BLUE Healthy Dog Food for Small Breed Dogs

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Do you know what is the best food for your small breed dog?

All BLUE dry small breed dog foods feature real chicken or fish as the first ingredient. We use whole grains, garden veggies and fruit, plus we add our exclusive LifeSource^® Bits, a precise blend of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that help support his specific life stage requirements. Importantly, our foods contain no chicken or poultry by-product meals, no cheap fillers, no artificial preservatives, flavors or colors and no corn, wheat or soy.

BLUE small breed dog food is specially formulated to address the unique needs of dogs under 30 lbs. Its small-bite kibble is packed with increased protein and whole grains to help sustain the higher energy level of small breeds.

 

Our natural Life Protection Formula Small Breed recipes are holistically formulated to help meet the special needs of small breed dogs.

 

 

A grain-free food made with the finest natural ingredients.

 

BLUE Wilderness Small Breed is a high-protein formula that contains more of the delicious chicken your dog loves.

 

A simple diet for small breed dogs with food sensitivities

 

BLUE Homestyle Recipe canned food contains only healthy, natural ingredients.

American Hairless Terrier small dog breed

The American Hairless Terrier is a breed of dog that was formerly considered a variant of Rat Terrier. As of January 1, 2004, the United Kennel Club deemed the AHT a separate terrier breed. It is often mistaken for a hairless Chihuahua.

History

Reputedly, the breed started when one hairless puppy appeared in one Rat Terrier litter in the state of Louisiana, United States, in 1972. Owners Edwin and Willie Scott liked the dog’s look and temperament, and upon maturity bred her hoping to reproduce the hairless quality. They were eventually successful; a litter produced in 1981 provided the foundation stock of the breed.

Recognition

In 1998 the breed gained recognition as the American Hairless Terrier by the American Rare Breeds Association and the National Rat Terrier Club. Canada was the first country outside the US to gain recognition, by Canadian Rarities in 1999. In 1999 the breed was recognized as Rat Terrier, Hairless Variety by the United Kennel Club. The UKC is the only governing body that recognizes the breed. While this organization is a national body, the breed is waiting for an international official breakthrough.
In the US the American Hairless Terrier Association is the provisional breed club. Other National Breed Clubs around the world include the Canadian American Hairless Terrier Association and the Japanese Hairless American Terrier Club.

 

About

An adult American Hairless Terrier – Courtesy of Horizon AHTs. “This breed of dog is excellent for allergy sufferers. They have absolutely no body hair, no dander. Most people who cannot tolerate a Bichon, Poodle, Yorkie, or Wheaton Terrier can tolerate this breed. An allergy test is recommended before buying any breed where allergies or asthma are a problem.”

Description

In build, the American Hairless Terrier is identical to the medium-sized Rat Terriers, from whom he is directly descended. The American Hairless is a well-muscled dog with a deep chest, strong shoulders, solid neck, and powerful legs. The ears are carried erect when the dog is alert and are called bat, similar to the Rat Terrier’s. Tails must be full length. Bobs, either natural or docked are a disqualification.

The skin is pink with gray, black, golden or red spots. Hairless-to-hairless breeding always produces completely hairless puppies. Hairless-to-coated mating is producing variable results, depending on chances and whether the coated dog is a carrier of the hairless trait. Hairless pups are born with a bit of sparse fuzzy hair all over their body. The pup will shed this fuzz, starting with the head, proceeding backwards, becoming entirely and eternally hairless by the age of six weeks. They do not have tufts of hair on the head, feet and end of tail, as do the Chinese Crested. They do however, have normal eyebrows and whiskers.

Temperament

American Hairless Terriers are intelligent, alert, playful and loving dogs. Very inquisitive and lively. This affectionate dog makes an excellent companion for anyone. They are good with children, especially if they are raised with them from puppyhood. The American Hairless Terrier, unlike other dog breeds, will break out in a sweat when hot or scared. They are fairly territorial, and like all dogs, need a human who understands how to be his leader. For the most part friendly with strangers. AHT’s make good watchdogs. They are not good swimmers and need to be closely monitored. These dogs are quick and very playful. The temperament of these dogs is pure terrier. They have the lively, feisty, fearless nature found in the best of terriers. Ratting cannot be recommended, due to the increased vulnerability brought on by the lack of a protective coat. This breed seems to train easily and are eager to please. Small dogs have the tendency to lack in human leadership. Be sure you are this dogs true pack leader in order to curve any negative behaviors.

