puppy culture labradoodles

puppy culture labradoodles

Labs are known for excellence as sporting dogs, family companions and service dogs. Their coats come in three colors: black, yellow and chocolate, each strikingly beautiful. Regular grooming helps keep Labs looking good and helps manage their prolific shedding. Start grooming sessions while your Lab is a puppy. Labrador Coats Ablestock. Labradors have double coats -- two layers of hair, each with different texture and purpose. One layer provides water resistance, the other insulates the dogs in all types of weather. The outer layer, the guard coat, keeps a Labrador dry in wet weather. The undercoat is soft and downy, like a sweater, providing warmth. According to the American Kennel Club's breed standard, a Lab's coat "should be short, straight and very dense, giving a fairly hard feeling to the hand. The double coats, however, create two separate shedding issues: The undercoat blows about twice a year, and the outer coat sheds throughout the year. Breeders must be sure to educate puppy buyers and help them prepare for the attention needed to care for a Lab's constantly shedding coat. Puppies will start to shed their baby coats at about age 4 to 5 months; within a month or so, their coats will have transformed into the adult version. Most adult Labs shed twice a year, and during this time you will notice lots of hair around the house. Invest in a good vacuum cleaner. Your tack box or supply drawer should have a wire slicker brush to remove loose undercoat, a bristle brush, a narrow-tooth comb, a wide-tooth comb and nail clippers. Brush your Lab at least twice a week to distribute natural oils throughout the coat as well as to keep the hair from distributing itself throughout your house. Grooming sessions also strengthen your bond with your dog. Develop a regular grooming schedule for your dog. You'll come to enjoy the peaceful time you spend together. We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. Ask any Lab owner, and they'll tell you that Labs not only fill our homes with love and happiness but also with hair. However, if you look at their coat, you'll find that they have relatively short and straight hair. So do Labradors really shed that much all the time, or is there a specific period of shedding? Labradors shed moderately throughout the year, but the shedding increases during the molting or shedding season. It happens twice every year and lasts for two to three weeks. In spring, Labs shed their winter coat and prepare for summer. In autumn, they switch from a summer coat to a winter one. If you own a Labrador, it's essential to know about their coat and shedding. In this article, we'll discuss how much Labs shed, why they do it, and how you can manage it to prevent your home from becoming overrun with dog hair! So it's only been a few months since you got a new pup. You're already frustrated from having to clean all the hair from your clothes and furniture. Well, I've got good news and bad news for you. The good news is that it's completely normal; there's nothing wrong with your pet. The bad news? You've seen nothing, yet. Just wait till the real shedding begins! A dog's coat type plays a significant role in determining how much he will shed. Single-coat dogs shed much less than those who have a double coat. Labradors have a double coat that shields them from freezing temperatures and water. However, as we've said, a double coat also means they lose a lot more hair than dogs with a single coat. People usually think that since Labradors have short hair, they must not shed much. But that is simply not true; the fact is that Labs shed a lot. There are also other short-haired dogs like the Great Dane and Pug who shed just as much. Labradors keep shedding some amount of hair throughout the year. However, they will shed far more than usual during the molting season, which takes place every six months. This happens because they change their coat to adjust according to the weather. You'll need to be prepared to take extra measures twice a year. Labs lose their thick winter coat in spring and grow a thinner one to prepare for the summer. Similarly, they develop a thick winter coat after shedding the summer one in autumn. The process lasts for two to three weeks, and the period is known as molting or shedding season. Evolutionary Logic Behind the Shedding of Dogs Many wild animals have a biannual 'molt,' especially those living in regions with very different seasons, like foxes and wolves. They switch their coats in spring and summer to adapt to the changing temperature. Some animals even have a different colored winter coat to have camouflage against the new terrain arctic hares are an example of that. The same goes for dogs. Although they don't need to be camouflaged, they switch their coats to cope with changing weather. But your Labrador lives in your home with you, where the temperature is consistent, and his body doesn't have to fight the climate. Why does he still shed? Well, we've had the privilege of protection from weather conditions only recently. In the eyes of nature, it's a minuscular period. So Labs still exercise the shedding attribute they inherited from their ancestors. If they continue to live in our comfortable homes for the next ten thousand years, there's a chance they may not shed anymore. But until then, you'll have to deal with the constant shedding, especially since we're talking about Labradors. Labs shed more than many other breeds because of their thick double coat. Let's understand how it works. If you know anything about Labrador's history, you know that they originated in Newfoundland, Canada. They were bred to swim in icy waters and retrieve fish and ducks for fishermen. Labradors were perfect for this job because their double coat protected them from freezing water. Labrador's double coat consists of two layers: the upper layer is called the topcoat, while the layer beneath it is the undercoat. Each of them has a different purpose. The topcoat is waterproof and has silky fur. It shields the undercoat against water and protects the dog from the cold temperature of the water. Apart from that, it also isolates the skin from the wind and prevents it from getting dry. The undercoat has a short, dense layer of hair that helps regulate body temperature. This is the layer that causes extra shedding every six months. The hair grows thicker in winter to keep the dog warm, and it grows thinner to help your Lab stay cool during summer. Every dog is different and has its own personality. So it's possible for some Labradors to shed more than others. There's been no research on this topic, but logically, it's possible. Note that even if some Labs may shed more than others, you can never predict which one will shed how much. One common query about Labrador shedding is whether yellow Labs shed more than black ones or whether coat colors affects the amount of shedding. The answer is no. Labradors' coat color makes no difference to their shedding quantity and frequency. All of them have the same genetic makeup, and they will all leave hair on your clothes and carpets. Even the American and English Labradors are identical in this regard, even though their appearances are different. This misconception may have come from people noticing less fur around the house with a particular Lab. For example, if you have lighter colored furniture or floor, dark hair will be much easier to see, and you may even have to clean it multiple times a day. In that case, having a yellow Lab will make the shedding less pronounced, so it is a better pick. Similarly, if you have dark-colored floors and furniture, a yellow Lab will make it seem like there's a lot of shedding. So it would be better to own a black or chocolate Lab if you live in such a home. Don't think you can avoid cleaning hair by picking a particular coat color. But you should take your pet to the vet if you notice he is shedding excessively. It could be a sign of an underlying health condition, so you shouldn't ignore it. Lice, fleas, mites, and parasites are some common causes of excessive shedding in Labradors. Skin allergies or other skin conditions also contribute to an unusual amount of shedding. Another reason could be stress. Your Lab may start losing more hair whenever he goes into a stressful situation. Lastly, nutrition is also a factor. The healthier your dog is, the better and shinier your coat will be. A poor diet can lead to excessive shedding and a myriad of other health problems. You can't really reduce the amount of shedding, but there are a few things you can do to reduce the amount of hair in your house. It will make the shedding season more bearable. Here's how to keep your dog's coat healthy: Brushing It is best to brush your Labrador at least once every three to four days. Brush your dog outside regularly, and you'll find less hair inside the house. It not only removes loose and dead hair but also gets your pet comfortable with getting handled. I like the Hartz Groomer's Combo Brush. It's an affordable tool for everyday deshedding. The brush itself has two sides: one with stainless steel tips to remove loose hair and another with dense bristles to redistribute the natural oils on your Lab's coat. There are also brushes specifically designed to reduce shedding during the molting season. We'll discuss these products in the next section. Bathing You shouldn't bathe your Labrador excessively. Doing so can deprive him of the natural oils that are crucial for his skin. Once a month is a good bathing frequency, but you can also do it as and when your Lab needs it. It is made of natural ingredients that moisturize your pet's skin and make it silky smooth. Remember that moderation is the key to using any pet product, so don't overdo it. Diet As we've discussed, diet plays a crucial role in keeping your Lab's coat healthy. So make sure you feed your dog only high-quality kibble. Omega fatty acids are essential to keep the coat shiny and prevent your dog's skin from getting dry. You can also occasionally mix some natural ingredients home-cooked food in your Lab's meals. Many vegetables provide decent amounts of vitamins and minerals to keep your Lab's coat healthy. For a full list of vegetables and fruits your Lab can and can't eat, check out this article from the AKC. Recommended Deshedding Products There are several products you can use to reduce your Labrador's shedding. You don't need them throughout the year, but they are a must-have during the shedding season. When your Lab is blowing his coat, using deshedding tools will make a massive difference to the amount of hair in your home. Here are the two main products I recommend: FURminator Furminator is the recommended tool to remove hair from your dog's coat. It does a remarkable job at removing most of the undercoat in just one or two long strokes. It has about 22, reviews on Amazon, which means a lot of pet owners swear by it. However, it depends on your dog's particular coat. Labs can differ in the way they shed, and their coats' thickness can also be different. Your pet's age may also make a difference in how he reacts to these deshedding devices. Grooming gently and sensibly should not reveal bare skin or harm the dog's coat. You can purchase Furminator and read more about it by visiting its Amazon product page. Dog Rake Some people advise against Furminator and recommend getting a rake instead. Dog rakes are softer on your Lab's coat. They loosen knots and remove some undercoat. The removed hair may be less than if you used Furminator, but it gets the job done for the short and dense coats of Labradors. However, that doesn't mean you should keep brushing in the same area. I don't recommend a maximum of three strokes in an area per session. It's also essential to introduce your Lab to brushing tools gently so that he doesn't become fearful of them. The product I'm going to recommend has rounded ends, so it will not scratch or irritate your Lab's skin. If your pet seems to dislike Furminator, you should try a dog rake as it'll be softer and more tolerable for him. You can check out Oster Dog Rake by following the link to its Amazon product page. Wouldn't it be best to just shave my dog? It would keep him cool and free me of the hairy mess. You should never shave Labradors because they have a double coat. Their fur is not the same as our hair. It has a different function and doesn't grow back properly. Shaving can damage your Lab's coat irreversibly. So here are four reasons why you shouldn't shave your Labs: Labradors' undercoat is a soft layer of dense hair that protects them from cold. But when it grows back, it is rough and heavy never the same again. Labs have muscles that move their fur follicles up and down, letting air pass through the two coats. When you shave both coats, the new fur is not as effective at capturing air. Their natural cooling system is disrupted. As we've discussed, the undercoat protects your Lab's skin from cold weather. But when you shave the double coat, his natural protection is removed, and his skin is exposed to harmful ultraviolet rays. Increased shedding during the molting season can trigger allergies for the pet owners. They believe shaving the pet will make things better. However, shaving will expose you to even more allergens because the coat actually traps them. But that doesn't mean your Lab will not drop hairs all around the house. So the last point to discuss is the best way to clean hair from your home. The first thing you can do is to train your Lab to stay off the furniture. Given that Labs are very energetic and love to snuggle around you, it can be hard to do. But it will make cleaning much more manageable because removing hair from furniture is a challenging task. Next, you will need to regularly vacuum your floor to prevent your home from looking like a dog kennel. All carpets and drapes should be cleaned and sanitized. Most of the dead hair will drop on the floor, but some of it may float around to places your dog has never been. If you don't have time to vacuum the house, robot vacuums are an excellent choice. The one I personally use is half the price of the fancy Roombas, but works awesome! Check it out on Amazon here. It does a remarkable job at cleaning dog hair off furniture and carpets. It is also lightweight and has a sleek bagless design. With more than people rating it 4. Final Thoughts Labradors have a short, dense coat that changes every six months, known as the shedding season, and Labs shed heavily during this two-to-three-week period. This is to cope with the changing temperature. Their thin coat keeps them cold during summer, and the thick coat shields them from the cold in winter. Using deshedding tools like Furminator or dog rake can significantly decrease the amount of shedding. Labradors also shed moderately throughout the year. So expect to see some amount of hair all the time. Regular brushing, monthly bathing, and a healthy diet will keep your Lab happy and clean. There are quite a few breeds that are more likely to shed than others—and Labrador Retrievers near the top of the list. Because of their unique double coats, labs shed a lot throughout the year, and especially more so when the seasons begin to change. In the spring, labs will shed a lot of hair in an attempt to lose their winter coat and prepare for the summer. What Is a Double Coat? To be great water dogs, labs needed to have a waterproof coat with another layer to help regulate their body temperature in cold waters—which is where the double coat comes in. Image Source The first layer, the undercoat, is short and dense. The second coat, the topcoat, is longer and silkier. It helps keep the coat free of dirt and water. When your lab sheds in the spring, their bodies try to get rid of their thick and dense winter coat. That means that you should expect excess shedding anytime between March and May of each year. Later on, labs shed that same summer coat and begin to bulk up for the winter months when fall begins. This means that you can expect excess shedding again between October and December each year. Think of it this way: When temperatures start to drop, you put away your summer clothing and begin unpacking your winter gear. Then, when it begins to warm up, you pack away your winter coats and take out your summer clothing again. The same can be said for labradors. Method 5: Use a Deshedding Tool As you know, labs have a double coat. Depending on the time of year, double coats are extra thick and hard to rake through, even with your best pet brush. Heavy-duty deshedding tools are designed to remove loose or dead hair from the undercoat without damaging the topcoat so that both coats are rid of extra debris and left looking shiny and healthy. At these points, your lab is shedding its coat or growing it thicker for the cooler months. Image Source Some experts say that labs only need to be bathed once every couple of months , while others say once a month is more ideal. But if you do decide to bathe your lab more regularly, you might be surprised to see how much loose dog hair is found at the bottom of the tub. One of the best ways to take the stress out of constantly chasing after furballs around your home is to invest in a smart vacuum. A good rule of thumb is that your lab should have an ounce of water per pound of body weight per day. So, if your lab is around 70 pounds, she should drink 70 ounces of water each day. If you suspect your lab is not drinking enough water, it could lead to skin dehydration, causing increased shedding around your home. You can also flavor the water with bone broth or chicken broth, which can be more enticing than plain water. Giving your lab supplements can also help if your lab sheds excessively, so we always recommend providing them with a good supplement to help make sure they get everything they need. Share on. You might notice that your Labrador puppy is starting to lose a lot of hair. However, there is a good chance you do not have to worry. Labrador puppies usually lose their baby coats when they are months old. They start shedding a lot by this time, but some puppies can start shedding a bit by 3 months old, so it can vary. That is because their fur is falling out faster than it can be replaced. However, that is completely normal. As long as the Labrador puppy is healthy and not stressed, you have nothing to worry about. Additionally, you may notice that your Labrador has subtle changes of color in their coat as their fur falls out and grows, but it varies from each pup. They often lose all of their baby coats a month after they start to shed. By that time, they will have a new adult coat of fur. When puppies are born, they have a puppy coat that is soft and thin. It helps them regulate their own body temperature and protects them from any outside elements. Puppy coats are usually shorter than adult fur. However, their puppy coats are not enough to protect their bodies when they are older. Their adult coats are usually rougher than their baby coats. That is because they grow double coats, which is an essential and helpful trait your Lab has. Labradors have two coats of fur when they are adults. The first coat is coarse and is called the topcoat. The second coat is softer and is called the undercoat. The undercoat can be thick or fine. Labradors have double coats because of their breeding. They are working dogs who hunt and swim. Therefore, they need double coats to protect them from the water and from possible injuries. Dogs cannot sweat. Therefore, they need other ways to keep them warm and cool, which is why some breeds like Labrador Retrievers have double coats. Humans have skin layers, but dogs only have .Therefore, they burn easily, and the guard hairs are their natural sunscreen. As mentioned earlier, double coats help repel water, which keeps their skin dry when they swim. Plus, double coats help your Labrador swim because it does not weigh them down. The fur is practically water repellant, so they will be able to swim without exerting too much effort. As stated earlier, your Labrador will start shedding a lot when they are months old to shed their puppy coat. However, Labradors are notorious for shedding a lot. However, most Labradors will heavily shed at least times a year when they are adults. Since dogs have double coats, their undercoat sheds when it is warm. So, you can expect your Labrador to start shedding a lot when it is spring and summer. They shed their undercoat to prepare their bodies for the warmer months. Can I Shave My Labrador? Absolutely not. First, shaving your Labrador is actually not going to help you deal with the shedding. Your Labrador will grow new hairs, which will be more prickly and painful for both you and them. Those new hairs will fall out, too, so it is not worth the effort. Secondly, you can potentially damage their skin. They do not have any way they can shield their skin from the sun, so they may burn easily. Shaving your Labrador also messes up their temperature regulation. Without their undercoat, they cannot keep hot and cold air away from their skin. Therefore, they may feel extreme temperatures and feel very uncomfortable. Plus, it will be itchy and uncomfortable for your dog to grow new fur after you shave it. Most undercoats will not be the same after you shave it. It will feel prickly when you touch it, and your Labrador will feel very itchy as it grows. Instead of shaving your Labrador , you can use special brushes like a slicker brush to remove their loose undercoat hairs. You can also vacuum your home more regularly to keep it clean. You can brush your Lab a few times a week. However, you may need to brush them times a day during the spring and summer to deal with heavy shedding. To Conclude When you own a Labrador Retriever, a big part of it will be dealing with the fur. While it may be a nuisance, regular grooming and vacuuming can help you deal with the shedding. Post navigation. Keeping your home fur free All Retrievers shed — at times profusely. If you let the hair build up, either on your dog or in your home, it can be quite overwhelming. Coping with Labrador shedding is much easier if you adopt a daily grooming and vacuuming routine. Getting the right tools to help you can really make a difference. Why Do Dogs Shed? Usually in spring and again as winter approaches. During the spring moult, the animal sheds its thick winter coat, and grows a sleek new coat for the summer season. As the temperature falls, the summer coat is shed and replaced by a nice warm winter one. In some animals, the winter coat is even a different color from the summer one, to give the animal camouflage against a very different kind of terrain — think of arctic hares and foxes. But dogs no longer roam the tundra, and battle the elements. Dogs have been living alongside humans for thousands of year. So why does shedding still persist? Those of you that have lived with a Labrador or two, will be smiling at this question. But if you are just starting out on your Labrador adventure, you should know that all Labs do shed some hair, most of the time. And it is something you need to be prepared for. Why does my Labrador shed so much? And while some Labradors are thoughtful enough to shed in a big burst two or even three times a year, many others seem to just shed all year around. This may be connected with the consistent temperature in many modern houses, as dogs that are kennelled often seem to shed in a more seasonal pattern. So why is it, that Labradors shed so much more than some other breeds? The answer lies in your Labradors incredible coat. Underneath that glossy waterproof outer layer, is a dense warm undercoat designed to keep your dog snug while swimming in icy water. This is great for your dog, and partly explains his enthusiasm for swimming at any time of year. People sometimes ask me if a Labrador of one color sheds more than a Labrador of another color. Yellow more than black, black more than chocolate, and so on. It is probable that some Labradors shed more than others. After all, they are all individuals. But whether or not this is linked to color I cannot say. From a personal point of view, I have had labs of all three colors and noticed no real difference. Sometimes one color shows up more in the home than another. It probably depends on what color your carpets are. But essentially black labradors shed, chocolate labradors shed, and yellow Labradors shed too. It is probably worth pointing out at this point, that we need to deal with Labrador shedding in the same way, no matter what color your Labrador is. Home Comforts and Hairy Problems Our bodies, and the bodies of our dogs, evolve beneficial biological systems over thousands of years. It is only recently we have been protected from the seasons with the luxury of air conditioning and central heating. This is a very short period of time in evolutionary terms Evolving new biological systems takes a long time. So dogs still continue to shed because it benefitted their recent ancestors. Especially when you consider that Labradors shed even more than many other breeds of dog. How to Cope with Labrador Shedding I should first say that at the time of writing, there is no pill or potion that you can give your Lab to stop him shedding. The shedding process is entirely natural and normal, if annoying, and there is probably nothing you can or should do, to interfere with it. What you can do however is reduce the impact of a Labrador shedding on your life and home! And when they are not shedding, this is true. However, whenever your Labrador is losing his coat, daily or twice daily grooming is your friend. It will, I promise you, make a massive difference to the quantity of hair in your house. We are talking about a serious dead hair removal process. There are a couple of grooming tools you might like to consider for this purpose. Work from head to tail in firm strokes and watch the mounds of hair gather on the floor. The zoom groom works well for all Labradors, but it can leave a bit of hair behind. And that tool is a Furminator. The Furminator Whether or not this tool suits your dog may depend on his or her individual coat. Labradors really do vary in the way that they moult, and in the thickness of their coats Four year old Tess, pictured here, grows her new coat in, as the old one moults out. Sensible grooming with a Furminator has never revealed bare skin, or done any apparent damage to her coat. All that is stripped out, is soft, dead undercoat. Heaps and heaps and heaps of it. And not only does she feel better for it, so do my carpets. And for some dogs, it is not ideal. Use your furminator carefully Furminators seem to be a bit like marmite. You either love them or hate them. And I love them. They make a huge difference to my dogs and to my house. Remember to use with caution. This is a powerful tool. Can I shave my Labrador? People do occasionally ask me if its OK to shave their Labrador. He could end up with sunburn, he will be unable to control his temperature efficiently, and will be very vulnerable to cuts and injury. Do robot vacuum cleaners pick up dog hair? So I have a robot vacuum cleaner that just potters around for an hour each morning. My elderly robot vacuum cleaner eventually died and I replaced it with a newer model. It has a bigger dustpan than the old one and does a really good job. The battery in mine lasts about an hour and a half which is plenty long enough and I charge it up daily. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. August 30, .Aside from their exercise needs, food preferences, and whether your future doggo will prefer belly rubs or head pats, you might be thinking about their Lab coat. Do you need to brush them daily, weekly, monthly, or practically never? How often do you need to bathe them? And do Labradors shed excessively, or will your home remain forever fur-free? Do Labradors shed? They certainly do! In fact, Labradors are notorious shedders. The reason why Labs shed is all to do with their working past. Originally, Labradors were bred as working dogs. They also assisted with various duties on-board fishing boats. Through lots of time spent outdoors, Labradors developed a special coat that protected them from the cold. The outer layer is coarse and waterproof, while the inner layer is dense, fluffy, and super cosy. The inner layer, known as the undercoat, keeps Labradors warm — especially when swimming in cold water or during rainfall. In short, because Labradors and other double-coated dog breeds have this thick undercoat, they need to get rid of it from time to time to adapt to the changing seasons. This is why Labradors shed so much. When and how much do Labradors shed? Luckily, ongoing shedding is quite manageable. They shed in spring so they can get rid of their dense winter coat and grow a lighter one ahead of summer. They also shed in autumn so they can replace their thin summer coat with a snug winter one. Each shedding season lasts around two to three weeks. During moulting season, Labradors shed a lot. While the amount of shedding can vary between individual dogs, each coat colour tends to shed equally. Do they shed more than other dogs? So if they indeed are big shedders, do Labradors shed more than other breeds? Compared to some, yes, absolutely. Compared to others, the amount of shedding is pretty on par. Generally speaking, dog breeds which shed most have double coats, just like Labs. Not only do double-coated dogs shed year-round, but they also blow their coats up to several times a year to make way for a new coat. Some single-coated dogs can still shed quite a bit. Dog breeds that can shed a lot include:.

