Why the English Bulldog Has the Most Sensitive Skin I See in Practice
In ten years as a veterinary assistant, I have treated hundreds of dogs with skin problems. But no breed comes in as regularly for skin issues as the English Bulldog. The reason lies in anatomy: deep facial folds, body folds, and tail folds create a moist, warm environment – perfect for bacteria and yeast.
What I regularly see in practice:
· Fold Dermatitis (Intertrigo): The most common diagnosis. Often occurs every few weeks if the folds are not cleaned daily. Treatment per episode: 50–150 €. Over a year: quickly 200–600 €.
· Allergic Dermatitis: Many English Bulldogs react to food or environmental allergens. Diagnosis (elimination diet, blood test, skin biopsy) costs 200–500 €, ongoing treatment 300–800 € per year.
· Hot Spots: Acute, oozing skin inflammations that can spread within hours. Treatment per episode: 80–200 €.
My tip as a veterinary assistant: Daily fold cleaning with a mild, damp cloth followed by drying is the most important preventive measure. It costs nothing and saves hundreds of euros in veterinary costs in the long run.
Focus on the cuddles, we'll focus on the costs.
English Bulldog Health Profile: All Common Conditions and Their Costs
Beyond skin, there are other issues. The most common conditions and their typical costs:
· Skin problems, fold dermatitis, and allergies: 200–800 € per year.
· Eye inflammation and corneal injuries (not congenital): Diagnosis 100–300 €, surgery up to 1,500 €.
· Ear inflammation: 100–300 €, for chronic cases up to 600 € per year.
· Joint problems such as arthritis or strains: Diagnosis 100–300 €.
· Cruciate Ligament Tear: Surgery 1,800–3,500 €.
· Gastrointestinal problems: 80–300 € per treatment.
· Respiratory infections (not congenital): Treatment 100–300 €.
· Dental problems and tartar: Dental cleaning 150–350 €, dental surgeries 500–1,200 €.
Note: Some conditions are not insurable. Details can be found below in the section "What is not covered for the English Bulldog".
Focus on the cuddles, we'll focus on the costs.
Surgical Insurance or Comprehensive Cover: Which Plan is Right for the English Bulldog?
1. Surgical Insurance for English Bulldogs
Covers surgical procedures – particularly useful for cruciate ligament tears, eye injuries, or orthopedic problems. Included at Dalma:
· Surgical procedures for illness or accident
· Diagnostics and pre-examinations up to 30 days before surgery
· Clinic stays up to 30 days after surgery
· Medications, bandages, and aftercare
· Physiotherapy and alternative medicine up to 30 days after surgery
· Dental surgeries after waiting period
· Emergency accommodation up to 250 € per year
2. Dog Health Insurance (Comprehensive Cover) for English Bulldogs
Covers diagnostics, treatments, medications, and preventive care. 80–100% reimbursement, annual maximum between 1,500 € and unlimited. Includes, among others:
· Diagnostics and medical examinations
· Prescribed medications and treatments
· Unlimited physiotherapy
· Alternative medicine such as osteopathy or acupuncture
· Behavioral therapy up to 5 hours per year
· Telemedicine via FirstVet
· Preventive Care Budget for vaccinations, dental care, and deworming (from 1,500 € annual maximum)
For the English Bulldog, comprehensive cover is almost always the better choice. Most costs come not from surgeries but from ongoing skin treatments, ear medication, and allergy management. Only comprehensive cover covers these outpatient costs.
Focus on the cuddles, we'll focus on the costs.
How Much Does English Bulldog Insurance Cost at Dalma?
Costs depend on age, health status, and plan. English Bulldogs are among the more expensive breeds.
· Health Insurance: from 30 € per month
· Surgical Insurance: from 15 € per month
As of March 2026. Dalma offers 15% discount for multiple insured dogs.
From age 10 onwards, the reimbursement rate for illnesses decreases by 5% annually. For accidents, it remains unchanged.
Focus on the cuddles, we'll focus on the costs.
Waiting Periods for the English Bulldog
· 2 days for accidents
· 14 days for operations
· 30 days for medical treatments
· 12 months for breed-specific conditions (Hip Dysplasia/Elbow Dysplasia)
· 18 months for Patellar Luxation
Pre-existing conditions that exist before contract start are excluded. Given the shorter life expectancy (8–10 years), early insurance enrollment is particularly important.