Height, Weight

Height: 7-16 inches (18-41 cm.)
Weight: 5-16 pounds (2.5-7 kg.)

Health Problems

These dogs do not have absent premolars or any of the breeding complications associated with the hairless breeds. The AHT does not have the major skin problems commonly seen in hairless dogs. Sometimes they will get a rash on their skin. Because of their lack of hair, they do need protection from the sun. Sunscreen should be applied or a shirt should be worn, not only for the protection from the sun but from the cold as well. AHT’s do have sweat glands and will get pimples! They go away on their own. Rashes due to grass allergies are not that uncommon. Other allergies do occur as well.

Living Conditions

The AHT will do ok in an apartment so long as they get at least 20-30 minutes of exercise a day. They are fairly active indoors and should have at least a small to medium sized yard. AHT’s love to dig. Since they have sweat glands they do not drool at the mouth or pant in order to balance their body heat. They should wear a sweater in cold weather.

Exercise

The breed enjoys challenging games and outdoor romps. They need to be taken on a long daily walk.

Life Expectancy

About 14-16 years.

Grooming

The only special care required is preventing sunburn and keeping them warm in cold weather. They should be bathed one to three times a week, owners preference. Their nails should be trimmed weekly. If their skin becomes dry, lotion (without lanolin) can be applied. This breed obviously does not shed and they do not get fleas, but they do shed skin cells about every 20 days, therefore there is some dander but it is very minimal. AHT’s forget they do not have any hair and romp around outside.  Scratches and cuts do happen and they need to be attended to by hydrogen peroxide or any other antiseptic agent.
This breed is very good for allergy sufferers. Many AHT breeders have experiences , doing hands on and remote allergy tests with people who have allergic responses to dogs and more often than not, individuals who can not tolerate even those breeds who are known to be ‘hypoallergenic’… can tolerate an AHT. Studies have found them to be the best breed of dog for people with dog allergies. Many breeders can recount stories of grown men crying at the prospect of owning a dog for the first time in their lives. For those individuals and families who have never owned a dog before either due to their own allergies or a family members , holding a dog for the first time without a reaction is a rather powerful feeling for them.. !

Origin

In 1972, a remarkable thing happened: in a litter of mid-sized Rat Terriers, a completely hairless female was born. It became the prized pet of Willie and Edwin Scott of Louisiana, U.S.A. They named their hairless dog Josephine. The Scotts bred Josephine and produced one hairless female in her first litter, but through the next several litters, the little terrier failed to whelp any more exhibiting the hairless trait. Finally, at the age of nine years, she crowned her attempts by having a litter with two hairless pups, one of each sex. These hairless pups where the foundation of a breeding program to produce and stabilize the breed. The Scotts worked under the guidance of their geneticist and veterinarian. They named their new breed American Hairless Terrier. These are not just freak dogs. They differ substantially from the hairless types of Asia and Africa in that no Powderpuff variety is needed to obtain hairless pups, as the hairlessness gene is not semi-lethal dominant but autosomal recessive. Furthermore, these dogs do not have absent premolars or any of the breeding complications associated with the hairless breeds. For these traits, the Scott’s nude puppy and its progeny are truly remarkable and unique in the canine world. The Scotts are still working on establishing this breed. They are working toward keeping the temperament of the Rat Terrier while still maintaining the hairless trait.

Group

Terrier

Recognition

UKC, NKC, AHTF, AHRTC, CKC, APRI, ACR, DRA
The AHRTC is licensed by United Kennel Club . The breed is now recognized with UKC as a rat terrier/ hairless variety but will become a separate breed with UKC on Jan 1, 2004. The AHRTC will be then known as the AHTA, American Hairless Terrrier Association and the Provisional Parent Club for this breed with UKC.

Pug small dog breed

The Pug is a small breed of dog with a wrinkly, short muzzled face, and curled tail. The word “pug” may have come from the Old English pugg or “puge”, which were affectionate terms for a playful little devil or monkey.  Pug puppies are often called puglets. The breed is often summarized as multum in parvo (“much in little”), describing the Pug’s remarkable personality despite its small size.

Description

While most Pugs appearing in eighteenth century prints tended to be long and lean, modern breed preferences are for a square, cobby body, a compact form, a deep chest, and well-developed muscle. Breeding preference goes to “button” Pugs. The legs are very strong, straight, of moderate length, and are set well under. The shoulders are moderately laid back. The pasterns are strong, neither steep nor down. The feet are neither so long as the foot of the hare, nor so round as that of the cat; well split-up toes, and the nails black. The lower teeth normally protrude further than their upper, meeting in an under-bite.