Generally, a bowl with a capacity of around 2 to 3 cups is a good size for most adult French Bulldogs. This usually corresponds to a bowl with a diameter of about 7 to 9 inches and a depth of about 2. Some Frenchies might prefer a more shallow bowl though due to their flat faces. What are the key features to look for in a French Bulldog bowl? French Bulldogs are brachycephalic short-nosed dogs, so they can benefit from a shallow, wide dish to make eating easier. Consider non-slip materials to keep the bowl in place while your pet is eating and materials that are easy to clean and maintain. Bowls can be made from various materials including plastic, stainless steel, ceramic, and silicone. Each has its pros and cons. For example, plastic bowls are lightweight and inexpensive but can harbor bacteria in scratches and dents over time. Stainless steel bowls are durable, easy to clean, and often dishwasher safe. Ceramic bowls are heavier, reducing the chance of your pet moving it around, but they can chip or crack. Are raised bowls better for French Bulldogs? Raised bowls can be a good choice for some French Bulldogs, especially those with joint issues or digestive problems as they promote a more natural eating posture. Posted on. For example, elevated bowls that sit on a stand are a smart choice if you have a senior Frenchie that suffers from neck pain. These will put less strain on their bodies and make eating more comfortable. Other options are feeders, which you top off to keep a constant supply of food available. They are prone to obesity as it is, so free-feeding them is a recipe for disaster. It will also help prevent foodborne illnesses, such as salmonella. We recommend the average dog bowl that sits on the floor. One type that you might consider is the so-called slow feeder. Each has its pros and. Popular choices are plastic and stainless steel. But plastic can scratch, leaving gaps where bacteria can collect. This makes it a value purchase. Usability Usability covers two vital aspects: durability and washability. Part of making a product worth the cost is how easy it is to maintain it, especially when washing it. We prefer bowls that are dishwasher-safe. The machine cleans them thoroughly at high enough temperatures to get rid of bacteria and other microbes. We suggest keeping this feature on your radar. This breed is on the small size — the official standard calls for pups less than 28 pounds. Let that be your guide when choosing the appropriate product. Getting one that is too small or too large is a waste of money. Still, size is subjective. A high-protein diet will provide the nutrition that your Frenchie needs in a smaller portion of food. After all, dogs are essentially carnivores. If the serving size is large, the chances are that it contains filler ingredients that offer little nutritional value. Knowing what your dog needs is one of the best ways to make a wise purchase. We suggest checking this spec before buying a bowl for your pet. Some will even portion out the food at set intervals. Other Specs Non-skid feet are a must-have feature with a dog bowl. We all know how excited our pets get at feeding time. They will help prevent your pup from knocking over the bowl and making a mess. Weighted bowls are another option. Color and patterns make little difference to your pup. Those things are to sell you on the product. Its clever design solves many issues that pet owners may have with this breed. We love all the color choices for indulging our pup. The angled design slows eating to prevent digestion issues. The product is easy to clean and made to last. Check out some of our favorite posts:. Cats, Shih Tzus, and similar breeds Medium - Intended for dogs between 20 - 55lbs, capable of holding 1 - 2. French Bulldogs and similar breeds Large - Intended for dogs between 55 - lbs, capable of holding 3 - 5 cups of kibble. There are measures you must take as a responsible pet owner to keep your dog healthy. Veterinarians claim these diseases have been linked to the way your dog consumes food, leading dog owners to see their beloved family member suffer during and beyond mealtimes. Imagine a bowl designed for pets that cause less bloating, less mess and most importantly, a healthier lifestyle! Our bowl not only allows them to enjoy their meals; it extends their lifespan by reducing these health problems. Enhanced Pet Bowl The Enhanced Pet Bowl helps all breeds, whether it is your cat, dog or rabbit they will all benefit from this amazing bowl. It helps elevate the bowl to allow more comfort and ease for your dog. It allows him to keep his nose out of his food and breath while also allowing him to easily grab his kibbles. Christina S. English Bulldog I'll be the first to say I was skeptical. Every boxer I have had always takes a mouth full of kibble and drops all over the floor. The price and cost of shipping are a bit much but well worth it. My boxer no longer drops kibble everywhere and eats her food much slower than before and is clean. Torie L. Boxer I love this bowl and wish I had this years ago! My pug eats so much better now without choking on his food. I also highly recommend getting the stand with it, especially for older dogs. Rammy is 12 and has developed some arthritis in his spine. It makes my heart happy to see him eat without having to curve his spine to reach his food on the floor. Collin J. Outward Hound Super Design With our list complete, it was time to go shopping. Each flat-faced dog bowl featured in our review was purchased from Amazon. Yep, at DogLab, we buy every product at the same price you would pay. Once our flat-faced dog bowls were delivered, it was time to test them! How did we test the flat-faced dog bowls? At DogLab, we only recommend products that we would give to our own pups. To find the number one flat-faced dog bowl we tested for the following: Durability — How did the bowl hold up to rough dogs? Movability — How easy was it to flip the bowl or push it around during feeding? Suitability — Was the bowl easy-to-use for different breeds and sizes of dogs? Ease of cleaning — How easy was each bowl to clean? Improvement — Was their noticeable improvement in feeding when compared to a traditional dog bowl? Each of these factors contributed to which bowls we recommend. Our top picks excel in all of these areas. Our testing observations While testing the qualities listed above, we made some observations that are worth mentioning. But if you have one on hand, then you may decide to use it. Ordinarily, Harper is a delicate and refined eater. And not just a small mess. Her meal went everywhere. I was surprised at just how much of a mess was actually made! If you have a couple of dogs, and not all are flat-faced, buy each their own bowl. Flat-faced bowls are for kibble only Sorry wet and raw feeders. Flat-faced dog bowls are not going to help your pooch. Every single bowl we reviewed failed the wet food test. The biggest problem is that none of these bowls are weighted. Wet food transformed our pups from Bulldogs into bulldozers. They smooshed their faces against the bowl and pushed it all around the room. Placing the bowl against a wall cut down on the movement but not the mess. The reason? Flat-faced dog bowls rely on easy access as a way to stop both mess and movement. No flat-faced bowl was weighted. Even with a no-skid rubber base, our pups had little difficulty sliding the bowls around when they were in a head-butting contest with their meal. If you are looking for a weighted bowl, ceramic is really your only choice. Goofy dogs can outsmart flat-faced dog bowls This point is only really true of slanted dog bowls, those where the rear is higher than the front — like the picture above. Bowls with this design only work if your dog approaches it from the front. Most dogs do this instinctively. When this happened, our dogs figured out something was wrong and repositioned themselves to the front of the bowl. All except one. Whatever direction our Pug started eating from, she remained there until she finished her meal. When she ate from the back, she huffed and wheezed the entire way through her meal. Even worse, kibble flew all over the place as she pushed it over the low front lip of the bowl. If your pup is more excited about eating than comfort, then I have a solution for you. Press the back of the bowl hard against the wall. This way, our Pug could only approach from the front. Problem solved! Meet our team of flat-faced testers At DogLab, reviews are important. As a result, we put products to the test. We assembled a team of flat-faced testers to interact with, observe and rate how well each bowl performed. Where possible, we source testers from Fetch A Friend Rescue , a rescue organization that takes in dogs from local shelters that would otherwise be put down, giving them a second chance to find a forever home. If you live in Upstate New York and are looking for a four-legged family friend, check them out! Let me introduce the testers… 1. While you may not be able to tell, this is her happy face. While Olivia loves the outdoors, her enthusiasm only extends for half of a walk to the local dog park. Her aggressive eating style really put the flat-faced dog bowls to the test. Jasmine Breed: Pug Jasmine is an adorable, chubby Pug that has perfected the art of begging. She can hear a bag of Doritos opening from half a mile away. Before you have the first tortilla chip to your mouth, she magically appears at your feet, staring at you with her goofy grin. Jasmine is a messy eater and ordinarily uses a traditional dog bowl. She benchmarked whether or not using a flat-faced dog bowl improved feeding. Barney Breed: Shih Tzu Barney is currently the oldest of our flat-faced testers. At 10 years old, he considers himself a guard dog and refuses to wander more than 6 feet from his owner and growls intimidatingly at strangers. However, once introduced, he will happily accept all the belly rubs you can give. His cute underbite got quite a work out as he tested the various flat-faced dog bowls. Champ Breed: American Bulldog mix Due to the need for flat-faced testers, Champ is the only rescue dog featured in this guide. Champ had a sad start to his life. He spent his first two years chained up in a yard, exposed to harsh weather. He is a loveable ball of muscle that prefers to communicate through cute grunting noises rather than barks. Champ plays rough and was perfect for observing the durability of our flat-faced bowls — he managed to break one during our tests! Good news! Champ has been adopted. Other times, the majority of the products we review perform poorly. In the case of dog bowls for flat-faced dogs, it was both. With such slim pickings, we can only confidently recommend two flat-faced dog bowls. One is a clear winner for most dogs, and the other is a travel-friendly option. Best all-around flat-faced dog bowl Best All-Arounder! Pin 0 Shares Anybody who owns a Frenchie will know how motivated they are by their stomachs. However, this can cause them issues such as flatulence, bloating, and choking… some of which can be reduced just by using a specialist French Bulldog food bowl. Why do French Bulldogs need special bowls? Let me explain… As a brachycephalic breed with flat faces and shortened necks, Frenchies can struggle to eat and drink from standard dog bowls. If they end up eating too fast, they are prone to bloating and possibly even choking. This can be exacerbated with the wrong type of French Bulldog food and water bowl that lets your Frenchie chew, swallow, and drink too fast. If you scroll down you will see my choices on the best food bowl for a French Bulldog, but first let me explain why I recommend what I do. What food bowls to avoid with your Frenchie I am not a fan of plastic food bowls for a number of reasons. Firstly, they scratch easily, and bacteria can form in the scratches on the plastic and be very hard to remove, even with cleaning. This presents a potential health hazard to your Frenchie, as does the possibility that your dog could also have an allergic reaction to plastic. What is the best material for a French Bulldog food bowl? The best French Bulldog food bowl will be made from stainless steel. I like bowls that are scratch resistant, simple to clean, and harder to tip over if trodden on by your Frenchie. Dishwasher safe and sturdy, I like stainless steel food bowls with rubber underneath, so they stay put when your Frenchie is eating and drinking. What size bowl do I get for my French Bulldog? We have a large stainless-steel bowl for drinking water which we change every day, and a slighter small food bowl. There is one consideration here though; if you have a large feeding bowl you might be tempted to put too much food in it, and over-feed your Frenchie. Handy Hint: The most important aspect is feeding your Frenchie the right amount of food. How high should the food bowl be off the ground? And lastly, many Frenchie owners say you should use elevated feeding bowls that are high off the ground to avoid bloat. This opinion appears to be changing in recent years, with this interesting statement found on the DailyPuppy. Studies have shown, however, that raised food bowls do just the opposite. These feeders can make your pet more vulnerable to bloat, says veterinarian Jon Rappaport and other experts. Basic slow feeding bowl This stainless-steel slow feeder is ideal for Frenchies. This stops them from eating their food too quickly, or in too large a gulp, therefore helping to prevent choking or bloating. When we introduced this food bowl to our Frenchie, we noticed his vomiting reduced. Before he would probably be sick once a week because he was eating too fast. Slanted mess-free dog bowl An alternative French Bulldog food bowl is a slanted model. Admittedly it is slightly off the ground, but not high enough to cause any issues. The primary reason for the design is to alleviate neck pressure on your Frenchie and make eating not as messy! Stainless-steel water bowl And finally, you will need a separate bowl for the water. I recommend a French Bulldog water bowl that is 2 to 3 times larger than the food bowl, and the water should be replaced daily with clean and fresh. Conclusion Frenchies should have their own feeding and water bowls, rather than just an afterthought like an old dish or cereal bowl you no longer need. Whilst it might be tempting to buy a food bowl for your Frenchie that looks fun and funky, with bowls, functionality always has to beat out form. But their flat faces, characteristic of brachycephalic breeds, can make meal times challenging. If you're a proud parent of a Frenchie, you've probably wondered, "What's the best bowl for French Bulldogs? Their endearing personality, coupled with a distinctive bat-like ear structure and flat faces, contributes to their allure. However, these physical features, attractive as they may be, can lead to certain challenges during mealtime. Their brachycephalic nature, which refers to their shorter snouts and broader jaws, often makes it hard for them to eat from standard dog bowls. The need to reach for food at the bottom of the bowl can cause French Bulldogs to assume uncomfortable positions, leading to rapid, messy eating and even increased air intake. With these challenges in mind, it's clear that the choice of a suitable bowl is critical in ensuring the health and comfort of your Frenchie. The bowl's shape, size, depth, and height should accommodate the breed's unique facial and body structure. It should be deep enough to fit the broad snout, yet not so deep that your Frenchie has to strain their neck or lean too far into the bowl. A good French Bulldog bowl should also promote slower eating to prevent rapid ingestion and excessive air intake. Furthermore, for those Frenchies dealing with IVDD, an elevated bowl can go a long way in making mealtime less painful and more enjoyable. Enter the Fluff Trough , an innovative feeding solution that checks all these boxes and more. The Thoughtful Design of Fluff Trough Unlike conventional pet bowls, the Fluff Trough features an unconventional yet practical design tailored to the needs of French Bulldogs. Its food reservoir has a much wider surface area than regular bowls, allowing Frenchies to eat without straining their necks. The elevated design further enhances comfort, especially for those pups suffering from IVDD. Health Benefits of the Fluff Trough The Fluff Trough doesn't just make mealtime more comfortable; it also promotes healthier eating habits. By encouraging slower eating, the bowl can help reduce the risk of conditions like reflux and regurgitation, common in brachycephalic breeds due to hasty eating. It also facilitates better digestion, reducing the likelihood of gastrointestinal troubles. The bowl is made from food-safe, BPA-free silicone to ensure a safe eating experience for your French Bulldog. Additionally, the heavy-duty base of the Fluff Trough is designed to be non-slip, providing stability during mealtimes and preventing potential mishaps. Cleanliness and Maintenance Made Easy The Fluff Trough is not just about serving a functional purpose; it also makes cleaning up after your Frenchie's meal a breeze. The bowl's dishwasher-safe nature and detachable parts allow for easy, thorough cleaning, ensuring that your pet's feeding area remains hygienic and dirt-free. Complementing this with a balanced, nutritious diet that caters to your French Bulldog's specific dietary needs can significantly impact their overall health. From choosing the right dog food, taking into account the right portion sizes, to ensuring your dog remains well-hydrated, a well-rounded approach to diet can go a long way in promoting the health and wellbeing of your Frenchie. With its thoughtful design, health-promoting benefits, safety features, and easy cleaning, the Fluff Trough proves to be an unbeatable choice for Frenchies. No more uncomfortable mealtimes, no more rapid, messy eating; with the Fluff Trough, mealtime can become a comfortable, enjoyable experience for your French Bulldog. Visit www. We believe every Frenchie deserves to enjoy their meals comfortably and safely. With the Fluff Trough, mealtime can finally be a delightful experience for both you and your beloved French Bulldog. Happy Feeding! Size: 5 cups While you may not prefer its rustic design for everyday use, every Frenchie should have at least one collapsible bowl to take with them while traveling. French Bulldogs are brachycephalic dogs that come with special health precautions. Take the Frisco Silicone Collapsible Travel Bowl with you to make sure your pup stays hydrated and fed, especially in extreme temperatures. Since silicone is a BPA-free, non-slip material, you might even decide to switch to this one for every meal. It comes in a 1. French Bulldogs have adorable snub noses which look cute on Instagram, but can make digging out of a deep bowl a difficult task. Knowing this, we also tried to veer away from large capacity bowls to prevent overfeeding. Slow-feeding Bowls Not every dog needs a puzzle bowl, but your Frenchie might benefit from a slow-feeding bowl if they eat too fast or need to lose some weight. Talk to your veterinarian about how much you should be feeding your Frenchie each day to make sure they maintain a healthy weight and balanced diet. Image Credit: Karsten Winegeart, Unsplash Material We prefer ceramic or stainless steel over plastic for durability and health reasons. However, no material is perfect. For example, stainless steel is easy to clean and generally lasts longer than plastic but may contain trace amounts of lead. Always look at the product description or packaging before popping any bowl into the dishwasher or microwave just to be safe. Just beware that some are top-rack only and might melt on the lower shelf. If you want an extra hand in keeping your kitchen clean, you might try the Neater Feeder since it has an elevated platform that retains crumbs. Conclusion As our overall best choice, the Frisco Slanted Stainless Steel Bowl gives your Frenchie the best support by tilting the food at an angle more suitable for their adorable snub noses. The Loving Pets Bella Non-Skid Stainless-Steel bowls are crafted out of high-quality steel that can go into the dishwasher, which makes it our best value choice for both time and money. In general, a low-capacity bowl works best for Frenchies. All of the other design options are there to help you serve up food for your Frenchie in the best way that suits you both. She graduated from University of North Georgia with a B. Currently she lives in New Orleans, Louisiana, with her husband and four pets. Read more Advertisement. These pups have a unique body shape and size that can make it difficult for them to comfortably eat and drink from traditional dog bowls. Half of her food ends up on the floor. So, I wanted to look for something with a tray or something that catches or prevents the fall-out food. Her bowl would also get tipped over on its side after she finished eating. She is wild. My criteria for the bowls this time was mainly for Fira. Fira is the complicated one. Weston also has a bit of a longer snout than Fira, making it easier for him to reach his food. So, Fira needed a bowl that would be suitable for her non-existent snout and easy for clean-up. She needed something that would stay put on the floor, help prevent regurgitating and look good in the kitchen. Here are the 9 bowls I picked up for my French Bulldogs: Hint: Scroll down to the end of this post to find my 1 choice for dog food bowl. The bowls are really shallow and wide, so it helps small-snout and squishy-face dogs get into the bowl better. These are perfect for a neat eater aka: Weston! The tray around the bowl was littered with fallen food right away. Not sure how but it ended up ripping, so we had to throw it out, but I included it on this list as a good bowl for French bulldogs. Ceramics Raised Bowl : The design of this bowl is really nice, very modern and a cool shape. I could see this really as a nice accent piece in a contemporary kitchen. Wide Ceramic Dog Bowl : Super pretty dog bowl made of solid ceramic. This bowl is super wide and is taller at the back, which I thought would work for Fira. I think it was too large and the food got stuck at the back and top edges. So maybe not the best French Bulldog food bowl for Fira. But I think if your dog eats dry food or is bigger, this dog bowl is a decent choice! Slow Feeder Bowl : if your dog eats super fast, like Fira does, a dog bowl for fast eaters is a smart option. A slow bowl is great as it forces your French Bulldog to work around the bowl and gives them time to chew and digest — and not inhale their food. It makes eating meals a bit slower for Fira. Even though I found a solution for this bowl, I found it too cumbersome and a few too many added steps for her meal time. Love the slanted feature and Fira had a much better time eating without a huge mess. Elevated bowls are really beneficial for French Bulldogs, as it helps them swallow their food down better without regurgitating it up. This tilted dog bowl also came with silicone grips to stick onto the bottom of the wooden legs — nice! Sturdy grip on the bottom, large area for their face to move around and at an elevated angle. This is my 1 choice. Stainless steel dog bowls are not only durable and easy to clean, but they also have the added benefit of being bacteria-resistant. Unlike other materials such as plastic, which can develop scratches and grooves over time that can harbor bacteria, stainless steel is non-porous and smooth. There you have it — the best bowls for French Bulldogs so far. Hope you enjoyed it! If you have any recommendations, please add them in the comments! Related Posts.

They have a specific look, personality, and temperament that may not be for every new or previous dog owner. But if you follow a bunch of French or American bulldog accounts for their utter cuteness, then adopting a pup from one of the dozens of bulldog breeds out there is probably a dog match made in Heaven. Still, it can be a long and emotional decision process that requires time and thought, which is why we've rounded up some of the most adorable, loving , loyal, and kid-friendly types of bulldogs to help you find the best bulldog for your home. Regardless of breed, all bulldogs have that standout muscular build with a pushed in nose, small ears, and rolling gait. They have a short and smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors. Some types can even be classified as large dogs while other breeds are more of a tiny dog. Although bulldogs love curling up in your lap, they are not strictly lazy dogs and enjoy moderate exercise. That said, many can live happily in a city apartment or a countryside home with a backyard. What's important is that you give these pups the care and attention they need so they are fed a proper diet and are trained well from a young age. They should also stay in air-conditioned rooms in hot or humid weather as their short snout makes breathing difficult. Bulldogs are a popular choice for many families across the U. They may act powerful and confident, but all bulldogs still need lots of love and care. If you are considering adopting a bulldog, familiarize yourself with the following types of bulldogs before heading over to a trusted adoption site to welcome your newest cuddle buddy to the family. They have a short and soft coat in various colors. Although American Bulldogs may appear intimidating with a large head and height of 20 to 28 inches, they are actually extremely gentle and affectionate. According to Pet MD, they're known to be a "big lap dog" that loves children. They are also brave dogs; in fact, there are countless stories across the internet of American Bulldogs saving their owners from fires or other serious accidents. They have a bulldog's personality in a small dog's body — which means they are playful, alert, and totally irresistible watchdogs. They're known for their bat ears , according to the American Kennel Club. Their adorable wrinkles roll around their short nose, adding to their charming personality. Frenchies are also super adaptable which makes them a great choice for single dog owners, couples, or families. They also don't require a lot of exercise so you won't necessarily have to get up early for that morning walk and they get along great with other animals if you already have a furry family at home. They're very affectionate dogs who want to be around their humans constantly, and they're especially big fans of kids. English Bulldogs weigh around 50 pounds depending on whether they are male or female, and require moderate exercise about 20 to 40 minutes per day. It's important to note that English Bulldogs are particularly at risk for breathing problems , heart problems, and other health issues due to how they've been bred. So if you adopt an English Bulldog, make sure you stay on top of their vet visits. Like all other bulldogs, they love being part of a family and won't leave your side. They are affectionate, loyal, and intelligent dogs who weigh between 50 and 78 pounds. These bulldogs were bred to adapt to the Australian environment as their breed name suggests , which means they may be more active than their cousins but aren't the most active dog out there. They have a similar build to other bulldogs, but they're athletic and have a bit more stamina. Their ears can be perky or hanging and they have thick, powerful necks and stocky legs. They have a short coarse coat that can come in solid colors ranging from fawn to black and white. Olde English Bulldogges are loyal, protective, and docile, making them great for families but also athletic dog owners. These bulldogs also have a longer lifespan than other breeds, living up to as many as 12 yaers. That said, they are taller than English Bulldogs at about 17 to 19 inches and have a larger snout plus fewer wrinkles. This means their face isn't so squished that it inhibits their breathing. They have similar personality traits to other bulldogs such as being super loyal and protective, but very gentle and affectionate. Victorian Bulldogs demand lots of attention as they can suffer from separation anxiety, but they aren't overly active dogs — so just curling up with them at night is enough comfort. Unlike some other bulldog breeds, they are incredibly energetic and athletic, meaning they'll need quite a bit of exercise. These bulldogs are very intelligent, loyal, and protective, making them stellar watchdogs. DogTime notes that you can often find them in shelters and breed-specific rescues, and recommends generally trying to adopt a bulldog breed before shopping for one. Before the s, the English then brought over their bulldogs and mastiffs. Ca de Bous are quiet, playful, and friendly family dogs, but they won't let you down as a watchdog either thanks to their loyal, courageous, and protective traits. They do, however, need socialization and training from an early age since they were originally bred to be fighting dogs. They have a short coat and can weigh between 66 to 88 pounds. Ca de Bous also have a longer lifespan of up to 12 years. Alapaha Blue-Bloods are protective and possessive, but they are also playful and devoted dogs. With the proper training and socialization, they enjoy playing with children and love attention. Vet Street notes that they are best suited to more experienced dog owners who can train them well from a young age. These bulldogs can also be a bit indifferent towards strangers and don't necessarily get along great with other dogs so they may thrive best if they are your only household pup. Mastiffs and Bulldogs were breeded together to develop a stealthy and fast dog that could help gamekeepers stop poachers from stealing. These impressive and cunning canines protected the lives of gamekeepers and poachers. They are larger bulldogs, clocking in at to pounds and reaching 24 to 27 inches in height, but they aren't aggressive towards other dogs and can behave well around their furry friends with proper care. But don't be deceived by the breed's history, these bulldogs are huge cuddle buddies who just want to be in the same room as their owner. Since they are a larger breed, they are more susceptible to bloat which requires emergency surgery and can be fatal. They have a shorter life span, as well, at 7 to 9 years. Indeed, they are discerning and confident dogs who can be aggressive towards other dogs and animals if not trained from an early age. While they are gentle towards children, it is recommended that they receive proper training from an early age so they are more welcoming towards strangers. Red-Tiger Bulldogs thrive best with a daily long walk but can do just as well living in an apartment as at a home with a yard. Typically, they have a "mantle" coat design with at least 70 percent color and no more than 30 percent white fur. They weigh between 75 and pounds and can live up to 16 years, making them one of bulldog breeds with the longest life expectancy. She also has experience fact checking commerce articles and holds a B. UKC Classification: Companion Dog Prevalence: Common The English bulldog is a brawny little powerhouse whose characteristic crablike waddle exudes great strength, stability and vigor. The dog's head is large and spherical, and the muzzle is extremely short, giving the face a flattened appearance. The English bulldog's eyes are dark and set low and wide on the forehead in the frontal plane. The nose is black and slightly upturned. The jaws or "chops" are massive, broad and undershot. The lower jaw juts out in front of the upper jaw to scarcely expose the lower incisors, producing a comical grin. The lips are fleshy and pendulous. The cheeks are well rounded and protrude sideways. The ears are thin, small and angle forward like flaps that frame the forehead. The English bulldog's neck is short and thick; the shoulders are massive, muscular and broad. The chest is deep and full, and the back is barreled and slightly arched. His rounded hips protrude slightly above the level of the back. The stubby tail is thick and either straight or screwed. His short, stocky legs have great muscle definition. They are splayed out and slightly bowed at the elbows and hocks to form a sturdy, base-wide stance. The English bulldog stands about 16 inches tall. The female weighs about 50 pounds 23 kilograms , and the male weighs about 54 pounds 24 kilograms. The English bulldog's skin is loose and pendant with heavy wrinkles and thick folds on the face and a dewlap hanging from the throat. The coat is short and fine textured. The various color patterns are brindle, piebald, and solid white, red, fawn or fallow. Personality: The English bulldog has a sweet, gentle disposition. Dependable and predictable, the bulldog is a wonderful family pet and loving to most children. People-oriented as a breed, they actively solicit human attention. However, they have retained the courage that was originally bred into them for bull baiting, so they make fine watchdogs. Although they generally get along well with other family pets, English bulldogs can be aggressive to unfamiliar dogs. Living With: English bulldogs make fine apartment pets and do not require a yard. Typically low-endurance dogs, they need only a moderate amount of exercise. They thrive best in temperate climates; they readily overheat and have breathing difficulties in hot weather, and they chill easily in cold temperatures. Generally loud breathers, English bulldogs tend to snore and wheeze. Many drool as well. They are moderate shedders and their short coats require little grooming. However, the wrinkles on the face should be wiped regularly to prevent skin infections. History: Named for its use in the sport of bull baiting, the English bulldog seems to have originated in the British Isles sometime prior to the 13th century. One of the few references to the sport dates back to , and talks about a butcher's dogs that chased a bull through the English town of Stamford. This pursuit so pleased the earl of the town that he inaugurated bull baiting as a sport in his domain. Today, the English bulldog makes a fine family pet. The AKC recognizes the breed simply as the bulldog. Related Pet Care Articles. