Warm Climates and French Bulldogs

French bulldogs are very intolerant to heat and will easily succumb in hot weather. This is because of the structure of their air passages. Dogs will usually pant to lose heat when it is hot. This panting is necessary to enable heat loss and at the same time to cool air as it passes through the air passages. In Frenchies however the short structure of these passages makes it difficult to exchange heat well as it passes thus making this cooling ineffective. Frenchies may also suffer from a condition that causes obstruction of the larynx during inspiration.

Frenchies are therefore very prone to overheating especially in warm climates. By taking the appropriate steps Frenchies can survive without any trouble in warm climates

Useful Tips

- French bulldogs will normally shed hair in warm climates as a coping mechanism. You can promote this process by brushing the dog to remove any loose hair as well as by trimming the hair.

- Do not subject your dog to extreme exercises especially not in the heat. Frenchies only need mild exercise to keep them fit and healthy. Exercise should be done in the morning or in later the evening when its cooler

- Frenchies should never be left out in the heat. In summer if you are going outdoors, leave your Frenchie indoors. If you have to stay with him then ensure that it is in the shade and provide him with enough water.

- Frenchies should under no circumstance be left in a locked car out in the heat. Open the windows and if you have air conditioning leave it on.

- French bulldogs can't swim; they are too heavy and besides swimming is very exerting. Do not leave your dog in the sun near a pool of water. The dog will be tempted to jump in and cool off. If you are there to supervise you can attach floaters to the dog and let him enjoy the water. Get your dog out of water if he shows signs of exhaustion or is having hard time breathing.

- Know how to recognize if your dog is having a heat stroke, a rectal thermometer may come in handy If the temperature is way above normal and the Frenchie is panting heavily and has a fast heart beat then take action fast.

- In warm climates, dress up your Frenchie in loose-fitting clothes made of a light fabric.

In case of a heat stroke, do not panic.

- Get your Frenchie out of the heat to a cool place

- Get an ice pack and apply especially on the face and neck area. You can also use some cool water and sprinkle it on the dog.

- Do not splash cold water on the dog or put in a cold bath as the sudden cold may cause the dog to get shock.

- You can try to get the dog to drink some cool water

With some common sense, French bulldogs will do well in warm climates and enjoy themselves.

Dr Joe Njenga is a Practicing Veterinarian Who Currently works as an Online Veterinary Practitioner providing Websites with Professional Veterinary Live Support. You can Learn More about taking care of your Dog from Dog Care Tips Blog http://dogcaretip.wordpress.com/

French Bulldog

Experts have debated, and continue to debate, the origins of this breed. A small English Bulldog, perhaps one as small as a toy, may be one of the ancestors, but there were probably several different breeds in France that were crossed with the Bulldogs in the late 1800s.

One of the distinguishing features of the breed today is the upright bat ears; Early American breeders can be established with crediting this feature. European dogs of this time period had the rose ears of the English Bulldogs.

The French Bulldog stands 10 to 12 inches tall and generally weighs between 16 to 28 pounds. The head is large and square, with a domed forehead.

The muzzle is very short. The eyes are large and dark; the bat ears are large and upright. The body is muscular and heavy-boned. The tail is straight on screwed. The coat of the French Bulldog is short and smooth; many colors are acceptable, but brindle and white or brindle and fawn are the most common.

This breed's coat should be brushed twice weekly. The wrinkles on the face should be cleaned daily. Frenchies are relatively low-activity dogs, although they do like to play and enjoy long walks. Their short muzzles make them prone to breathing difficulties, though, so exercises should be avoided during hot, humid weather.

Training should begin early. Although Frenchies are companion dogs, they can also have a mind of their own. The French Bull Dog club of America says, "Although cute and cuddly-looking, a French Bulldog has a big personality and needs an adequate amount of training to make it a civilized companion." House training can sometimes be a challenge.

This breed makes an excellent companion for a sedentary person who is home quite a bit. Although this breed can be good with children, they prefer adults to active kids. Unfortunately, as a brachycephalic (short-muzzled) and dwarf breed, French Bulldogs do have some health concerns, including breathing problems, back disorders, and difficulties with anesthesia.

Registries: AKC, CKC,UKC

Occupation: Companion

Size: 10 to 12 inches tall; 16 to 28 pounds

Longevity: 12 to 14 years

Exercise: Low activity level

Training: Challenge to house train

Grooming: Easy

To learn more about French Bulldogs and other dog breeds you can visit the all breed website and forum at http://www.PetPedigreeDatabase.com/

Patryk Janiszewski

Is a French Bulldog The Perfect Dog For You?

Cousin to the Boston Terrier, as well as the American and English Bulldog, the intelligent, friendly, comical and quite affectionate French Bulldog has been a loving companion and fun family pet.

Lance makers in England, miniaturized their English Bulldogs to create a lap dog for companionship. During Europe's Industrial Revolution, many migrated to France taking their small dogs with them. Soon, they were a huge hit in France and were referred to as the French Bulldog.

As a testament to their docile temperament and light-hearted personalities, when the original Boston Terriers were modified from vicious fighting dogs to gentle companion pets, a pinch of French Bulldog was added to the mix. To this day the Boston Terrier carries the best of the Frenchies genial traits.

Affectionately called a Frenchie, frog dog and/or clown dog, this little rascal is a favorite family pet and wonderful companion for older owners. Their antics keep young and old amused for hours. They love attention and will do anything for it.

Frenchies love people! Ask their owners to describe them and you will hear: silly, comical, laid back, sweet, adorable, intelligent, loveable, active, fun, devoted, playful, nosy, loves everything, easy going, alert, happy and stubborn! Intact males can sometimes be overly aggressive, especially with other males. It is suggested not to have same-sex Frenchies under the same roof. They usually do better when paired off with the opposite sex.

As always, they should be supervised with younger children, who should not be encouraged to pick them up and carry them around. Normally, they do better with older children, as they can be rambunctious, get carried away and play rather rough at times. For the most part, they do get along well with other small animals, but they should be supervised, since they can be forceful.

Their exercise needs are quite minimal compared to other breeds. A couple of brisk walks, followed by some interactive playtime with their owner and they are usually ready to go inside and chill out. Some do quite well in rally, agility, flyball and obedience competitions.

They are intelligent and love to learn. It is suggested to get your little guy or gal into positive reinforcement, punishment-free Puppy Kindergarten, socialization and obedience classes. Besides helping your puppy or dog become a well-mannered, well-adjust dog, it will help you learn how to be a better leader. Like many small breeds, if a Frenchie senses a lack of leadership, the negative behavioral problems of Small Dog Syndrome could appear.

A terrific apartment and condo pet, this breed does not tend to be yappy, or obsessive about barking.

Their energy level ranges from a quiet laid back couch potato to an off-the-wall poochie with no OFF button. That being the case, make sure the one you choose fits your lifestyle.

Frenchies are a brachycephlic breed; meaning, "short head." This makes them not only sensitive to extremes in temperature, it makes them champs in the snoring, snorting and farting categories!

They are not an outdoor dog. This is a dog that is not happy when tossed out in the yard and forgotten. If that is they type of dog you are looking for, don't get a dog!

