
3. Liver detoxifiers and other protective Rx and supplements

From Dr. Kraemer’s exam room

A bulldog-focused vet, hands-on for decades

Insider tip

Put the number for an animal poison control line in your phone now, before you need it, and keep the packaging of anything your dog gets into. Those two things are worth more in the first hour than anything else you can do. When you call, the honest amount and the exact product matter enormously, and nobody is judging you. We are working out whether this is a wait and watch or a drive now, and we cannot do that on a guess.

Dr. Roy Kraemer, DVM

Can Frenchies Eat Grapes?

Poisons and Toxins in Bulldogs and French Bulldogs Grapes and Raisins.

Grapes and Raisins Poisoning in Bulldogs and French Bulldogs can happen due to ingestion of any amount of grape-containing products, including

• Plain raisins
• Cereals with raisins
• Granola with raisins

Grapes & Raisins Poisoning in Bulldogs Cause

Grapes and raisins are renal toxic (i.e. Kidney Toxic)  but the exact cause within the grape is not known (possibly a grape fungus).

Grapes & Raisins Poisoning in Bulldogs Manifestation

Clinical signs of bulldog grape poisoning begin within 12 to 48 hours and may include symptoms such as

• vomiting
• diarrhea
• excessive drinking
• excessive urination.

These symptoms could escalate to more severe conditions related to kidney failure.

Tip: The sooner treatment is started, the better the outcomes tend to be.

If you suspect that your bulldog has ingested a product containing grapes, it’s critical to act swiftly. Immediately call poison control and head to your nearest veterinary emergency room. In severe cases, grape poisoning can lead to complete kidney shutdown and, tragically, death.

Prompt medical attention is essential to giving your pet the best chance of recovery.

Unfortunately, clinical signs are not specific, but blood and urine tests will show abnormalities consistent with renal failure.

Grapes & Raisins Poisoning in Bulldogs Prognosis

The prognosis for a dog that has ingested poison depends on several factors, including your bulldog

1. sensitivity to the toxin
2. the amount of poison ingested
3. the time elapsed between ingestion and the start of treatment.

Early detection and prompt veterinary care can significantly improve the chances of a full recovery.

It’s crucial to monitor your pet closely and act quickly if you suspect they’ve come into contact with a harmful substance.

Grapes & Raisins Poisoning in Bulldogs Treatment

Inducing vomiting, performing stomach lavage, and coating the stomach wall with a protectant that prevents the absorption or digestion of the poison are critical first steps in treating a bulldog that has ingested toxins.

Timing is crucial for these interventions to be effective.

Hospitalization, including

• fluid therapy
• kidney values monitoring

will generally be necessary to support the dog through recovery.

WARNING: It is important to note that every dog’s tolerance to toxins varies, regardless of size, age, gender, or breed. Even small amounts of a toxic substance, such as 1-2 grapes, can be potentially lethal. Immediate veterinary intervention is essential in cases of suspected poisoning.

Any amount ingested grapes or raisins should be considered an emergency. 

Poisons and Toxins in Bulldogs and French Bulldogs: Rat Poison

Rat poison ingestion in Bulldogs and French Bulldogs is dangerous and typically involves one of three types:

1. anticoagulants: very common
2. bromethalin: very common
3. cholecalciferol

Each type of rat poison is considered a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate veterinary treatment. The effectiveness of the initial response, such as removing the poison by inducing vomiting and coating the stomach to prevent absorption, depends critically on the timing.

These steps are only effective if performed soon after ingestion.

For any dog suspected of consuming rat poison, it’s essential to seek veterinary care immediately to improve the chances of a successful outcome. Quick and decisive action can mean the difference between life and death

Rat Poison in Bulldogs Anticoagulants

Rat poison, particularly anticoagulant types, acts by inhibiting the ability of your bulldog’s blood to clot, which can lead to uncontrolled internal or external bleeding. This type of poison is dangerous and requires immediate attention.

It’s worth noting that while warfarin was commonly used in earlier generations of anticoagulant rat poisons, many formulations now use newer, more potent anticoagulants. These newer substances can be even more hazardous and may require different treatment protocols to be managed effectively.

Rat Poison in Bulldogs Clinical Signs

Clinical signs can take a few days to manifest with your bulldog exhibiting

• Lethargy
• Dark stool,
• Frank’s blood is dripping from any orifice
• Pale gums and bruising are easily seen on the belly and gums

Rat Poison in Bulldogs Diagnosis & Treatment

Your veterinarian can typically confirm poisoning and assess clotting deficiencies by conducting a comprehensive lab panel that includes clotting factor tests.

Treatment for rat poison ingestion often involves administering Vitamin K, both through injections and orally. I

In severe cases, additional interventions, such as

• blood transfusions
• oxygen support
• hospitalization: may be necessary to stabilize your bulldog’s condition.

The prognosis for recovery is generally good if treatment is initiated promptly after ingestion. Swift action is key to ensuring the best possible outcome for your pet.