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Bulldog Overview The Bulldog, a beloved and iconic dog breed , holds a special place in the hearts of many, with a history that spans centuries. With a history dating back to the 13th century, Bulldogs have evolved into the lovable and devoted companions we know today. Their journey from the bullbaiting pits to becoming cherished family pets is a testament to their adaptability and resilience. This breeds appearance is instantly recognizable, with its distinctive features and unique physique. Their short-muzzled head is massive and square, adorned with dense wrinkles that add to their endearing charm. These wrinkles serve a functional purpose, helping to protect their eyes and funnel moisture away from their face. Bulldogs have a muscular and low-slung body, coupled with a sturdy build and broad shoulders, giving them a powerful and determined appearance. Despite their strong physique, Bulldogs are surprisingly gentle and docile, making them excellent companions for families, including children. Their stocky legs and wide chest contribute to their distinctive gait, often described as a waddle rather than a typical walk. This amusing gait, combined with their snorting, snoring, and grunting habits, endears them to their owners and adds to their unique charm. Their devotion to their families knows no bounds. They thrive on human companionship and seek out attention from their owners. While Bulldogs are generally calm and dignified, they are also known for their courageous and protective instincts. Despite their sweet disposition, they will not hesitate to defend their loved ones if they sense any threat. Their loyalty and devotion to their family members are unmatched. Bulldogs are prone to respiratory and joint issues due to their distinctive facial structure and stocky body. Their popularity has grown steadily over the years, and they have become cherished pets in households worldwide. Their adaptability to various living situations, including apartments and family homes, has contributed to their status as a favored breed for many families. Their unique appearance, combined with their loving and devoted temperament, make them stand out among dog breeds. Whether they are representing school mascots or snuggling up with their owners on the couch, Bulldogs continue to win hearts with their irresistible charm and lovable character. For those seeking a canine companion filled with loyalty, love, and a touch of quirkiness, the Bulldog is an exceptional choice that will undoubtedly bring joy and affection to their home for years to come. Bulldog Highlights Bulldogs, with their charming and endearing personalities, are known for being a bit stubborn and inclined to laze around. As they mature, their enthusiasm for walks may wane, but it remains essential to provide them with daily exercise to maintain their physical fitness and overall well-being. In warm weather, Bulldogs can struggle to tolerate heat and humidity. Keeping a close eye on them when outdoors is crucial, as signs of overheating should not be ignored. Many caring owners find relief for their furry friends by offering kiddy play pools filled with refreshing water in shaded spots, creating a relaxing oasis for Bulldogs to enjoy while everyone is outside. Conversely, Bulldogs are also sensitive to cold weather. During chilly days, providing them with appropriate protection, such as cozy blankets or insulated jackets, will ensure their comfort and safety. As affectionate as Bulldogs are, their distinctive wheezing, snorting, and snoring sounds are part of their charm. Yet, these adorable noises can sometimes be accompanied by sleep apnea , a condition that requires attention and care from their loving owners. Bulldogs have also earned a reputation for their occasional bouts of flatulence. While this is common among the breed, excessive gas may warrant a visit to the vet to ensure there are no underlying health concerns. Due to their characteristic short noses, Bulldogs are prone to respiratory ailments. Some may even have pinched nostrils, making breathing more challenging, and in severe cases, surgical correction might be necessary to alleviate their discomfort. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for Bulldogs, as they have a propensity to be greedy eaters. Without careful monitoring of their food intake, they can easily become overweight or even obese, which can lead to various health problems. A balanced diet and regular exercise are essential to keep these charming canines fit and happy. When it comes to reproduction, Bulldogs face unique challenges. Their relatively large heads and front structure often necessitate caesarean sections for safe delivery of their puppies. Therefore, breeding Bulldogs requires experienced and responsible practices to ensure the well-being of both mother and offspring. Discussing this matter with the veterinarian beforehand is essential to ensure their safety and well-being. In the quest for a healthy and well-adjusted Bulldog, it is vital to avoid obtaining puppies from unethical sources like backyard breeders, puppy mills, or pet stores. Instead, responsible pet seekers should seek reputable breeders who prioritize genetic health testing and good temperaments in their breeding dogs. With proper care, attention, and love, Bulldogs will flourish as devoted and cherished members of their families. Their unique personalities and delightful quirks will undoubtedly win the hearts of those fortunate enough to share their lives with these lovable and affectionate companions. By embracing the responsibility of providing for their specific needs and ensuring their happiness, Bulldog owners can look forward to years of joy and companionship with these endearing canine friends. Bulldog History The Bulldog of today stands in stark contrast to its ancestors, descended from ancient mastiff-type dogs and exclusively developed in England. It was an incredibly popular spectacle, captivating audiences in a time before professional sports, television, movies, or video games. The early Bulldogs were taller and heavier than their modern counterparts, selectively bred to excel at this gruesome activity. Their short, flat noses allowed them to breathe while maintaining their grip, and their tolerance for pain was heightened to endure the demanding battles. The wrinkled skin on their heads even had a practical purpose, redirecting blood away from their eyes during the gripping struggle. No longer bred for aggression, the Bulldog faced a transformation. Dedicated and patient breeders set their focus on the temperament of the breed, selecting only dogs with docile and gentle personalities for breeding. Over time, this re-engineering process successfully transformed the once ferocious Bulldog into the affectionate and amiable companion we know today. The journey to rehabilitate the Bulldog was not without challenges. In , the first Bulldog breed club was formed, but unfortunately disbanded after just three years. However, the tenacity of Bulldog enthusiasts prevailed, and in , The Bulldog Club of America was founded, establishing a new standard for the breed. This standard underwent revisions and adaptations, eventually gaining acceptance in and remaining in use to this day. As Bulldogs were brought to the United States, their popularity began to grow steadily, leading to their recognition by the American Kennel Club in .Throughout the s and s, Bulldogs enjoyed popularity, ranking close to the top 10 breeds. Today, they proudly stand as the 12th most popular breed among the registered by the AKC, a testament to their credentials as beloved companions. The transformation of the Bulldog from a once feared and ferocious creature to a friendly and tranquil companion stands as a testament to the human ability to rehabilitate and refine an entire breed through thoughtful and dedicated breeding practices. The once-feared Bulldog has evolved into a loving and cherished member of countless families, a triumph of human compassion and dedication. Bulldog Size A medium-sized breed, Bulldogs are known for their sturdy and compact build. Mature male Bulldogs usually weigh around 50 pounds, while females tend to be slightly lighter at approximately 40 pounds. For show dogs, the weight may be slightly higher, often adding about 10 pounds to their size. Despite their weight differences, Bulldogs maintain their iconic charm and distinctive appearance. In terms of height, Bulldogs typically stand between 12 to 15 inches at the shoulder. Their low-slung bodies and stocky frames give them a unique and endearing look. Despite their relatively short stature, Bulldogs exude confidence and presence, captivating everyone they encounter with their charming demeanor. Their compact size and well-proportioned bodies make Bulldogs agile and adaptable, making them excellent companions for various living situations. Their gentle and loving nature, combined with their unique physique, ensures that they continue to hold a special place in the hearts of dog enthusiasts worldwide. Whether as devoted family pets or show champions, Bulldogs leave an indelible impression wherever they go, becoming beloved companions to those lucky enough to have them by their side. Their mere presence is enough to deter any would-be intruders. Temperament is influenced by various factors, including genes, training , and socialization. To ensure your Bulldogs grow up to be well-adjusted dogs, early socialization is key. Expose them to a range of experiences, people, and environments during their formative months. Enrolling them in a puppy kindergarten class is an excellent way to kickstart their social education. Regularly inviting visitors and taking them to busy places will help them polish their social skills, turning them into delightful and well-rounded companions. With a blend of charm, courage, and affection, Bulldogs are truly one of a kind, canine confidants that will undoubtedly bring endless joy to your life. Bulldog Health Like all breeds, Bulldogs may be susceptible to certain diseases and conditions. Choosing a responsible breeder increases the likelihood of getting a healthy Bulldog, as they ensure vaccinations and deworming for their puppies. Responsible breeders use physically sound, mature dogs, testing them for genetic diseases relevant to the breed. The following conditions may affect Bulldogs: Cherry Eye: Cherry eye is a condition in which the gland under the third eyelid protrudes, creating a red, swollen appearance that resembles a cherry in the corner of the eye. While not typically painful, it can cause discomfort and potential irritation for the dog. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to reposition the gland and alleviate the issue. This can result in discomfort, redness, and a blue haze over the cornea. Veterinary consultation is essential to diagnose the condition accurately and provide appropriate eye drops or ointments to manage the symptoms effectively. In severe cases, corneal damage can occur. Surgical correction is often recommended to reposition the eyelids and prevent further complications. Inverted or Reverse Sneezing : While not a health problem per se, inverted or reverse sneezing is a common occurrence in Bulldogs. It happens when nasal fluids drip down the soft palate, causing a temporary closure of the airway. Owners can soothe their Bulldogs during these episodes by gently massaging their throat or offering a distraction. Brachycephalic Syndrome : Bulldogs, with their short heads and narrowed nostrils, can suffer from brachycephalic syndrome, which results in obstructed airways. This may cause noisy or labored breathing, especially during exercise or warm weather. Severe cases can lead to respiratory distress and even collapse. Head Shakes: Head shakes in Bulldogs can resemble fits but only affect the head. They are involuntary movements from side-to-side or up-and-down, possibly linked to stress or low blood sugar levels. If the shaking is unrelated to excitement or stress, a prompt veterinary visit is advised to rule out any underlying health issues causing discomfort. Timely veterinary attention is crucial to manage the condition effectively. Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a heritable condition in which the hip joint is improperly formed, leading to poor fit between the thighbone and hip socket. Although Bulldogs often show signs of hip dysplasia on X-rays due to their naturally shallow hip joints, they may not always experience significant lameness or pain. Proper weight management and controlled exercise can help alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of joint problems. Tail Problems: Some Bulldogs may have abnormal tail formations, such as screw tails or inverted tails, which can cause skin problems. Keeping the tail clean and dry is essential to prevent infections or irritations associated with these tail types. This can cause lameness, an abnormal gait, or even joint arthritis over time. Treatment options range from conservative management to surgical correction, depending on the severity of the condition. Bulldog Care Having a low to moderate energy level, bulldogs are well-suited for indoor living. They prefer a relaxed lifestyle and are content with about 15 minutes of play before needing a nap. This adaptable energy level makes Bulldogs suitable for various homes, from apartments to houses with yards. A mile or two walk during cooler times of the day is sufficient, but even a short stroll along your street brings them joy. Due to their brachycephalic pushed-in face structure, Bulldogs are sensitive to extreme hot or cold weather. They tend to breathe heavily and struggle to dissipate heat, making them susceptible to heatstroke, especially in temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Providing a cool, air-conditioned environment and ensuring access to fresh water is crucial for their well-being. Another important consideration is their inability to swim due to their heavy heads. In terms of training, Bulldogs may not excel in obedience trials, but they are highly capable learners. They have an excellent memory and respond well to fun training sessions that involve repetition, positive reinforcement, food rewards, and praise. Patience and consistency are key to successful training with Bulldogs. Bulldog Feeding Feeding your Bulldog the right amount of high-quality dog food is essential for maintaining their health and well-being. However, the exact portion your adult dog needs depends on various factors, including size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. Dogs, like people, are unique individuals, and their dietary needs can vary. Opting for high-quality dog food is crucial as it provides better nourishment, reducing the quantity needed to meet their dietary requirements. Be cautious not to overfeed your Bulldog, as obesity can strain their joints and lead to health issues. You can do this with the hands-on test by feeling their ribs without having to press hard. For more detailed guidance on feeding your Bulldog, consider our guidelines for choosing the right food , feeding puppies , and feeding adult dogs. Proper nutrition is vital for a happy and healthy life for your beloved Bulldog. The head is adorned with heavy wrinkles, and there are two loose folds forming a dewlap from the jaw to the chest. Bulldogs come in various colors, including red brindle, other brindles, solid white, solid red, fawn, fallow pale cream to light fawn, pale yellow, or yellow-red , and piebald large patches of two or more colors. Solid black is less common and not highly admired in this breed. Daily cleaning of their face is essential, paying special attention to cleaning inside the wrinkles. Dry the wrinkles thoroughly after washing, and consider using baby wipes with lanolin and aloe vera for gentle cleaning. Bulldogs are moderate shedders, and regular brushing can help reduce hair on clothes and furniture. Other grooming needs include nail care and dental hygiene. Brush their teeth at least two or three times a week to prevent tartar buildup and bacteria. Regular grooming sessions also offer an opportunity to check for any sores, rashes, or signs of infection on their skin, ears, nose, mouth, eyes, and feet. The ears should smell good without excessive wax or debris, and the eyes should be clear without redness or discharge. Bulldog Children And Other Pets An amiable temperament and sturdy build make Bulldogs a wonderful companion for children, including young ones. Nevertheless, if they ever get tired of being tormented, they will simply walk away, showcasing their sensible judgment. Teach them to be gentle, respectful, and considerate towards their furry friend. Supervising any interactions between dogs and young children is of utmost importance to prevent any unintended mishaps, such as biting or pulling of ears and tail. No dog, including the gentle Bulldog, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. While Bulldogs are known for their amiable disposition, any breed of dog may react unpredictably to certain situations. Therefore, adult supervision is vital to ensure the safety and well-being of both the child and the dog during their interactions. Beyond their affinity for children, Bulldogs exhibit a pacific nature that extends to other pets, including dogs and cats. Their sociable demeanor makes them generally great companions for various household animals. However, like any dog, Bulldogs may display some reserve or caution when encountering unfamiliar dogs. Proper introductions and gradual socialization can help Bulldogs become more at ease in the presence of other canines. By teaching kids how to approach and interact with dogs respectfully and under adult supervision, the bond between Bulldogs and their human and animal companions can thrive in a harmonious and loving environment. Bulldog Rescue Groups Often, Bulldogs are acquired without a comprehensive understanding of the responsibilities involved, leading many of them to find their way into rescue groups seeking adoption or foster care. However, opting to adopt an adult Bulldog presents several compelling advantages. Adult dogs frequently come with pre-existing housetraining and basic obedience skills, making the transition into a new home smoother. Moreover, they have already outgrown the boisterous puppy phase, sparing potential adopters from dealing with the inevitable mischief and destruction associated with young pups. Call Morgan at for specific pup identification if you are leaning towards placing an early deposit. Please check back, we update our website daily! Please see our Deposit Page and our Transportation Page for information on getting your puppy. We love the English bulldog temperament, physique and expression, I just personally like it to be about lbs. We find the smaller sizes are more buoyant and playful and, though still very heat sensitive, are better able to cope with life in general. Downsizing an AKC breed takes time. Our girls all come from long lines of lb. We not trying for 20 pounders…our goal is to have healthy, beautiful babies that consistently mature at lbs. If you see a puppy that tugs on your heartstrings please call, or go to our deposit page for more information. In the last few years it has become clear that most people would prefer their puppy to be transported using our White Glove transport or Nanny Flight transport. Today, we have requests for our Puppies from all over the country. Because of this, the majority those requesting a Sugarplum Bulldog Puppy have also requested transport to their area of the country; those in Florida, for example, cannot easily make the drive to RI. As such, the majority of our Puppies have shifted to a transport model; this gets them closer to their new forever home. Because of this, we have come to the decision, that for the well being of our Puppies and for the benefit of our new Sugarplum Bulldog owners, we have developed a transport model for our pups using our Puppy-Mobile with direct transport to the pups new Forever Home! Our Mid-Western breeding home is co-owned by Sugarplum Bulldogs, and our partner. I realize that not having a chance to play with the Pups is disappointing to some, but please understand that our team are dedicated to the highest level of care for our little Pups. We truly feel that this new model is in the best interested of our Puppies and their new homes. Please feel free to ask me any questions…. Despite his gloomy mug, English bulldog is the friendliest of all breeds. However, it tops the list of most popular breeds in Los Angeles and New York. Calm, friendly and courageous, this pooch is owned by many famous personalities including Leonardo DiCaprio, Reese Witherspoon, Martha Stewart, and many more! As you can see from the name, they get their name from this sport too. Bull baiting was a sport of harassing tethered animals and bulldogs were forced to take part in this sport. The broad and low stature of this breed made it a brilliant animal to harass bulls. The stout stature and under-bite made it easier for bulldogs to grab onto what they were biting. Fortunately, this blood sport was outlawed in the 19th century. But after England banned the bull-baiting, the breed has drastically changed since they were no longer needed for the original purpose. They were bred to be much friendlier and smaller and became companion animals. Earlier they were known for their aggressive and tenacious behavior, but now they are the most loyal and lovable dogs. They Closely Escaped Extinction Once England banned the bull baiting, bulldogs usefulness suddenly came to an end. Dog lovers decided to breed out the ferocious qualities. Fanciers bred these dogs to have kinder and gentler demeanor. Some bulldogs were sent to Germany and USA to work as herding dogs while some stayed back in England as companions. English bulldogs are also considered brachycephalic dogs that make them ill-suited for water. They can drown if they ever attempt to swim. Their short, stocky and broad body cannot handle it. Keep Them Cool Despite their fear of water, bulldogs need to keep cool all the time. The breed is sensitive to heat and thrives best in temperate climates. They sometimes overheat and have breathing difficulty, but they relax easily in chilled temperatures. Bulldogs Need Help With Reproduction Having such large heads and small birth canals precludes pups from being delivered naturally. Most of the English bulldog puppies are delivered by C-section because natural birth can cause injury or lead to death. Also, bulldogs have difficulty in conceiving as males have a hard time reaching females. So, to keep the bulldogs away from physical stress, breeders often decide on artificial insemination. They are problem solvers and can solve them without taking guidance from their owners. Bulldogs are very affectionate and form a strong bond with kids, which make them a perfect pick for families. However, you need to train them consistently as they can be stubborn and dominating. They are super friendly with family pets but can be wary around strange dogs. And, bulldogs are extremely social dogs. No matter if you are a human or a dog, they will try to befriend you. Along with their loving nature, English bulldogs are also suited for the night shift guarding the house. Their cute eyes and wrinkly face is what makes this breed adorable and stand out from the crowd. However, these wrinkles need to be cleaned and wiped regularly to avoid infections. Talented Skateboarders English bulldogs puppies and grown bulldogs are not considered the most active breed. But, they do have a hidden talent. They are skateboarders! Many bulldogs have gained popularity over the time for their skateboarding abilities. Otto, a three-year-old bulldog, is a skateboarding sensation. Popular Mascots English bulldogs make great mascots. Some refer bulldogs as cute and cuddle whereas some consider them sturdy and powerful, but we love to call them mascot. Nearly 40 universities in the USA have named their sports teams after this breed. Ending note: Bulldogs are dearly loved around the world, but we bet you are equally amazed by these facts. Bulldogs are undoubtedly the most adorable pet you can get for your home. Also, for us bulldog owners we know that they are forever babies. Despite their stubborn nature, they hardly get into any trouble. This cute, cuddly dog loves to relax and chill. If you have a crazy and stressful life and want to chill out, a bulldog will be an excellent pick for you. The calm, laid back and gentle nature of the dog has the same effect on their surroundings. You Might Also Enjoy:. Sight Sensitivity Stability These categories are scored using a number system and the results determine which type of home would be most suitable. Scoring primarily in certain categories will help an owner determine the temperament of their specific puppy and if their lifestyle matches the needs of the animal. Your English bulldog puppy will most likely follow traits typical of its breed, but every dog is different! This test will tell you more about your specific puppy and how you can provide the best environment for them! We have done this test with everyone of our dogs and it has perfectly predicted their personality so I highly recommend doing so. Living with Other Dogs As a general rule, English bulldogs live well with other dogs as they are friendly and sociable. It is important that your English bulldog puppy is socialized at an early age to ensure that they are comfortable around others. Female English bulldogs may be more aggressive with other female dogs. Keep an eye on them as they become familiar and learn to coexist. English bulldogs are generally very possessive over their food. Keep them separated from other dogs during feeding with no access to their food. This is the one instance when the well-tempered bulldog may become aggressive. Life Expectancy English bulldogs have been bred for a very specific look, one that has created for many mutations. These mutations have led to increased risk of health problems, therefore shortening their lifespan compared to other breeds. The average lifespan for an English bulldog is years. There have been bulldogs that have passed earlier as well as ones that have lived into the year range. Their lives may be shorter, but it just means you have to make the most of the time you get to spend with them! Prone to Health Problems English Bulldog puppies may be perfectly healthy with no problems in the beginning, but English bulldogs are prone to a variety of health problems. Brachycephalic Syndrome We all know a bulldog is coming from a mile away because we can hear them! Being bred for their short noses and head, this creates shortened nasal passages, a small trachea, and an elongated soft palate. This causes more difficulty in breathing and may lead to more serious issues as they age. Many young bulldogs will undergo a staphylectomy, or shortening the soft palate to allow for easier breathing. Infections Bulldogs are particularly prone to infection in the folds of their face, skin, eyes, ears, and between the toes. These infections can be controlled through medication and prevented through consistent bathing. Food allergies may be cause of some of these infections and diet should be monitored to prevent inflammation. Hip, Spinal, and Joint Pain Bulldogs may develop joint problems as they age. Their heavy, low, and long body structure puts stress in their bones and joints, making them more susceptible to deformities and skeletal conditions. Bulldogs are deemed more likely to get tumors than other dogs. These could appear within the neuroendocrine and central nervous systems. Heart Problems English bulldogs are at a high risk for cardiac muscle problems and other related heart diseases, especially as they age. Make sure you have your bulldog examined for heart murmurs and other cardiac issues. Some Have Corkscrew Tails Along with the rest of the bulldog, their tails have been selectively bred to form a corkscrew. While this may be very cute, it could cause some health concerns. This may lead to twisted vertebrae in the spine, causing nerve and disc disease as well as spinal pain. In addition to structural problems, you need to make sure you help them clean behind the tail. This area has a high chance of becoming infected as feces or dirt can become trapped. Wipe them down after they use the bathroom to reduce problems in this area. Coat Care One of the things about English Bulldog puppies is they tend to have very dry skin and you might see dandruff build up on their coat. Our favorite method to keep their skin healthy is giving them some coconut oil. Your bully will love it and their coat will be much less dry. Give about 2 teaspoons a day. This could be once a week or every other week based on activity level. Increased bathing will keep bacteria and yeast under control, preventing infection. This is particularly important between their toes, in their facial folds, and near their anus. Keeping these areas clean will promote overall wellness. With their short hair, they do shed, but there is little you need to do other than give them a good shampoo with warm water! Exercise Bulldogs do not require a lot of exercise. A bulldog puppy will be full of energy, requiring more exercise than an older bulldog. When exercising, you should expect walks to be short. English bulldogs are not well-suited for hiking or strenuous activity. They tend to roll at a more leisurely pace. Make sure all exercise is done in cool temperatures as they are at great risk of overheating especially during exercise. While they come with their quirks, English bulldogs are lovable companions for almost any home! Love Water but Not Swimmers Our bulldog puppy loves the water, unfortunately, they are not strong swimmers. I highly recommend getting a life vest if you have a pool in your backyard. If you have any question about English Bulldog Puppies, leave a comment below or checkout our Facebook Group Leave a Reply: Leave a comment below and share your thoughts. July 31,

Come get your puppy! He has a great personality , he is up to date on shots,he is not fixed. They are AKC registered and current on all worming and vaccinations. Vet checked. I have attached pictures of mom and dad above. They are available with microchips upon request. They are full of personality and love to be loved. Feel free to contact me at xxxxxxxxxx or email at xxxxxxxxxxx xxxxx. A beautiful and playful pup, looking for his forever home. Buddy will come with his AKC paperwork, up to date on age appropriate vaccines, as well as dewormed on an every two week schedule. This will be a first come first serve basis, we are available for facetime and to answer any questions. For any more information on Buddy please text me xxx xxx-xxx2. I live in Kansas City, Missouri. My bully expired of a heart attack. He was my best friend for eight years. I miss him dearly. I'm ready for you to pick me up, so that I can brighten up our home! I'm full of life and fun. I can be the best movie, walking, and cuddle buddy that you will ever come across! Both of my parents are exceptional examples of our breed. I will arrive to you healthy and with my vaccinations up to date, before wiping my paws on our welcome mat. Ready for a lifelong best friend? Well, I'm ready for my forever family! The Parents and puppies are raised in our home as one of our own kids. View Detail Black and white female english bulldog. This is the last puppy from two litters totaling 15 puppies. Born August 3rd, she has had all her shots, including rabies and just had her healthy puppy check. Perfect Christmas present. She is great with kids, cats and other dogs. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out. Call or text xxx xxx-xxxx. Email xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxx. Calls and text are returned within the hour. Email is checked throughout the day. They need loving homes! We will keep the pups until they can eat on their own, nothing further. Shots will be for you to take care of! We had this mistake happen once before and she only had one pup. The pup she had previously resembled german shepherd more than bullie. Long tail, Tall. .FaceTime Available We do not require deposit Pedigree so they are not free. We proudly offer champion English bulldog puppies for sale in St. Hands-on and selective, we ensure that all of our bloodlines are documented champion bulldogs with detailed family histories and a health guarantee. About English Bulldogs Known for being stout, demure, and dignified, English bulldogs are one of the best and most desirable breeds in the world. Despite their sour-mug expression, they are an amiable and sensitive breed. They are also tenacious and sweet-tempered, which allows them to respond well to patient and persistent training. This makes them excellent show champions, and of course, companions. About Our English Bulldog Puppies We live and breathe English bulldogs and are committed to the preservation of the true purebred dog, striving to breed to the standard that was established in .We give our hearts and souls to our dogs, giving each puppy the love and care they need to become happy and healthy dogs. Our thorough process is why we have been producing champions for the past 20 years. While our main focus in breeding English bulldogs is to find the next competitive show prospect, our bulldogs also make wonderful family pets that are sure to be well-loved members of your family. To learn more about our available champion English bulldog puppies , call Show Me Bulldogs at today. Connect With Us.