Coat and color

Their fine, glossy coats can be fawn, apricot, silver or black. A silver coat is characterized by a very light coloured coat, absent of black guard hairs. Some breeders call “smutty” Pugs silver. A “smutty” Pug typically has a very dark head, with no clear delineation at the mask, and dark forelegs. The markings are clearly defined. The trace is a black line extending from the occiput to the tail. The tail normally curls tightly over the hip.
Pugs of different coat types shed to varying degrees, but they all shed quite a bit year round. Fawn Pugs, which have both an undercoat and an overcoat, are the most notorious for shedding.Regular coat grooming can keep the shedding down.

Temperament

Strong willed, but rarely aggressive, the Pug is suitable for families with children. Pugs are tolerant of children, and sturdy enough to properly play with them. Otherwise they can be quiet and docile, but also vivacious and teasing, depending on their owner’s mood. They can make good watchdogs, and they are always alert, but not yappy.

History

Origins

Bred to adorn the laps of the Chinese sovereigns during the Shang dynasty (before 400 BCE), in East China, they were known as “Lo-Chiang-Sze” or “Foo” (ceramic foos, transmogrified into dragon, with their bulging eyes are very Pug-like). The Pug’s popularity spread to Tibet, where they were mainly kept by monks, and then went onto Japan, and finally Europe.
This breed may also be referred to as a “Lion Dog” or “Foo (or Fu) Dog” due to its resemblance to Chinese guardian lions just like the Pekingese dog breed from China of similar origin and resemblance to Chinese guardian lions which are considered a guardian spirit.

Sixteenth and seventeenth centuries

The breed was first imported in the late 16th and 17th centuries by merchants and crews from the Dutch East Indies Trading Company. The Pug later became the official dog of the House of Orange.[4] In 1572, a Pug named Pompey saved the Prince of Orange’s life by barking at an assassin. A Pug also traveled with William III and Mary II when they left the Netherlands to ascend to the throne of England in 1688. During this period the Pug may have been bred with the old type King Charles Spaniel, but in any event the modern English Toy/King Charles Spaniel emerged with Pug characteristics.
This century also saw Pugs’ popularity on the rise in other European countries. In Spain, they were painted by Goya, in Italy Pugs dressed in matching jackets and pantaloons sat by the coachmen of the rich, and in Germany and France. Pugs appear several times as footnotes to history. Sometimes, they were used for scent hounds. They were used by the military to track animals or people, and were also employed as the guard’s dogs.

Eighteenth and nineteenth centuries

The popularity of the Pug continued to spread in France during the eighteenth century. Before her marriage to Napoleon Bonaparte, Joséphine had her Pug, Fortune, carry concealed messages to her family while she was confined at Les Carmes prison. The pet was the only recipient of visiting rights.
The English painter William Hogarth owned a series of Pugs, to which he was devoted. In 1745 he painted his self-portrait together with that of his Pug, Trump, now in the Tate Gallery, London.
In nineteenth century England, Pugs flourished under the patronage of the monarch Queen Victoria.Her many Pugs, which she bred herself, included Olga, Pedro, Minka, Fatima and Venus. Her involvement with the dogs in general helped to establish the Kennel Club, which was formed in 1873. Victoria favoured apricot and fawn Pugs, whereas the aristocrat Lady Brassey is credited with making black Pugs fashionable after she brought some back from China in 1886.
The Pug arrived in the United States during the nineteenth century(the American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1885) and was soon making its way into the family home and show ring. In 1981 the Pug Dhandys Favorite Woodchuck won the Westminster Kennel Club show in the United States, the only Pug to have won since the show began in 1877. The World Champion (Best in Show or BIS) at the 2004 World Dog Show held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil was a Pug, Double D Cinoblu’s Masterpiece.

Health problems

Since Pugs lack longer snouts and prominent skeletal brow ridges, they are susceptible to eye injuries such as puncture wounds and scratched corneas and painful Entropion. Pugs also have compact breathing passageways, leaving many pugs unable to breathe properly or efficiently or their ability to regulate their temperature through evaporation from the tongue. A pug’s normal body temperature is between 101 °F (38 °C) and 102 °F (39 °C). If the temperature rises to 105 °F (41 °C) they are no longer able to cope with cooling themselves and their oxygen demand is greatly increased, and requires cooling down immediately. Should the temperature reach 108 °F (42 °C), the internal organs begin to break down at a cellular level which can lead to severe long term health issues or even death.
Pugs living a mostly sedentary life can be prone to obesity, though this is avoidable with regular exercise and a healthy diet.
An investigative documentary carried out by the BBC found significant inbreeding between pedigree dogs, with a study by Imperial College, London, showing that the 10,000 pugs in the UK are so inbred that their gene pool is the equivalent of only 50 individuals

