Thunderstorms can turn even the most confident dog into a trembling bundle of nerves. It’s heartbreaking to watch your furry friend cower in fear as the skies rumble and lightning flashes. But fear not! Today, we’re delving into the world of canine thunderstorm anxiety and sharing actionable tips to help calm your beloved pet during the stormy season.
Why Are Dogs Afraid of Storms
It’s not just the loud noise that scares dogs during a storm; it’s a combination of factors. Dogs feel the atmospheric changes that precede a storm, such as drops in barometric pressure and shifts in electrical charges, far more acutely than humans do. These changes, coupled with the sudden loud noises and flashes of lightning, can trigger anxiety in even the bravest of pups.
Understanding Your Dog’s Fear
Most new pet owners may find themselves overwhelmed when their dogs show signs of stress during a thunderstorm. Understanding why dogs fear thunderstorms can help pet owners calm their pets down effectively. Dogs’ keen senses can detect a thunderstorm more than humans do, making them hyper-aware of the approaching storm long before it arrives. Additionally, while dogs can also get scared of fireworks, construction sounds, and other loud noises, thunderstorms can be the scariest sound of all due to their unpredictable nature.
How To Calm A Dog Down During A Thunderstorm
Now, let’s dive into some practical tips to help calm your furry friend during a storm:
1. Stay Calm Yourself
Dogs are highly attuned to their owners’ emotions, so staying calm yourself can have a calming effect on your dog. Speak to your dog in a soothing tone and avoid displaying any signs of anxiety yourself.
2. Provide a Safe Space Indoors
Create a safe haven for your dog indoors where they can seek refuge during the storm. This could be a cozy corner with their favorite blanket or a crate covered with a blanket to create a den-like atmosphere.
3. Play Some Music
Soft, soothing music or white noise can help mask the sound of thunder and provide a calming effect for your dog. Consider playing classical music or using a white noise machine to drown out the loud noise of the storm.
4. Ask Your Vet for Help
If your dog’s thunderstorm anxiety is severe, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from your veterinarian. They can recommend anti-anxiety medications or other interventions to help calm your dog during storms.
Remember, every dog is unique, so it may take some trial and error to find the best solution for your furry friend. Patience and understanding are key as you work to alleviate your dog’s thunderstorm anxiety.
Link Insertions:
– For more tips on caring for your French Bulldog, check out our guide on “how to take care of a French bulldog”.
– Looking for the best dog food for Frenchies? Check out our recommendations here.
Thunderstorm anxiety can be a challenging issue for both dogs and their owners, but with patience, understanding, and the right strategies, you can help calm your dog during stormy weather. By staying calm yourself, providing a safe space indoors, and seeking help from your vet if needed, you can help your furry friend weather the storm with less fear and anxiety. Remember, your dog looks to you for comfort and reassurance, so be there for them during their time of need.
Traveling with pets can be a delightful experience. Having your furry companion by your side adds an extra level of joy and companionship to your adventures. However, it’s important to acknowledge that traveling with pets, be it by car or plane, can also present unique challenges. With careful planning and preparation, you can ensure that your pet’s journey is as stress-free and enjoyable as possible. In this blog post, we’ll explore 10 pet travel essentials that will help keep your beloved dog or cat comfortable and safe throughout the entire trip.
If you’re embarking on an international trip, having your pet’s passport and vaccination records is crucial. Check the requirements of your destination country in advance and make sure your pet is up to date on all necessary vaccinations. Proper documentation ensures a smooth entry and avoids any unnecessary complications.
Whether you’re on a road trip or flying with your furry friend, seat covers are a fantastic investment. They protect your car or airline seat from shedding fur, dirt, and accidents. Opt for durable, waterproof covers that are easy to clean and provide a comfortable space for your pet.
Traveling can be stressful for pets, so packing their favorite toys is a good idea. Familiar toys provide comfort and entertainment during the journey, helping to ease any anxiety or boredom. Chew toys and interactive puzzles are excellent choices to keep your pet engaged.
An essential item for any pet travel checklist is a well-stocked first aid kit. Accidents and injuries can happen anywhere, so be prepared with basic supplies such as bandages, antiseptic solution, tweezers, and any medication your pet may require. Consult your veterinarian for specific recommendations tailored to your pet’s needs.
Traveling with pets in unfamiliar surroundings increases the risk of them getting lost. Ensure your pet wears an updated ID tag with your contact information, including your mobile number. This simple precaution can help reunite you with your furry friend if they wander off.
For air travel or road trips, a sturdy and comfortable pet carrier is essential. Look for carriers that meet airline requirements if you’re flying. For car trips, choose carriers that can be securely fastened with a seat belt to keep your pet safe during the journey. Small dogs may prefer soft-sided carriers, while larger breeds may require more spacious options.
