English Bulldogs, with their endearing quirks and loving nature, often come with a reputation for being enthusiastic toy destroyers. However, beneath that robust exterior lies a softer side, exemplified by their unique habit of “suckling” their favorite toys. This heartwarming behavior, reminiscent of a baby with a pacifier, brings immense comfort to these lovable companions. If you’re an English Bulldog owner seeking the perfect playtime companions, understanding their specific needs – whether it’s for gentle suckling or vigorous chewing – is key. This guide reviews a selection of the best toys designed to cater to these distinct preferences, ensuring your bulldog stays happy, engaged, and entertained.
Understanding the English Bulldog’s Play Style
English Bulldogs exhibit a fascinating range of play behaviors. One of the most endearing is their tendency to “suckle” toys. This behavior, often observed as they fall into a trance-like state, is believed to stem from their puppyhood experiences and provides a sense of security and comfort. For bulldogs who engage in this soothing ritual, soft plush toys with satisfying textures are ideal.
On the other end of the spectrum, English Bulldogs are known for their powerful jaws and propensity for destructive chewing. When selecting chew toys, durability and safety are paramount. Avoiding rawhide, which can pose choking hazards, is a wise precaution. Instead, opt for robust, high-quality chew toys designed to withstand intense chewing sessions.
Best Suckle Toys for English Bulldogs
For the English Bulldog who finds comfort in suckling, the following plush toys have been personally tested and approved:
Peanuts Laughing Snoopy Plush
This iconic plush toy has been a consistent favorite in many English Bulldog households, including our own. Its soft texture and familiar character make it an ideal companion for suckling and comfort. Multiple Snoopy plush toys, in various forms, have graced our home, with the “Laughing Snoopy” often being the most cherished.
Multipet Swingin’ Safari Monkey
Holding the second spot for suckling favorites is the Multipet Swingin’ Safari Monkey. While it features squeakers in its limbs, it’s the monkey’s face that truly captivates. This particular monkey has a remarkable ability to become a treasured suckle toy, with owners often going through several due to their dog’s affectionate attachment. While limb detachment can occur, creative “monkey surgery” can sometimes extend its lifespan.
Multipet Jumbo Lamb Chop
A beloved character from children’s television, Lamb Chop plush toys, in their various sizes from Multipet, are also a hit with English Bulldogs. For those who grew up with Shari Lewis’s iconic puppet, the Lamb Chop toy evokes a sense of nostalgia while providing a comforting presence for bulldogs.
Charming Pet Cuddle Tugs Pet Squeak Toy, Zebra
This zebra tug toy, with its soft plush head, crinkly body, and tug handles, might not seem like an obvious choice for a suckle toy. However, many bulldogs find this particular toy irresistible for their comforting suckling ritual, proving that canine preferences can be delightfully unexpected.
Top Chew Toys for English Bulldogs
When your English Bulldog’s energy turns to chewing, providing them with durable and safe options is essential. These Nylabone selections are highly recommended for their strength and engaging designs:
Nylabone Dura Souper Bacon Flavored Double Bone Dog Chew Toy
This uniquely shaped double bone chew toy is perfect for bulldogs who like to manipulate their toys while chewing. With four distinct holding areas, it allows for an optimal gnawing grip, ensuring a satisfying chew experience.
Nylabone Bone Sound Bone Saxophone Dog Chew Toy
Adding a touch of humor to playtime, this saxophone-shaped chew toy is as entertaining to watch as it is to chew. The blue rubber section produces a delightful crinkling sound when bent, and the visual of your bulldog “playing” the sax is sure to bring a smile.
Nylabone Dura Chew X Bone Beef Flavored Dog Chew Toy
Shaped like a giant jack from the classic children’s game, this X Bone chew toy is a proven favorite. Its substantial size allows bulldogs to comfortably hold it with their paws while indulging in extended chewing sessions.
Engaging Balls for Fetch and Play
For bulldogs who love the thrill of the chase and interactive play, these balls offer hours of fun:
Pet Qwerks Animal Sounds Babble Ball Interactive Dog Toy
This motion-activated ball is a master of interactive play, especially for spirited bulldogs. When rolled, it emits a variety of amusing animal sounds, encouraging your dog to chase and engage. Ensure you select the appropriate size for your bulldog to prevent any choking hazards, though its solid plastic construction is designed for durability.
Wekin Anti-Burst Exercise Ball
Ideal for bulldogs with a herding instinct or those who simply enjoy pushing large objects, this anti-burst exercise ball provides excellent outdoor activity. It’s a fantastic tool for engaging your dog in energetic play, simulating activities like Treibball.
Giant 9.5 Inch Tennis Ball Jumbo Larger Dog Toys
A more recent discovery, this oversized inflatable tennis ball has become a massive hit. Perfect for bulldogs who adore tennis balls but find standard ones too small to carry, this giant version offers a novel and exciting play experience. It’s easily inflated with a standard ball pump.
The Bulldog by ZEUS, Interactive Dog Toy for Large and Small Dogs
With its playful bulldog design, this interactive toy was an immediate must-have. It functions similarly to the Babble Ball, featuring a motion-activated voice unit inside a soft bulldog head. The internal ball emits charming whiny and barking noises, adding an extra layer of amusement to playtime.
Choosing the right toys for your English Bulldog involves understanding their individual personality and play preferences. Whether they seek comfort in a soft plush or require a durable challenge for their powerful jaws, the options outlined above provide a starting point for ensuring your bulldog’s playtime is always a rewarding experience.