Serious issues

Pugs can also suffer from a chronic form of granulomatous meningoencephalitis (an inflammation of the brain) specific to the breed called pug dog encephalitis (PDE). There is no known cause or cure for PDE, although it is believed to be an inherited disease. All dogs usually die or are euthanised within a few months after the onset of clinical signs, which usually occur anywhere from 6 months to 3 years of age.
Pugs, along with other brachycephalic dogs (e.g., boxers, bulldogs), are also prone to hemivertebrae.The screwtail is an example of a hemivertebrae, but when it occurs in other areas of the spine it can be devastating, causing such severe paralysis that euthanasia is a serious recommendation. The condition occurs when two parts of the spinal vertebrae do not fuse properly whilst a young Pug is still growing, resulting in pressure being placed on the spine.

Common conditions

As Pugs have many wrinkles in their faces, owners normally take special care to clean inside the creases, as irritation and infection can result from improper care.
The Pug, like other short-snouted breeds, has an elongated palate. When excited, they are prone to a “reverse sneeze” where the dog will quickly, and seemingly laboriously, gasp and snort. The veterinary name for this is Pharyngeal Gag Reflex. This is caused by fluid or debris getting caught under the palate and irritating the throat or limiting breathing. “Reverse sneezing” episodes are not harmful to the Pug, and can usually be resolved by lifting the dog’s head and blowing a short, strong breath into the dog’s nose which can clear the fluid/debris from the palate.
Pugs are one of several breeds that are more susceptible to Demodectic mange, also known as Demodex. This condition is caused by a weakened immune system, and it is a minor problem for many young Pugs. This causes pugs to catch diseases much more easily than regular dogs do. It is easily treatable although some Pugs are especially susceptible and will present with a systemic form of the condition. This vulnerability is thought to be genetic, and breeders avoid breeding dogs who have had this condition. Inbreeding is also a known cause for these problems.

Pugs in media and culture

Pugs have been featured on television and film, including Frank the Pug in Men in Black film, its sequel, and its animated series. Other films featuring the Pug breed include The Adventures of Milo and Otis, Disney’s Pocahontas, 12 Rounds and the 2006 film Marie Antoinette. On television, Pugs have appeared in shows such as The King of Queens, Spin City, Legend of the Dragon, The West Wing and the British soap opera Eastenders.
Pugs have also appeared in a variety of fictional print media, including the hypnotic Petula in the Molly Moon series, Lady Bertram’s Pug in Mansfield Park and in the book Pugs: God’s Little Weirdos, a spin off from the Sheldon web comic. They also featured in Nintendogs for the Nintendo DS handheld video game console and a “Perky Pug” pet can be accessed in Blizzard Entertainment’s World of Warcraft.
Celebrity Pug owners include footballer Zlatan Ibrahimovic, actor Gerard Butler, actress Jenna Elfman and musician Rob Zombie.
In a May 23, 2007, web issue of The Onion, pugs were lampooned in a fake news article titled Dog Breeders Issue Massive Recall Of ’07 Pugs. The piece satirized pugs and pug breeders by speaking of the dog and its characteristics as a faulty product, “evidenced” by a fictional quote from the American Pug Breeders Association director, “While pug owners are accustomed to dog malfunction, the latest animals are prone to more problems than just the usual joint failures, overheating, seizures, chronic respiratory defects, and inability to breed without assistance. The latest model Pug is simply not in any way a viable dog.”

Breed Selector

French Bulldog small dog breed

The French Bulldog is a small companion breed of dog. The name suggests that France is the country of origin, but, in fact, the Americans and British may have played a larger role in the breed’s development. The dogs are commonly called the Frenchie and are nicknamed “clowns” and frog dogs.

History and origin

While theories abound about the origin of the French Bulldog, the most popular is that lace workers from England in the mid-1800s brought smallish English Bulldogs with them, when they sought work in northern France. The little bulldogs became very popular as ratters and loyal companions. Soon, their numbers swelled. Meanwhile, breeders in England seized on the opportunity to sell undersized specimens of an old breed to fanciers as a “new” breed, including the “tulip” eared puppies, which cropped up at times in bulldog litters. French bulldogs were originally bred as ratters, but are now bred as lap dogs and companions.