The majority of Frenchies are conceived by artificial insemination and are born by Caesarian section. They average in weight from 20-30 pounds, with a lifespan of 10-12 years. The French Bulldog is in the Mastiff family, Non-sport group.

Health issues include: heat stroke, obesity, Von Willebrands Disease, back and spine problems, skin allergies, thyroid problems, eye problems, joint disease and heart disease. They are prone to megaesophagus or regurgitation, which can cause aspiration pneumonia. They also have a problem with standard anesthesia. Talk to your veterinarian about other options should the need arises.

Don't overfeed them. They are endearing, manipulative charmers and will do anything to wheedle an extra treat or two. Obesity can lead to serious health issues.

Grooming is a cinch! Most of the time a rub down with a damp towel and a quick brushing does the trick. They are minimal shedders. Bathe them only when necessary. Check and clean those enormous bat ears regularly.

Bottom line: Do your homework. Research the breed. Talk to French Bulldog owners. This is a great pet for the right person or family. Run; do not walk away from puppies at pet stores, classified ads and flea markets. They only perpetuate horrifying puppy mills and sloppy, inexperienced backyard breeders. It may cost a bit more, but a reputable, responsible breeder is your best bet for a healthier, happier dog. If you cannot afford a good breeder, check with shelter and rescues. As Frenchies are so popular with older owners, many are surrendered because of nothing more than life circumstances. You just may find your new best friend there, patiently waiting for you and a forever home.

Karen A. Soukiasian, GOOD DOG! - DOG TRAINING and BED-n-BISCUITS dog boarding and training - Owner/Trainer, St. Augustine, Florida - AKC CANINE GOOD CITIZEN and S.T.A.R. PUPPY Evaluator http://www.freewebs.com/gooddogsite
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Saint-Augustine-FL/GOOD-DOG-DOG-TRAINING/95917282486?ref=sgm

Blue French Bulldog Puppies Are the Cutest Pups Ever

The Blue French Bulldog is one of the fastest growing dog breeds in America and abroad. The breed itself is the already popular and increasing in popularity, The French Bulldog. This breed actually originated from Englad as they were selectively bred from the English Bulldog to be a more compact and toy-like breed. They were selectively bred to be much smaller than their tank-like cousins, The English Bulldog. Later the breed was brought back to France and their new names stuck. These cute, cuddly, smashed face bullies are to die for. The provide the toughness of a mini bulldog and the personality of a clownish couch potato. Blue Frenchie Bulldogs are no different except for their obvious difference in color and markings. The "blue" coat color on these precious mini Bulldogs is a result of a 'd' diluted gene. The blue color in general for most or all other dog breeds is in direct relation to the diluting of the black base color in dogs. At some point the black color was diluted to create the blueish hue that the this Bulldog displays today. The Blue Frenchie is also called "mouse" in color or gray, which is in fact what you see and not blue in actuality.

Now there are several different types of Blue French Bulldogs also lovingly refereed to as Frenchies. These are the most common colors of the Blue French Bulldogs:

Solid Blue French Bulldogs
Blue Pied Blue Frenchies
Blue Brindle Frenchis
Blue Fawn Blue Frenchies
and the very rare Blue and Tan French Bulldogs

The Blue French Bulldog puppies can be a costly purchase as well as they are so rare and so desirable that most start at a respectable price of $2,500 and ranging upwards of $5,000 and even $10,000 for extremely rare specimens with special characteristics and markings. Not all Frenchie puppies in a particular litter turn out with these types of blueish coat colors. But all are considered to carry the "blue gene" therefore they are labeled "blue carriers". Blue carriers are also very valuable as they have the ability to produce the diluted blue coats in their puppies although they don't display the coloration themselves.

The great thing about these Blue Frenchies is that they are most always sold with no breeding rights or as pet quality companion pets only. This is a great thing ion that this allows the breed to remain exclusive and obviously allows the breed to stay from being over bred and over populated in the US and around the world.

This exotic and majestic Bulldog breed is sure to thrive and increase in popularity in the upcoming years.

For more info on this breed you can visit Blue French Bulldog.

For more information on the beautiful Bulldog breed visit Blue French Bulldogs

Lou Rivera

Making Food For Your French Bulldog the Hypoallergenic Way

Has the thought ever crossed your mind that you may be able to make food for your French Bulldog by yourself? Did you know that doing this could make your dog much healthier? Homemade food can be much better for Chico than the processed bags you get from your local pet store. If you make it hypoallergenic, then you are taking even more steps to ensure Chico's health. You could always buy the hypoallergenic food at the store, but it is often pretty expensive, given the care that goes into making it. By making it yourself, you are saving your money and making your dog's life better at the same time.

Benefits

There are a lot of reasons why it is a good idea to make hypoallergenic dog food for your beloved Chico. With all of the ingredients companies are putting in the food these days as fillers, you can never be really confident that your furry companion is getting the nutrition he needs. It is basically the equivalent of letting your children eat one bite of dinner and then fill up on popcorn and soda. For the most part, they are all empty calories that will not benefit them in any way, and over time, can actually do damage to their systems. None of us wants to do that to our children, and we should never do it to our dogs, either. Certainly, we are all better parents than that!

Making your own dog food also provides the benefit of knowing exactly what is in his food so that if any problems arise, you are more likely to know what caused them. It is fairly common for a dog to go along happily eating the same food every day for years, and then suddenly develop an allergy to beef or chicken or some other ingredient in his normal food. If this happens with your homemade dog food, you can simply change the ingredients around until your dog is healthy and happy again! If you were continuing to feed Chico dry or canned food, you would have to switch brands to eliminate the problem.

Recipe

The most logical step in the process of making your dog's food is to take into account any health issues he may already have. If your dog has heart issues, you'd want to avoid using fatty meats. If your dog is allergic to something, you will understandably leave that food out of his mixture. The only thing you should consider is that it is extremely easy for a dog to become allergic to chicken. If you choose to use chicken in your dog food, you should alternate it with another type of meat regularly.

The best plan when making any type of food for your dog at home is to make a large amount that you can freeze in portion sized containers and thaw as they're needed. For a medium sized dog, one boneless, skinless chicken breast will combine with the other ingredients to make two meals. How much you cook will logically coincide with how many meals you are making. These instructions are for just two meals. You can increase the ingredient measurements based on how many meals you are making at one time and if for example, you have multiple dogs. Chop the chicken into small pieces or even shred it like cheese once it has been cooked because it will be easier for Chico to digest. Once you have the chicken chopped and ready, just put it in a big bowl and add one cup each of cooked rice, carrots that have been shredded, and green beans. Brown rice is much easier for a dog's system to handle than is white rice, so that is always the better option. The green beans can be frozen or fresh. Canned vegetables don't generally have much nutritional value. You can also alternate the brown rice with potatoes, so that your dog has more variety in his meals.

While the initial cost may seem more expensive, given how cheap most commercial brands of dog are, over Chico's lifespan, you'll notice fewer Vet visits and when you do take him in, it's just for his annual check-up.

At Ivan's Bulldogs, we have been breeding and training puppies for over 30 years. We are proud to be breeding Bulldogs with excellent quality, with little to no health problems and good temperaments. All of our French Bulldog puppies come with papers, shots and health guarantees. For more information, visit our website at http://www.BulldogsNewYork.com. PD # 699.

