Saturday, February 28, 2015

Dogs' Personality Traits Vary Amongst Historic Menstruum (And Dogs Tend To Endure Similar Their Owners)

Dogs are most trainable during middle age, in addition to at that spot are or thus fascinating links betwixt the personality of dogs in addition to their owners, inquiry shows.

Dogs are most trainable during middle historic catamenia Dogs' Personality Traits Vary With Age (and Dogs Tend to Be Like Their Owners)
Photo: dezy/Shutterstock


By Zazie Todd, PhD

Do you lot always hollo back much virtually the unlike personalities of dogs? New inquiry looks at the personality profiles of dogs (and their owners) in addition to finds that domestic dog personality seems to alter with age.

As well, the owner’s personality is linked to the dog’s personality. The study, past times medico William Chopik in addition to medico Jonathan Weaver (both Michigan State University) is published inwards Journal of Research in addition to Personality.

The results demonstrate that or thus personality traits are to a greater extent than pronounced inwards dogs inwards middle historic catamenia (6-8 years).

This was the illustration for responsiveness to training, which peaked at historic catamenia 7.44. Younger dogs were rated equally less responsive to training, in addition to older dogs were non much unlike from middle-aged ones. As well, dogs scored higher on this trait if they were trained past times their owners.


Aggression towards people was lower inwards immature dogs, but peaked betwixt half dozen in addition to vii years (age 6.69) in addition to and thus remained steady. Aggression towards people was lower inwards woman someone dogs, dogs that had been spayed/neutered, in addition to purebred dogs.

Older dogs are less aggressive towards other animals. Aggression towards other animals peaked betwixt vii in addition to 8 years (age 7.74) in addition to and thus began to spend upwards with increasing age. This trait was lowest alongside dogs that had been spayed/neutered in addition to that are purebred.

As you lot mightiness expect, immature dogs tended to endure to a greater extent than active in addition to excitable. Dogs who had been to obedience degree and/or were trained past times their possessor were to a greater extent than probable to endure active in addition to excitable.

There was no termination of historic catamenia on fearfulness, which could touching on dogs of whatever age. Dogs that had been to obedience class, were spayed/neutered, in addition to were purebred, were less probable to endure fearful.

Not surprisingly, when the researchers looked at whether or non the dogs had bitten a person, this was to a greater extent than probable inwards dogs that were rated equally aggressive towards people. It was to a greater extent than probable inwards dogs that had been trained past times the owner, which may endure surprising but perchance agency the possessor tried to develop the domestic dog next the seize with teeth (this is non clear from the data). Older dogs in addition to manly someone dogs were equally good to a greater extent than probable to convey bitten someone.

The results for aggression are interesting because before inquiry has shown that aggression towards people in addition to aggression towards animals are distinct. In other words, a domestic dog that is aggressive towards other dogs is non necessarily aggressive towards people in addition to vice versa. The novel study did non distinguish betwixt aggression towards solid unit of measurement members in addition to aggression towards strangers.

As well, the finding that or thus personality traits vary with historic catamenia is inwards job with a previous study that suggests at that spot is a developmental onslaught to or thus direct problems inwards dogs, at to the lowest degree inwards Guide dogs.

The novel study equally good compared the personality traits of owners with the personality traits of the dogs. Of course of study the Big 5 personality traits for people create non just tally with the 5 personality traits for dogs. However, at that spot were or thus similarities.

The scientists write,
“Some of the most intriguing results constitute were instances of personality “compatibility” betwixt owners in addition to their dogs. For example, extraverts rated their dogs equally to a greater extent than active/excitable; conscientious owners rated their dogs equally to a greater extent than responsive to training; agreeable owners rated their dogs equally less aggressive; neurotic owners rated their dogs equally to a greater extent than fearful.”

Earlier inquiry has equally good constitute a link betwixt the personality of dogs in addition to of their owners. One study published terminal twelvemonth had broadly similar results for personality; it equally good constitute that choice of domestic dog grooming methods does non mediate the link betwixt domestic dog in addition to possessor personality, but that at that spot is a link betwixt depression inwards men in addition to the likelihood of using aversive methods.

Finally, the scientists constitute that reports of a ameliorate character human relationship were linked to people who scored highly on agreeableness, in addition to equally good higher for women than for men. Canine characteristics associated with a ameliorate human relationship character were beingness to a greater extent than responsive to training, to a greater extent than active in addition to excitable, in addition to equally good if the domestic dog was older.