Focus on the cuddles, we'll focus on the costs.
What is Not Covered for the English Bulldog
Congenital or genetic conditions are – as with all insurers – not insurable. These include, for example:
· BOAS
· Hemivertebrae
· Congenital cataract
· Epilepsy
· Treatments related to pregnancy and birth
· Cosmetic surgery
· Conditions due to lack of vaccination
Acquired conditions and most orthopedic, ophthalmologic, and dermatologic problems are regularly covered. This explicitly includes acquired respiratory infections, fold dermatitis, allergies, and ear inflammation.
Focus on the cuddles, we'll focus on the costs.
Reimbursement at Dalma
100% digital. Upload invoices via app, deadline 8 days. Reimbursement target 48 hours (contractually up to 5 business days). Up to 4x the GOT rate including emergency service fees. Free choice of veterinarian worldwide. Telemedicine via FirstVet free and unlimited.
Focus on the cuddles, we'll focus on the costs.
Insuring an English Bulldog: When It's Worth It – and When Less So
Very useful: Insure at puppy age. Then skin diseases, dental problems, eye and joint conditions are covered after the waiting periods expire. Many typical English Bulldog conditions only appear over the course of life.
Less helpful: If your English Bulldog already has BOAS, skin diagnoses, or joint problems before contract start. Especially with this breed, you should note that BOAS and Hemivertebrae are not insurable.
From my experience as a veterinary assistant: English Bulldogs – like Pugs – are regular visitors to the practice. The difference: With Pugs, eyes are the main issue, with English Bulldogs, skin is. In both cases, insurance almost always pays off.
Focus on the cuddles, we'll focus on the costs.
Frequently Asked Questions About English Bulldog Insurance
Is dog health insurance worth it for English Bulldogs?
Yes, dog health insurance is particularly worthwhile for English Bulldogs. The breed is susceptible to skin problems, respiratory issues, eye problems, and orthopedic conditions.
What diseases are particularly common in English Bulldogs?
Most common are skin inflammation and fold dermatitis, ear inflammation, eye problems, respiratory infections, joint problems, and dental diseases.
Are skin problems and allergies covered for English Bulldogs?
Yes, non-congenital skin conditions such as fold dermatitis, allergies, or chronic itching are covered. For English Bulldogs especially, skin problems are among the most common reasons for veterinary visits.
Does insurance cover eye inflammation or corneal injuries?
Yes, acquired eye inflammation and corneal injuries are covered. The eyes of English Bulldogs are sensitive and injured more easily.
Are respiratory problems covered for English Bulldogs?
Acquired respiratory infections or inflammation are covered. Congenital respiratory conditions such as brachycephalic airway syndrome (BOAS) are not insurable.
Is surgical insurance sufficient for English Bulldogs?
Surgical insurance can be useful to cover high one-time costs. However, since English Bulldogs often need ongoing treatment, comprehensive health insurance is often the better choice.
Are dental problems covered for English Bulldogs?
Yes, dental problems such as tartar, gum inflammation, or necessary dental surgeries are covered after the waiting period expires. Due to jaw shape, dental problems are more common in English Bulldogs.
Is there a deductible at Dalma for English Bulldogs?
No, there is no deductible at Dalma. Depending on the plan, 80 to 100% of eligible costs are covered.
Can I insure my English Bulldog at an older age?
Yes, insurance is possible for adult English Bulldogs as long as the maximum entry age is not exceeded. Already known conditions are considered pre-existing conditions and are excluded.
Is the contract terminated after high veterinary costs?
No, Dalma waives the right to terminate after a claim. Your English Bulldog remains insured even after costly treatments.
Why is comprehensive cover especially recommended for English Bulldogs?
Comprehensive cover covers not only operations but also diagnostics, medications, physiotherapy, and preventive services. Since English Bulldogs often need long-term or recurring skin treatments, ear medication, and allergy management, comprehensive cover provides the most comprehensive protection.
Focus on the cuddles, we'll focus on the costs.
Focus on the cuddles, we'll focus on the costs.