Bone's Retrievers LLC. Steven Catrombone. All rights reserved. We also have a toddler who is an active little helper. I'm pretty sure his first word was "doggies". We fell in love with golden retrievers as soon as we found our beloved Dam Kola here in FL, and have been expanding our fur babies ever since! We've just recently made our hobby into a full time business so we can share these beautiful pets for generations to come! My goldens are OFA tested for hips, elbows, heart, and eyes prior to breeding. We want to make sure your baby has the best chance of avoiding any congenital diseases! Because this is a family business, every puppy is handled, monitored, played with, and loved since birth. We feed all our babies top quality food and vitamins, and make sure everyone has a clean healthy environment to thrive. We are known for our service dog candidates, and have tons of working dogs in the field now! Puppies are sheltered indoors, that's right, NO barns or outdoor kennels. Our puppies are pampered from the very start! Puppies love play time, and so do we! We have over an acre of land and a big pool for ALL our golden retrievers to enjoy, and you will often catch us out in the Wesley Chapel area with one of our big hunks! We have answers. Golden Retrievers are friendly, loyal, and affectionate dogs that have gorgeous golden coats and unique personalities. They're very popular around the nation and have been on numerous TV shows and commercials. If you're looking for a family member, here's a very good boy or girl for you! Uptown Puppies is your 1 puppy finder that cares for Golden Retrievers and other breeds. We make the process of adopting a pet easy by providing you with lists of Golden Retriever breeders in your area. How do you transport Tampa Golden Retriever puppies for sale in your network? As a puppy owner, you have many options for finding the perfect dog. One of the most common methods is by picking the puppy up at an airport. Or, with some breeders, you can pick up your dog directly from their home. Regardless of the method, rest assured that your new friend will arrive safe and sound. Are there Golden Retriever puppies in Tampa available today? Golden Retrievers are very popular breeds, and the pups from litters can quickly sell out. If you like what you see on our website, the best way to bring home your new pup is to register interest with Golden Retriever breeders in Tampa. These puppies go quick! Does Uptown offer the cheapest Golden Retriever puppies for sale Tampa? Our main goal is to provide a network of friendly, vetted Golden Retriever breeders. All of our breeders are pet owners with their own pets,uphold our strict breeder standards, and have been vetted for our program Is a Golden Retriever Tampa easy to train? New dog owner? Or concerned about the time and effort required to train your new pet? Golden Retrievers are a loving, loyal, and intelligent breed that makes training enjoyable. Do you recommend specific foods for Golden Retriever puppies Tampa? While one dog may eat one type of food, another may have a reaction to it. Because of this, we don't provide individualized dietary plans for our customers' pets. Instead, we suggest you start by trying out a few different healthy options to see which seems to work best. By doing so, you can avoid the expense of failing to find the right diet for your dog. Is regularly walking my Golden Retriever for sale Tampa enough exercise for them? Goldens are exceptionally active dogs. This makes them prone to some behaviors that could be problematic for your pet. Walking with your Golden is a great way to exercise your pet and prevent behavioral issues. Also, if you go outside for a walk, remember to keep Goldens on leash or in a fenced yard while you're outdoors. While some families are able to foster dogs at local shelters, we know that not everyone will have that luxury. We only work with breeders who follow strict standards of ethical breeding, so you never have to worry about puppy mills or scams. What makes Uptown different from other places with Tampa Golden Retrievers for sale? Our Uptown Golden Retriever is a well-bred, healthy dog. We offer a complete list of all of the health and behavioral details you need to make an informed purchase, allowing you to adopt the perfect pet from thousands of available breeds. Why is Uptown the best place to find a Golden Retriever for sale in Tampa? Uptown Puppies' breeder community is cut from a different cloth compared to some other puppy finder websites. Our members are some of the best in the country; they care deeply about their dogs, and you're going to love them too! Who doesn't want an easy puppy finding experience? Find the best Uptown Puppies breeders near you. Oh yes indeed! Golden Retrievers are one of the most beloved dog breeds around. They're loyal, energetic, obedient and fun-loving. Adored by millions of pet lovers everywhere, they make a great family dog. We have been breeding and showing Golden Retrievers for over 20 years. Many of our Goldens have gone on to win numerous awards at competitions throughout the U. Some of our pups even starred in Disney movies! Eagleridge has been recognized multiple times for our outstanding achievements and dedication to breeding outstanding Golden Retrievers. We are proudly registered as a Breeder of Merit by the AKC, as recognition for our dedication and passion of breeding beautiful, healthy Golden Retriever puppies. The AKC has also rewarded us with their Silver Medallion as recognition of our success over the years. Baby Francis 3 arriving January ! Testimonials Gus "Good morning! I wanted to reach out and send some photos of Gus who is now a little over a year old. He has gotten into Dock Diving in the last few months and has earned his Dock Senior title. Thank you for a great dog! When I tell you that he did it with no effort, I'm not exaggerating. He did it all on his own! I think he would have passed the test when I received him in July. I think you and your staff should be very proud of the training you provide your puppies! Please thank everyone who worked with Dwayne. In two weeks, he will become a therapy dog with Easter Seals of Alabama. Jen was so helpful, knowledgeable, and professional throughout the whole adoption process. She communicated regularly with us, providing so many updates and videos along the way. We are so fortunate for her and her staff! Thank you Jen and Eagleridge Golden Retrievers!! Jen was always super responsive, knowledgeable and able to answer our many questions. We have had Kevin for about a month and a half now we got him in September and he is settling in perfectly. The training program was a great addition, he is able to follow commands and is very well tempered and so smart. From the adoption process to the training program, we would absolutely recommend this breeder to anyone looking for a great experience! This FL boy is definitely enjoying the Northeastern Autumn! Furthermore, being a client since , I could honestly compare the experience from four 4 years ago to this present time. It was as stress free working with Jen Francis as it could possibly be! Her knowledge about this variety of a K9 is remarkable. The quality health , temperament and of course breed beauty and more are on full display at EagleRidge!

Email: betsneal yahoo. They occasionally have Pug pups available so keep updated on their Facebook page for new information. Kings Creek has been breeding Pugs since .Kings Creek is passionate about quality puppies and is more than happy to offer prospective owners references from prior purchasers and their veterinarians. All pups come with a health check, vaccines, and deworming, as well as a two-year genetic health guarantee. They love their dogs and show commitment to the betterment of the breed in everything they do. But how can you spot reputable breeders when you start searching for a Pug puppy? Here are some tips to help you out. A good breeder will… 1. Issue a health guarantee Make sure that your breeder of choice offers a health guarantee. A reputable Pug breeder will write up a binding health guarantee for all of their puppies. The guarantee protects you against any genetic defects or diseases. It shows that the breeder is confident that their puppies are bred according to best practices. This means if you can no longer look after your pup for some reason, you will be expected to return the puppy to the breeder rather than taking them to a shelter. Provide standard health clearances Your breeder should have full health clearances for both parent Pugs. Good breeders often provide some early health-check clearances for their pups too, although some health clearances simply cannot be carried on such young pups. Issue a written bill of sale Reputable breeders offer written bills of sale to all of their new Pug parents. This bill of sale should be signed and will outline all the roles and responsibilities to be taken on by the buyer and seller as part of the transaction. Vaccinate their puppies All puppies should be up to date on their vaccinations before being homed with new families. Your breeder of choice should be able to provide evidence of these vaccinations. Reputable breeders welcome prospective parents into their homes to see the puppies. Follow age guidelines Puppies should never leave the litter before 8 weeks of age. Any breeder offering pups for adoption before this time is not following best practices. In fact, this could be quite damaging for the puppy developmentally. A reputable breeder will keep their pups at home until eight to twelve weeks so that they can be properly socialized and spend that crucial time with their mother and litter-mates. Answer your questions Last, but not least, a reputable breeder will be knowledgeable. In most cases, they will also want to ask you plenty of questions to ensure that their precious pups are going to good homes. We have a strict selection process that takes a variety of factors into account. That way we can ensure that only the best breeders end up on our lists. This way we know that our chosen breeders offer genetically sound and healthy puppies. Health testing shows a commitment to the health and wellbeing of each Pug. Contact information Any breeder that does not offer up their contact information is a big red flag. A reputable breeder will make it easy for you to get in contact with them by providing telephone numbers, email addresses, and they will usually have a well-established website as well. It shows a commitment to breeding best practices. Event participation Breeders who also compete in doggie events are often some of the best. Because these people tend to be dog lovers par excellence. They live and breathe for their Pugs and are proud to show them off in public. They are also more likely to have a high level of breed knowledge — an excellent sign for a breeder. Breed club membership There are lots of breed clubs out there that breeders can register with. These clubs have rules, regulations, and membership fees. If your breeder is registered with the Pug Dog Club of America, this is a great sign showing commitment to the Pug breed. Recognition awards Lastly, we look out for awards! Institutions like the AKC recognize the efforts and achievements of top breeders. The very best will be awarded the AKC recognition of merit award. During this time we recommend getting everything ready before your new arrival rattles through the front door. Your puppy will need: a crate for sleeping and training during the early days quality puppy-grade food a leash and harness plenty of toys You may also wish to purchase a puppy gate if there are areas of your home that you want to keep your Pug away from. This is all about making your home as safe as possible for your new arrival. Make sure anything that could potentially cause harm to your pup is removed. Clear your schedule Having a Pug puppy is a bit like having a human baby. So make sure to clear your schedule and get all of those errands done ahead of time! Once they arrive… 4. Avoid crowds Hold your excitement. That means no crowds. Try to keep the home environment as stress-free as possible so that your puppy can settle in and start to feel part of the family. Crate training is the first step. Lay down a regular routine from the get and your Pug will be good as gold in no time. Chinese origins[ edit ] Pugs were brought from China to Europe in the sixteenth century. The pet pugs were highly valued by Chinese Emperors, and the royal dogs were kept in luxury and guarded by soldiers. In Tibet , Buddhist monks kept pugs as pets in their monasteries. Pugs were painted by Goya in Spain, and in Italy they rode up front on private carriages, dressed in jackets and pantaloons that matched those of the coachman. They were used by the military to track animals and people, and were also employed as guard dogs. His self-portrait , which is now in London's Tate Gallery , includes his pug, Trump. Every carriage I meet here has a Pug in it. Many responded to the breed's image of anti-functionalism and diminutive size during this period. The modern pug's appearance probably changed after when a new wave of pugs were imported directly from China. These pugs had shorter legs and the modern-style pug nose. The British aristocrat Lady Brassey is credited with making black pugs fashionable after she brought some back from China in .Hogarth's painting from the 18th century depicts the originally longer muzzle, as well as the picture in a edition of Brehms Tierleben. Since there has been a trend in some countries to breed "retro pugs". Following the deaths of pugs and other brachycephalic breeds, several airlines either banned their transport in cargo or enacted seasonal restrictions. Pugs have elongated palates. When excited, they are prone to " reverse sneezing " which causes them to quickly and seemingly laboriously gasp and snort. The veterinary name for this is pharyngeal gag reflex and it is caused by fluid or debris getting caught under the palate and irritating the throat or limiting breathing. Reverse sneezing episodes are usually not harmful, and massaging the dog's throat or covering its nose in order to make it breathe through its mouth can often shorten a sneezing fit. In serious cases, it makes breathing even more difficult and puts added pressure on the larynx. If this happens, one should inquire with their veterinarian whether or not surgery is needed to open the nostrils. If the prolapse happens on a regular basis, the pug might require surgery. This condition is caused when parasitic mites, that are often present in a dog's skin without causing symptoms, are allowed to do damage because their host has a weakened immune system. It is a problem for many young pugs, although not usually a major one, and is easily treatable, but some are especially susceptible and present with a systemic form of the condition. The condition occurs when two parts of a spinal vertebra do not fuse properly while a young pug is still growing, resulting in an irregularly shaped spinal cavity which can put pressure on the spinal cord. Pug photo, ca .Note its small head and long legs. A pug by Carl Reichert. The pug that was predominantly featured in the commercials was Cheeka. A few other adverts also appeared in the following months, inspired by the idea of a dog following a boy. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Pugaliers are prone to weight gain, and they have moderate energy levels. Make sure your pup gets several potty breaks through the day with active play sessions and short walks mixed in. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. If your pup inherits the folds in their skin from the pug parents, make sure to keep the skin clean and dry, as they are prone to developing skin infections. You should brush their teeth daily, as small breeds are prone to dental issues. Pugalier Feeding An ideal Pugalier diet should be formulated for a small breed with a moderate energy level. They have a tendency to gain weight if they are overfed, so you should stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave food out during the day. A good brushing per week will probably do, though if their coats are more like their Cavalier parent, they may need two to three brushes per week. Baths should be sparse as they need their natural oils for optimum radiance. Pugalier Children And Other Pets Because the Pugalier is on the small side, they can be easily injured by overly excited children. Pugaliers are great for families of all ages of kids, just supervise and make sure everyone knows how to play gently. When it comes to other pets, Pugaliers get along well with most animals if they are introduced slowly and calmly, and early socialization will help this go smoothly. Always be cautious introducing new dogs to each other. While Pugaliers are very friendly, some dogs are not. Dogs should always be separated during meal times. Pugalier Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Pugaliers because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Pug or Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:.

How to Train Your Labrador Retriever Puppy to Love Water September 5, Labrador retrievers are great hunting and retrieving dogs that make exceptional companions and family pets. If you and your family like to hunt, fish, or play outdoor sports, a Labrador retriever may be the perfect dog for you. When outdoors, you and your Lab can often be around water. It is best not to introduce a dog to water all at once. Because Labs sometimes are hesitant around water, the following steps will help introduce and train a new Lab puppy to be comfortable and enthusiastic around water. Teach Your Lab Basic Commands As soon as you get a Labrador retriever puppy, teach him or her basic commands such as come, sit, stay, down, and leave it. These commands will teach your puppy that you are the pack leader. Keep your Lab puppy with you as much as possible so you can train throughout the day and always have dog treats with you for rewards. At six months of age, you can enroll your Lab in dog obedience school to learn more commands, get exercise and mental stimulation, and become acquainted with other dogs. This training is essential to make sure your dog will be safe when you bring him or her to water for the first time. Introduce Your Puppy to Water While your Labrador retriever puppy is young, you can play in your yard with a garden hose and a small child's pool. Splash water on your puppy's face and feet to acquaint your dog with the sensation of being wet. You can fill a small child's pool with enough water that it is chest deep for your Lab puppy. Toss a small ball or toy into the pool so that your puppy can jump in and fetch it. Walk on a Beach If you live near a lake or ocean, take your Labrador retriever for a walk on the shore or beach. Walk in the shallow water with your Lab so that both of you can get your feet wet. Attach a leash to your Lab's collar to keep him or her close to you as you walk in the water. You can also toss a waterproof toy into the shallow water to entice your Lab to chase and fetch it. The best toy for this activity is soft and in the shape of a small bird or fish so your Lab can easily grab it and hold it in their mouth. Each time you throw your Lab's toy into the shallow water, throw it a little farther away to entice your Lab to get familiar with deeper water. Swim in the Water You can teach your Labrador retriever to swim by getting in a pool, lake, river, or ocean and swimming with them. Dogs will naturally paddle when they are in water deep enough to swim in, but need to learn how to maneuver in the water. To teach your Lab puppy to maneuver and be confident in the water, hold your hand under their chest or belly to keep them afloat as they dog paddle. Speak to your Lab with a gentle voice to reassure and encourage them in the water. Dive In the Water Once you have taught your Labrador retriever to swim, you can teach him or her to dive into the water from a pier or diving board. The best way to do this is to hold your Lab in your arms, dive into the water, and release your Lab to swim out of the water. Once your Lab is familiar with diving, you can dive into the water and then call them to follow you. Socialize with Other Dogs One advantage of enrolling your Labrador retriever in dog obedience school is that they can meet and socialize with other dogs. Your Lab can then learn from watching and following their dog friends in many activities, including swimming. When your Labrador retriever plays outdoors in the water, it is best to use a waterproof polyurethane and nylon webbing collar as it is durable and dries almost instantly. To find items such as a collar, leash, toys, and treats for your Labrador retriever, contact Over Under Clothing online. We have a lifetime guarantee on all of our products and donate a portion of sales to help at-risk dogs. We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. Taking fun trips to the beach or the lake with your dog is even better when your lab puppy can swim. Lab puppies can start learning how to swim as soon as they are old enough or at around 12 weeks of age. Lab puppies need to learn how to swim, so they need to start swimming early on. While they do have water instincts, they need to develop before they can build the strength to swim well. This guide will explain what age they can start swimming at and how to train them properly. We have helped many Labrador owners train their dogs to improve their obedience and water capabilities. They are a simple and loving breed with lots of intelligence, so that they can do just about anything. Lab puppies typically need time to develop these skills before they can be safely allowed into the water without supervision. Most labs should wait until about months old before going into the water for the first. It takes time for lab puppies to learn basic skills and gain the strength for swimming. It requires them to grow a bit more to a bigger size too. In general, Labradors love to swim and are renowned for being excellent swimmers. You can introduce your puppy to the water with careful supervision after weeks. The more time you spend with your lab puppy, the faster it will learn how to swim. It is also an excellent way for your lab puppy to trust you more. This is especially true if you bring them into the water younger. For example, your lab puppy will pick up swimming faster at six months compared to only weeks. Follow these steps to train your puppy to swim effectively. Teach Your Lab Puppy Basic Obedience Training your lab puppy to swim is a great idea, but it is not the most important thing you can do with your new dog. You should first teach your dog how to behave correctly with obedience training. This will help them understand what they are supposed to do in certain situations and provide a foundation for learning how to swim later on. After your puppy learns to obey basic commands, training it how to swim will be faster and easier. This will help them to be more comfortable in the water and build a positive association with it. When introducing your dog to the water, you should start by taking them on a short walk near the water's edge. If they are hesitant, try placing their paws in the water for a few seconds before moving on. Once they are comfortable, you can slowly increase their time in the water and eventually take them swimming with you. Gradually increase the depth of the water until they are swimming on their own, and then slowly lower it back down. Training your lab puppy on how to swim can be done through patience and perseverance. You should start slowly, giving your pup treats when paddling for a few seconds before gradually increasing the time they spend in the pool of water. Remain Patient When you first bring a new puppy home, it may not be comfortable in the water. They will likely want to avoid water as much as possible and wag their tail when they see you coming towards the pool or lake. It can take weeks to get used to swimming and even longer for them to stay afloat in deep water. Be patient as they grow and get more comfortable in the water. They have the instinct to use the doggy paddle but need to get comfy. Are Labradors Natural Swimmers? Dogs are not born with the ability to swim. They can only learn how to swim through extensive training. Labradors are no exception. However, Labradors were originally bred as working dogs for hunting and pulling carts, so it is not surprising that they are good at swimming. They have many traits that back up this reputation as well. Once dogs get comfortable in the water, they will know to use their strength to do the doggy paddle to stay afloat. This is something they understand naturally through instincts. Labradors also have a double coat of fur , which is better for the water because it keeps them warmer. This, along with a wide otter tail and webbed paws, makes them great at swimming. Labradors have thicker fur so they will remain warmer than other dogs in cold water. However, this does not mean they can handle freezing temperatures for a long time. We recommend exposing your dog to the water in the summer when it is not too cold. This will allow them to enjoy swimming more too. Lab puppies are susceptible to hypothermia and should never be left in freezing cold water. They might not show any signs of distress, but they can die if they stay in the cold for too long. Practice the same safety tips for your puppy as you would for yourself or a child. Extremely cold waters should be avoided. Here are some tips on taking care of your lab puppy and keeping them safe in the water. Always Supervise Your Puppy Lab puppies should never be left alone in a pool or near any body of water for any time, as they can easily drown if they accidentally fall into the pool. This is especially true for younger puppies that are new to swimming. You can change this approach as your lab gets older and more experienced. But for now, never let them into the water without other people around as a safety precaution. This is especially true if they are in the ocean or a lake, where the water could be more dangerous. Use A Canine Life Jacket Puppies need to be taught how to swim early so they can grow up with the ability to save themselves in the water. A canine life jacket is a great way to keep your lab puppy safe while learning how to swim. It will help them get used to the water experience without causing any harm. The best part about using a canine life jacket is that it will motivate your lab puppy to learn how to swim faster and more efficiently. How to teach your dog to swim. Natural Swimmers? It should naturally to them right? We found out first hand that not all Labradors are comfortable in the water, and that in some cases, you might need to teach your Lab to swim. Swimming is such a great exercise for your dog. Swimming is low impact and easy on their joints and the water can be refreshing to their achy muscles. We are always looking for alternative exercises for our two seniors, Jack and Maggie so we thought swimming would be an excellent choice. We adopted Jack and Maggie several years ago. Jack was in the shelter for over a year and Maggie was in a puppy mill situation as a breeder mom. Both of them were more interested in scraps of food on the beach than romping in the water and we really had to coax them into going near it. There was some wading, but no swimming. Repeated Attempts We tried again at a local park that had a small stream running through it. We got the same reaction — lots of curiosity about the wildlife along the shore, but not much interest in the water. We tried once more at a local doggie day spa that had a pool — same reaction. Maggie refused to even go in the water. We were about to give up on having water dogs. As a last ditch effort, we decided to vacation at Big Bear Lake in California. We got a cabin on the lake that had a dock and we figured this would be it, they would finally learn to swim and maybe even learn to jump off the dock. Any water, even a puddle and they were in it as quickly and as deeply as they could get. But not Jack. First we tried walking him out into the water. Finally, my husband picked him up and carried him out to where it was over his head. There was panic in his eyes, much splashing and a hasty retreat to shore. Maggie was also a little apprehensive when we brought her to the edge of the lake. Yet she waded into the water on her own, wandered around, waded in deeper, wandered around some more and then just kept going and was off swimming just as smooth and beautifully as only Labs can swim — hardly a ripple and just her little head above the surface. You may be lucky and have a dog like Maggie who just takes to it naturally. Or you may have one like Jack who thinks the water is only good if it deposits fish to the shore for him to eat. Either way, we put together a few tips on helping your Lab get comfortable with the water. Your own backyard pool is great or a lake with a gradual incline into the water is also a great place to start. Be sure your dog is comfortable wherever you are. Get a life vest. It will help your dog feel more secure and buoyant in the water. They also come with handles on the top, so you can lift and steer your dog more easily. Go into the water with them. They will always feel safer and more comfortable if you are with them. Just watch out for their claws as their dog paddle style can end up leaving scratch marks all over your body. If your dog is small enough, pick them up and carry them into the water to a point where they can no longer touch bottom. Support them evenly underneath and try to keep their body level to encourage them to use all four limbs. Once he realized to use his back legs, it was smooth sailing. Let them set the pace for how deep and how fast they go in the water. Use a toy or treats as encouragement or rewards. Many Labs love to play fetch and will happily chase a stick or tennis ball or duck into the water. Labradors have a great affinity with water and activities like swimming. So at what age can Lab puppies swim? Can Labradors swim naturally? Do Labs like to swim? We have covered all these questions for you in the below article. Have a look. At what age can Lab puppies swim? Some people say 8 weeks, some say 12 weeks and some say 3 months. There are a lot of conflicting opinions regarding the age when your Labrador puppies can start swimming. Anyone would think like this, as these Labradors are historically linked with the fisherman and icy waters of Newfoundland. Many people even think that Lab puppies can swim at any young age and they keep asking me whether their puppies can swim when they are one month old. There are various factors to consider before determining your Labrador puppy swimming age. Where is your puppy going to swim? Is it near a public pool, or a lake or a pond or a beach? For example, it is probably safe to allow a 3-month-old puppy into a small pond, but it is not safe to allow him in the beach waters. Look at the points below and you will understand the age and time to introduce your Lab puppy to swimming waters. Habituate swimming to your Labrador puppy slowly. Initially, it is always better to make the puppy acquainted with water either in your bathtub or your personal pool. You can start this when your puppy reaches 3 months old. You have to remember that your Lab needs certain physical strength in its legs in order to swim effortlessly. Allow your little Lab to grow until 3 months and then you can introduce him to swimming. Some people tell me that their Labrador puppies started swimming when they are just 8 weeks old. Do not take him into public pools until he is fully vaccinated as there is a risk of deadly diseases for your little puppy. Take him into public water bodies only after he finishes his set of vaccinations. Some puppies take time during the exploration of water, hence remember not to force him in any way to get into the water. Forcing your Lab puppy to get into water does not work and your puppy may develop fear and aversion towards the water. One of my dog Simba was very scared of water and he never preferred to play with water during its lifetime. You can take your puppy to larger water bodies like beach waters when it reaches 6 months of age. My little puppy went into the beach waters when he is around 6 months of age and he enjoyed its day fully. Taking him at a younger age might scare him of the waves and it is even difficult for the little puppy to balance himself in the beach water. Labrador swimming- Complete guide Labradors are perfect swimmers which used to retrieve fish and nets from the cold icy waters of the North Atlantic. Have you seen its thick, dense water-resistant coat? It makes them waterproof. Observe their webbed feet, which help them to swim. Let us consider some basic questions to understand Labrador swimming. Labradors have the innate ability to swim, but that does not mean they can swim like fish. This is especially true with respect to puppies. Their body structure and genetics assist them in paddling in the water. Labradors love swimming and are good swimmers but it does not mean they can swim for any duration of time and anywhere. Hence it is important to remember that they are dogs and they have their limitations. So, do Labs like to swim? But not every Labrador likes to swim. As i told you my dog Simba hates water and he is really scared of it. The reason why some Labs are scared of water is that they are introduced to water in an inappropriate way. Their first experience of water might have been scary and disturbing for them. How to teach a Lab to swim? Even though some Lab puppies begin to swim on their own, some Labs who cannot do it on their own, some Labs which are scared of water, and Labs which are small puppies need to be taught to swim. Firstly introduce your Lab puppy to water splashes and small house pools at a young age so that he gets acquainted with water. If your little pup is scared, do not force him. Give him sufficient time to get adjusted to the water. You can buy a mini Labrador swimming pool in your house to habituate swimming for your little one. You can Buy it here. Whenever you take him to a nearby pool for swimming, keep your palm under his belly or his chest and allow him to move its legs to swim. You can help him like this until he becomes a confident swimmer. Give your puppy a life vest if he is not very comfortable with water. It keeps your puppy buoyant and makes him less tense. Go into the water along with your pup. As your puppy feels safer with you, it feels even more comfortable while swimming. Go for a casual walk along the beach with a leash around your puppy and let him feel the waves. Use positive reinforcement techniques such as giving encouragement, treats and rewards while playing in the water. You can play fetch games in the water which your puppy may like. Labrador swimming safety precautions Looking at your Lab puppy swimming can be delightful and exciting, but there are some precautions you need to take while taking out your puppy for swimming. Never leave your dog alone. Even though Labs can swim sometimes it might be difficult to resist against currents in oceans and rivers. Always keep an eye on your dog as a precautionary measure. It is safe to buy him a good safety vest. We cannot expect when your dog might encounter a risky situation that makes him difficult to swim. Do not overexert your dog while swimming. Sometimes he can manage to go out far from the shore but could not come back as he gets tired. Be careful especially when your Labrador is in its puppy stage as puppies get tired more easily. Always get into a swimming pool that has a sloped ground or steps so that your dog can come out easily. Swimming pools without steps and sloped ground can be risky for dogs. Be careful while swimming in unknown waters. Unknown waters have a risk of dangerous snake bites. Attention: Lack of proper training in the initial stages can build up various anxiety issues and fears in your dog. This can make your dog afraid of any new activity including swimming too. When you want your Lab to enjoy swimming, it could be a phobia for him. Take proper steps of training your dog well to avoid these issues.