French Bulldog Dog Breed - The Good, the Bad, the Snorty

Are you considering the French Bulldog dog breed to become your loyal canine companion? Then read the following information to make sure you make the right decision.

The muscular compact build of the "frenchie" is in stark contrast with the funny, bat-like ears. Their funny heads are a good indicator to their temperament. They truly are clowns among dogs. They are pretty easy-going, balanced dogs. But they haven't forgotten their bulldog genes, they make good guard dogs and will do their best to protect you and your family.

Not too energetic, these dogs do very well in the city. A daily walk and some play in the garden or living room is enough exercise to keep them happy and healthy. Do be careful when the temperatures outside are rising. If your house or apartment doesn't have an ac unit, provide your French Bulldog with extra water and a cooling pad. Because of their short muzzle they have trouble regulating their temperature, which can cause heatstroke in warm weather.

The short nose is also responsible for one of their specific traits; snoring. Keep this in mind if you're going to share your bedroom with your frenchie, he might keep you up at night.

They do well with other pets and children. But you should pay some extra attention to same sex socializing with the females. Even though they bond very closely with their owner, they're not wary of strangers.

Training can be a bit of a struggle as they tend to be a little stubborn. Being firm and consistent will help you a long way in establishing yourself as your frenchie's boss.

If you don't mind a little drooling, snorting, snoring, wheezing and yes, some flatulence problems, then the French Bulldog dog breed is definitely worth considering. Head on over to http://www.small-dogs-and-the-city.com/french-bulldog-dog-breed.html for more information about the temperament, background and health problems of this fantastic small dog breed.

We Found a Surprise Plant

We, Frenchies, were down by the greenhouse, watching the guys move all the tropical plants into the new heated hoop house for winter storage.  Most of the plants survived our freak snowstorm a couple of weeks ago, except for a few that will need some TLC.  One, of those, in particular, caught our attention.

1 Sharkey, I don't remember seeing this plant before. It doesn't look like it fared too well after that freak snow storm. What do you suppose it is?

2 Why Francesca, I'm surprised you don't remember this one! I'll give you a few hints. Unlike other tropical fruits, the entire fruit is edible, including the waxy skin. They turn from green to yellow when ripe.

3 That's not enough of a hint! Hmm, the label in the pot says 'Carambola.' That name doesn't sound familiar.

4 Oh come on, Franny! I know you'll get it! The fruit can have three to six ridges, but most commonly has five. It's known for its unique shape.

5 The shape is quite interesting. I know I have seen this before! A few have fallen off before ripening. I'm going to take one into the head house and have a closer look!

6 I recognize this now that I've cut it in half! This is also called the starfruit!

7 I've seen it on Martha's show and in her cookbooks. It's most commonly eaten on its own or with other fruit, but can also pureed for its juice and sliced thinly to be used as a garnish.

8 Like many fruits, starfruit is an excellent source of Vitamin C. The texture is akin to a grape—fleshy yet firm on the inside with a crisp skin.

9 When ripe, the flavor has tones of apple, pear, and citrus. Mmm, can you smell it? It's beautiful and delicious!

Posted by F&S on November 11th, 2011 in Favorite Things, Friends, Housemates, Martha, Out & About, Photo Galleries, Playing, Working

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Picking Out the Finest French Bulldog Puppy Online

The average price of an American bulldog puppy is approximately $800. If you think that is expensive, wait until I list the average price of a French bulldog. The last time I sold one, the deal was settled amicably at $2000 for a single puppy. The message is clear - investing on a French bulldog is going to be a pricey affair. Unless you have ample crates of cash stocked up in the basement, I guess you will be fine with an American bulldog. It is tough to find purebred dogs these days. In the succeeding sections, I will demonstrate some steps that can be considered if you really want to invest in one of these!

Countless websites specialize in the listing and sales of French bulldog puppies. Since the niche is highly lucrative, one will find many so-called reputed vendors. Seeking the services of some of the best online vendors will streamline the rest of the processes. The entire complexity of the situation seems to concentrate on this particular spot - how will a novice user differentiate between spurious and genuine offers that are listed online? Do not fret; help is at hand because I will illustrate some fine prints that are often ignored by spurious vendors.

Spurious vendors will trick the novice users by displaying never before heard prices. In some portals, I came across $500 listed for a four-week-old French bulldog puppy. It is imperative that you must never fall for such traps. The genuine portals are now concentrating on strengthening their user base by asking for proper identification. In simpler terms, now once you have registered in one such portal, you will be required to provide photo identification. The website personnel will verify these details, and they will activate your account.

You might be aware of the simple fact that as the age of the dog increases, the sale price of the same dog falls. Stay away from sellers who ask for $2000 for a 12-week-old puppy. The usual price bracket is $1000 to $1200 for these puppies! Take some time to read the testimonials listed by previous clients. The reputed websites will always ask the clients to provide feedback and will alter their business model to satisfy the larger demands of the population. Such activities will be practically absent in the spurious portals.

If you are looking for purebred French bulldogs, you must confirm it with the seller in writing. This will aid you at a later date if the seller decides to take back his statement. Most of the portals that deal with the sale of puppies have a reputation system - the more the reputation, the better the client. Furthermore, consider the method of transportation; these puppies must be transported under air-conditioned environments. Verify whether the seller is willing to provide such facilities. Paying a couple of hundreds extra for the safe transportation of the dog is recommended.

If you love bulldogs why not invest in some bulldog cufflinks? Visit http://www.keithlivingstondesign.com/ for more information.

Coaching the Donkeys About the Cold

The weather has been so crazy lately and it seems like you just don’t know what will happen from one day to the next.    First we had a freak snowstorm that ruined so many trees.  Then it got really warm and melted all the snow.  Today, the temperatures were frigid again and the wind was howling.  We went to check on our friends the donkeys because it’s no fun being cold!

1 Rufus, Clive, and Billy! Franny and I came down from the house to check on you. The temperature is dropping and it's supposed to be very windy tonight!

2 That's right, Sharkey! The recent snowstorm broke a lot of branches off and many are still hanging in the trees. A few strong gusts of wind and those branches could come crashing down on our heads!

3 There are no tall trees around your paddock, but I'm especially worried about you three staying warm! Miniature donkeys, like yourselves, do not grow thick winter coats as horses do.

4 Rufus, maybe you donks should invest in some warm weather apparel like Sharkey and I have! Our fleece sweaters certainly help fight the brisk fall breezes!

5 Oh girls, you two are so sweet to be concerned about Rufus, Billy, and me!

6 The horses do grow thick coats that repel ice and snow because of natural oils. Our coats, as with most miniature breeds, aren't going to get any thicker than they are, so we'll need more protection from the elements.

7 And that's why we have this house! It shelters us from snow and harsh winds and we can huddle together for warmth.

8 This layer of straw that Dolma puts down is used not only for bedding but also to insulate the icy ground.

9 Rufus, you should also be eating a little extra now. Franny and I know from talking to the horses that putting on more body fat keeps equines warmer in the cold!