The magazine “Country Life”, in the 29 April 1899 takes up the story: “Some five-and-thirty years ago in fact, [i.e. about 1865], the small-sized or light-weight Bulldog was common in this country; so much so that dogs of the breed that scaled over 28 lbs were not encouraged at such shows as Birmingham, which was at that period the most important exhibition of its kind in England. Then by some freak of fashion the Toy Bulldog became all the rage in Paris, with the result that the celebrated Bill George, of Canine Castle, Kensal New Town, the most eminent dog dealer of his or any other day, received carte blanche commissions from French customers to procure them light-weight Bulldogs, and by this means England was denuded of all the best specimens”.

As the new, smaller bulldogs gained popularity in France, they became favorites of the Parisian “Belles De Nuit” – the street walkers. One reason for this is that when strolled, the exotic looking dogs brought attention to their owner, and gave potential customers a legitimate reason to chat with her. Another is that the docile breed was content to nap for short stretches when brought to hotel rooms, without making a fuss. Breed historians can still sometimes turn up notorious “French Postcards” bearing images of scantily clad French prostitutes posing with their little “Bouledogues Français”. The aura of notoriety that ownership of the little dogs conveyed made them a fashionable way for the well-to-do classes to show off how daring they could be, and they soon became favorites of the “artistic” set across Europe.

Photos dating to around this time show the Russian royal family posing alongside their French bulldogs, and they imported several of the little dogs from France. Other famous fanciers included Toulouse-Lautrec, the author Colette and King Edward VII. A French bulldog, insured for the, at that time, astronomical sum of $ 750, was on board the ill-fated Titanic.

It is inarguable that without the influence of dedicated, turn-of-the-century American fanciers the breed would not be what it is today. It is they that organized the very first French bulldog club in the world, and it was they who insisted that the “bat” ear so associated with the breed today was correct. Until that time, French bulldogs were shown with either the “bat” or “rose” ear.

All in all, French bulldogs are an international breed, with breeders of many nations being responsible for the creation of the dogs we know today.

Physical description

French bulldogs are a compact companion dog, active but not sporty, muscular dog with a smooth coat, snub nose and solid bone structure. Their physical appearance is characterized by naturally occurring ‘bat ears’ that are wide at the base and rounded at the top. Their tails are naturally short, not cropped, straight or screwed but not curly.

Under the American Kennel Club and Canadian Kennel Club standards, weight is not to exceed 28 pounds (13 kg). In general, “Frenchies” range in weight between 20 and 28 pounds. The FCI does not set a hard and fast weight limit, simply stating ‘The weight must not be below 8 kg nor over 14 kg for a bulldog in good condition, size being in proportion with the weight’.

Coat and colors in French Bulldogs

French bulldogs come in a variety of colors and coat patterns.

The FCI standard for French Bulldogs is shown at www.fci.be/nomenclature.aspx, and the standard is disqualifying the colours brown, black and tan, mouse grey

Here is what the American Kennel Club|AKC standard has to say about color:

“Acceptable colors – All brindle, fawn, white, brindle and white, and any color except those which constitute disqualification. All colors are acceptable with the exception of solid black, mouse, liver, black and tan, black and white, and white with black, which are disqualifications. Black means black without a trace of brindle.”

But for both FCI and US:

In its most simple forms, French bulldog coat color can be simply be described as the original pied, brindle or fawn, with a variety of possible marking patterns. The differences in appearance are all due to variants in marking patterns, which range from brindle to pied and to fawn.

Examples shown from the American Kennel Club:

Here are a few examples of common – and not so common – coat patterns and colors within French Bulldogs. All terms should be taken subjectively, as there is a great deal of difference of opinion within the Frenchie community as to which term defines which color.

Black brindle – also known as seal brindle – so dark it may appear black, but closer inspection will reveal at least a few lighter colored hairs.

This color pattern is sometimes referred to as reverse brindle in Frenchies. It refers to the fact that fawn is more predominant than the black brindling.Also frenchbull dogs have very stiff, tall and pointy ears

Tiger brindle is a term reserved for dogs with a coat pattern comprising a fairly regular pattern of alternating fawn and black stripes, similar in appearance to the coat of a tiger.

Pale cream French Bulldog. Creams can range in hue from deep amber to rich butterscotch to palest gold. This color is generally considered to be a dilution of fawn, minus the masking gene.

This color and pattern are referred to as black masked fawn. The base color of the coat can vary in shade from red to tan. The mask refers to the marking pattern on the face.