7. Snacks and Food:
Keeping your pet well-fed and hydrated is crucial during travel. Pack enough food and treats for the duration of the trip, and opt for travel-friendly containers. Consider portable water bowls and ensure access to fresh water at all times. Stick to your pet’s regular diet to avoid digestive upsets.
8. Dog Bed:
If you’re staying overnight in a hotel room or at a friend’s place, bringing along your pet’s bed can provide a familiar and comfortable space for them to rest. Familiar scents and a cozy spot can help reduce anxiety and ensure a good night’s sleep for both you and your furry companion.
9. Seat Belt Restraints:
For car trips, the safety of your pet is paramount. Invest in a seat belt restraint or a dog-specific harness that can be attached to the car’s seat belt system. This prevents your pet from roaming around the vehicle and helps protect them in case of sudden stops or accidents.
A collapsible travel bowl is an invaluable item when it comes to pet travel. These lightweight and portable bowls can be easily packed and allow for convenient feeding and watering on the go. Ensure your pet stays hydrated and comfortable throughout the journey by having a travel bowl within reach.
Traveling with your pet can be a rewarding and memorable experience, and with the right preparation, it can be a stress-free one as well. By having these 10 pet travel essentials at hand, you’ll be well-equipped to ensure the comfort, safety, and happiness of your furry friend throughout your journey. From securing important documents like pet passports to providing familiar toys, cozy beds, and nourishing food, each item plays a crucial role in making your pet feel at ease while on the go. So, pack your bags, buckle up, and embark on exciting adventures with your beloved companion, knowing that you have everything you need to create wonderful memories together. Bon voyage!
Do you have a Frenchie of your own? If so, you know just how adorable and charming these little dogs can be.
Frenchies are the most popular small dog breed in the world, and it’s no wonder why. They are known for their small muscular bodies, bow-legged gait, bat-like ears, and adorable faces. But while they may seem like they are always happy and healthy, Frenchies are prone to obesity, breathing problems, and skeletal issues. That’s why it’s important to pay careful attention to what they eat.
Frenchies have specific dietary requirements at every stage of their lives. Puppies need plenty of protein to help them grow big and strong. Adult Frenchies need a diet that is high in fiber to help keep their bowels regular. And senior Frenchies need a diet that is low in sodium to help keep them healthy and active.
But don’t worry, feeding your Frenchie the right food doesn’t have to be hard. There are plenty of good brands of dog food on the market that cater to the specific needs of Frenchies at every stage of their life. So whether you’re looking for high-protein puppy food, fiber-rich adult food, or low-sodium senior food, there’s sure to be something perfect for your furry friend.
Best Dog Food For Frenchies
If you’re the proud parent of a French bulldog, you know they’re a special breed. You’re also likely already aware that, as mentioned above, they come with their own special set of nutritional needs. Before we get into the details, let’s take a closer look at the different life stages.
3 Life Stages:
French bulldogs go through three life stages: puppy, adult, and senior. Puppyhood is the most important time for their growth and development, so it’s important to have food that’s specifically tailored for puppies. Puppies need lots of protein to help them grow big and strong.
Adult dogs need a food that’s balanced and provides all the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients they need to stay healthy. And a senior dog requires fewer calories but more fiber so that they can maintain a healthy weight (obesity is a common health problem for Frenchies), while also ensuring that they remain healthy, free from digestive issues, and comfortable as they age.
When choosing a dog food for French bulldogs, be sure to look for one that meets their specific nutritional needs for their life stage. You can find foods that are specifically designed for French bulldogs, or you can choose a food that’s grain free or high in protein. Just be sure to read the label carefully so you know what your Frenchie is getting in each bite.
And don’t forget the fruits and vegetables! Dogs of all ages need fruits and vegetables in their diet. They provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help keep your Frenchie healthy, at the right body weight, and looking shiny and new.
So whether you’re just starting with a Frenchie puppy or your furry friend is entering into his golden years, always remember to choose a food that meets his specific nutritional needs. Your Frenchie will thank you for it!
Dog Food Options for Feeding Your French Bulldog
When it comes to finding the best dog food for Frenchies, there are a few things you need to take into account. The first is their size – because they are a small breed, they need food that is specifically designed for small dogs. The second is their age – puppies and elderly dogs have different nutritional needs, so you’ll need to find a food that is tailored to their stage in life. And the third is their breed – as different breeds have different dietary needs, not all dog foods are suited for every breed.
So with all that in mind, here are 12 of the best dog foods for Frenchies may of which you can get on Chewy:
Each of these dog foods contains ingredients that are good for Frenchies.