10 Don't mind if we do! Clive, Billy and I have been chomping on the grass before it's hidden by the snow again. We're so lucky to have you girls to care for us like this!

Posted by F&S on November 7th, 2011 in Favorite Things, Friends, Out & About, Photo Galleries, Playing

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Trouble With Sasa's Shoe

As you know, we always like to visit our friends on the farm and we happened to see Sasa right after he and Betsy came back from one of their rides along the Bedford Riding Lanes.  We found out that Sasa experienced a little problem along the way.

1 Sharkey, let's see what's going on in the stable today.

2 Hi Sasa! How's everything in your neck of the woods? Aren't you glad the weather has warmed up a bit after that horrific snow storm last week?

3 Why hello, Sharkey and Francesca! So good of you to stop by. I'm doing just fine, except for the shoe that came off my front hoof! Betsy was riding me and I was walking through mud and the shoe was sucked right off by the sticky goo!

4 Will you look at that! Why do horses wear shoes, anyway? We Frenchies get along just fine without shoes. And besides, I see that those things are hammered on with nails. That seems like an odd way to put on shoes.

5 Well, girls, while horses don't have shoes in the wild, it's something that many domesticated equine need. Carrying additional weight, like riders, can cause extra stress on our hooves and can be problematic.

6 But Sasa, don't those sharp nails hurt? Putting on a horseshoe isn't exactly like donning a pair of comfortable slippers! I mean, you don't hammer on a slipper!

7 Sharkey, my hooves are similar to your toenails. There aren't any nerve endings there, so horseshoeing doesn't hurt. Fortunately, Betsy found the shoe in the mud, so I can have it put on again.

8 Betsy already called Linda, our farrier, and she's coming tomorrow. In the meantime, Betsy could give me a hoof boot to wear or I could just take it easy until then.

9 Of course, Betsy knows what to do! She takes such good care of all of you. One of the reasons we like coming here is because she also knows how to give a good scratch! Ahhhh!

Posted by Francesca on November 9th, 2011 in Favorite Things, Friends, Housemates, Out & About, Photo Galleries, Playing

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French Bulldogs Are Intelligent But Stubborn - Like Your Coworkers

French bulldogs are intelligent and eager to please. Some of them are known to be stubborn but most of them do well in obedience classes.

These are great choices for apartment and small home dwellers as well as the elderly.

Their sweet temper allows them to at least tolerate most strangers and enjoy playing with children and other small animals.

However, friendly as they are, most French bulldogs seem to prefer the company of a single person who will spend active and quiet time with them.

Appearance of the French Bulldog

The French bulldogs coat is short and smooth and is seen in several colors and color combinations -- black, black and white, fawn, cream and solid white.

The loose skin around the neck and shoulders forms wrinkles.

Their bodies are compact and very muscular. They have bat-like ears that sit high up on their squarish head and an extremely short snout and nose that is also heavily wrinkled.

They typically stand about 10 inches tall and weigh 20 - 25 pounds.

Grooming and Exercise Needs

The French bulldog needs only a bit of brushing and combing once a week or so. However, the wrinkled skin around head and neck should be cleaned two to three times a week for best health.

They consider a walk around the block a heavy workout.

A healthy bulldog can be expected to live about 10 - 12 years.

Origins of the French Bulldog

They were created in the late 19th century when the French crossed the English bulldog with several French breeds.

Jamie's dogs need no help to get up in the morning. But poor ol' Jamie does -- more and more.

That's why he loves his new 1 cup coffee maker that he got for Christmas. It makes a single, fresh hot -- perfect -- cup quickly and easily.

He has even created a site about some of the best ones like the Black and Decker and Braun Coffee Makers to help you choose one and find the very best deals.

Please pay him a visit.

By the way -- he hates writing in the 3rd person.

Words of Wag

You Daily Waggers know how I love to collect great quotes!
The only thing I enjoy more is pairing them with snaps of lovable critters... and there is no shortage of those here at the Wag!

1 "Happiness is the absence of striving for happiness." Chuang tzu

2 "There is no fatigue so wearisome as that which comes form lack of work." Charles Haddon Spurgeon

3 "The love we give away is the only love we keep." Elbert Hubbard

4 "To love deeply in one direction makes us more loving in all others." Anne Swetchine (Photo contributed by brookenapier)

5 "I have never let my schooling interfere with my education." Mark Twain

Enjoy!
In kinship,
Dr. Pia Salk

Posted by Pia on November 9th, 2011 in Favorite Things

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The French Bulldog - History of the Breed and Proper Care

French Bulldogs have myriad of nicknames, including Frenchie, clown and bat ears. Indeed the last one is an apt description of this dog whose ears do resemble those of a bat. Dating back to the 19th century, Frenchies are the result of lace makers in England who sought a compact version of the English Bulldog.

French Bulldogs are a great family dog, and very intelligent as well. Similar in temperament to her cousin the English Bulldog, French Bulldogs live for your companionship. One might go so far as to suggest that they are needy. Needy as they may be, they exude sweetness and are as content with adult humans as they are with your children. It's important that in recognizing their potential for neediness, that you not disregard your role as the leader of the pack. Indeed this is true regardless of breed, but especially so of this breed. All dogs of course require us to be their pack leaders and many problems result as a result of not training your dog. However, French Bulldogs in particular, because of their need to be around you 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

French Bulldogs have a few issues you should watch for. Among them are the following:

Von Willebrand's Disease (VWD) - Similar to hemophilia in humans. It's a blood disorder that can prevent this breed from producing the necessary clotting agent that prevents them from bleeding to death. As a result, they're prone to anemia.

Thyroid Disease - These two conditions appear to go hand-in-hand. As a result, if one exists, it's common to test for the other.

Cherry Eye - Although more common in English Bulldogs, Frenchies are known to suffer from this condition characterized by a protruding lower eyelid. It's not serious and the Vet can easily correct it in his or her office.

Eye Issues - French Bulldogs are well known for developing glaucoma, retinal fold dysplasia, corneal ulcers and juvenile cataracts. It's imperative that you clean the small folds under the eyes of your Frenchie; this will greatly minimize eye infections.

Brachycephalic Syndrome - The result of selective breeding to achieve a short muzzle and nose, your French Bulldog may suffer from chronic snoring, breathing problems and flattened soft tissue in her breathing passages. Although not common, your French Bulldog may as a result, suffer from a narrow windpipe, collapsed larynx, which can exacerbate her difficulty breathing. If your dog does suffer from Brachycephalic Syndrome, you'll most definitely want to confirm whether she also presents with the narrowed windpipe and collapsed larynx. Your Vet will know how best to treat both.

Overheating - Also the result of selective breeding for this shortened snout, French Bulldogs have a tendency to overheat. Favoring tile or wood over carpet is highly recommended for her, given that she can't regulate her body temperature easily. It's advised that if you live in a warm climate or have long, hot and humid summers, that you have an air conditioner.

In the quest to create a dwarfed version of the English Bulldog, French Bulldogs can suffer from back and spinal diseases. If yours suffers from any of them, it's highly recommended you consult with your Vet to minimize discomfort as she ages.