This color and pattern are referred to as black masked RED fawn, due to the rich red hues of the fawn base coat. We have seen fawns in all shades, from brick red to honey to lemon yellow.

This pattern is referred to as brindle pied. Brindled areas – areas where fawn is overlaid with black striping – are interspersed with areas of white coat. Markings can be slight, or predominant.

 Ticked Pied. Dog has obvious freckled markings among the white areas of the body. Only The Kennel Club (UK) standard specifies ‘ticking’ as a DQ, but this pattern still tends to be heavily penalized in show rings everywhere.

Red fawn pied French Bulldogs. Paler versions are sometimes referred to as fawn pied, lemon pied or honey pied.

This color can be referred to as either liver or brown – each is a disqualification within the AKC or FCI breed standards. Dog has NO brindling, and is a uniform reddish – brown, with self pigmented lips, nose, pads,etc. Eyes have a yellowish hue.

This is referred to as blue, or blue brindle. Brindle markings on this dog have a “grey” hue, and base coat color is a solid blue-grey.

A Blue Pied French Bulldog. “Blue” Frenchies are a result of the ‘d’ or dilute gene. In this form, the dilute factor has caused the black hairs to become blue. Pigment on nose and pads is also a greyish blue in color, and eyes are often blue or yellowish gold.

Blue-Fawn A variation of blue, with coloring being seen most clearly in the masking points on the face. Typically they have green/grey eyes. It is said that they are usually produced by a fawn or red fawn parent.

Temperament

The French Bulldog is a gentle breed that typically has a happy-go-lucky attitude. Like many other companion dog breeds they require close contact with humans. They have fairly minimal exercise needs, but do require at least daily walks. Their calm nature makes them excellent choices for apartment dwellers, as does their usually sensible attitude towards barking. As a flat faced breed, it is essential that owners understand that French Bulldogs cannot live outdoors. Their bulk and their compromised breathing system makes it impossible for them to regulate their temperature efficiently. In addition, Frenchies are top heavy and therefore have a difficult time swimming. Precautions must be taken when exercising a Frenchie during hot or humid weather, as well.

French Bulldogs can play too roughly for some smaller children, and should be monitored at all times during play. As well, children should be cautioned not to pick French Bulldogs up, as the dogs’ small size can mask how heavy they are.

French Bulldogs are essentially a bull and terrier breed, and as such, it is not surprising to learn that canine aggression can sometimes occur. Generally, this takes the form of same sex aggression, with the bitches being the most culpable in this respect. Owners considering adding a second dog to their household are usually cautioned to choose one of the opposite sex. Spaying or neutering can do much to curb aggressive tendencies before they begin. The French Bulldog energy level can range from hyperactive and energetic to relaxed and laid back.

Health

There are several congenital diseases and conditions to which French bulldogs are susceptible, although they are still considered among the healthiest of the bull breeds. Frenchies can suffer from Von Willebrand’s disease (VWD), a bleeding disorder that is also found in humans and is similar to hemophilia, which can impede their clotting. In conjunction to this, French bulldogs may also suffer from thyroid condition. Many breeders follow a program of testing younger dogs for VWD, and only testing for thyroid at that time if the VWD factor is low. In this program, the breeder tests thyroid again just prior to using the dog for breeding. Other breeders test both VWD and thyroid at the same time.

French bulldogs suffer from Brachycephalic syndrome, which is what creates the flat faced appearance of the Frenchie. As a result, one of the most common defects in French bulldogs is elongated soft palate or cleft palate. Puppies affected with Cleft palate are generally put down at birth, as it is generally considered to be an almost impossible condition to correct. Elongated soft palate can manifest as anything from a mild condition causing labored breathing to severe condition that can cause the affected dog to pass out from moderate exercise.

Frenchies may also have a tendency towards eye issues. Cherry eye, or everted third eyelid, has been known to occur, although it is more common in (English) bulldogs and pug dogs. Glaucoma, retinal fold dysplasia, corneal ulcers and juvenile cataracts are also conditions which have been known to afflict French bulldogs. Screening of prospective breeding candidates through CERF – the Canine Eye Registration Foundation – can help to eliminate instances of these diseases in offpsring. The skin folds under the eyes of the French bulldog must be cleaned regularly and kept dry in order to avoid fold infections. In extremely severe cases of persistent fold infections, some veterinarians have performed fold removal surgeries.

French bulldogs can also suffer from a condition called megaesophagus, a term which collectively describes several esophageal disorders and malformations in any combination from single-to-double or multiple. One of the more serious complications in a dog affected with megaesophagus is passive regurgitation, in which the affected dog vomits up food or phlegm after eating or exercise. Passive regurgitation can frequently result in aspiration pneumonia.