Wellness Core Dog Food
For example, Wellness Core Dog Food contains high-quality protein from chicken and turkey, as well as fruits and vegetables like sweet potatoes and carrots. This food also contains probiotics and antioxidants, which help support your Frenchie’s immune system and overall health.
Blue Buffalo Wilderness Dog Food
Blue Buffalo Wilderness Dog Food is another great option, as it contains protein from real lamb and chicken, as well as healthy fats (omega fatty acids) for healthy skin and coat. Plus, it’s made without any grain or gluten, making it a good choice for dogs with allergies or sensitivities.
Merrick Classic Grain-Free Dog Food
If you’re looking for food specifically designed for puppies, Merrick Classic Grain-Free Dog Food is a good option. It contains DHA from salmon oil to help support cognitive development and growth, as well as probiotics to help with digestion. And since it’s grain free, it’s perfect for puppies with food allergies or sensitivities.
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small & Toy Breed Dog Food
If your Frenchie is getting up in years, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small & Toy Breed Dog Food is a good option to consider. It contains omega-3 fatty acids to help support cognitive function, as well as glucosamine and chondroitin to help keep your dog’s joints healthy and strong.
The Honest Kitchen Embark Dehydrated Raw Dog Food
If you’re wanting to switch your Frenchie over to a raw diet, The Honest Kitchen Embark Dehydrated Raw Dog Food is a great option to try out. It’s made with human-grade ingredients like organic beef liver and cage-free eggs, plus it’s GMO-free and doesn’t contain any grains or fillers.
Newman’s Own Organics Adult Dog Food
If you’re looking for an all-natural dog food that doesn’t contain any controversial ingredients, Newman’s Own Organics Adult Dog Food might be a good fit for you. It contains organic ingredients like real chicken and salmon meal, plus it’s GMO-free and doesn’t contain any artificial colors or flavors.”
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition French Bulldog Adult Dog Food
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition French Bulldog Adult Dog Food is specifically designed for French Bulldogs and contains all of the nutrients they need to stay healthy. It comes in both dry and wet varieties, so you can choose whichever one your Frenchie prefers. This is the brand that we finally settled on for Louie and Romeo which helped control some of the gastrointestinal issues that can be much worse in Bulldog breeds.
Dog Food brands to Avoid with your Frenchie
There are a lot of dog food brands on the market, but not all of them are good for your Frenchie. There are a few brands you should avoid altogether. Some of the most popular brands that are bad for Frenchies include Pedigree, Beneful, Alpo, and Gravy Train. These foods are filled with unhealthy ingredients like corn, wheat, and soy which can cause digestive problems (TRUST me when I say it’s bad! We made this mistake and the gas was so bad!) and other health issues in your dog. So if you’re looking for food to keep your Frenchie healthy and happy, steer clear of these brands and look for one that is specifically designed for small breeds.
French Bulldogs are one of the most popular breeds of small dogs in the world. They are known for their adorable looks, friendly personalities, and easy-going dispositions. But what is the best food for French Bulldogs?
There is no single answer to this question, as different French Bulldogs will have different dietary needs. However, there are some general things to keep in mind when choosing food for a French Bulldog.
First, it’s important to choose a food that is high in quality and protein.
French Bulldogs need plenty of protein to help them stay healthy and active. Look for a food that is made with premium ingredients and that doesn’t contain any artificial additives or fillers.
Second, be sure to choose a food that is appropriate for your dog’s age and size.
Puppy food is not appropriate for adult dogs, and small-breed dog food is not appropriate for large breeds. Make sure you are feeding your Frenchie the right food for their stage of life.
Finally, always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.
Your veterinarian can help you determine which food is best for your dog and can give you advice on how much to feed them.
The bed, bowls, collars, and leashes have been purchased. That’s the fun part. Are you really ready to welcome a pup into your home? The dog breeder has left a message: “Your pup is ready!”
New Puppy Checklist
The Journey
All those weeks (and maybe months or years) of waiting for the perfect pup to land on the floor are now over. As the saying goes, “The joy is in the journey.” Perhaps the journey leading up to this moment has been filled with dreams about the things you and pup will do together. Chasing through the snow, taking long walks, sitting together by the fire, romping on the beach… all those wonderful reasons why people want a dog to share their lives.
Credit Card Melt-Down
New puppy owners’ dreams are often interspersed with crazed shopping sprees at pet supply stores. Buying the bed, bowls, collars, and leashes have rendered many credit cards smoking in the wake.
That’s the fun part, and every new owner is entitled to run amok in the thrill of the impending arrival.
The dog bed is in place (it has been for weeks), the tiny and perfect adjustable collar and leash are de-tagged and hanging in the closet. After much research, the correct food has been purchased and sits on the kitchen counter. It’s right there, next to those adorable food and water bowls. But what about the rest of the house?