One way to naturally treat all these ailments is to exercise your French Bulldog daily. Her legs are short and she can't walk nearly as quickly as you, but she is the "Little Engine that Could." Healthy walks will keep her weight down, which is good for her organs and her joints.

The temperament you can anticipate from your French Bulldog, assuming you introduce a training program, can range from sweet and docile to even more sweet and more docile. This breed is ideal if you have kids. If you are a schoolteacher, especially for ages 3 through 8, bringing your French Bulldog to school frequently is great for both your dog and the kids. This of course is provided you have permission to do so.

Alternatively, volunteering at a home for seniors or for kids in foster care, who otherwise might not have access to dogs, is a great idea. Again, it's a win/win as everyone benefits.

Being aware of your French Bulldog's health problems will be the key to her long and happy life. Provided you can do this for her, she'll be a loyal and protective companion for many years.

At Ivan's Bulldogs, we have been breeding and training puppies for over 30 years. We are proud to be breeding Bulldogs with excellent quality, with little to no health problems and good temperaments. All of our puppies come with papers, shots and health guarantees. For more information on our French Bulldogs, visit our website at http://www.BulldogsNewYork.com

French Bulldog: Facts to Know Before Adopting French Bulldog

Breed Description

The French Bulldog, also known as Frenchie, is a muscular and compact breed that is great with small living areas. They have small-to-medium build, about 22-28 pounds, and 11-13 inches tall.

Coat

The French Bulldog has a short, smooth, and fine coat. Their skin is loose and soft; particularly on the head and shoulders that forms wrinkles. They shed coats during change in seasons, and may carry out through the year. Brindle, fawn and white, brindle and white are acceptable. All colors aside from solid mouse, black, liver, black and white, black and tan, and white with black are also permissible.

Activity

The French Bulldog needs to be taken on long walks daily. Running around freely in a large fenced yard is not enough to satisfy their instinct to walk. Owners should remember that this breed cannot tolerate heat due to their flat muzzle, and breathing difficulty during extreme temperatures. It is important for this breed to be never exercised during hot climates as this may result to heatstroke. Water and proper shade are imperative at all times.

Temperament

Courageous, yet affectionate and playful, the French Bulldog's temperament is child-like. They want to be loved, and loves to be the center of attention. They are alert, inquisitive and bright, making them great watch dogs. They are fun-loving, with the fascination of roaming around the yard. Friendly, obedient, and willing to please, this is generally a stable breed, but can at times be stubborn. They get along well with almost everyone, even other pets and children. They can sometimes be a one-person dog, highly sensitive especially to their owners; they may sulk if they feel they've upset their owners.

Overview

The French dog lives for, and continues to be a companion dog. This breed is small, muscular, and has a heavy bone structure. Their affectionate nature and balanced disposition makes them a popular breed. They are generally alert and active, but not high strung.

Care

The French Bulldog requires minimal grooming. Regular brushing with firm-bristle brush is enough, and bathing should only be done when necessary.

Training

French Bulldogs are known to be willful and stubborn at times. They are challenging to train, and have difficulty learning to act on commands. Owners should be more willful than these dogs. Some have luck in crate training this breed, as they may have a hard time focusing on the task, and get easily distracted. This little bully should be handled with a strong and patient trainer. It is important for this breed to obey basic commands, and puppy classes are one of the best ways to socialize this stubborn breed. Start training this breed at an early age as to avoid these unwanted behaviors to occur.

Character

The French Bulldog is playful, affectionate, and good-natured. Bred primarily as companion pet, this breed is intelligent, trainable, and at their happiest with close human relationships. They are generally great with children, and get along well with other pets.

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French Bulldog Behavior Training Strategies

Are you frustrated and/or embarrassed with your French bulldog behavior? You have tried every method and none of them seem to work? Are you worrying that if your dog behavior continues you might lose it and go berserk? If so, I like to share with you 7 strategies to train your dog in hope to end the stress and annoyance.

Certain French bulldogs are aggressive, some are sweet and absolutely hilarious, and some have amusing personality and love to clown around. Knowing a little about your French bulldog character and personality are essential for the exercise otherwise any oversight along the way can wear away the respect and love between you and your dog.

The key to successfully dog behavior training require pleasant and enjoyable interactions between you and your dog, and must be rewarding for your dog.


French bulldog is an independent thinker and can be very stubborn if they see no point to the exercise. If they display unwanted behaviors, do not show gentleness or sweet talking to them. When they sense an owner is unpretentious or unassertive towards them, they will become a dog gone hard headed.

Always display good leadership and control of any unwanted behavior.

Use a strong and firm voice to command, and never yell or scream at them.

Decide on one praise word to marks good behavior such as 'Good', and one release word to end the exercise such as 'Go'.

Try to carry some goodies around to reward good behavior.

Each exercise should not last more than a few minutes because their concentration span is short.

The exercise will take several attempts until they understand what you want them to do. So be patient and understanding.

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How I Prepare For Disasters With My French Bulldog

Disasters - No one likes hearing about them and no one likes to think about them happening in his or her area. Hate them though we do, disasters must be prepared for. They are an unfortunate part of living on our dynamic planet. These tips and suggestions should make preparing for a disaster easy and relatively pain-free. A little planning will go a long way in helping you avoid needless tragedy and loss, so it is definitely worth some time and effort.

If there is a disaster at home while you are not there and you have one or more pets, there are things you must have in place. This is what my French Bulldog and I have prepared just in case:

1. Talk to your neighbors and make an agreement that you will each check on/rescue each other's animals, should the other not be at home. Your rescue buddy should also have a detailed knowledge of your pet's needs, medical history and important numbers to call in case of emergency. He or she should have a copy in his or her home and a duplicate should be in an equally agreed upon designated spot in your home. Having two minimizes chance of forgetting its location under duress.

2. You can get a rescue alert sticker for your house. This sticker should be placed where responding emergency personnel can easily see it. It contains information about the number, size and kind of animal(s) in your residence. Ideally, this sticker will also have your vet's number listed. The sticker should ensure that your pet is to be rescued from the house if you are not home and in the event there are no neighbors willing or able to help you. If you have left with your pets write, "Evacuated," across the sticker also. These are available from most pet stores or vet offices. You can even order them online from the ASPCA.

If there is an emergency and you are given advance warning, here are the steps you need take:

1. If you are notified of a disaster heading your way, evacuate immediately and take your dog with you!

2. Take your first-aid/emergency kit with you.

3. Head to a hotel, kennel, boarding facility or relative's house with your dog. It is very important that you arrange accommodations for your dog before a disaster strikes. Sadly, most Red Cross shelters do not allow dogs or other pets in their facilities, so you will need to arrange a pet-friendly option. It is also imperative that you compose your emergency kit ahead of time, so that you can just grab and go. Below is a list of things to consider putting in your kit for your dog and cat. By no means is this list exhaustive, so check with your vet or other pet professionals about what else you should add.

Your first-aid/emergency kit for your dog should include...