As with other such research, this novel study is simply a snapshot inwards fourth dimension in addition to thus it does non say us whether people are choosing dogs with personalities similar to theirs, or if, past times sharing their lives together, dogs operate to a greater extent than similar their people.

1,681 people completed a questionnaire that included the Big 5 personality questionnaire for themselves equally good equally ratings of their dog’s personality. As well, they were asked virtually the dog’s health, whether the domestic dog had always bitten someone, in addition to their human relationship with the dog.

Dogs aged 1.5 weeks to sixteen years were included inwards the study, in addition to virtually one-half of them were purebred.

The results of this study are fascinating, in addition to it would endure prissy to run across or thus longitudinal inquiry to follow this up.

The scientists write that inwards future, they would endure interested to aspect at how unlike grooming experiences touching on canine personality traits.

What sort of personality does your domestic dog have?

If you lot dearest , subscribe past times email, support me on Ko-fi, or check out my Amazon store.

This page contains affiliate links.

Zazie Todd, PhD, is the writer of Wag: The Science of Making Your Dog HappyDogs are most trainable during middle historic catamenia Dogs' Personality Traits Vary With Age (and Dogs Tend to Be Like Their Owners). She is the founder of the pop weblog , where she writes virtually everything from grooming methods to the human-canine relationship. She equally good writes a column for Psychology Today in addition to has received the prestigious Captain Haggerty Award for Best Training Article inwards 2017. Todd lives inwards Maple Ridge, BC, with her husband, 1 dog, in addition to 2 cats.

Useful links:

Reference
Chopik, W. J., & Weaver, J. R. (2019). Old dog, novel tricks: Age differences inwards domestic dog personality traits, associations with human personality traits, in addition to links to of import outcomes. Journal of Research inwards Personality, 79:94-108. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jrp.2019.01.005

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Friday, February 27, 2015

Word March 2019

Animal cruelty investigations, truthful cat music, domestic dog parks, in addition to interviews amongst dogs...the latest news.

the latest  intelligence  News March 2019



By Zazie Todd, PhD 

Favourites from only about the spider web this month:


If you’ve e'er tried to become a wriggly puppy into a harness, this shipping is for you. Book Club is reading Cat Sense: How the New Feline Science Can Make You a Better Friend to Your Petthe latest  intelligence  News March 2019 past times John Bradshaw.

the latest  intelligence  News March 2019


It’s a fascinating concern human relationship of the evolutionary history, biology, in addition to behavior of domestic cats.

You tin flame honour a listing of all the books inwards my Amazon store: https://www.amazon.com/shop/animalbookclub


Here at


I’m quoted inwards this shipping past times Marc Bekoff for Psychology Today on why some dogs similar to endure touched but others don’t.

I part a few tips on senior dogs inwards this Bustle article, 11 ways to stimulate got aid of your domestic dog every bit it gets older.

I’m quoted inwards this slice inwards past times Linda Lombardi inwards National Geographic, close some novel inquiry on Dogs’ personality traits vary amongst historic menstruum (and dogs tend to endure similar their owners).

I stimulate got a slice on cognitive aging inwards dogs inwards the Spring 2019 edition of West Coast Veterinarian.

This calendar month I published Kristi Benson’s thoughtful reflections on the ways inwards which domestic dog grooming is similar fiction. If you lot similar fiction, or domestic dog training, you’ll bask the read. It's a beautifully written piece. Into the middle of things: domestic dog grooming lessons from the best fiction.

I wrote close a written report on the effects of grooming cats to role their carrier when it comes to vet visits. Spoiler alert: truthful cat carrier grooming helps! Cats trained to role their carriers honour vet visits less stressful.

And I too wrote close the differences inwards lifespan betwixt dogs of normal weight in addition to those that are overweight. I was surprised at how large the departure is for some breeds; it’s sobering reading.

Most of all this calendar month I've been busy working on re-create edits for my majority Wag: The Science of Making Your Dog Happy. I can't expect to part to a greater extent than close it amongst you. Wag volition endure published inwards Feb 2020.