If you suspect your bulldog has ingested rat poison, do not delay in seeking veterinary care.

Rat Poison in Bulldogs Bromethalin

Bromethalin rat poisoning poses a significant risk to the central nervous system (CNS), leading to brain swelling (edema).

Clinical signs in Bulldogs who have ingested this type of rat poison can manifest rapidly, sometimes appearing within 24 hours of ingestion. Common symptoms include

• seizures
• tremors
• loss of appetite (anorexia)
• depression.

Unfortunately, there is no specific antidote for bromethalin poisoning.

Treatment typically focuses on supportive care, including intravenous (IV) fluids and medications to reduce brain swelling. If the pet survives the poisoning, they may experience prolonged loss of appetite and require ongoing support and feeding.

Rat Poison Prevention

To prevent rat poison poisoning in Bulldogs, it’s crucial to take proactive measures:

1. Keep Rat Poison Secure: Store rat poison in areas inaccessible to pets, such as locked cabinets or high shelves.
2. Use Pet-Friendly Alternatives: Consider using alternative pest control methods that are safe for pets, such as traps or repellents.
3. Monitor Outdoor Activities: Supervise outdoor activities to prevent access to areas where rat poison may be used.
4. Be Vigilant: Regularly check your surroundings for signs of rat poison and promptly remove any found.

By implementing these preventive measures, you may help protect your Bulldog from the dangers of rat poison poisoning.

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Poisons and Toxins in Bulldogs and French Bulldogs Sago Palm

There are a lot of poisonous plants out there, but few cause fatalities in bulldogs and French bulldogs like this one.

Unfortunately, I experienced two tragic cases in my practice, one of a young French bulldog puppy of Sago Palm poisoning.

The poison is “cycasin,” and even ingestion of a few seeds can be catastrophic.

All parts of the Sago Palms are poisonous, but their seeds are exceptionally deadly

Sago Palm in Bulldogs and French Bulldogs Warning

I have seen the Sago Palms in my neighborhood yards (southern CA) and local nurseries (see the photo I snapped at a nearby Home Depot store). Be aware, that Sago Palms are also popular as house decorative items and gifts.

Sago Palm poisoning clinical manifestation can begin quickly thus if you suspect that your pet ingested any parts of this plant please seek emergency care immediately.

Sago Palm Toxicity in Bulldogs Clinical Signs

Evidence of your bulldog being poisoned by this plant might begin as gastrointestinal, like vomit and diarrhea but can quickly progress to

1. Weakness
2. Bloody vomit, and diarrhea
3. Icterus (yellow gums and mucous membrane due to liver failure)
4. Seizures, inappetence, shock, and death.

Sago Palm Toxicity in Bulldogs Treatment

• If you can get to an emergency hospital right away, try to induce vomiting with oral hydrogen peroxide or Ipecac
• Treatment will include inducing vomiting, stomach pumping, and a stomach protective coating to hopefully remove the poison before it gets into your bulldog system.

Sago Palm Poisoning Supportive Therapy

Supportive care is all we can do to improve survival (there is no antidote) and will include:

• IV fluid
• Vit K (for bleeding)
• Antibiotics
• Liver Detox like Dr. Kraemer’s V4B Liver Cleanser

If you are a pet owner, I recommend removing those plants from your home and yard.

From Dr. Kraemer’s exam room

A bulldog-focused vet, hands-on for decades

Straight talk

Almost every poisoning I treated was preventable and almost none of them involved anyone being careless. A handbag on a chair. A visitor who did not know. A bait station the previous owner left in the shed. A plant that came with the house. Walk round once with this page open and move the five things on it out of reach. That is twenty minutes, and it is the cheapest veterinary bill you will never pay.

Dr. Roy Kraemer, DVM

Veterinary Care and Supportive Products

If you think your dog has eaten something on this page, stop reading and call. Everything else here is for the ordinary days in between.

• Request an appointment
• Ask Dr. Kraemer
• Explore bulldog therapeutic supplements

More Help from Dr. Kraemer

The things that send bulldogs to an emergency room, and how to stay out of one:

• Three common bulldog emergencies
• Heat stroke
• Hemp, cannabis and THC toxicity
• Aches, discomfort and pain relief
• Outdoors, must know and must do
• What you can handle at home, and when to see the vet

About the Author

Roy Kraemer, DVM, is a veterinarian with extensive clinical experience caring for Bulldogs and French Bulldogs. His educational work emphasizes prevention, early recognition, appropriate at-home care, responsible medication use, and veterinary evaluation when a problem is persistent or severe.

Trusted by Vets ~ Recommended by Owners ~ Approved by Bulldogs

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References

• ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology case data and species-specific guidance
• Merck Veterinary Manual. Toxicologic Conditions in Small Animals
• Pet Poison Helpline. Xylitol, grape and raisin, and anticoagulant rodenticide guidance