An extra dog tag or piece of identification in case you become separated
Recent photos of your dog in case he becomes lost
7 to 10 days worth of food and water for you and each of your pets
A week to two weeks worth of any of your dog's medication(s)
Your dog's medical records and a list of important numbers (your Vet's, the closest family member's, your closest friend's)
Disposable litter pans/litter
Extra leashes
Blanket (helps with keeping your dog warm and comfortable and helps to reduce shock)
Bandages, cotton, disinfectant and trash bags
His favorite bone or chew toy - it's important that he remain as 'normal' as possible under this stressful time
Photo of you/spouse other family members in the event you are separated

Lastly, if you are unable to evacuate your residence, have a plan of where you will go in your house to be as safe as possible. Some of the safest rooms in the house in case of a tornado are the bathroom and the basement. For flooding, it may be a little more difficult, but try to find a room with high counters; if nothing else, get to the roof (this saved many people and animals during Katrina).

If you follow these steps you should be well prepared in the event of a disaster and both you and your French Bulldog (or any other pet) will likely come out of it no worse for the wear.

At Ivan's Bulldogs, we have been breeding and training puppies for over 30 years. We are proud to be breeding Bulldogs with excellent quality, with little to no health problems and good temperaments. All of our French Bulldog puppies come with papers, shots and health guarantees. For more information, visit our website at http://www.BulldogsNewYork.com. PD # 699.

French Bulldog: Family Friend Or Foe

French Bulldog breeders, as well as current owners, will tell you that these amazing little dogs are a great addition to any family. They are small in size, but large in attitude and antics. Because of their size, however, these types of dogs may not be the best fit for a house with children. They are fragile and can be easily hurt if the humans in the house are rough, clumsy, or even impatient. These small dogs demand a lot of attention and care, and need to be treated with respect and love.

The French Bulldog is a small dog, averaging about 12 inches in height, and they only weigh around 23 pounds. Their size can be very deceiving, though, because they are full of energy and attitude. Care must be taken when dealing with them to let them now that the owner is the alpha, and that the dog is not. If the French Bulldog is allowed to act out and control the situation, they can become temperamental and snappy. This breed needs leadership in order to be a good pet, and they are not the type of dog that can be purchased and then neglected.

The French Bulldog has a migratory need, so they have to be taken on daily walks. Letting them run in a yard, or kennel, is not adequate to fulfill this need. They must be lead by the owner, making them walk next to the person and to pace with them. Being stern and assertive is important to let the dog now that you are the alpha, and that they do not control the situation. The human must, at all times, let this breed now that the leader of the pack is the owner, and the family of the owner.

This breed likes to stay clean, and prefers to avoid water. Regular bathing is required, as with all other dogs, but no special care is needed. They shed a medium amount of hair, and brushing them every couple of days will prevent large build ups of hair. Most French Bulldogs enjoy being brushed, and will allow you to do so without any problems.

French Bulldogs, as a general rule, get along well with other animals and people, as long as they are not allowed to be dominant and aggressive. They are full of energy and love to play, so it is a good idea to have a friend, or family member, available to fulfill their energetic side.

A French Bulldog can be a great addition to any family, as long as the owners are assertive and take control of the dog. They cannot be purchased and then left to fend for themselves. They require love and attention, and they will thrive if their personal wants and needs are met.

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Is Your French Bulldog Puppy Aggressive? Try These Quick-Fix Tips!

French Bulldog puppies are usually smart, affectionate and well behaved dogs but something can go wrong with any breed. Whether it be a bad breeder who does not properly socialize or something you may be doing wrong, your puppy could be aggressive. But don't worry - all hope is not lost. Try these tips to stop your French Bulldog puppy's aggression in its tracks!

1. Growling, snarling, snapping and other signs of aggression can quickly become dangerous for you and your family. When your puppy exhibits these behaviors, it usually means that he is trying to obtain dominance over you and the other members of your family. To stop those behaviors, you have to prove to him that you are alpha and must be respected as such. In a dog pack, the alpha dog is rarely challenged by the others. The sooner you prove yourself as the leader of the pack, the sooner your puppy's aggression should subside.

2. Showing aggressive behaviors around food, treats, toys and bones can also be a problem in puppies. Alpha dogs control who eats and when in the pack - you need to emulate the alpha in the pack. When you are preparing his food, keep him out of the room so he cannot bark or jump on you. When you are ready for him to eat, call him to his eating area and make him sit quietly for at least 5 seconds before you give him his bowl. This will show your puppy that you are in control of when he eats which means you are alpha, not him.

3. Above all else, do not let you French Bulldog puppy think that he can get away with showing signs of aggression. When your puppy growls or exhibits other aggressive behaviors, immediately tell him "no" in a loud, harsh tone so that the message is loud and clear.

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Tips For French Bulldog Training

Training French bulldogs are very easy. They are clever dogs who like to play games and run around. You will sure to have a good time training them. But before that, you first need to know some tips for French bulldog training. This will help you have an idea how to start the exercise.

Listed are the tips for French bulldog training that you have to be familiar with:

1. During the dog's first weeks, you need to teach him where his food and water is located. Set a place in your home where you will feed him and make sure that it will be the only spot. Feed him 3 meals each day. Along with this, you also need to show the dog where his bed will be. Be familiar with your dog's bed time and up time.

2. Teach you dog where to do potty. This will depend on what time his meal times are. For example, if you just fed the dog his lunch, you need to take him outside the house after finishing his meal. For sure, it is time for his potty. Set a place in the yard where he can litter and bring him to that place each potty time.

3. Another tip for French bulldog training is to use the right words when correcting or praising them. If ever your dog does something bad, immediately correct him and make sure you sound like a boss. If you want him to stop from whet he is doing, say "No" "Don't" or "Stop" use this words as always so he can get use to them.

4. If your dog obeys you or just did something nice, praise him. Dogs love to be praised and if you do, they will always behave knowing that you like it. Say "Good dog" or "Yay" for praising. Make sure to sound gentle and grateful when saying those words. Sound like you really are pleased with what they did.

5. If you have a crate for your French bulldog, you need to train him how to stay in it. Put all the things he will need in the crate. Give him a comfortable blanket, a ready water to drink and some toys. It is up to you if you like to lock him inside the crate when you go to work or just leave it open. It depends if you placed a potty box, water and foods inside before leaving.

6. Always be gentle when training your dog. Remember that you are just like teaching a baby. If you command the dog or if you try to stop him from his bad behaviors, try not to get mad. Stay calm and be patient with them. Dogs are actually more sensitive than we know.

7. When the dog reaches 3 months old, you can start teaching him some skills. Do it while playing with him. Train the dog how to lie down, roll, sit, and stand and others.

8. If you are trying to tell him something, look directly into him and call his name. That will get his attention.

9. Ready your treats. Your dog will need lots of treats when training. That will keep him motivated and will enjoy his training time with you.

Those are some helpful tips for French bulldog training. Now, you can adopt your own French bulldog and start training them.

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French Bulldog - Stop Excessive Barking Tips

The French bulldog generally very quiet dog and they only bark when there is a cause. If you're tired, frustrated, annoyed, or your neighbors complained several times and called law enforcement due to your dog excessive barking, then try not to have your emotion influence your thinking. Instead, take a step back to identify what causes your dog to behave this way and resolve it.