Puppy-Proof the Home
Inspect your home from the viewpoint of a two-year-old human toddler. Decide which rooms will be accessible to the pup. Designate where you will give puppy loves and where you won’t i.e. furniture or not. And then consider how to close off all others. Baby gates can be used to prevent entry into off-limit rooms as well as the top of staircases.
In areas where the pup will be allowed to enter, remove all breakable objects, houseplants, and anything that spells “puppy trouble”. Cover electrical outlets and secure cupboard and closet doors. Outlet covers and an array of child-proof door devices can be purchased at hardware stores and other retailers. Decide how and where you will do house training and if dog crates will be included in that training. Another important area is to have your puppy supplies in a specific spot including chew toys, dog food, puppy food, and puppy shampoo for accidents.
Book a Veterinary Appointment
Book the pup’s first vet visit to coincide with his trip home from the breeder. This is the best time for the pup to meet the vet and clinic staff, and will most likely be his first foray with you into that all-important socializing process. The vet will give the pup a quick health check, set up a vaccination schedule, and discuss diet, parasite control, pet insurance, microchipping, neutering, and all those other puppy issues.
Be sure to show the veterinarian any paperwork supplied by the breeder. So he or she can take note of previous veterinary visits and any vaccinations pup may have already received.
Find a Knowledgeable and Experienced Dog Trainer
Locate a fabulous trainer before the pup comes home. Many people don’t research the availability of local trainers until behavioral problems arise. Nipping, barking, housetraining, crating… all those puppy-things can be addressed on a one-to-one basis. Afterward, that same trainer can recommend the most suitable puppy training class for you and the pup to join.
If you are close or local to Arizona, we love Partners Dog Training & Daycare. Louie, our new French Bulldog, will be our second dog we take for training there.
Find a Groomer or Plan to Groom at Home
Locate a professional groomer or self-serve grooming facility. If the pup will require regular professional grooming, introduce him to the idea as soon as possible. He’ll be given his first bath, light brushing, and trim, and then the groomer will provide tips on how to keep his skin and coat healthy between visits.
If you plan to bathe him at home or use a self-serve facility, introduce the pup to the tub and brush within the first few days. Many dogs, if not initiated into the bath ‘n’ brush routine at an early age, can be downright ornery or fidgety about it as they grow older. Some canine body parts, such as feet, toes, tail, and tummies, can be particularly off-limits for some dogs. But if those areas are touched and groomed early in the game, the procedure can be much nicer for everyone, especially the dog. For example, we have an adult dog, who’s a 6 year old Pug, who will not let the nail clippers come near him. He runs to his crate as soon as you bring them out!
Enlist the Services of Substitute Caregivers
Identify people who can take over when you’re not available. Professional dog walkers, responsible friends and neighbors. And perhaps a doggie daycare center will be needed at some point in your dog’s life. During pup’s first few months, if you can’t return home mid-day, a substitute caregiver will be required to let the pup out to relieve himself as well as provide him with exercise and companionship. Make sure you have these phone numbers handy if you are running late and need to place a call especially if the pup isn’t yet crate trained and needs to be in a dog crate to avoid damage inside.
Bonus: holidays, social occasions, or whenever you can’t get home on time will always require the services of someone who knows you, your dog, and your home. Enlisting these people early means you’ll never have to worry about those times when your schedule prevents you from providing your dog with his daily needs.
Last, but not least…
The most important entry on your check-list: plan to provide a lifetime of love, compassion, and patience. You’ll always be the most important person in the world to your dog. Being a pet parent is unlike any other. Give him a reason to trust that he’s in good hands. He’ll repay you ten-fold.
There are many more items to be included in a check-list for new puppy owners. But don’t despair! The list can be expedited by asking for suggestions from a veterinarian, dog trainer, groomer, dog walker, and any dog-owning friends and neighbors.
them grow big and strong. Adult Frenchies need a diet that is high in fiber to help keep their bowels regular. And senior Frenchies need a diet that is low in sodium to help keep them healthy and active.
needs, not all dog foods are suited for every breed.
It contains DHA from salmon oil to help support cognitive development and growth, as well as probiotics to help with digestion. And since it’s grain free, it’s perfect for puppies with food allergies or sensitivities.
brands you should avoid altogether. Some of the most popular brands that are bad for Frenchies include Pedigree, Beneful, Alpo, and Gravy Train. These foods are filled with unhealthy ingredients like corn, wheat, and soy which can cause digestive problems (TRUST me when I say it’s bad! We made this mistake and the gas was so bad!) and other health issues in your dog. So if you’re looking for food to keep your Frenchie healthy and happy, steer clear of these brands and look for one that is specifically designed for small breeds.
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