They are also big business today! Why do we mention this unpleasant fact up front? This is the only way to avoid falling prey to puppy mill scams that breed unhealthy Frenchie puppies. Researching Reputable French Bulldog Breeders The information included in this article can absolutely help you in your quest to identify a reputable, responsible, health-focused French Bulldog breeder that can sell you a healthy Frenchie puppy. Identifying Responsible French Bulldog Breeders A responsible French Bulldog breeder will demonstrate a consistent commitment to breeding healthy, happy puppies. What does this mean, exactly? Read on for specifics. Commitment to breed health and temperament Responsible breeders will voluntarily conduct pre-mating genetic health tests and participate in health oversight and research organizations like CHIC, the Canine Health Information Center database. Adherence to breed standards Responsible Frenchie breeders will voluntarily provide proof of purebred registry with the appropriate oversight organization. Proper care and socialization of puppies Responsible French Bulldog breeders will provide new puppy owners with a comprehensive packet including but not limited to puppy registration and pedigree certification, proof of microchip, veterinary clearance, remaining vaccination schedule, initial good health guarantee, take-back guarantee and food recommendations. As of time of publication, the Frenchie is now the number one most popular dog in the United States — a record previously held for over three decades by the Labrador Retriever! This means you need to know each of these red flags for unscrupulous breeders backward and forwards when searching for a French Bulldog puppy. Multiple litters from the same breeder available simultaneously Any dog breeder that advertises multiple litters of puppies for sale or back-to-back or year-round litters of puppies for sale may be operating as a French Bulldog puppy mill. Unwillingness to provide pedigree and health records Any dog breeder that sells Frenchie puppies without proof of registration, pedigree, proof of pre-mating health clearances and proof of puppy clean bill of health is a potential puppy mill. Questions To Ask A French Bulldog Breeder French Bulldog puppy mill breeders are literally counting on demand for Frenchie puppies to ensure they never have to answer any questions about how they breed and supply their puppies. In other words, unless you ask, they will never tell. So you must ask! Inquiries about breed-specific health concerns A health-focused, responsible French Bulldog breeder will care about the health of the breed itself, their personal breeding lineage and the puppy you are purchasing. This type of breeder is happy to answer questions about known genetic French Bulldog health concerns, especially the tendency towards serious lifelong health issues such as BOAS Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome. These breeders may even volunteer this vital information before you ask! Expectations for potential French Bulldog owners French Bulldog breeders that care about their operation and its reputation will have their own pre-screening protocols for prospective puppy buyers. Pre-screening protocols may include an agreement to limitations on breeding rights, purchase of pet insurance, proof of initial veterinary exam requirements and more. However, if possible, try your best to check off each of these boxes before committing to purchase a Frenchie puppy. Observing Litter Dynamics Litter dynamics is a fancy way of saying you need to check to be sure the puppies get along with each other and the mother dog…not to mention new human guests like you! Interaction between puppies Appropriate puppy behavior is an indication that puppies have been permitted to remain with the mother dog and each other long enough to get some socialization pre-training under their belts. Puppy socialization and early development Puppies go through two fear periods as they grow up. The first period is from 8 to 11 weeks and the second period is from 6 to 14 months. Puppies that are properly fed, handled and socialized will demonstrate basic self-confidence and a playful nature when you bring them home. This will help them successfully weather the fear periods, especially the first one that begins about the time they come home with you. French Bulldog Puppy Temperament Assessment You should know going in how to assess the temperament in any Frenchie puppy you are considering. Personality traits to consider The official French Bulldog breed standard gives you insight into basic breed temperament traits to watch for. Playful, affectionate, even-tempered, alert and active are all hallmarks of the Frenchie breed. You can also make use of various standardized tests. Physical French Bulldog Puppy Evaluation While your canine veterinarian will be the ultimate authority when it comes to a physical evaluation, you can also do a basic evaluation at first meeting. Appearance and conformation Look for clear eyes and ears, healthy skin and coat and clean private areas. Also be aware that aggression or shyness can be signs of budding health issues. Checking for potential health concerns French Bulldog clubs in different geographic areas can be a great resource to find local temperament, conformation and health testing resources for your new prospective Frenchie puppy. But is the Frenchie the right dog breed for you? Activity Level and Exercise Requirements Frenchies adapt quite readily to life in smaller spaces. Their exercise needs are moderate and they are heat-intolerant so the indoor life suits them just fine. Time Commitment and Availability The Frenchie may not be a natural athlete, but a puppy of any breed are always going to have more energy and need more of your time and care than an adult version of the same. Your Frenchie puppy will need your help with potty training, mealtimes, initial and ongoing training and socialization, interactive playtime , bedtime routine, daily walks and more. It is a good idea to be sure you have sufficient time for all of this every single day before signing the breeder contract. Essential Supplies Reputable French Bulldog breeders should provide you with a specific list of supplies they recommend, including puppy food and transitional food for adults of the breed. The breeder may also send you home with a starter pack of food, toys , bedding and a l eash or harness. But child-proof latches and puppy gates will get you off to a good start. Here again, your local French Bulldog breed club and your canine veterinarian will be excellent resources for you to find convenient puppy training and socialization classes, play groups, dog parks and other essentials. Making the right decision on a French Bulldog Puppy can be a wonderful experience for your family Making the Final Decision Sooner or later, the big moment will come — decision-time. Are you ready? How can you know for sure? Additionally, be aware that French Bulldogs frequently come with added health challenges and associated expenses. Pet insurance may help with some of these potential costs. Selecting the Perfect French Bulldog Puppy Buying a puppy is a decades-long commitment — and investment. As such, you may have your exhaustive wish list of color, gender, size, pedigree and all that good stuff. But underneath it all, what matters most is good health. A healthy puppy of any size, gender and color is much more likely to be a happy and rewarding member of your family over the long term. This is even more crucial for French Bulldogs, since their short brachycephalic muzzle shape means they typically cannot be transported via commercial airline cargo. Conclusion Becoming a pawrent is a huge commitment and you want to get started on the right foot…. You can use all of the information provided in this article to do your due diligence before committing to your forever Frenchie puppy. Good luck and be sure to stop back by and let us know how it is going! Additionally, in her twin roles as freelance pet writer and animal communicator, Shannon is passionate about crafting knowledge-based, science-supported articles that foster healthy bonds of love and respect between people and animals. Spinal diseases, including intervertebral disc disorder IVDD , and 6. Hemivertebrate malformed spine Previously, we looked at how the surge in French Bulldog popularity has impacted the many health conditions of the Frenchie in the United Kingdom. This is because disreputable breeding operations are eager to cash in on a status breed's desirability at the expense of health. Therefore, if you are interested in owning a French Bulldog, we recommend choosing a reputable breeder who performs genetic health testing on their breeding stock in order to acquire a healthy French Bulldog. They allow you to visit and willingly shows you all areas where puppies and breeding dogs spend their time. Those areas are clean, spacious, and well-maintained; 2. Keeps their breeding dogs as you feel a responsible person would keep their pets: not overpopulated, crowded, dirty, or continually confined to cages; 4. Keeps their dogs in roomy spaces that meet the needs of their particular breed; for example, most small breeds will be housed in the home, sporting breeds will have plenty of space for exercise, etc. National breed clubs can provide input on the specific needs of each breed of dog ; 5. Breeds only one or a few types of dogs and is knowledgeable about the breeds and their special requirements; 6. Meets psychological, as well as physical, needs of their dogs by providing toys, socialization, exercise, and enrichment as befits the specific breed; 8. Has a strong relationship with one or more local veterinarians and shows you individual records of veterinary visits for your puppy; .This will include testing for genetic diseases for which there are valid testing protocols available ; .Offers guidance for the care and training of your puppy and is available for assistance after you take your puppy home; .Provides references from other families who have previously purchased one of their puppies; .Is often actively involved with local, state, and national clubs that specialize in the specific breed; responsible breeders may also compete with the dogs in conformation events, obedience trials, tracking and agility trials, or other performance events; .Encourages multiple visits and wants your entire family to meet the puppy; In addition to the above attributes, they provide you with a written contract and health guarantee and allows plenty of time for you to read it thoroughly. A responsible or reputable breeder will also ask you some questions and sometimes enter an undertaking with you which shows that they are still interested in the welfare of the dog even while under your care. So, if you saw a breeder who is all about the money, and doesn't give a damn about the welfare and health of the Frenchie, turn the other way. Have you had an experience with a breeder you think is not a reputable breeder following the above guidelines? Share your story with us in the comment box below. I know I did when my wife persuaded us to go and see our own dog for the first time. Of the four of them, this one little fella scampered over to me and immediately started chewing on my knuckles. That when I fell in love with him. It was a really simple decision in which one we wanted to take home. As you know, we went on to name him Claude. But, given hindsight, there are some questions I would have asked the breeder before deciding to buy him. And there are also some things I should have looked for too. It was our first ever dog though, so hindsight is a wonderful thing. However, there are unscrupulous breeders and there are certain health and physical problems view all Frenchie health conditions and concerns you should check for before you get too excited. It also includes some questions to ask a breeder when buying a French Bulldog puppy. Choose a male puppy if you want a more energetic dog: or a female if you want a more relaxed dog. There are subtle behavioural differences in the two genders which you can read in this blog post where I discuss the differences between male and female Frenchies. Make sure your breeder is knowledgeable: on breeding and cares for the puppies. I would always do online research into the breeder before I would even visit them. Be wary of what seems to be an abnormally low price: this can be a sign of an unhealthy puppy. Red eye can be a signal of a health problem. Ask the breeder how many litters the mother has had: a French Bulldog should only really have 1 litter a year , preferably only one every couple of years. Any more than that is a warning sign that she is being over-bred, and health issues could be present. Ask if the puppy has been checked by a vet: and has had the relevant vaccinations. If not, walk away as this should be handled by the breeder before the puppies go on sale. It can give you some insight into what type of dog your Frenchie puppy is going to grow into. If the breeder refuses to let you see the mother, then walk away as this is a huge warning sign. Ask if the parents have had health checks: as this can give you insight into any potential health problems further down the line. Conditions to look out for include hip problems, cataracts, cherry eye , deafness, and soft palate issues. Ask how old the parents are: if the mother is less than 3 years old, any genetic health conditions might not yet have manifested themselves. Ask how often the puppies have been handled: the more the young pups have been handled by humans frequently it will be far easier to get him used to all the excitement in store when you get him home. Ask to speak to a previous client: the best breeders will be more than happy to let you talk with people who have previously bought a Frenchie puppy from them. Ask for a hearing test: whilst this might not always be possible, it is a concern. White Frenchies in particular can develop hearing loss at birth due to a congenital issue. You can read more about this my recent French Bulldog hearing loss blog post. Cheap and rude breeders are an absolute no-no. When buying your Frenchie, you need a caring breeder that gladly answers your questions and shows you the parents and tell you about their history and problems. If you are dealing with a breeder who is just looking to make a quick buck and not telling you what you should know then walk away. How to best buy a healthy French bulldog puppy There are several factors you should consider before buying a French Bulldog who is hopefully going to live a healthy life. Sadly Frenchies can have some severe health issues in their bloodlines which you should look out for when purchasing your puppy. Health issues can include:. What does "breeder" mean? Irresponsible breeders who breed for profit rather than quality will accept any buyer with a check or credit card. Ethical breeders screen new homes as a potential new owner, be prepared for lots of questions , serve as knowledgeable mentors after you take your puppy home, and will always be there for you, as long as you own the dog. Ethical breeders spend lots of time socializing, caring for, and observing their puppies and will be able to recommend the puppy most likely to fit best into your life. They will tell you what you need to buy before you bring your puppy home, have started his paper training, had his health checked, and begun to accustom him to having his nails cut, feet trimmed, and coat brushed. All of this gets your puppy off to the best possible start. Ask for referrals.Ask your veterinarian if they know of a reputable breeder in your area or ask close friends who own healthy purebred dogs. Take advantage of social media and join French Bulldog groups, ask questions. You can also contact local breed clubs or visit professional dog shows and strike up a conversation with participants or spectators to see if they know of a good breeder. Meet the breeder at their facility.Finding an ethical, reputable breeder is important to ensure the health of your new puppy. If you contact the breeder, but they are coy about letting you see where the puppies were born and the conditions they are currently living in, this is a possible sign they are running a dirty breeding business, are a puppy mill or a backyard breeder. Look at all the areas where the pups and their parents spend their time. The grounds should be well-maintained with clean, odorless kennels and exercise areas. Dogs should not be confined in cages for long periods. They should have individual runs if possible. The kennel should be heated and cooled. Fresh water supplies at all times. It is not uncommon for the male dog to be separated, but make sure you ask about him and see him. The breeder should be more than willing to let you meet the parents if at all possible. The parents will be the best way for you to see what the puppies will be like as adults. Look at the siblings if any remaining. Make sure ALL dogs have good coats, clear eyes and noses, and a healthy weight. Ensure it is not a puppy mill.Make sure the breeder isn't churning out high volumes of pups, but rather considers their breeding dogs to be family members and treats them with loving care. The breeder should encourage you to spend time with one or both parents on your visit. The parents should be friendly and socialize well with both people and other dogs. Their pups should have the same demeanor, be clean and energetic. Raising a litter of puppies takes an insane amount of work. Breeders who have more than one or two litter of puppies at once might not be giving the puppies the attention they need in this critically formative time. However, if breeders have multiple litters 3,4, or more at once, you may want to take pause. You can put your name on a waiting list. Since optimum mating times occur according to natural schedules, litters are usually born in the spring and fall. Do not expect to pay a few hundred dollars for your puppy — think in the thousands. Breeders should know the breed.Since most devoted breeders only deal with one type of dog, their knowledge of the breed should be extensive. Good relationship with veterinarian.All good breeders have a good working relationship with a respected veterinarian who examines each pup and provides immunizations and parasite control according to medical standards. The breeder should readily provide a complete medical record on each pup. You should be able to contact the veterinarian and speak freely about health records of puppies and parents. Ask for references.Breeders should provide several references from other families who have purchased pups and welcomes inquiries. Responsible mating is key.The breeder should take genetic predispositions into account to reduce potential inherited problems. Look up what health testing is recommended for your chosen breed — the AKC has great recommendations. Really good breeders will have a scan of these scores for each dog on their website, sometimes even complete with the x-rays. This testing is expensive, but good breeders will do it. Parents should be over 2 yrs old.If you want a happy, healthy adult dog, you need to be sure that her parents are happy and healthy adult dogs. That means waiting until the parents are 2 years old prior to having puppies. Puppies should be raised inside.Puppies raised inside are more likely to be exposed to kids, other animals, and normal home activities. Bonus points for breeders that expose the puppies to kids and other animals. Puppies should be unavailable until 12 weeks.Studies show that puppies removed from their parents and litter-mates too young are more likely to exhibit problem behaviors like fear or aggression toward other dogs. Be prepared for questions to you.A breeder may question you regarding your ability to care for the dog, how much time you have to spend with him and where he will fit into your family. Breeders pick the families. The breeder should take the time to get to know the family's needs and help the family pick a puppy. Introducing pup to new home.A knowledgeable breeder will be happy to sit down with you and discuss what you can expect in the breed, including any issues that might crop up later in life purebred dogs, even well bred ones, have be susceptible to certain diseases or health problems. They should also offer to be available to answer any questions you may have after you take the pup home. You should receive a written contract with a guarantee of health allowing time for a pre-purchase examination by a veterinarian of your choice. If medical problems are diagnosed, the breeder should readily take the pup back and provide a full refund. Options to re-home a dog.Sadly, not all puppies work out for every family. A reputable breeder cares a great deal about where their puppies end up and will do anything they can to ensure they find another perfect home. Helpful list of questions for breeder.This question is usually accompanied with wanting a list of questions to be asking the French Bulldog breeder. Based on this feedback I wanted to give you the ultimate list of questions to ask, plus all the warning signs that should make you walk away. Not just warning sings about the French Bulldog puppy, but also her mother and the breeder too. Things to know before buying a French Bulldog puppy The moment you see that adorable French Bulldog puppy for the first time will last with you forever, it certainly did with me when we first met our own dog. Just take a step back for a second as there will be some red flags to watch for. I wish we had, but luckily, our dog ended up being ok, but it could have been very different: French Bulldogs are a notorious breed for health problems and unscrupulous breeders. With their cute squashed faces and cuddly squat bodies, they will tug at your heart strings. You will be tempted to just take that French Bulldog puppy and go. But please, please, please… before you do that, here are some things you should check before you pay your money. Your French Bulldog will become a huge part of your life, but make sure you know what to look for before you buy a puppy. Read these before you spend the money. By doing this due diligence you should hopefully get a puppy that not only fits your family and lifestyle, but also lives a long and happy life. You want to choose one that has a track record, online reviews, and a good reputation in the French Bulldog world… not some first timer nobody has heard of. Be suspicious of low prices: If the French Bulldog puppies are advertised as a lower than average price, be wary. The old adage about if it looks too good to be true is almost always the case with puppies. Low prices can be a sign of an unhealthy litter. Find out how many litters the mother has had already: French Bulldog mothers should not have anything more than one litter each year. The best scenario would be a litter every couple of years. More pregnancies than this mean she has been over-bred and both her and the puppies could have health problems. Look out for serious conditions and hereditary issues including dwarfism, hip and spine issues, soft palate issues, eye problems, and hearing problems. I would recommend getting a puppy from a French Bulldog older than this just to be sure. Before 8 weeks of age, they should still be with her, and it can also help you understand what type of dog your puppy will grow up to be. If the breeder refuses access to the mother, walk away. Ask where the puppies have been living: If the French Bulldogs have been in a dark garage away from human interaction it will mean they will be harder to socialize and harder to train. Ask how often the French Bulldogs have been handled: When puppies are regularly handled by humans, they will be much easier when taken home. Ask whether a vet has checked the puppies: Puppies should have been checked by a vet and had their first set of vaccinations before going to their new home. Ask to speak to a previous buyer:A reputable breeder will let you talk to people who have bought a French Bulldog puppy from them before. If they are unable to supply references and contacts, they could be hiding something. I hope you find these questions to ask a French Bulldog breeder helpful. Please do print them off before you visit the litter and decide to buy. The personality of the French Bulldog breeder This is so often over-looked, but I wanted to add it on as something to look for when buying a French Bulldog puppy. Only buy a French Bulldog puppy from a breeder who is prepared to take the time to answer any questions and concerns you might have. Breeders that treat buyers with respect will most likely extend that kindness to the French Bulldog mother and her puppies. This gives you an indication of what health problems could in store. These can include: Allergies. Your first pet will most likely feel threatened and protective over his territory and get jealous. Here are my tips for introducing your French bulldog to a new puppy. It has something to do with their scent — puppies have a different smell than adult pups. He stopped drooling around her after a couple days. Apart from that, have your dog meet your new puppy for the time first time in an open location, like a large park If possible, let them reach the meeting location at the same time and keep the leashes loose or even off-leash. Sometimes on-leash, dogs can become more agitated and aggressive. Let them eat individually with their own dishes. Let your first pet go straight into the house while your new pup runs around the yard. This is because at night, dogs have a harder time seeing one another, which can put them on edge. And at mealtimes, many pups can get territorial. That includes feeding dishes, toys, beddings and other shared items. Additionally, clean up their common area and let the existing pet have an idea that another pet is set to arrive. Weston went in there occasionally to roll around in the bed and mark it with his scent. Whenever we left the house, we had Fira stay inside her playpen which was her safe place. Play with them, train them together and always give lots and lots of love to the older pet. He will also make his own rules with the new sibling, so allow him to create his own boundaries and teach the younger one his rules, how to play and more. Fira never did it again. Interactions between your Frenchie and your new puppy should not be forced. Weston did such a great job teaching Fira how to play and wrestle. Follow us on Instagram wtfrenchie to see all our updates in real-time. Related Posts.