Sometimes when your French bulldog bark excessively, it may be for a good cause. For example, suppose your dog barks excessively in the middle of the night while you were asleep. The barking sound woke you up, and you feel angry and annoyed. You decided to leave your bedroom to quiet your dog, but you heard strange loud noises in the living room. You move slowly and quietly to the living room to take a quick peek, and found two strangers scattering around looking for valuable things. You quickly headed back to your bedroom and dials 911.

The above example is a good cause of why your dog barks excessively, and you don't want to take away that special instinct from them. Therefore, your dog excessive barking might NOT be an entirely a bad thing.

If your French bulldog barks excessively without a good cause, this is because they were placed in a situation that is more rewarding for them to bark. When the situation changed such as by placing your dog to different area, then your dog can be quiet.

Here is some probable reason, or it can be combination of these reasons that triggers your dog to bark excessively: angry, lonely, afraid, bored, hungry, cold, hot, asserting their dominance, excited, want attention, intruders, danger, isolated, bossy, stressed, or pests such as mice, roaches, etc.

If your French bulldog continues barking after the situation changed, you can use a laser pointer or stop-barking collar devices to distract your dog from barking. Some people prefer to train their dog using strategies and techniques because that creates stronger bonding and respect between them and their dog. In addition, training your dog to stop barking can better your chance of success if your dog has another behavior problem such as aggressiveness, peeing in master bed, nipping, etc.

Your French bulldog can be trained to stop barking if you chose to go down this route. The key to successfully dog behavior training will require pleasant and enjoyable interactions between you and your dog, and it must be rewarding for your dog.

Read More

Click continue to learn the strategies to end your French Bulldog behavior issues.

Responsibilities of Breeding French Bulldogs

The increase in demand of people who want this breed has seen many unscrupulous dealers come up who buy French bulldogs just to breed them. Such people who only look at the Frenchies as cash milling animals do not take any note of the responsibility breeding a French bulldog requires. French bulldogs are a special breed of dog whether as companions or show dogs. These dogs will require special attention when breeding, during the gestation period and after they have given birth.

A responsible breeder knows the following about French bulldogs and will take each factor into account before proceeding to breed the deciding if a female is the right candidate to be bred:

- Frenchies need to be screened for various presence of various genes that are responsible for some of the health problems observed in this breed. One such disease that is screened for is the Von-Willebrand's disease which will cause defective clotting of blood in the affected dog predisposing it to massive bleeding even from small injuries, haematomas and making the Frenchie a high risk candidate for any type of surgery.

- Frenchies should not be bred on the first heat; after the first heat has passed the female can be bred on the consecutive heats that come. French bulldog over 5 years should never be bred since there is a high risk that complications may arise and the dog might not carry the pregnancy to term.

- If you only have the female, you will need to source for a stud from elsewhere. This means that you have to look for a good candidate that is right for your dog. There are costs involved in finding the correct stud, and getting your female bred. This process will take some time and identification of a good stud should be done before the female is on heat so that you can make the proper arrangements.

- Though there is no assurance that the female will get pregnant, you can increase the risk of successful mating by servicing your female in the correct time. You can ask a good breeder to recommend the best time or your vet. A rough estimate can however be made as by counting the days from when your female starts to bleed (spotting), this period is will last about 9 days and is usually known as pro estrus meaning the female is just preparing to come on heat. After the 9 days have passed then the female is fully in estrus, the eleventh day is when the ova are released from the ovary and is usually the best time to breed. This is day 11 from when the dog starts spotting and the dog is most fertile from this time till day 13.

- French bulldogs may need to get a c-section to deliver the puppies. This will cost you a considerable sum of money and you need to ensure that you can afford to pay for the services of a vet.

Besides breeding you will need to take care of the puppies till you can sell them.

Dr Joe Njenga is a Practicing Veterinarian Who Currently works as an Online Veterinary Practitioner providing Websites with Professional Veterinary Live Support.
You can Learn More about taking care of your Dog from Dog Care Tips Blog http://dogcaretip.wordpress.com/

Travelling Stress-Free With Your French Bulldog

Packing up for a vacation is usually a fun time filled with great expectations for the time ahead. This time is also a stressful period for dog owners who don't want to leave their dogs behind and especially not in boarding kennels where you are not assured that your Frenchie will get the kind of life he/she is used to.

For this reasons owners of French bulldogs would much rather travel with their dogs and enjoy this time together. With good preparation you can make traveling with your French bulldog a very rewarding experience without stress or anxiety.

Good preparation will involve preparing proper documentation for the dog. This involves getting your Frenchie a certificate of health showing that the dog has received the necessary inoculations and is fit enough to travel. Due to the health concerns of the bulldog, a check-up is necessary before you leave.

There are many places that will have a policy against pets. Careful research when choosing a means of travel and places to stay and dine out is necessary. Call if you have to ensure that your bulldog is not stuck in his crate just because there is a policy against his presence. You can ask a friend who owns a dog to give you recommendations or you can consult with your travel agent in case you are visiting a new place.

It is important to be a good neighbor when traveling with your Frenchie, this means that as you travel or enjoy a swim on the beach you are responsible for your dog. If your dog makes any mess, be quick to clean it up and do not be rude when doing so. Yes, dogs need to eliminate, but as a responsible owner it is your duty to ensure that your Frenchies does so in the right place.

If you intend to use public means, buy an air conditioned crate where you can place your Frenchie during the duration of your travel. Remember French bulldogs are very susceptible to heat and you should keep checking your Frenchie to ensure he's alright.

Always make sure that your Frenchie has his collar on. This collar should have his identification tag and contact details to call in case you two get separated. Frenchies are prone to allergies which are either environment or food related. For this reason, if you are trying out a new food, don't just offer it to your Frenchie to eat especially if you do not know what it contains. Pack some of his food, that way when you are having your meal, you can feed him his.

Some weeks before you travel you can do a mock of the journey itself. Put the dog in the car and drive around for some time. If the dog is not used to the car, traveling can be very stressful, gradually let your dog have a feel of what it will be like.

In the course of the journey your Frenchie is bound to mess up, don't yell at him or lose your temper. Maintain your cool and enjoy your time.

Dr Joe Njenga is a Practicing Veterinarian Who Currently works as an Online Veterinary Practitioner providing Websites with Professional Veterinary Live Support. You can Learn More about taking care of your Dog from Dog Care Tips Blog http://dogcaretip.wordpress.com/

The French Bulldog - Training Techniques

Have those large and dramatic eyes gotten your heart all aflutter? Perhaps it was the slightly mischievous, "more animated than a cartoon character" demeanor that caught your attention. Whatever it is about the French Bulldog that causes you to swoon, you'd hardly be alone. One of the most popular breeds in the United States, your "Frenchie" has been winning people the world over for the last 100 years.

Before you bring one into your home and promise to care for him for the entirety of his life, which you should anticipate being about 10-12 years, you will want to know some basic things about your beloved French Bulldog.

The French Bulldog's personality, albeit funny and sweet is willful. As such, training your French Bulldog is going to be a challenge. But train him you must, lest you want him to think he is the Prince of the house. Princes have an uncanny way of being spoiled, out of control, a tendency toward inappropriate elimination and think they're in charge. Indeed those are traits that can describe any celebrity or member of royalty, imagine how they'll manifest themselves in a dog!