Pets inwards Art


This month’s motion-picture exhibit is an instance called Useful Domestic Dogs, which is inwards the Wellcome Collection. It shows a cur or cattle dog, a bull or beast dog, a fossil oil H2O dog, a Mastiff or guard dog, a Dalmatian or coach dog, a shepherds dog, a Newfoundland or family dog, in addition to a Terrier or vermin dog.

the latest  intelligence  News March 2019
Image credit: Wellcome Collection


The etching amongst watercolour is past times Thomas Kelly of London, in addition to the Wellcome Collection does non rank a engagement for it. However, I constitute an quondam listing on eBay that says it is from Buffon’s Natural History, published inwards London inwards 1860.

Zazie Todd, PhD, is the writer of Wag: The Science of Making Your Dog Happythe latest  intelligence  News March 2019. She is the founder of the pop weblog , where she writes close everything from grooming methods to the human-canine relationship. She too writes a column for Psychology Today in addition to has received the prestigious Captain Haggerty Award for Best Training Article inwards 2017. Todd lives inwards Maple Ridge, BC, amongst her husband, 1 dog, in addition to 2 cats.

Useful links:


As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. As an Etsy affiliate, I earn from qualifying Etsy purchases.

Thursday, February 26, 2015

Animal Lovers On The Books That Changed Their Lives

The books almost animals that had a profound number as well as fifty-fifty caused a alter of direction.

The books almost animals that had a profound number as well as fifty-fifty caused a alter of management Animal Lovers on the Books that Changed Their Lives


By Zazie Todd, PhD

This page contains affiliate links.

Sometimes books tin have got a surprising number on us.  The words mingle inwards our encephalon as well as brand some form of magic that percolates out into the existent world.

I was curious to know which books almost animals have got affected people, as well as so I seat out a telephone yell upwards quest people almost the animate existence volume that changed their life. These are their answers.


Dog Sense past times John Bradshaw


Emily Tronetti, MS, CPDT-KA, of Heal to Howl told me,

“In 2014, I was working equally a veterinarian receptionist as well as had my ain pet sitting as well as canine massage business. One day, at a bookstore, I constitute the volume Dog Sense: How the New Science of Dog Behavior Can Make You Influenza A virus subtype H5N1 Better Friend to Your PetThe books almost animals that had a profound number as well as fifty-fifty caused a alter of management Animal Lovers on the Books that Changed Their Lives by physician John Bradshaw.

This volume changed everything I idea I knew almost dogs. I was amazed past times the long as well as interconnected evolutionary history betwixt humans as well as dogs. I was fascinated past times how dogs perceive the world, their emotional lives as well as how these factors as well as to a greater extent than may impact our relationships alongside them. Dog Sense made me realize that I had so much to a greater extent than to larn almost this species nosotros percentage our lives with. I wanted to endure a improve domestic dog guardian as well as professional, as well as I hoped to percentage this cognition alongside others to assist them produce the same.

I noticed that physician Bradshaw was referred to equally an “anthrozoologist.” Inspired past times his book, I googled this to larn more. One of the foremost search results was the anthrozoology plan at Canisius College. Upon farther research, this plan seemed similar the perfect lucifer for me. I was accepted into the plan inwards 2015 as well as embarked on an incredible educational journeying that changed my career, how I sentiment as well as intend almost the the world as well as more! To this day, I’m deeply grateful for physician John Bradshaw as well as his book. I genuinely wouldn’t endure where I am today had I non read it!”

The books almost animals that had a profound number as well as fifty-fifty caused a alter of management Animal Lovers on the Books that Changed Their Lives



The Culture Clash past times Jean Donaldson


Two people told me almost the number reading The Culture Clash had on them.

Joan Hunter Mayer MBA, certified professional person domestic dog trainer at Inquisitive Canine as well as inventor of TransPaw Gear   told me,

“The yr was 2004. We had had our domestic dog Poncho for almost a year, working alongside a trainer who used both positive reinforcement as well as alpha rolling equally her go-to grooming approach. We were novel pet parents, as well as at the fourth dimension didn’t know almost using specific techniques. This trainer knew that both my hubby as well as myself were into science-based learning as well as suggested nosotros read a volume called The Culture ClashThe books almost animals that had a profound number as well as fifty-fifty caused a alter of management Animal Lovers on the Books that Changed Their Lives past times Jean Donaldson. I read the entire volume inwards 1 evening. Couldn’t seat it down! I constitute it ironic that this trainer would recommend the book, since it talks almost the adverse effects of punishment, but I’m thankful she did.