The difference between these variants lies in their size, when full-grown. While the former weighs about 6 to 12 pounds, the weight of the latter is 13 to 18 pounds. By height, they stand between 9 and 14 inches. Temperament Respectively, both the cheerful, cuddly, loving personality and the playful, intelligent and charismatic characteristics of the Bichon Frise and the Poodle have been inherited by this Poodle Bichon mix. Care Exercise The moderately active, very small bichon poo do not need vigorous exercise, but taking them to a regular walk and allowing them to play, especially being crazy about reflections in the mirror, is enough. But increase the session-time if your pet lives mostly indoors. Grooming Although not much maintenance is necessary for their very little hair loss, but their hair being long and curly gets entangled easily, hence they need regular brushing to retain a smooth coat, just like a haircut is, if it is too long, but by experienced hands approximately every 6 to 8 weeks. Bathe them if only needed, but do keep an eye for ear infections and brush their teeth few times weekly to avoid tooth decay. Health Problems As a cross, bichon poo does not have much health issues, except genetic disorders and common dog diseases like ear problems and infections, PRA, epilepsy, diabetes, cataracts, allergies and other skin disorders. Training Inheriting the intelligence of the Poodle, the Bichon Poodle puppies would be difficult to housetrain. You should also impart socialization and obedience training to your pets without being harsh and intolerant. In order to make the learning process interesting and fulfilling, you can incorporate positive reinforcement tricks. Feeding Do not feed your dog with chocolate, grapes, raisins or onions. Feed them with the correct proportions of high-quality protein, carbohydrates, vegetables and fats. They also need vitamins, calcium and other minerals in their diet chart. Eliminate harmful additives or preservatives. Homemade dog foods that are cooked can contain brown rice, chicken or other types of red meats and a variety of green, yellow and orange vegetables. If you want to include raw foods, give your bichon poo skinless chicken or other lean meats, green and orange vegetables and bones as a part of their meals. Dry dog food is also readily available in the market, but that has to be high-quality, meant for small-size, moderately active dogs. Interesting Facts Bichon Poos are tolerant with other animals. They make a good companion dog and love to be around its owner and his family. Bichpoos possess double coat. The inner coat is soft and silky but the outer coat is bigger and curly. If we want to learn anything about their offspring, we must review certain genetic facts and statistics beforehand. This is the dog that carries it. The Bichon Frise looks like a vanilla cupcake or cream puff with a height of 9 — 12 inches 23 — 30 cm and a weight of 6. It has an affectionate, playful, and cheerful temperament, with a slice of feistiness and sensitivity on the side. The primary health concerns to look out for are epilepsy, White Shaker Syndrome which causes the dog to shake uncontrollably , and dyskinesia — a type of movement disorder. But the vet will be able to make a proper diagnosis. A healthy Bichon Frise has a life expectancy of 12 — 15 years. Brief Overview Of The Poodle Poodles of all sizes toy , mini, and standard have two universal crowd-pleasing traits. The height and weight of a Poodle can be broken down into three categories. Across the mini, toy, and standard growth charts, the height fluctuates between 9 — 24 inches 21 — 61 cm. The weight between 6 — 60 pounds 3 — 27 kg. All sizes are intelligent, active, and faithful, and live between 12 years. Like the Bichon Frise, the Poodle may suffer from epilepsy at some point in its life. It may also experience the following health issues. The Poodle and the Bichon Frise have identical lifespans, so their offspring are predicted to live between 12 — 15 years as well. A full-grown Bichon Poodle should be about 9 to 15 inches cm tall at the withers with a weight of 6 — 17 pounds 3 — 8 kg. The Bichpoo can also be found in cream, black, blue, and apricot. There are certain arguments in life that will never be settled. Blonde vs. When it comes to dogs, there is no definitive, black and white answer. There will always be at least one exception. Although, the point of cross-breeding is to eliminate certain health concerns. So, what predictions can we make about hybrid dogs? The first generation of the Bichon Poodle Mix is healthier than its parent breeds. The second generation is not as healthy as the first, and any issues that arise in round two will most likely carry on in round three and so forth. With alert and active parents, the Poochon will be no different. This mix needs daily exercise preferably outside for at least 30 minutes. It has a lot of energy to burn. Keep in mind that mental and physical stimulation are different, and the Bichon Poodle Mix needs both. A bored Bichpoo will bark and whine or turn your shoes into a chew toy of its own with your permission. OK, we get it. The Bichpoo is smart, but can it be taught to play dead? Or roll over? Or give a high-5? And Yes. This breed is capable of learning a solid amount of tricks. Just make sure to have plenty of treats on-hand for positive reinforcement. Watch how well this Bichpoo gives its owner a high-5 and pay attention to how she rewards her dog! Every breed comes with at least one trait we wish we could alter. This comes from the Poodle side. If your Bichon Poodle Mix is not socialized at an early age, it can develop separation anxiety when left alone for hours. The Bichpoo can show moments of mild aggression around unfamiliar dogs. The Bichon Poodle is a loving companion for adults, children, and strangers, which makes it one of the best family dogs. Haircuts every two months are a necessity to keep its coat tame. If that sounds like too much responsibility or money, you can shave your Bichpoo in the summertime. Its coat causes minimal shedding, which makes it a good option for owners with allergies or who want a clean house. The last part of grooming requires occasional teeth brushing to keep mouth infections at bay. Bichon Poodle owner Sandy Rothra recommends feeding your mix canned dog food because it contains a higher percentage of meat protein. This counts for all dog breeds: if your pup gets sick with a kidney or heart issue, you will need to change its diet. You should never feed any dog chocolate, onions, grapes, and raisins. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Poochons have high energy and are prone to weight gain. Make sure your dog gets frequent walks and play sessions through out the day. If you keep a hanky near by to wipe their eyes when they get moist, it can help minimize the tear stains that their breed is prone to getting. Multiple dogs sometimes clean each others eyes, but dogs typically do not clean their own eyes. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking loudly against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth daily, as small breeds are prone to dental issues. Poochon Feeding An ideal Poochon diet should be formulated for a small breed with moderate to high energy. They have a tendency to gain weight if they are overfed, so you should stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave food out during the day. The main colors of Poochons are cream, tan, and apricot. Usually their coats are solid, and sometimes they have blend of colors. Less common colors are black or grey. Both parent breeds are high maintenance when it comes to grooming, and you can expect the same from the Poochon. These pups will most likely require daily brushing along with shampooing every few weeks with a mild product and monthly grooming. Poochons are prone to tear stains. If you decide to adopt a Poochon, keep a cloth tissue on hand to dab their eyes regularly. It helps manage the tear staining quite a bit. Poochon Children And Other Pets Poochons adore kids and families and the endless noise and commotion that comes with them. However, because the Poochon is a small dog, they can be easily injured by overly excited children. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. The Poochon enjoys the company of other dogs, as long as they receive their fair share of attention from their owner. Since Poochons have a social nature, a family with lots of animals could be ideal. For an active, social person, the Poochon could be your perfect co-pilot for life. Poochon Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Poochons because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Poodle or Bichon Frise breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Temperament: Jolly, smart and affectionate. Bichon Poodle Mix Appearance There is no true breed standard for this dog as they are a mix. However with luck, it will have the best features of both the Bichon and the Poodle. These merry souls have dark gentle eyes, a black button nose and a friendly face that is always smiling. They have small bodies with short, stubby legs. Height and Weight These small dogs stand between inches tall. Weight should range from pounds, with Teacup Bichon Poodles weighing pounds. There is no major difference in size between males and females. Breed Colors and Coat Bichon Poodles are usually brown, white or tan colored. However, they can occur in cream or even ginger colors. Darker colored ones can have white markings on their undersides. The Bichon Poo has a medium length, curly single coat. They need plenty of care and grooming to keep looking clean and neat. This pooch hardly sheds at all and does not produce a lot of dander. Now those with dog allergies can have a furry friend too. Despite their low shed frequency they must be brushed daily to keep their fur from becoming matted. They will also need a haircut every month or two. Smaller dogs usually have smaller litter sizes — this dog can have a litter of up to 5 puppies. They are one of the best possible first puppies for children of all ages, and a great opportunity to teach kids about how to care for a dog. Since its parent breeds are so highly intelligent, it excels at brain games and learning tricks. The word Bichon refers to a variety of different toy dogs , including the more well-known Maltese. They are are social butterflies that love to make new friends. Their natural friendliness makes them one of the easier breeds to socialize. Bichon Poos are very smart and playful and love games that keep their minds working. They will love a trip to the park or a run around the yard. Their high intelligence means that they learn quickly, but also means that they are easily bored. They can be very annoying when under-stimulated. Unfortunately this breed can be loud and yappy. They may yap or whine if they are bored, and may bark excitably when they see a new friend. These dogs will actively engage their owners by bringing them their favorite toys or showing off their favorite new tricks. Every owner of any age and skill level can take care of one. All in all they are natural people dogs who want nothing more than to keep you amused and happy. This breed is one of the very best family dogs around. Caring for a Bichon Poodle A Bichon Frise Poodle mix is easy to care for which makes them great for first time owners. They do not need much beyond the basics that any dog needs. Keeping them clean and well groomed is the most important and intensive part of their care. Exercise Requirements This mix has sudden energy bursts. They will want to be on their feet one moment and all curled up the next. You can take them on up to 3 short 10 minute walks a day. A walk through the dog park or around the yard is just fine for distance. They can be trained to walk off leash but be sure to watch them carefully. In addition to their walks they should have at least 10 minutes of off leash play. They enjoy all of the classic doggie games, including fetch and Frisbee. Number of Walks Per Day: 3. Grooming and Shedding Grooming is the most demanding aspect of caring for this breed. Without regular grooming their fur will become a tangled mess. Keeping their fur neat and trimmed will be entirely up to you. They will need monthly trips to a professional groomer in addition to their daily brushing. They will also need shampooing and a haircut at least every 2 months. Small dog breeds are especially prone to dental health problems. Feeding and Diet Many owners will make the mistake of feeding this small dog the same kind of food as a larger and more active breed. These dogs have different caloric needs for their small bodies. Bichon Poodles should be given kibble made specifically for small and toy breeds. You can give them up to 3 meals a day, at a half-cup of kibble per meal. Foods for toy dog breeds contain less fat and carbs than those for larger dogs. However, they are much more calorie dense. This makes eating very painful, and it can even lead to heart disease. Progressive retinal atrophy is an eye problem inherited from both parent breeds. It usually occurs when the dog reaches middle age. What Is the History of Bichon Poodles? In order to understand what a poochon might be like, we need to know more about the history of the bichon frise and the poodle. The bichon frise hails from Tenerife in the Canary Islands and was popular among the nobility of France, Spain, and Italy from about the 13th century onward. After the French Revolution in , these little dogs lost their noble benefactors. They ended up performing tricks, first as street performers, then in circuses. Just like bichon frises, poodles found popularity amongst French nobility and even spent some time in European circuses. However, their roots have nothing to do with luxury or the performing arts. Instead, poodles were duck hunters that originated in Germany. Even today, standard poodles are used for hunting fowl. As for the bichon poodle, this mix cropped up around the late s in Australia. It is believed that breeders were attempting to create an active but affectionate pet that would make a wonderful companion for families with kids. Though poodles come in three sizes, only miniature and toy poodles are typically chosen to mate with bichon frises. Poochons are small dogs with long curly hair often clipped short , fluffy tails, and cute button noses. They can come in various colors, but some of the most popular are apricot, cream, white, and red. Most bichpoos will be toy to miniature sized. What Size Is a Bichon Poodle? Bichon poodles are 9 to 15 inches tall and weigh between 6 and 17 pounds on average. Bichpoos with a toy poodle parent are more likely to be on the smaller side of this scale, whereas those with a miniature poodle parent may be on the larger end of this range. Both bichon frises and poodles have hair that is curly and grows long. Therefore, you can expect the same from a bichon poodle mix. Bichon poodles are happy-go-lucky dogs that see everyone as their friend. They make lovely family pets as they are great with children and enjoy activity and play. Bichpoos are very affectionate with their families and enjoy cuddling and being petted. Are Bichon Poodles Affectionate? Bichon frises were bred to be companion dogs, and poodles are known to be affectionate toward their families. Therefore, you can expect a mix of the two to be an absolutely loving dog. If you want a dog you can cuddle with; there is a high chance that a bichpoo will want to cuddle with you, too. They are wonderful little lapdogs who welcome physical touch. Bichon poodles are also quite friendly toward strangers. In fact, they tend to view everyone as friends and are quick to warm up to new people. This mixed breed is both gentle and playful. That said, it is important to always supervise kids and dogs. Because the bichon poodle is diminutive, children must be taught how to safely handle and respect this breed so as not to cause injury. While bichon frises have a low prey drive, the same cannot be said of the poodle, who was originally bred for hunting. So it would not be a total surprise should they enjoy chasing squirrels in the yard. If you have small animals like rabbits, guinea pigs, or the like, be aware of the possibility that a bichpoo may see them as prey. Socializing a bichon poodle mix puppy with small animals can help, but it is recommended that you exercise caution if you decide to keep small pets in a home with a bichpoo. Though small animals may be out, other dogs are not. Bichon poodles tend to be quite friendly toward fellow dogs. Are Bichon Poodles Aggressive? Though it is possible for any dog of any breed to become aggressive, this is definitely not the norm for the bichon poodle. This breed is generally very friendly and happy-go-lucky toward everyone they meet. Fear can be a cause of aggression. Do Bichon Poodles Bark a Lot? Bichon poodles are not known for being quiet. How much a dog barks will vary by individual, but it is not uncommon for bichpoos to bark a lot. This may not make them the best option if you live in an apartment with noise restrictions. However, if you are dedicated to putting in the effort, you can teach them to bark less. This training can work especially well if you start it during puppyhood, but training at any age can still be effective. Are Bichon Poodles Intelligent? Bichon Poodles are very smart little dogs. Poodles themselves are considered one of the smartest dog breeds, and we know that bichons frises are more than capable of learning complex tricks — after all, they did spend time in the circus! So a dog born of these two intelligent breeds is likely to be a smarty-pants. Are Bichon Poodles Easy to Train? Training is a joy when you have an intelligent dog that enjoys learning. This is definitely true of the bichon poodle. These little dogs are eager to please as they love receiving praise and treats from their favorite people. Because they are smart, they can also learn a plethora of interesting cues, including complicated tricks. We always recommend that dog owners take their pups to a training class of some sort because it keeps you on task with your training, allows you to ask questions, provides socialization, and offers a new or distracting environment for your dog to learn in. However, the bichon poodle is relatively easy to train, so hiring a professional trainer, while helpful, is not necessary. Similarly, you do not need to be an experienced trainer to successfully teach your bichon poodle new skills. Do your research, be clear and consistent, and use positive reinforcement techniques. Respect your dog and remember that training should be fun, and your bichpoo will be trained before you know it. Are Bichon Poodles Energetic? The bichon poodle is considered a high-energy breed, which is no surprise since one of their parents, the poodle, was originally bred for hunting. You should definitely walk a poochon daily as well as engage in play. Bichon poodles will enjoy a romp around a yard but are also happy to play indoors. Most bichon poodles are satisfied with about an hour of exercise per day. If your poochon seems bored, then you may need to provide even more exercise. Aside from their barking habits, bichon poodles can be a great option for apartment living. They can easily get their exercise via walks or even indoor games on rainy days. Are Bichon Poodles Good Watchdogs? A bichon poodle will alert you to the presence of someone at the door or anything else they find out of place. For this reason, they can be considered good watchdogs. However, they are very friendly toward strangers and, of course, are quite small, so they cannot offer you much more than a four-legged alarm system. Bichon poodles are too small to fit every service niche for instance, they could not guide the blind , but they can make for talented service dogs in general. Their loving, affectionate nature would also make them a great option for someone who is looking to get an emotional support animal. For those who want to bring joy to others, a bichon poodle would likely excel as a therapy dog because they tend to be quite friendly and do well with children and adults. How to Care for a Bichon Poodle The bichon poodle usually requires visits to a groomer every four to six weeks to have their coat clipped. Otherwise, they require brushing at least weekly and should have their ears checked for infection regularly. Perhaps the most vital care for a bichon poodle is dental care. You must brush their teeth every single day. This is because the bichon poodle is predisposed to periodontal disease, and it is not uncommon for this breed to lose teeth because of it. This is because the bacteria growing in an unhealthy mouth can spread, often leading to systemic issues in the heart, kidneys, or liver. As their hair grows back out, you should brush even more frequently to prevent matting. Mats make it difficult for groomers to give the dog a neat clip, and severe matting is painful. Bathing once a month is enough for a poochon, but you can also choose to bathe as needed. Do Bichon Poodles Shed? The bichon poodle mix is a minimal shedder. This is because their hair grows long and continuously. This cycle of growth can take years, which is why the breed is considered low shedding and hypoallergenic. What Should a Bichon Poodle Eat? Bichon poodles should eat the highest quality small breed dog food you can afford. The best dog foods meet AAFCO guidelines, are formulated by a veterinary nutritionist, and undergo feeding trials. To determine how much to feed your bichon poodle, check the guidelines on your preferred dog food. Bichon poodles are at risk for all the same diseases for which poodles and bichon frises are at risk. Though these health risks may seem scary, there are ways to increase your chances of getting a healthy pup who will live a long, happy life. The best option is to get your bichon poodle puppy from a responsible breeder who health tests their dogs. These health tests ensure that the parent dogs do not have any identifiable diseases that could be passed on to the offspring. Responsible breeders not only health test their dogs but are also more than willing to share the results with potential adopters. Poodles live between 10 and 18 years whereas bichon frises live about 14 to 15 years. Therefore, you can expect a bichpoo to have a similar lifespan. Are Bichon Poodles Expensive? Your recurring monthly expenses for a bichpoo will mostly consist of grooming and food. How to Find a Bichon Poodle Breeder? What are your credentials? You should learn about how long the breeder has been in business and how familiar they are with bichon poodles. Have the parent animals undergone health testing? Ask to see these tests. Can I see where the dogs are kept? Can I meet the parent? How do you socialize your puppies? Socialization is important for puppies to become friendly and confident. Are the puppies up-to-date on vaccinations? Do you offer a health guarantee with a contract? Some breeders guarantee the health of their puppies: should your puppy come down with a serious illness early on, the breeder may offer to reimburse the purchase price of the dog or even take the puppy back. This will also help you avoid irresponsible breeders. What do you require of potential adopters? Many breeders want to make sure their puppies are going to homes where they will be treated well and kept for life. Therefore, breeders may ask a number of questions about you, your situation, and your experience as a dog owner. Can You Adopt a Bichon Poodle? These shelters typically rescue mixes of their designated breeds. You should also keep an eye on small breed rescues. Are Bichon Poodles Purebred? Bichon poodles are not purebred. Rather, they are the offspring of two purebred dogs: the poodle and the bichon frise. Some bichon poodles may also have two bichon poodle parents. Can You Show Bichon Poodles? Unfortunately, only purebred dogs are allowed to be shown. This is partly because purebreds have a set standard for how each breed should look and be proportioned. No such standard exists for mixed breeds like the bichon poodle, so they cannot participate in dog shows. The bichon poodle would make a great first dog for a new dog owner. The bichon poodle is a wonderful dog with many desirable traits. The Bichon poodle may be right for you if: You want a dog you can cuddle with. You have children and want a family dog. You want a dog that has low-maintenance grooming needs. Finding a Bichon Poodle puppy The History The Bichpoo originated in Australia during the s, as a loving household pet that would do well with children and other pets. This hybrid has quickly grown in popularity in recent years, as more people discover their benefits as companion animals. But their history goes way further back than that. The Bichon Frise is thought to be descendant from the Bichon Tenerife, a member of the Barbichon breed family. The Bichon got its start on the Canary Islands, specifically on the island of Tenerife. The breed has roots dating back to at least the 13th century, when they grew quite popular with European royalty as lapdogs. Eventually the breed made its way to the Americas, where it was officially recognized by the AKC in the early s. The Poodle has a storied history dating back at least years. It is thought to have originated in Germany, where it was bred for retrieving waterfowl for hunters. The Standard Poodle, the original breed, was bred down to the Miniature, which was then bred down again to the Toy variety. Today, all three versions of the Poodle — as well as their various cross-breeds — remain popular. What is the temperament of the Bich Poo? The Bich Poo typically takes on many of the characteristics of its parent breeds. Most Bichon Poodle mixes will have a lively, affectionate and active disposition. They are also quite intelligent. Typically a Bichon Toy Poodle will have an accommodating, patient nature. This makes them a good choice for households with children or other pets. They are prone to sudden bursts of energy, so you will commonly see them zooming around for short periods of time. They also tend to bark a lot. This can make them good watchdogs. But it also means that if they are not trained properly at a young age, barking can become excessive. Poochons typically do not do well if left alone. They are prone to separation anxiety and tend to bark continuously when left by themselves. Bichon Poodle puppies could take on more characteristics from one parent breed or the other. Physical Characteristics The physical characteristics and appearance of this breed can vary, just as the behavioral tendencies can differ. It depends which parent breed comes through stronger. With that said, the bulk of these dogs are small, at 6 to 12 pounds on average. They typically have a height of 9 to 14 inches when fully grown. The size of a Bichpoo dog will also vary depending on the size of the parents, and whether the Poodle parent was of the Miniature or Toy variety. Their cute button nose is the only feature to emerge from the thick curls. Their coats are typically quite soft, as long as they are properly maintained and cared for. They also inherit the Poodle tendency for very minimal shedding. The Bichon Poodle coat is typically white or apricot, with various other light shades being possible, but not common. The Bichon Poo requires frequent brushing to keep their coat soft and prevent matting. Ideally, you should brush its coat daily. Frequent Bichon Poo haircuts are a necessity. Coats should be trimmed every two months or so to maintain a manageable length and prevent matting. Shedding is very minimal with this breed, but routine brushing is still essential. Dental care is also important for this breed, as they can be susceptible to gum infections and related dental problems. They have a moderate to high energy level, and enjoy frequent walks and playtime. Because of their small size, they do better with frequent shorter walks, instead of long ventures once a day. They also tend to have quick bursts of energy, during which time they love to run around and play. As for training, this mix is typically eager to please. This is particularly true with problem behaviors like excessive barking. Health Concerns Bichon Poodle mixes are prone to many of the health concerns that are prevalent in their parent breeds. Eye problems are common, including progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts. Dental concerns are another common issue. Bichons, in particular, are prone to gum infections and tooth loss. Other concerns like patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, sebaceous adenitis, and Von Willebrand disease are also common. Many of these health concerns can be tested for. Reputable breeders will conduct health tests on their breeding stock to help minimize the risk of complications. Interestingly, there is some evidence to suggest that first generation mixes i. Second generations and beyond the offspring of two Bichon Poodle mixes are more likely to show health concerns common in Poodle and Bichon Frise dogs. Thus, some experts recommend specifically seeking out reputable breeders that offer first-generation puppies. As with any breed, frequent veterinary checkups are important and should be scheduled at least once a year. A good breeder will conduct health tests on their breeding stock to help reduce the risk of various inherited health concerns. To locate breeders, search the web for resources in your area. Before settling on a breeder, be sure to do some research into the background and reputation of the company or individual. Reputable breeders will not hesitate to show you health records and test results.