Unwanted behavior in dogs that training will mitigate:

Bored barking - barking than for no other reason than to hear himself talk. Some do this because they've not exercised and there's no better place for this pent up energy to go.

Snapping at you if you don't pet him when HE wants or if you start vacuuming - both are signs that he feels that he's running the show. The reality is that you are the boss of him not the other way around.

Barking at your guests - This is a huge no no! You decide who can enter your home, not your dog.

Jumping on you or your friends - Although you think this is cute and a sign that he loves you, it is yet another sign that he is dominating you. It is never appropriate for your dogs to jump on you. If you are playing and he jumps toward you to catch a ball, this is of course different.

Snapping at you because you moved his food dish or attempted to take something he shouldn't be eating.

For many breeds, training can be as simple as a few lessons, both on and off leash, with or without treats (depending upon the method) and each new thing introduced can take a few times for them to sink in. Indeed all dogs need refreshers and the most trained can get distracted if they're in that zone - which can happen say to a hunting dog who sees a rabbit, a mongoose, etc. Instinct trumps training.

For a variety of reasons, most of them to do with selective breeding for specific traits, Frenchies are notoriously difficult to train. When introducing a new lesson, it's important to be consistent, don't give up and if you need to, use treats to reinforce your needs.

Never punish any dog but in particular a Frenchie. For all his willfulness, he's extremely sensitive. Always praise when he "gets it" and reinforce when he doesn't. Use a high-pitched voice to show pleasure and a cool, calm and collected stern voice - as deep as you can muster - when he's being willful.

It will take longer to train your Frenchie than it does nearly all other breeds, but there will be a break through and both he and you will be infinitely happier once he's trained.

At Ivan's Bulldogs, we have been breeding and training puppies for over 30 years. We are proud to be breeding Bulldogs with excellent quality, with little to no health problems and good temperaments. All of our puppies come with papers, shots and health guarantees. For more information on our French Bulldogs, visit our website at http://www.BulldogsNewYork.com. PD # 699.

How To Care For A French Bulldog

Caring for a French Bulldog, or "Frenchie" as they have been nicknamed, can be a fun and rewarding experience as long as you take the time, and put a little effort into it. These dogs are great companions, are very loving and loyal, and completely rely upon you, as their owner, to take care of them.

The first step in caring for your French Bulldog is to get a collar for them, with tags that include your name and phone number. License them and have them registered with the local Human Society. Everyday animals get lost and end up in the local pound. If your dog does happen to escape, a tag that leads back to the owner is almost a guarantee that the family will be reunited with their pet within a short period of time.

If you are not planning on breeding your dog, then have them spayed or neutered when they reach the appropriate age. The world is being flooded with abandoned dogs, even French Bulldogs, so take the precaution of fixing your animal so that no unwanted surprises may arise in the future. People from all over the world claim that dogs such as these should never be spayed or neutered because of their value, but if you are purchasing the animal as a pet and have no plans to have puppies, then take them to the vet and have the deed done.

Feed your puppy with high quality dog food. Avoid the cheap generic brands because they have additives in them, such as ground up feathers that can harm the health of your dog. Feed them one full bowl a day, or two small bowls per day. It is important to not over feed your puppy, which will make them overweight and unhealthy.

Exercise your puppy on a regular basis. The healthier your bulldog is, the longer they will live, and the happier they will be. Set some time aside everyday to go for a walk in the park, or in the mountains, or even around the block a couple of times. The location of the walk is not near as important as actually doing the walk.

The personal hygiene of your puppy is also a mandatory aspect of caring for your Frenchie. Since this breed drools throughout the day, use a warm wash cloth and clean the entire face and neck area, making sure to get into all of the folds and creases. Bathe them in warm water on a regular basis, using only shampoo designed for dogs. Once every couple of months, have the teeth cleaned, and make regular veterinary visits to ensure that their health, and their shots, are up to date and at a safe level.

Caring for your French Bulldog puppy may seem to be a time consuming venture, but it is well worth it. Having a healthy, happy, lovable dog at your side is one of the greatest pleasures of life.

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Howl-o-Ween Hounds

Here is a big shout out to the many furry critters who humored their human by donning a festive Halloween get-up! You can all relax... Halloween only comes once a year...

1 Piper, accepting Olympic Gold Medal for dog paddle victory

2 Bodie proud to dress up like his human firefighter father!

3 Her majesty Crickett, sporting royal crown and robe (and pearls) ...pondering why she doesn't get to wear this everyday...

4 King Petey, so focused on his royal duties that there is no time for a wardrobe adjustment...

5 The rescued posse... ...brain storming this year's trick-or-treating strategy. (Queen Cricket: "Ahem..ur stepping on my robe..).

While I too have played 'stage mom' to a critter or two, I am only in support of this when the critter-to-be-outfitted is consenting to their human's antics. And as we all know- many a pooch is less than thrilled to walk the runway in costume. Needless to say, such descent should always be honored.

That said, my dear friend Faye, whose wonderful rescue work has been the topic of many a blog post, has a knack for getting her fur kids to play along with a doting mom at holiday time. So once again, I am sharing her amateur stylist efforts with my fellow Daily Waggers. I know you will appreciate Faye's commitment to fashion.

And for these rescued critters willing to shed some pride for mom's enjoyment- I know Faye's little subjects are just happy to return some of the joy that Faye has brought them by adopting them into her loving home and family.

Enjoy!
In kinship,
Dr. Pia Salk

Posted by Pia on November 2nd, 2011 in Adoption, Favorite Things

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We Helped Build The New Greenhouse

On Martha’s blog today, she has many photos of the process of building a new greenhouse at the farm.  You know that Martha has been working very hard and also traveling quite a bit and what she may not know is that we, Frenchies, were very helpful with the construction.  Good thing we have these photos to prove it!

1 Come on Franny! Let's go help the gang build the new greenhouse! It looks like they've already put up the framing, but there's still so much to do!

2 We need to install the roller tube for the manual roll-up curtain. It goes right above the baseboards. Once the metal framework is complete, we can cover it with the polyethylene sheeting.

3 The poly sheeting will help retain heat to keep all of the tropical plants at the right temperature through the winter. Let's measure first to make sure we have the right size. I have this end, Francesca!

4 There we go. Accurate measurements are crucial, Sharkey.

5 That's it, Gyurme. We have it all measured out. Let's install that roller tube here.

6 I'll make sure that every thing is level! This area was on a slope and I see that the excavator did a superb job at making it flat!

7 I'll grab this wrench to tighten all of the nuts and bolts! Then we can lay on the poly covering and attach the webbing straps to the bottom so the side curtains can be rolled up for venting.

8 Chhiring offered to help supervise me with the heavier equipment, like this sawzall, so I can work on cutting any aluminum tubing that is too long!

9 All right, boys, we need to dig a trench here to lay pipes for water! Then we can install a hose inside the hoop house for easy watering.

10 Wait, don't take me with the dirt!

11 Everyone is working so hard. We'll have this finished and filled with plants in no time! We hope!

Posted by F&S on November 14th, 2011 in Friends, Housemates, Martha, Out & About, Photo Galleries, Travel, Working

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