Not solely did this volume alter my life, but it changed Poncho’s as well as every other domestic dog I have got worked with. I ended upwards becoming a certified professional person domestic dog trainer, fifty-fifty attended Jean’s Academy for Dog Trainers. It’s condom to say this volume is my bible.”

The books almost animals that had a profound number as well as fifty-fifty caused a alter of management Animal Lovers on the Books that Changed Their Lives


Nickala Squire CTC, domestic dog trainer at Carefree Canine told me,

“All my life I knew I wanted to move alongside dogs equally a career but equally I began my domestic dog grooming journeying I didn’t know where to start. I was nether the mutual (mistaken) impression that domestic dog grooming was something y'all figure out on your own, that self-discovery as well as personal experiences were simply equally valid learning tools equally formal education. Most of my cognition therefore, came from TV, online forums as well as the local domestic dog trainer at the time. I couldn’t acquire plenty of it! When someone (now a friend) challenged my beliefs inwards those online forums as well as suggested that I may really endure causing my domestic dog emotional suffering, I was both distraught as well as intrigued. She pointed me to diverse resources including The Culture Clash. This was really my foremost sense reading anything evidence based almost domestic dog training. It was done so inwards a means nevertheless that was slowly to acquire hooked on, alongside humorous as well as intelligent analogies. The volume changed my entire life. Not solely did I realize that domestic dog grooming was a factual as well as measurable profession, it opened my eyes to the biases as well as false beliefs I had. If I had so easily as well as wholeheartedly been misled past times things I saw on TV, what else could I endure incorrect about?

I consider myself a compassionate skeptic, but I was non ever this way. I am forever grateful to that friend for leading me to The Culture Clash as well as to Jean Donaldson for writing it. My life would non have got been the same without it!”




Mustang, Wild Spirit of the West past times Marguerite Henry.


Allison Hunter-Frederick, Lincoln Pet Culture, said,

“There are a lot of recent books that have got impacted my choices inwards animate existence welfare, but if I were to pick simply 1 volume that changed my life it would have got to endure a classic. I read Mustang, Wild Spirit of the WestThe books almost animals that had a profound number as well as fifty-fifty caused a alter of management Animal Lovers on the Books that Changed Their Lives equally a child. It inspired my honey of horses. My hubby as well as I 1 time got to run into mustangs. When the rare chance rises, nosotros have got ridden horses. Mostly though, my admiration is from afar. Instead the ground why I listing Mustang, Wild Spirit of the West equally a volume that changed my life is that it showed me what an activist tin do. Wild Horse Annie helped halt the eradication of mustangs. I don't hold off to produce anything equally amazing equally her, but inwards my little corner of the the world I am doing what I tin to improve the the world for cats. Wild Horse Annie volition forever endure an inspiration to me.”

The books almost animals that had a profound number as well as fifty-fifty caused a alter of management Animal Lovers on the Books that Changed Their Lives




The Mammals of British Columbia past times Ian McTaggart Cowan as well as Charles J. Guiguet


Janice Holly Booth, the Anxious Advenurista, told me,

“The animate existence volume that changed my life is called The Mammals of British Columbia, past times Ian McTaggart Cowan as well as Charles J. Guiguet. First published inwards 1956 as well as loved past times me to this real day, it's a comprehensive listing of hooved, winged, as well as webbed animals that alive inwards the say where I was born. Even earlier I could read, I would pore over the volume as well as its beautiful dark as well as white illustrations past times Frank L. Beebe. Influenza A virus subtype H5N1 shrew diving inwards water, picayune bubbles coming from its nose; a heaven total of big-tailed bats; a Baird dolphin leaping from the ocean. Everything that could endure known almost the animate existence was inwards that book, including drawings of its skull, its footprint, its teeth. And when I learned to read, I memorized every exceptional almost every animal. The volume fired upwards my deep curiosity almost the animals living inwards the wilds around me, as well as encouraged me to facial expression for signs of them whenever I would bring a walk. Being able to position a footprint inwards the mud was ever a thrill. The volume was really the start of a lifelong adoration as well as deep honour for the natural world.

It also inspired me to move an artist, to pigment animals alongside the form of realism as well as life-force that Beebe had done inwards this book.