puppy culture labradoodles - This is because they are in a state of relaxation and are not fighting for air. This is normal and part of their growth and development. Puppies will breathe a little faster as they get more active during the night. This is also why they may snore a little bit. Pulmonary Hypertension is a disorder in which the pressure inside the lungs is too high. This makes it difficult for the heart to pump enough blood to the lungs. If you notice any of the following signs, contact your vet: Noticeably labored breathing engaging stomach muscles to help breathe Pale, blue-tinged or brick red gums. If your dog is showing signs of struggling to breathe, including excessive panting, laboured or heavy breathing — the chest and stomach may heave when breathing — then you should begin to worry. If your dog is not able to exercise normally and might have to rest on walks, then they may also be having trouble breathing. If your dog has a blue or grey tinge to their gums a sign of low blood oxygen hen they may also be in trouble. Owners may become concerned when they hear their French bulldog breathing heavily. Breathing heavily may or may not be normal for French bulldogs. French bulldogs with breathing problems may experience moderate to severe symptoms. French bulldogs with breathing problems should be monitored closely by a veterinarian. If French bulldogs have breathing problems, proper treatment may be available. French bulldogs with breathing problems should be kept as healthy as possible. French bulldogs with breathing problems should be monitored by a veterinarian. What Help French Bulldogs Breathe Better Early morning and evening walks are best for French bulldogs because they have a hard time breathing due to their short nose and compromised airways. Exercising that increases the demand for oxygen should not be overdone. Do All Frenchies Have Breathing Problems French bulldogs are a popular breed of dog, but they are known to have breathing problems. This can cause them to have problems breathing, and it can be serious. If you have a French bulldog, it is important to make sure he or she is regularly checked for breathing problems, and if there are any, to get treatment. It is always best to be safe than sorry, so if you see any of the signs above, make sure to take your pup to the vet as soon as possible. It is also important to know that most French Bulldogs do not overheat very often, but if it does happen, you will want to take care of your pet as soon as possible to prevent any serious health problems. Why Do French Bulldogs Hyperventilate French bulldogs are often considered to be one of the most popular breeds of dogs. They are known for their friendly nature, and are often used as service dogs. However, French bulldogs can also be prone to a number of health problems. One of these problems is metabolic acidosis. Among these symptoms are hyperventilation and metabolic acidosis itself. French bulldogs are particularly prone to metabolic acidosis due to a number of factors. These factors include their size, their genetic makeup, and their diet. In particular, French bulldogs are known to be prone to eating a high-calorie diet. This diet can lead to obesity, which in turn can lead to metabolic acidosis. Diabetes also plays a role in metabolic acidosis in French bulldogs. This is because diabetes is a condition in which the body produces too much glucose. Glucose is a type of sugar, and when too much of it is produced, it can lead to metabolic acidosis. There are a number of things that you can do to help prevent metabolic acidosis in your French bulldog. First, you should make sure that your dog is diet is properly balanced. This means that the dog should be eating a mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. Second, you should make sure that your dog is exercising regularly. People with this condition have a short nose and flat head, which can cause difficulty breathing. In some cases, the obstruction can also cause the Frenchies to snort and snore. Other causes of snorting and snoring can include an obstruction in the airways, an allergic reaction, or the position the Frenchie is sleeping in. Genetics can also play a role, as can other health issues. While these are all common reasons for Frenchies to snort and snore, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Each Frenchie will experience these noises in a different way, and it is important to consult with a veterinarian if the snoring or snorting is causing problems. This is influenced by many factors, but you can help your dog live a longer life by making a few small changes. Feed them a healthy diet, provide plenty of exercise, and keep them clean and healthy. Most pet owners should expect to pay between a few hundred dollars to one thousand dollars. The surgery is usually done on dogs between the ages of one and seven years old. The surgery is usually successful in correcting the problem and the dog typically recovers quickly. There is a small risk of complications post-surgery, but they are relatively rare. Do French Bulldogs Need Clothes French Bulldogs are known for their short hair, but this does not mean that they do not need clothes. French Bulldogs are prone to hyperthermia and overheating, so it is important to provide them with clothes to protect them from the heat. The most important part of buying French Bulldogs clothes is to make sure they fit well and are comfortable. Post Views: .Introduction If you have a French Bulldog, you may have noticed that they breathe a lot faster when they are sleeping compared to when they are awake. This is due to their short muzzle, which causes problems with regulating their body temperature and breathing rates. Making sure that your Frenchie has regular vet visits may help identify any underlying issues that contribute to their fast breathing. What is a French Bulldog? A French Bulldog is a small, lovable breed of dog characterized by their short muzzle and big, upright ears. They are the perfect companion for all ages, from children to seniors. French Bulldogs are very affectionate, playful, and loyal. They are also very intelligent and easy to train. While they may not be the best guard dogs, they are excellent at keeping their owners happy and entertained. French Bulldogs are prone to breathing issues due to their short muzzle. When they sleep, they may start to breathe faster than usual as a result. This is normal and should not be cause for alarm. Regular checkups are key to keeping your fur baby healthy and happy. Heat stress and anxiety can also be contributing factors to this breathing pattern. You can help your Frenchie by making sure they get regular exercise before bed. A short walk can help reduce anxiety and restlessness. Opt for cooling beds, to help keep them feeling cool and comfortable throughout the night. Make sure the temperature of the room they are in is lower than usual, and never forget to take them to the vet regularly. Common Causes of Fast Breathing in Sleeping French Bulldogs French Bulldogs are brachycephalic, meaning they have short muzzles, which can cause them to have difficulty regulating their body temperatures and breathing. To help your Frenchie breathe better while sleeping, try taking them on short walks before bed, using cooling beds, keeping the room temperature low, and visiting the vet regularly. If you follow these tips, your Frenchie will be breathing easier in no time. Anxiety and Stress can also cause French Bulldogs to breathe faster while sleeping. Signs of stress include licking their lips, trembling, and panting. Spend some time bonding with them, and provide plenty of toys and activities to keep them busy and stimulated. If your Frenchie has trouble relaxing, talk to your vet about supplements or medications that can help. With a bit of patience and tender loving care, you can help your Frenchie relax and breathe easier at night. Brachycephalic Syndrome If your French Bulldog is suffering from brachycephalic syndrome, it is essential that you familiarize yourself with the condition and learn how to manage it. Regular exercise helps too: take your Frenchie for a short walk before sleeping in order to help them regulate their body temperature. If your Frenchie has problems with anxiety, stress or heat stress, you should take them to the vet for a check-up. Your vet can help you identify the underlying cause and offer advice on how to manage the condition. Be sure to keep the room temperature low and provide adequate ventilation and plenty of toys and activity to keep your pet occupied. Regular vet visits are essential for the health of your Frenchie. Heat Stress If your French Bulldog is breathing fast while sleeping during the summer, they may be suffering from heat stress. To help your Frenchie, try to keep them in cool environments as much as possible. If you have air conditioning, try to keep them in a cool room during the day and night. Aside from keeping your pup cool, it is important to help your Frenchie manage their energy levels prior to bed. This means getting a bit of exercise in the form of a short walk before bedtime. This will help them calm down, relax, and sleep better. You can also invest in cooling beds that are specifically designed for overheated pups. These beds are usually filled with gel beads that absorb body heat and keep your pup cool. It is important to keep up with regular vet visits. If your Frenchie is still having issues regulating their body temperature, your vet may be able to recommend medications or other treatments to help them. If the fast breathing is accompanied by other symptoms, your vet will be able to diagnose and treat your pup. Anxiety and Stress If your French Bulldog is suffering from anxiety and stress, the best thing you can do is give them the love and reassurance they need to feel safe and secure. Taking them for short, calming walks before bedtime can help them manage their stress levels, and provide a sense of comfort and security. Providing your Frenchie with a cooling bed, such as an orthopedic or memory foam type, will help keep them cool and relaxed during sleeping hours. Remember to take your Frenchie to the vet regularly to ensure they are getting the best care possible. Try to avoid high-traffic areas, loud environments, and places where there might be loud noises or too many people. Make sure that their environment is comfortable and that they feel safe, secure, and loved. Showing them kindness and assurance, and making sure to take them to the vet regularly, are sure-fire ways to keep your Frenchie breathing easy during sleep time. Short walks before bed can help to tire them out and reduce their anxiety levels. Regular vet visits are key to making sure your pup stays healthy and any underlying health concerns can be addressed. Make sure their bed is clean and free of any sharp objects, and keep their sleeping area away from any loud noises or electronics. You can also reduce their chances of getting overstimulated by playing a calming sound in the background. Spend quality time with them, give them plenty of exercise and love, and provide them with a safe and comfortable place to sleep. With the right effort, your French Bulldog can be breathing normally and happily in no time. Short Walks Before Bed Taking your French Bulldog for a short walk before bedtime is an excellent way to help regulate their breathing. Not only does it help to tire them out, but it also helps them to relax, which can prevent them from becoming too anxious while they sleep. The exercise can help to improve their overall health and well-being, as it helps to keep their bodies in shape. This will still tire them out and help to prevent fast breathing during sleep. Tug-of-war and hide-and-seek are all great ways to tire them out without having to leave the house. Cooling Beds Cooling beds are a great way to help your French Bulldog stay cool and comfortable while sleeping. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can find one that fits your Frenchie perfectly. Look for beds with a cooling gel or water core, and those with an elevated design to keep your pup off the ground. Look for beds that are specifically designed for small breeds, as these will be the most comfortable and supportive for your Frenchie. See also Can a Rottweiler Kill a Coyote? Not only will a cooling bed help keep your pup cool and comfy, but it will also help reduce the risks of overheating and respiratory distress. With the right cooling bed and proper monitoring, you can help make sure your French Bulldog gets the restful sleep they need without having to worry about their fast breathing. With a little extra care, your pup will be sleeping peacefully in no time! To help your Frenchie stay cool, you can use fans and air conditioning to maintain a comfortable temperature. If necessary, you can also use cool mats or cooling beds designed for dogs that are made of materials that help keep their body heat regulated. By keeping the room temperature low, you will be helping your Frenchie to stay more comfortable while they sleep. This is because the vet can check for any underlying medical conditions and make sure your pup is in tip-top shape. That way, if something ever changes or your Frenchie experiences any difficulties, you and your vet will both be ready to act. Vet visits also give your pup an opportunity to receive vaccinations and other important preventative care. This can help to protect your Frenchie from illnesses, and can even help them to live a longer and healthier life. Conclusion To ensure your French Bulldog is breathing normally while sleeping, you should take a few proactive steps. Take your Frenchie on a short walk before bed, and make sure to cool the room temperature to a comfortable level. Investing in a cooling bed for your pup will also help regulate their body temperature and breathing. You should also be aware of the common causes of fast breathing while your Frenchie sleeps. Brachycephalic Syndrome and heat stress can both be a factor, as well as anxiety and stress. If you notice your French Bulldog having trouble regulating their body temperature, consult with your vet immediately. Taking proactive steps to care for your pup can make all the difference! Post Views: .Close share Copy link Breathing is one of the necessary physiological activities for your French bulldog. You can often tell if something is wrong with your Frenchie by observing its breathing pattern. As a good Frenchie owner, you should be able to pay close attention to your French bulldog. When your French bulldog breathes typically slowly, it is known as dyspnea, while tachypnea occurs when you breathe excessively fast. A healthy dog will make between 20 to 34 breaths per minute. Any breath out of this range should be a concern to you. When a dog has breathing problems, it can become life-threatening. Any form of difficulty breathing can be a sign of significant health challenges for your French bulldog. As soon as you notice that your dog is not breathing well, you should contact your vet. Before you call your vet to report too fast breathing, ensure your French bulldog has not recently returned from an exercise or an extensive exercise. What causes breathing difficulties in French bulldogs? Just like humans, French bulldogs have a complex respiratory system that contains several parts. Any infection in these parts can lead to breathing difficulties in your dog, either too slow or too fast breathing. Every dog breed is prone to respiratory tract infections. To prevent your Frenchie from having any respiratory difficulties, you will have to ensure they are given clean water and a clean environment to live in. What causes Fast-paced breathing? Temperature: French bulldogs that are stressed or hot will breathe very past as a way to cool off their internal temperature. Heatstroke usually has fast-paced breathing as one of its early signs; you should ensure you talk to your vet if you suspect your Frenchie has heatstroke. Knowing a French bulldog breathing very fast is by noticing their posture; they will usually drool more copiously than they usually would. They will also make loud noises like rasping and snorting. When you can see the nose of your French bulldog moving, and its mouth was drawn wide, you should speak to your vet. French bulldogs who have breathing difficulties can lie down with their neck to the ground. And when you try to interact with them, they become distressed. You can also check their body to see if their tummy moves in and out too fast. You should also check your French bulldog; if it changes color or has a blue tinge, you should immediately contact your vet. Bad and irregular breathing can be awful for your French bulldog. However, you should ensure that you examine its mouth to ensure nothing is stuck there before taking it to your vet. Take out time to build an excellent feeding and exercise plan for your Frenchie; this will help it have a stronger immunity in infection cases. Any help and advice is welcome Samantha Hall. Frenchies have become wildly popular, thanks in part to celebrities flocking to the breed. Lady Gaga, Taraji P. French Bulldogs also have wonderful personalities and are great dogs for living in small spaces because they don't need a lot of exercises. But there are some known health issues in the breed that include breathing fast. In this article, learn what you need to know if your French Bulldog has started breathing fast and you are not sure what is wrong. But if your Frenchie is in obvious distress, don't wait — call your dog's veterinarian right away! French Bulldog Breathing Fast French Bulldogs breathing fast is a known health concern for short muzzle breeds like the Frenchie, as Vets Now explains. Sometimes fast breathing is a simple case of your dog getting overheated. They will pant because that is a form of canine sweating to help their bodies cool down. But sometimes fast breathing can also mean your dog is anxious. Frenchies are prone to separation anxiety because they get so bonded to their people. And sometimes fast breathing in French Bulldogs is related to their facial structure and anatomy. Their short, cute faces can also mean shorter respiratory passages and narrowed nostrils that make it harder to get enough air in with each breath. Listen to a Veterinarian Talk About French Bulldog Breathing Problems In this short and useful YouTube video , you can hear from an experienced canine veterinarian who is treating a French Bulldog puppy with breathing problems. As you will learn, many of the breathing issues French Bulldogs have are related to their facial anatomy. And some of the problems are fixable with surgery, but since surgery can be pricey it is good to know about these possibilities as early as possible. In the remainder of this article, we will talk about what causes these breathing problems and your options to make sure your Frenchie stays safe and healthy. So let's take a look at the main reasons your Frenchie might start breathing fast. When in doubt, always take your dog to the nearest veterinary emergency room! Brachycephalic muzzle type As dog expert Stanley Coren, Ph. The three main shapes are dolichocephalic long muzzle , mesocephalic medium muzzle , and brachycephalic short muzzle. The French Bulldog has a brachycephalic shape. However, there can be some variation between the three shapes, which means some French Bulldogs may have shorter muzzles than others. The shorter the muzzle, the less room for everything that needs to fit inside, including teeth, nostrils, nasals passages, tonsils, larynx, tongue, palate, eyes — there are a lot of necessary anatomical parts that have to fit in your dog's head! Because of this, sometimes all that extra tissue gets bunched up inside the nostrils, which causes them to be smaller and thinner. That makes it harder to draw air in. This can lead to fast breathing or panting in Frenchies. Obstructive airway syndrome Because of both their short muzzle shape and a co-occurring unrelated genetic issue, French Bulldogs can develop a very serious lifelong genetic health issue called Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome, or BOAS for short. As Discover Magazine explains, this genetic issue basically means your dog spends their life trying to breathe in all the air they need through the equivalent of a drinking straw. While not all dogs that have BOAS have a short muzzle shape, having the gene that causes BOAS and having a short muzzle can make the health concerns even more worrisome for a Frenchie. Getting overheated Many people don't realize that dogs don't sweat like people sweat. Dogs can't sweat through their skin. They sweat by panting and through their paw pads. As the American Kennel Club AKC explains, French Bulldogs can be unusually challenged to keep cool in hot weather and should be kept indoors during the warm hours of the day. Otherwise, fast breathing may represent a desperate attempt on the part of your dog to stay cool. Getting over-anxious As French Bulldogs of Texas breeder points out, French Bulldogs have a tendency to develop separation anxiety. These dogs just really don't like being left alone! A Frenchie that is expected to self-entertain for hours each day is likely to become very anxious when you leave for yet another long day away from the house. One of the hallmark symptoms of separation anxiety can be panting and fast breathing. Here, context will help you figure out if separation anxiety could be at the root of your French Bulldog's fast breathing. Getting over-excited French Bulldogs are also quite easily able to get themselves worked up to the point where they get over-excited and start breathing fast. Something as simple as you coming home or a new tasty treat could send your Frenchie into a tailspin frenzy of activity, with the end result being a dog that is panting to calm down and cool down. Ignore your dog when you first come home This can be a hard one, especially since you probably missed your pup as much as they missed you! But especially if separation anxiety may be at the root of your dog's fast breathing, you need to help your French Bulldog learn how to greet you in a calm way that is not dangerous to their health. One of the best methods is to simply not act like you coming home is a big deal. Ignore your dog until they calm down and only then greet them. Frenchies are so smart it probably won't take long before your dog catches on and adjusts its behavior. Be careful not to over-exercise or play in hot weather French Bulldogs are very vulnerable to overheating, especially when they are outdoors in the warm season. But since your Frenchie is never going to grasp the need to take it easy, you will have to be the one to moderate your dog's activity level. Limit outdoor activity to cooler hours and make sure your pup isn't playing too vigorously or walking too fast. Sit down and encourage your dog to sit on your lap If your French Bulldog is overheated or over-excited, the best thing you can do is model the behavior you want your dog to adopt. In other words, just sit down and become calm. Your dog will probably want to join you and sit on your lap most French Bulldogs love to do this. Speak gently and softly to your dog and give them pats to ease any anxiety or distress they may be feeling. Talk with your dog's veterinarian about options While no dog owner loves to hear this, for some French Bulldogs a surgical intervention may be what gives them the best quality of life. It is anxiety-producing when a dog cannot breathe fully — for both your dog and for you. In some cases, simply removing some of the extra tissue in the nasal passages may help ease your dog's breathing problems. Your veterinarian may also want to try medications either over-the-counter remedies or prescription medications to keep your dog calmer and quieter before recommending surgery. Talk to your vet and find out what all your different options are so you can make the best decision for your dog. So if your young French Bulldog puppy is already showing signs of chronic fast breathing and other BOAS symptoms, the situation is not likely to improve on its own. You definitely want to get your dog's veterinarian involved from the start to avoid any unpleasant or expensive surprises later on. The very same qualities that can make French Bulldogs such charming and sociable canine companions can also cause health problems for these naturally excitable dogs. While French Bulldogs are not known for having a high energy level in general, they can always find the energy to spend time with their people. This is why, as a Frenchie owner, you will have to make sure you are moderating your own behavior so your dog stays safe and healthy and is able to breathe easily. By watching for signs of distress, you can give your French Bulldog the best life. Shannon Cutts As a freelance pet writer and blogger, Shannon is passionate about crafting knowledge-based, science-supported articles that foster healthy bonds of love and respect between people and animals. But her first and very most important job is as a dog auntie and cockatiel, tortoise, and box turtle mama. We are compensated for referring traffic and business to Amazon and other companies linked to this site. Shih Tzu dog breed. This condition can affect short nosed cats as well which can lead to moderate or severe respiratory problems. BOAS is not a single health problem, but can manifest in different forms including: Labored breathing Inability to exercise for a sustained period due to reduced oxygen intake Tendency to suffer from heat stroke because of their inability to pant efficiently Brachycephalic dogs suffer from all these conditions because of the shape of their head. These dogs have an elongated soft palate which obstructs the windpipe which is very narrow in brachy dogs, cutting off air supply from the outside. Your Frenchie is particularly vulnerable to the hot weather. It is easy for Frenchies to accidentally overheat, which can quickly turn dangerous leading to serious complications such as heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and death if not immediately addressed. The signs of overheating can be subtle, too, making it especially important for you to stay vigilant in the hotter months. Moderate to severe stenotic nares. A hypoplastic trachea. An everted laryngeal saccules. These anatomical abnormalities make it more difficult for Brachycephalic dogs like the French Bulldog to breathe which can quickly become life-threatening. It is well known that dogs with BOAS are more likely to die during a flight and have been banned by many airlines. Is Boas hereditary in French Bulldogs? This is the reason it is extremely important to find a reputable Frenchie breeder. When it comes to French bulldogs and other dogs with short muzzles, breathing fast immediately triggers concern as it is a known health symptom. But sometimes breathing fast may simply be because your dog is getting hot or over-excited. Frenchies and canines in general will pant and breathe fast because that is a way to help their bodies cool down. Frenchies are also very capable of working themselves up to frenzy and thus have difficulty breathing. Something as simple as seeing your car drive in could get them over-excited and panting for breath. Other times, breathing fast could mean that your dog is anxious. French bulldogs love and crave your attention; hence they are prone to separation anxiety. So, if you leave your dog alone a lot and they see you leaving again, they could begin to get anxious and breathe fast. Many times, breathing fast in French bulldogs is because of their anatomy and facial structure. Their short cute faces mean that they have shorter respiratory passages and narrowed nostrils. This makes it harder for them to get enough air in with each breath. The French bulldog has short facial bones but with the same amount of facial tissue as a dog with normal facial bones. Sometimes, these tissues block the airways so completely that the dog needs to undergo surgery to be able to breathe. This breathing disorder is called Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Disorder. And as a result, the dog could suffer from breathing related issues like exercise intolerance, noisy breathing, snoring, and wheezing. If you suspect that your dog may have breathing problems, watch out for these signs and symptoms. As soon as you notice any of them, do not hesitate to contact your vet immediately. But if you hear noisy breathing that sounds like rasping, snoring or wheezing, your Frenchie may have a breathing problem. The noisier their breathing is, the worse their condition may be. Pay attention to your Frenchie dog during exercise: If your dog seems reluctant to exercise or lags behind on walks, you may want to check on their breathing. If you notice that your French Bulldog is panting heavily with their tongues sticking out, stop exercising for a bit. Their bodies will need more oxygen during exercise and they cannot supply it because drawing in air is laborious. Their gums and tongue may begin to have a blue, gray or purple color, this is due to low blood oxygen. Healthy mouth membranes should appear pink. You may also notice that your French bulldog is drooling. This is because they are concentrating really hard on breathing that they cannot afford to swallow. If your Frenchie has a breathing problem like BOAS, the symptoms become more pronounced and other signs of heatstroke may occur. These symptoms may include heavy panting, glazed eyes, increased pulse, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst, excessive drooling, increased body temperature, staggering etc. Overheating or heatstroke can be life threatening, the Frenchie may have seizures, collapse, faint and in some cases, may die. If you notice your dog is overheating, take immediate action while contacting your vet for help. Move your Frenchie to a cool place, tepid sponge them to try and bring the temperature down faster or you can just soak them with water moderately as they can start to feel cold , provide a small amount of water they can drink to re-hydrate. Your vet will consider your dog's breed, physical examination and clinical signs. Visual inspection will be enough for your vet to diagnose Stenotic nares In order to diagnose an elongated soft palate, or everted laryngeal saccules your Frenchie will need to be under anesthesia. Several tests may be conducted to pinpoint any blockage or to determine if surgery is crucial. If your vet does not recommend the BOAS surgery or if your Frenchie is not eligible to get the surgery there are things you can do to help your Frenchie breathe better. Keep your Frenchie out of the heat: French bulldogs cannot stand the heat as they have trouble regulating their body temperature. So, go for walks in the morning and evening to avoid the heat of the day and always keep your Frenchie comfortable and in cool environment. Reduce excitement: If your French is over-excited, the best way to reduce it is to either model a calm behavior for him, that is, sit down, even your breathing and become calm. Your Frenchie will most likely follow suit. Or ignore him until he is calm, only go to him when has calmed down. If you do this repeatedly, he will eventually catch up. Do not over exercise: Too much exercise will cause breathing problems. Reduce your exercise to a short minute walk each day. Do not make your Frenchie exert himself. You can also use a dog carrier or a dog stroller. Avoid leaving your French bulldog alone for long periods of time: Separation anxiety could trigger a breathing attack in Frenchies. If you must leave, make sure you have a monitor that you can check how your French Bulldog is doing when you are not there. Also don't leave for a long periods of time. In the alternative you can get a dog sitter or another Frenchie so they can keep each other company. Speak to your vet about other options. Frenchiestore Health Harness innovated design is the first and only reversible harness with dual D rings in the pet industry for no pull no choke walk which supports your Frenchies' physical and mental well being. Always have your vet on speed dial: To help your Frenchie journey smoother, you need a vet you can trust. Find one that lives close by and is dedicated to your pet's well being. This is when your Frenchie is not considered a puppy anymore and a breathing obstruction will be more apparent. Look at many hospitals and surgeons. Get several surgery consultations until you feel comfortable and confident with the doctor and the facility. Don't be afraid to ask the success rate of the surgeon as well as how many dogs died in their care. This question alone will have a huge impact on the surgeon you'll pick. One thing the surgeon or vet will not tell you is that BOAS surgery is not a fix for life. In time BOAS does come back somewhat. The nose and other parts do close up and resort to the genes of the dog. An an owner of a French Bulldog with a previous diagnosis of BOAS you will never be care free however there are many ways you can help and manage this condition and give your dog the best quality of life possible. BOAS surgery procedure in French Bulldogs Widening your Frenchie's nostrils, Removing the dog's excess tissue of an elongated soft palate Removing everted laryngeal saccules if neccessary. Please ask your surgeon if they plan on prescribing steroids post BOAS operation. Please note: with CO2 surgical lasers in French Bulldogs the above complications are greatly diminished. Risks of Anesthesia