Another result of the compacted airway of the French bulldog is their inability to effectively regulate temperature. While a regular canine may suffer to some degree from the heat, to a Frenchie it may be lethal. It is imperative that they be protected from temperature extremes at all times, and that they always have access to fresh water and shade.

French bulldogs can also suffer from an assortment of back and spinal diseases, most of which are probably related to the fact that they were selectively chosen from the dwarf examples of the bulldog breed. This condition is also referred to as chondrodysplasia. Some breeders feel that only dogs that have been x-rayed and checked for spinal anomalies should be bred from, but this is a difficult position to take sides on. While it is true that no dog affected with a spinal disease should be bred from , there is a great deal of variance in the appearance of a French Bulldog’s spine as compared to, for example, a labrador retriever. If possible, such decisions should be left to either a veterinarian or breeder who has seen quite a few bulldog breed spinal x-rays, to avoid eliminating dogs unnecessarily.

French bulldogs frequently require caesarean section to give birth. As well, many French bulldog stud dogs are incapable of naturally breeding, requiring breeders to undertake artificial insemination of bitches (female dogs). French bitches can also suffer from erratic or ‘silent’ heats, which may be a side effect of thyroid disease or impaired thyroid function.

Thyroid disease may also be responsible for some of the skin conditions which afflict some Frenchies. Skin allergies, obsessive foot licking, and interdigital cysts have been known to affect some French Bulldogs.

In Popular Culture

  * In many of the Alex Delaware novels by Jonathan Kellerman, Alex and Robin own a male French bulldog named “Spike” and in latter novels a female French bulldog named “Blanche”.

    * Incubus (band) singer Brandon Boyd owns a French bulldog named Bruce, which appears in the band’s video for their song, Anna Molly.

    * In the first season of Californication Hank gives his daughter Becca a French bulldog.

    * In The Hangover (film) Mike Tyson is seen holding a French bulldog puppy.

    * In Garden State (film) Andrew observes a French bulldog masturbating at Sam’s house.

    * Martha Stewart owns several French bulldogs.

    * Reese Witherspoon owns a French bulldog named Coco Chanel.

    * The celebrated elBulli  outside Roses, Spain, which has been called “the best restaurant in the world”, was named after a slang term for the French bulldogs owned by the original proprietors, Hans and Marketta Schilling.

    * In Transformers II, “Frankie” is the new family pet – a French bulldog.

    * In Just Married Brittany Murphy’s character owned a French bulldog that acidentaly got killed by Ashton Kutcher’s character.

    * American Author Augusten Burroughs owns two French bulldogs that he often writes about in his memoirs.

    * Nat and Alex Wolff of the Naked Brothers Band (nick) own a White and Black French Bulldog called ET.

    * Lizzie Sheridan the Guitar Player of the Band Purple Sky Owns a Black and White French Bulldog called Muffin.

American Eskimo Dog small dog breed

The American Eskimo Dog is a small to medium sized breed of dogs of the Spitz type, originating in Germany, and is one of the most ancient of the dog families, dating back almost 6,000 years. Originally the Standard German Spitz. Its closest relatives are the other German spitzes such as the Pomeranian. The American Eskimo Dog is a house dog, companion, and watch dog.

Appearance

The Eskie is built along classic Nordic lines, a form that has proved effective at pulling heavy loads through snow and ice. It is compactly built, slightly longer than tall. The stand-off, double coat resists soaking and provides insulation against the cold. The small thick ears are also cold-resistant. The breed’s smaller size has moved it from the realm of sled dog, but it remains a sled dog in miniature. The American Eskimo Dog stands furry with erect ears and a long tail curling over its back.
There are 3 separate size divisions in the American Eskimo Dog breed recognized by the American Kennel Club and the Canadian Kennel Club.
    * Toy, 9–12 in (23–30 cm) at the withers
    * Miniature, 12–15 in (30–38 cm) (most popular)
    * Standard, 15–19 in (38–48 cm)
Dogs over 19 inches or under 9 inches are disqualified at breed shows in the US and Canada, in order to discourage the breeding of oversize or excessively small dogs. The United Kennel Club in the US does not recognize the Toy variety.