in French Bulldogs Due to their compromised airways, brachys face a higher risk of complication due to anesthesia compared to dogs with normal facial physiology. The reason is the dog cannot get enough oxygen during the anesthetic and while trying to wake up from the procedure. Many vets feel jittery to perform surgeries on brachys due to the increased risk of something going wrong during and after the operation. If you own a brachy which needs surgery, make sure the veterinary doctor informs you of the risk involved in the procedure and take necessary precautions. How much does a BOAS surgery cost? Furthermore there may be other charges associated not mentioned above such as cardiovascular assessment and tests prior to the BOAS surgery which may result in additional costs. If you had the pet insurance well before your vets BOAS diagnosis or it is not within the exclusion section treatment should be covered by the pet insurance. If you have any doubt or question you should call your pet insurance and ask in advance. To avoid breeding French bulldogs that highly suffer from BOAS, Frenchie breeders should aim for moderate features like a longer muzzle instead of extremely short or flat. French Bulldogs with the BOAS diagnosis that are eligible for the surgery, should not be bred and removed from the breeding program. The breeder should examine neck girth, body condition, type, nares, genes and more when determining who is eligible to be bred. Regurgitation in French Bulldogs Gagging, vomiting or regurgitating in Frenchies or other brachycephalic breeds all describe their inability to digest food and water properly due to the shape of their head. This is one of the most common symptom of BOAS. The only way dogs release excess body heat is panting. However, brachycephalic dogs have a smaller mouth and inefficient airway, making it difficult for them to dissipate heat. This weakness makes them susceptible to heat stroke. It is important to know heat stroke can lead to death in brachys, which is why such dogs must never be allowed to become overweight. An overweight brachy dog has more fat that traps in heat, increasing the chances of heat stroke. Eye Challenges in French Bulldogs and other brachy dogs Due to the smushed face of brachy dogs, their eyes have limited socket space. Further, the overly exposed eyes of brachycephalic dogs make their eyes dry and irritated frequently. This is one of the reasons a collar is never recommended for daily walks and could potentially be dangerous especially if your Frenchie dog is a puller. If you own a French Bulldog chances are you dealt with eye ulcer at some point in their life. This is a very common injury since they don't have a nose to protect their eyes. How do your vet checks if your dog have a Corneal Ulcer? The following video demonstrates the process of how your vet can check for ulcers in French Bulldogs or other dog breeds. The shape of the skull and nose of these dogs make it difficult for them to breathe effectively and dissipate heat. The result is that brachys tend to overheat quickly, putting them at a higher risk of heatstroke, which can become an emergency. Know the clues that your Frenchie may be overheating: Panting or wheezing Enlarged eyes, ears back, distessed look Excessively floppy tongue Foaming at the mouth or drooling Convulsions and seizures 2 Never Leave Your Brachy Dog Outside Keeping the dog inside will protect them from the high humidity and heat of the outdoors which increases the risk of dehydration and heatstroke. It might be cool and breezy outside, but make sure your brachy dog stays indoors as much as possible during the summer. Try to walk your Frenchie early in the morning, or later in the afternoon, to prevent them from overheating during the peak daytime hours. Also do not let your Frenchie stay in your fenced yard alone outside in the heat. We have heard a tragedy happening this way too many times. Always supervise your dog and if you see any of the warning signs above please be aware that things can decline quickly and you must act fast. Never leave your Frenchie in a hot car Hot cars are death traps for French bulldogs. It is a fact that your car can rapidly climb to a whopping degrees in just a few minutes. Your Frenchie is not able to sweat; instead, they pant to cool down. You can buy a cooling mat at the store or online at relatively affordable prices. Alternatively, you can make a simple cooling mat by freezing water and wrapping the frozen water inside a heavy towel. Place the towel in the canine's bed but make sure it does not touch your dog's skin directly. If you want an inexpensive and effective cooling accessory you can place directly on your dog you can purchase Frenchiestore cooling bandana. These perfect innovative cooling bandanas are compact, small and effective. All you have to do is wet it, wring it and place it on your dog. The cooling light mesh fabric will stay cold for a long time. Frenchiestore cooling bandanas are simple to use and can help keep your Frenchie cool for hours. We have several adorable options from which you can choose. When going out in the heat we recommend placing your cooling bandanas under your Frenchie's Health Harness. Make sure the bandana is placed and covering their whole chest. Keep them comfortable with minimal wear. Our Adjustable Health Harness is a great option for the naked feel. It is like putting a collar on your Frenchie without the risks of a collar. Frenchiestore Strap Harness has a dual d rings for a no choke walk. The same applies to your smushed face pup. During the high heat season, make sure there is always an abundance of cool drinking water in your dog's bowl. A good rule of thumb is to monitor your Frenchies' sounds. If the breathing becomes labored or too noisy, let your Frenchie rest immediately. Remember that the head shape of a brachy dog can make it difficult to breath. Exercise your brachy during the summer, but in moderation. You can reduce the risk of overheating by providing a kid pool to cool down the summer heat. However, the pool must be under a shade and you need to change it whenever it becomes warm or hot. Otherwise, you will end up overheating your French Bulldog instead of cooling them. Offer your dog a shallow pool under supervision off course since Frenchies are known to drown. Offer your French Bulldog water activities A great way to get your dog cooled off fast is by letting your dog play with sprinklers or have a water gun fight. You can quickly wash your dog in cool water if you see any signs of overheating. Never aim the water on the Frenchie's face while panting as this can cause a pneumonia episode. This condition affected our family. The Health Harness inspired and created for Bluenjy has been a life saver for us and many dogs around the world. Dog safe frozen fruit - almost any fruit will do. Bluenjy 's favorite frozen fruit treats are watermelon bites, blueberries, and bananas. Pro Tip: You can freeze bite size pieces on an ice cube tray and top with water to make fun frozen treats that are limited on sugar. Perfect for the high sugar fruit such as bananas, apples and mango. Dog safe frozen vegetables - like broccoli, carrots, and cauliflower provide a great nutritional value plus keep your dog cool. Toppers - if you are used to topping your dog's food with yogurt, tuna broth etc. DIY frozen treats for your Bulldog to help regulate their body temperature We all know French Bulldogs have a hard time regulating their body temperature, this is due to their compacted airway and the way they are built. In a hot day this could be potentially very dangerous for a Frenchie. There are ways we can help our French Bulldogs in the heat. One of our favorite way is simply make them a dogsicle dog popsicle or frozen treats. There are many recipes online, however a general rule of thumb is whatever they like and is edible for dogs you can blend mash freeze and give your dog. You should experiment to see what your Bulldog likes best. Obviously peanut butter is one of their favorite, blend that with some yogurt, freeze and you have a fantastic treat for your dog. Other idea is to blend some yogurt with real fruit. During the hot months you should take away the heavy blankets, pillows and dog beds. You can offer a cooling pad, or a raised ventilated dog bed for your French Bulldog. What should I do if my Frenchie is overheating? If you suspect that your Frenchie is overheating, you need to react quickly, as time is of the essence. Find shade and water. Use your Frenchiestore cooling banana to cool your Frenchie off. Offer your dog water to drink. If water is not available locate the nearest air condition. You can find an air conditioner in every car, building place of business. You don't want them overheating more. If your Frenchie is foaming from the mouth we recommend squeezing a bit of lemon into their mouth. By monitoring your French Bulldog closely, keeping them out of the sun during the hottest parts of the day, and outfitting them in cute but protective! Reach Out to Us For More Information If you would like to know more about caring for your Frenchie, do not hesitate to reach out to us. Brachycephalic dogs need constant supervision. As a responsible pet owner, know your dog and pay attention to their sounds. Make sure to provide as much comfort and love. Support their physical and mental well being and give them the best quality of life possible. BOAS is not a death sentence, with your help your pooch can live a long and healthy life. Leave a comment. Animal Emergency Center Why is my French bulldog breathing so fast while sleeping? Like us, dogs will dream throughout their sleeping pattern. This is part of the REM process. This part of the sleep cycle will involve a lot of brain activity. Your Frenchie may use more energy during this time frame. They will begin to breathe more rapidly to take in extra oxygen, which can then be transported from the lungs into the bloodstream and converted into energy. The REM phase of a puppy would be much more intense than that of a grown french bulldog as they go into REM sleep more often. Most likely, your Frenchie is dreaming about chasing something around the yard. Older dogs tend not to breathe rapidly for extended periods in their sleep, though. In that case, they can develop heat strokes; this can become serious and can even kill them. If your French Bulldogs show signs of heat exhaustion, move them to a cool, shady spot and try to get them to your Vet as soon as possible. Frenchies are more susceptible to heat strokes than very old dogs. Little French Dog is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. Douse your Frenchie immediately with cool water to prevent shock. If appropriate, you could also use a wet towel or put them in front of a fan. Allow your French Bulldog to drink small amounts of cool water. Keep dousing your Frenchie with cold water until their breathing is not as quick and they start to settle. Rapid breathing is a symptom of anemia. Though rapid breathing alone should not be seen as the only indicator, your dog suffers from anemia. Red blood cells and the main hemoglobin purpose are to take oxygen from the lungs to other areas of the body. Several forms of dog anemia can affect your Frenchie with various symptoms. Severe forms of the disease may present life-threatening symptoms to your Frenchie. Still, mild forms can be controlled with proper veterinary care, and your Frenchie will recover. Here are several signs that you can look for and obtain veterinary care if you see a combination of them: Rapid breathing. Do you wonder why my puppy breathes fast than your adult dogs? As mentioned above, puppies require more oxygen for healthy development. Set the timer for 30 seconds. Multiply the resulting number by 2 and the number you get is the number of breaths per minute of your puppy. The normal breathing rate for puppies is 15 to 40 breaths per minute. In some cases though, the breathing rate can be as high as breaths per minute. Is this still normal? Save Big On Dog Essentials! Why do Puppies Breathe Fast? My Puppy Breathes Fast while Sleeping! Should I be worried? If the fast breathing is accompanied by other symptoms such as lethargy, disinterest in playing, vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite, swollen stomach, and breathing difficulty, then those are the signs that puppies require immediate veterinary attention. Otherwise, it can be a cause for concern. The gums should be moist and pink, not pale or any other color. Yes, a puppy breathing fast is normal. But, the story is different if it comes with other symptoms such as loss of appetite and coughing. As a fur parent, you must observe your pup if there are obvious signs that warrant a trip to the vet clinic. The best gauge is to determine if your puppy is actively interacting with you and other pets. If it is within the normal range, then, you have nothing to worry about because a puppy breathing fast is normal. Yes, puppies do breathe faster than dogs. Having said that, do not panic right away if you notice that my puppy is breathing fast compared with your adult dogs. As you have learned earlier, having a dream or being in the REM stage is one of many reasons why is my puppy breathing fast while sleeping. There is no need to run to the veterinary clinic right away because this is pretty normal. Remember when we said that it is also through fast breathing that their bodies get the right amount of oxygen for proper growth? This is because smaller dog breeds and those belonging to the brachycephalic dog breeds tend to breathe faster even in adulthood. On the one hand, if there are other concerning signs like lack of appetite as to why does my puppy breath so fast when sleeping, then that is the time to have your puppy examined by a vet doctor. Are Puppies supposed to Breathe Fast? To answer the question, should puppies breathe fast while sleeping? Yes, puppies need a higher level of oxygen intake for proper muscle, bone, organs, and brain development. However, if the puppies are breathing fast in situations that do not involve sleeping, playing, or cooling down after physical exertions, it is best to schedule an appointment with a vet doctor immediately. How fast should a Puppy Breath while Sleeping? The respiratory rate of puppies during sleep does not remain constant. It could increase or decrease during their sleeping cycle. At its slowest, it ranges from 15 to 40 breaths per minute, and around breaths per minute at its fastest. Rapid respiratory rate should only last for a few minutes and anything lasting more than 10 minutes should be checked by a vet. Make sure they are breathing through their nose and not through their mouth, as if they are panting. With a stopwatch at hand, count the number of times their chest inhales and exhales air for 30 seconds with one in-and-out movement counted as one. Next is to multiply the result by two. That would give you the result of their breaths per minute. If you suspect that their breathing is not normal, you can check their temperature by gently touching their body to feel if they are warmer than usual. The color of their gums is also a good indicator if there is something of concern. If they are pink and moist, then it should be fine. If it is very pale or rosy, have your pup checked by a vet. A swollen or hard stomach can also be a sign that there is pressure on the lungs to exert more effort. Other concerning signs include coughing, tiredness, and noisy breathing. Puppy Breathing breaths per minute While Sleeping A puppy breathing breaths per minute sleeping may not necessarily mean that you need to immediately drive him or her to the vet clinic. If a puppy breathes this fast, it can be classified as panting. But, should you worry right away? Panting helps puppies regulate their body temperatures, especially after playing. A puppy who just had some playtime may suddenly decide to rest and sleep and its breathing may not return to normal immediately. It should only be of concern when their rapid breathing is prolonged and accompanied by other unusual manifestations, like lack of appetite, vomiting, and lethargy. Why is my 4 week old Puppy Breathing Fast? Puppies naturally breathe faster than older dogs. At four weeks of age, they are starting to walk, run, and play with their littermates and this increased activity makes their heart rates increase, thus, increasing oxygen intake. Fast breathing during their sleep is normal and nothing to worry about. Only when it is labored and showing signs of distress that they need to be checked. New stimulation can bring about stress which can also contribute to faster breathing during sleep. This is because heavy panting while sleeping is normal for puppies at 8 weeks of age, for as long as there are no signs like appetite loss or fever. Puppies usually breathe more heavily from 8 weeks to 24 weeks of age. A 2 month old puppy breathing fast while sleeping could be that his or her body is going through a growth spurt. This is all part of the growing process of a healthy puppy. It is possible for them to dream about their new escapades making them breathe fast while sleeping. Crate training is also introduced to most puppies around this age and this could cause stress. When exposed to uncomfortable situations, puppies could exhibit signs of rapid breathing while sleeping. They are usually lively during the morning and evening and would suddenly take a nap to rest. Heavy breathing could be exhibited while they are taking a snooze right after strenuous activity and would usually return to normal in a few minutes. Residual excitement can bring about rapid breathing while sleeping. Obsession over chewing and gnawing at random things is commonplace. They are also reaching half their adult full weight during this month. It is normal for them to toss and turn a lot during sleep with brisk breathing through the nose. It is also possible at this age for some diseases they inherit from their parents to start to appear. It is still normal for them intermittently to breathe fast while asleep, but any prolonged panting behavior during rest should be checked by a vet. Yes, stress can also be one reason your puppy is breathing rapidly during sleep. Stress or fear can take many forms. Separation anxiety, new environments, and even exposure to other pets can bring about anxiety. Signs you should look for are excessive drooling and barking, changes in posture, shaking, constant pacing, tucked ears, showing the white of their eyes, and panting. When you see a sign of stress in your puppy, gradually remove her from that situation and place her in a quiet place where she can re-group. Exercise, like walking or a game of frisbee , is another good way to release tension not only physically but also mentally. Yes, for some puppies, the fast breathing while sleeping is due to an underlying health condition such as the following: 1. If for some reason, the trachea collapses, one of the first symptoms that will manifest is rapid breathing. In most cases, tracheal collapse is hereditary. Another respiratory issue that can causes rapid breathing while sleeping is asthma. This occurs when the windpipe gets swollen or inflamed due to irritants. Lung disease There are a number of lung diseases or conditions due to certain bacteria or viruses that can affect a puppy, like pneumonia, kennel cough, and influenza. Kennel Cough Kennel Cough, or canine infectious respiratory disease CIRD , is infectious bronchitis that can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or mycoplasma. It brings about inflammation in the trachea resulting in a dry, hacking cough, especially during the night. As we can see, this is a respiratory infection that constricts the upper airways resulting in fast breathing. If it is accompanied by fever, it is most likely the highly contagious kennel cough. Pneumonia Pneumonia is a disease that causes the microscopic air sacs in the lungs to be inflamed. The common culprit is a viral infection of the lower respiratory tract, but bacteria such as Streptococcus and Bordetella bronchiseptica can also cause the disease. Influenza Canine influenza virus CIV or dog flu is caused by either the H3N8 or H3N2 strain that brings about symptoms of cough, runny nose, and fever. It is typically spread through contaminated objects and respiratory secretions from infected dogs. Diaphragmatic hernia A form of diaphragmatic hernia found in puppies is called a peritoneal-pericardial diaphragmatic hernia PPDH. Puppies with this condition present with labored breathing and an irregular heartbeat, and the only solution to ease the difficulty is through surgery. Pain Dogs are good at concealing pain. It was a survival tactic that their ancestors employed against their enemies in the wild so as not to be seen as the weaker species. One of the typical signs of puppy pain is breathing fast while sleeping and during waking hours. Exposure to pain activates the stress hormone known as cortisol which plays a role in numbing pain. Increased cortisol also results in increased heart rate and faster breathing in puppies. If you suspect that your puppy is in pain, do not attempt to give pain medicines. Instead, head out to the veterinary clinic right away. The veterinarian will conduct a series of physical examinations to pinpoint the exact location of the pain. Blood tests, ultrasounds, and radiography may also be necessary especially if the vet suspects that it is a case of juvenile hip dysplasia. Though hip dysplasia is more common among older dogs, there are cases of puppies that are seen to be suffering from this problem as early as 5 months. Genes play a major role but obesity and poor diet can also be the cause. Depending on the diagnosis, the common pain medicines prescribed for puppies in pain are non-steroidal medicines. Supplements may also be given such as glucosamine to bring down swelling. Food Poisoning Puppies are notorious for eating just about anything. If fur parents failed to remove toxic food and substances around the house, puppies will naturally devour these. Fast breathing is one of the symptoms of food poisoning. Three of the human foods that can result in food poisoning in dogs are chocolate, garlic, and onions. Chocolates also have minimal traces of caffeine. While theobromine and caffeine can be processed by humans, our dogs take a longer time to break down and excrete these two which results in chocolate toxicity. The signs of chocolate poisoning can be seen 22 to 24 hours after intake and some of the symptoms are rapid breathing and increased heart rate. Garlic and Onions toxicity Garlic and onions can cause food poisoning in our dogs because of the compound N-propyl disulfide. This is a compound that damages the red blood cells of dogs and causes hemolysis and anemia. Aside from increased heart rate and faster breathing, the signs include pale gums and lack of coordination. The Dangerous Truth! Your French Bulldog sleeping with a fast rate of breath could be an indication of a medical condition. Normally, a French Bulldog breathes at a rate of breaths per minute at rest. However, in some cases, the breathing rate is faster than normal during sleep. The most common causes of fast breathing while sleeping include exercise, anxiety, respiratory infection, and heart disease. If your French Bulldog is breathing fast while sleeping, it is important to observe the symptoms carefully to determine the cause of the problem and seek veterinary help if necessary. Fast breathing in French Bulldogs occurs when the number of breaths per minute is higher than the usual rate. The normal heart rate for a French Bulldog is between 20—30 breaths a minute at rest. A French Bulldog that is breathing fast while sleeping could be an indication of a medical condition or other factors, such as exercise or stress. What Could Be the Possible Causes? There are several factors that could lead to fast breathing in French Bulldogs. Exercise If your dog has been physically active during the day, his breathing rate may increase during sleep. The increase in breathing is a normal physiological response to increased activity and should not be a cause for concern. Anxiety Like humans, dogs can suffer from anxiety and stress. If your French Bulldog is feeling anxious or stressed out, this can result in an increase in breathing rate while sleeping. This is usually accompanied by other symptoms, such as coughing and sneezing. Heart Disease Fast breathing while sleeping can also be a symptom of heart disease in French Bulldogs. This is usually accompanied by other signs, such as coughing, difficulty breathing, and fainting. If your French Bulldog is exhibiting any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is important to take them to the vet for a thorough examination. The vet will be able to determine the cause of the problem and provide your dog with the appropriate treatment. It is also important to ensure that your dog is getting enough exercise and that their environment is stress-free. These simple steps can help ensure that your French Bulldog remains healthy and happy. In conclusion, fast breathing in French Bulldogs while sleeping is often a sign of an underlying medical condition. With the right treatment, your dog should be able to live a long and healthy life. Frenchie breathing fast while sleeping French Bulldogs are known for their adorable flat faces and unique breathing patterns. However, it can be concerning when your Frenchie is breathing fast while sleeping. This behavior is actually quite common in this breed and is typically not a cause for alarm. One reason why French Bulldogs may breathe fast while sleeping is because of their brachycephalic flat-faced anatomy. The structure of their airways can make it more difficult for them to breathe, especially when they are lying down. As a result, they may breathe faster to compensate for this difficulty. Another factor that can contribute to a Frenchie breathing fast while sleeping is their body temperature. French Bulldogs are prone to overheating due to their short noses and compact bodies. When they sleep, their body temperature may rise, causing them to breathe faster in an attempt to cool down. In conclusion, French Bulldogs breathing fast while sleeping is a common occurrence due to their brachycephalic anatomy and body temperature regulation. By taking proper care of your French Bulldog and providing a suitable environment, you can ensure their well-being and enjoy their adorable sleeping habits. While it might be concerning to see your furry friend breathing rapidly, it is actually quite common in this breed. French Bulldogs have a unique body structure that can cause them to have trouble breathing, especially when they are sleeping. This condition is common in dogs with short noses, like French Bulldogs, and can cause respiratory issues. Their flattened faces and narrow nostrils make it harder for them to take in enough air, especially when they are lying down. French Bulldogs are known for their playful and energetic nature, and this can carry over into their sleep. They may dream, run in place, or have muscle twitches while they sleep, which can cause their breathing to become faster. This is completely normal and nothing to be concerned about. While occasional fast breathing is typically nothing to worry about, if your dog is consistently breathing rapidly even when awake, or if they are showing signs of distress such as coughing or wheezing, it may be a sign of a more serious respiratory problem. In these cases, it is best to consult with your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment. In conclusion, French Bulldogs may breathe fast while sleeping due to their brachycephalic syndrome, high energy level, or simply as a normal part of their sleep patterns. As long as your French Bulldog is otherwise healthy and not showing any signs of distress, their fast breathing while sleeping is likely nothing to worry about. Related Info And Products:.


Similar services:

puppy culture labradoodles - On Tuesday, the How I Met Your Mother actor, 47, revealed that his family of four — husband David Burtka and their year-old twins Harper and Gideon — welcomed a new puppy, Ella, into their home on Christmas morning. Harris shared a photo on Instagram of himself and his children, all wearing matching holiday pajamas, posing beside the adorable golden retriever puppy. Her name is Ella, and she has pretty much taken over our lives. Or gnawing on everything. Which is always. Methinks we need some training. But first, I must go cuddle. Thanks, Santa. You rule. Good Girls actress Christina Hendricks wrote, "Are you kidding me????? So sweet. What a cutie," said chef Andrew Zimmern. David Burtka, Neil Patrick Harris. Michael Schwartz Burtka, 45, a professional chef and actor, added, "The walks every day with the dogs have been nice. They've been loving it. Taking a walk with your family, there's nothing like it. Things come up that you talk about and the dogs are getting exercise so they're feeling happy and in turn, we're all happy. Hopefully, Ella will get her own account too. Related Articles. Christmas Eve morning and my four-year-old daughter, Hailey, was in the hospital again, this time in a brand-new wing of Swedish Issaquah Medical Center. She was the only pediatric patient. The doctor was with Hailey, waiting to talk to my husband, Gary, and me, but I paused for a moment in the hallway, bracing myself. An artificial tree, festooned with lights and ornaments, stood in the corner. Carols played over the PA. The staff had tried to give the place a festive air, but it felt grim and sterile to me. Hailey had battled chronic lung disease and epilepsy since birth. Even when she was home, she was mostly bedridden. A surgically inserted feeding tube kept her alive. Her big brother, Logan, and sister, Harmony, were wonderful to her, but when they went off to school or to play with friends, Hailey was left on her own. What kind of lonely life is this for a child? I just wanted my little girl to enjoy the simple pleasures of childhood. Gary and I had scrimped for months and managed to save enough for our family to celebrate. Then Hailey caught some kind of respiratory virus. In the middle of the night on December 23, she had such trouble breathing that her lips turned blue. I called .The diagnosis was acute pneumonia. If she comes home, I thought. Hailey lay in bed, her face as pale as the sheets, the sparkle in her eyes dimmed. The doctor spoke in a low voice to Gary and me, telling us Hailey needed immediate surgery to move the feeding tube from her stomach to her small intestine because she was aspirating fluid into her lungs. Hailey had been incredibly brave through all of her treatments over the years. How could I encourage her to keep fighting? Suddenly it hit me. The perfect solution, the thing she wanted most. I brought it up with Gary that evening when we went to the cafeteria to grab a bite. When I throw the ball, he brings it back. Simply having him lie next to her comforted her. And it was just goldens she responded to. A golden retriever. Way beyond our budget. We were living paycheck to paycheck. And we lived in an apartment with no yard—not the kind of place for a big, active dog. Besides the initial cost, there would be food and vet bills. He wanted Hailey to be healthy and happy as much as I did. But he was practical. I already worked full-time taking care of a child with disabilities, an ideal job because I could watch Hailey at the same time. Hailey kept talking the whole time about her dog: what she would name it, how much she would love it. At one point, the anesthesiologist had to tell her to slow down and take a breath. The surgery went smoothly, and three days later Hailey came home. But the journey to get her dog was only just beginning. I picked up odd jobs. I walked dogs, cleaned houses, worked for an on-call nanny agency at night while Gary watched the kids. Every Sunday night, we would empty the jar and count the money so we could see our progress. It took eight months, but by the following August we finally had enough money saved. We found a golden retriever breeder and made plans to pick a puppy from his next litter. New worries sprang up in my mind: What if the dog was too rough for Hailey? We met the breeder in the parking lot of a grocery store on a Saturday morning. It was a chaotic scene, with other families clamoring to play with the 15 adorable puppies waiting for homes. But soon she was taking him on walks. The first time was just to our mailbox. Gary went with her, and they would add a block or so with every walk until Hailey could walk for 20 minutes without losing her breath. She took over the responsibility of feeding Hunter. By December, she was eating small portions. Most important, Hunter was her best friend, her constant companion. Hailey still spent much of the day resting in bed. Hunter lay right next to her. One day, Hailey overheard me sharing my biggest worry with Gary, that she would never be able to lead a normal life. If God can get Hunter for me, surely God can take care of me! We had Hunter trained to alert to her seizures, and her health and confidence grew. At age 9, she was eating so well, the doctors removed her feeding tube. Our lives have grown as well. Hailey now has three younger siblings. Our next dream is launching a center to train service dogs for other families. Like Hailey, I have faith that God will help us get there. For more inspiring stories, subscribe to Guideposts magazine. Share this story.