History

The American Eskimo Dog “is a modern variation of a very ancient family of dogs.” Spitz type dogs developed in Arctic and northern areas of the world, with the larger types being used as sled dogs.But the Eskie was specifically bred to guard people and property and, therefore, is territorial by nature and an excellent watch dog. He is very loyal to his family and is known for being gentle and playful with children. He is energetic, alert and highly intelligent. In Northern Europe, smaller Spitz were kept primarily as pets and watchdogs, and eventually were developed into the various German Spitz breeds. European immigrants brought their Spitz pets with them to the United States, especially New York, in the early 1900s, “all of them descended from the larger German Spitz, the Keeshond, the white Pomeranian, and the Italian Spitz, the Volpino Italiano.”
Although white was not always a recognized color in the various German Spitz breeds, it was generally the preferred color in the US. In a display of patriotism in the era around World War I, dog owners began referring to their pets as American Spitz rather than German Spitz. This name change was similar to the use in the United States of the term Freedom fries rather than French fries to refer to a popular potato dish during disputes between France and the United States before the 2003 invasion of Iraq.

After World War I, the small Spitz dogs came to the attention of the American public when the dogs became popular entertainers in the American circus. In 1917, the Cooper Brother’s Railroad Circus featured the dogs. A dog named Stout’s Pal Pierre was famous for walking a tightrope with the Barnum and Bailey Circus in the 1930s. Due to the popularity of the circus dogs, many of today’s American Eskimo Dogs can trace their lineage back to these circus dogs.
After World War II, the dogs continued to be popular pets. Postwar contact with Japan led to importation into the United States of the Japanese Spitz, which may have been crossed into the breed at this time. The breed was first officially recognized as the “American Eskimo” as early as 1919 by the American United Kennel Club (UKC), and the first written record and history of the breed was printed in 1958 by the UKC.[9] At that time there was no official breed club and no breed standard, and dogs were accepted for registration as single dogs, based on appearance. In 1970 the National American Eskimo Dog Association (NAEDA) was founded, and single dog registrations ceased.

 In 1985 the American Eskimo Dog Club of America (AEDCA) was formed by fanciers who wished to register the breed with the American Kennel Club (AKC). Following the AKC’s requirements for breed recognition, the AEDCA collected the pedigree information from 1,750 dogs that now form the basis of the AKC recognized breed, which is called the American Eskimo Dog. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1995. The stud book was opened from 2000 to 2003 in an attempt to register more of the original UKC registered lines, and today many American Eskimo Dogs are dual-registered with both American kennel clubs. The breed is also recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club as of 2006, but is not recognized elsewhere in the world.
The American Eskimo Dog is not an internationally recognized breed, and since neither of the American kennel clubs are affiliated with the Fédération Cynologique Internationale, fanciers wishing to participate in international dog shows will register their American Eskimo Dogs as the very similar German Spitz. This is done only by individuals wishing to participate in dog sports in international shows, and does not mean that the American Eskimo Dog and the German Spitz are the same. The breeds may have the same general origins, but have developed differently over the past 100 years.

Health

Health testing should be performed by all responsible breeders and anyone purchasing a puppy should be aware of the genetic problems which have been found in some individuals of the breed, such as PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), luxating patella, and hip dysplasia. None of these are common and the breed is generally healthy.
In addition to the problems above, the breed can have a tendency towards allergies and tear-staining, and the propensity towards these traits is inherited.

Temperament

American Eskimo Dogs along with other Spitz were bred to be house dogs and companion dogs, and thrive on being a part of a human family. The Eskie is highly intelligent, eager to please, very active, has lots of energy, and moderately independent. At home, these lively dogs make excellent watchdogs, barking to announce the presence of strangers. The Eskie can be protective of its home and family, but in general they will not threaten to attack or bite a person unless provoked. As with all dogs, behavior is partially inherited and partially trained. Some dogs are prone to excessive barking and separation anxiety. It is important for puppy buyers to research pedigrees as temperament may vary due to inheritance.

Grooming and training

Eskie’s double coat needs brushing and combing twice weekly, more often when their biannual shedding occurs. An undercoat rake, a tool available at most pet stores, is useful for brushing out the heavy undercoat. Some owners in hot climates do shave their Eskies, but if this is done, the dogs should be kept indoors as much as possible to prevent sunburn. The breed’s shedding, along with its active temperament, results in some dogs being taken to animal shelters or otherwise put up for adoption. Owners should contact breed-specific rescue groups that will give advice on grooming, training or curbing behavioral issues.
American Eskimo Dogs are very energetic and require daily exercise, the extent of the workout depending on the size of the dog. Owners can avoid problems by socializing their Eskie through obedience training or participating in dog sports, such as dog agility, flyball, and dancing.