As I write this to you, I have got a re-create side past times side to me, from 1978. I silent have got the book, fifty-fifty though I no longer alive inwards British Columbia, or Canada for that matter. The volume - equally they say - is a keeper.”

The books almost animals that had a profound number as well as fifty-fifty caused a alter of management Animal Lovers on the Books that Changed Their Lives



Diet for a New America past times John Robbins


Dianna Bari, president of db Media, says, 

Diet for a New AmericaThe books almost animals that had a profound number as well as fifty-fifty caused a alter of management Animal Lovers on the Books that Changed Their Lives past times John Robbins changed my life 28 years ago. I had been on a path to vegetarianism equally a teenager. There were early on signs. For hotdog solar daytime at simple school, I would throw the wiener inwards the trash as well as simply consume the bun alongside the condiments. Ditto for hamburgers during menage unit of measurement barbeques. I would feed my truthful cat nether the tabular array the meat on my plate. I was reading a lot of literature almost how animals were treated past times human beings as well as it resonated alongside me at an early on age. I rescued birds, mice, rabbits as well as other animals equally a child. Neighbors would telephone yell upwards me if they constitute an injured bird. I stopped eating meat past times the fourth dimension I was xvi years erstwhile but what I silent ate were Chicken Sante Fe burgers at Wendy's.

I intend it was because the chicken was to a greater extent than disguised existence that it had a battered outer coating. Also, I intend chickens are given the to the lowest degree total of compassion, unfortunately. I was guilty of that - I idea of them equally ugly as well as stupid. But as well as then I read Diet for a New America - as well as I tell people the even silent to this day. I haven't read the volume inwards 28 years so I am simply going off of my retentivity as well as what resonated for me but the volume takes on every angle of why people should non consume animals - for the environment, moral reasons as well as our health. One chapter focused on a report that was existence done on hens. Researchers gave a hen duck eggs to sit down on as well as she sat on them - fifty-fifty though duck eggs are bigger than chicken eggs. They idea that mayhap the hen was likewise stupid to realize they were non her ain eggs. But when the ducks hatched, the hen took attention of them. Again, they idea she was likewise stupid to realize they were non her own.

Then something miraculous happened. Chickens don't move inwards H2O as well as don't similar it. But this hen knew the ducks she was taking attention of needed to larn how to swim so she led all of them to a nearby pond as well as nudged each of them inwards so they could larn how to swim. The solar daytime I read that was the solar daytime I gave upwards chicken as well as I was ashamed that I hadn't expanded my pity to chickens earlier reading that book. My life has ever been almost animals - I genuinely value them to a greater extent than than people as well as my life is almost protecting them-both inwards my professional person life inwards PR alongside clients similar Air Shepherd as well as inwards my personal life through domestic dog rescue. There were many factors as well as resources that opened my eyes along the means but that volume served equally a life-changing turning point.”

The books almost animals that had a profound number as well as fifty-fifty caused a alter of management Animal Lovers on the Books that Changed Their Lives



Animal Liberation past times Peter Singer


Jackie Johnston CTC CPDT-KA CSAT domestic dog trainer as well as deportment consultant at Believe inwards Your Dog

Animal LiberationThe books almost animals that had a profound number as well as fifty-fifty caused a alter of management Animal Lovers on the Books that Changed Their Lives past times Peter Singer. This volume was recommended past times my domestic dog grooming mentor, Jean Donaldson. I had already started a career inwards forcefulness costless domestic dog grooming but I had non considered the wellbeing of other species inwards a real long time. After reading this book, my diet as well as the means I looked at nutrient as well as every species of animate existence - non simply dogs - completely shifted. Influenza A virus subtype H5N1 favorite quote: '...pain is pain, as well as the importance of preventing unnecessary hurting as well as suffering does non diminish because the existence that suffers is non a fellow member of our species.'”

The books almost animals that had a profound number as well as fifty-fifty caused a alter of management Animal Lovers on the Books that Changed Their Lives



For to a greater extent than volume suggestions, banking concern check out the Animal Book Club or my Amazon store: https://www.amazon.com/shop/animalbookclub

Is in that place a volume almost animals (fiction, non-fiction, or poetry) that changed your life? If you’d similar your respond to endure considered for inclusion inwards a hereafter post on , electronic mail me on companimalpsych at gmail dot com. Be certain to seat ‘The animate existence volume that changed my life’ inwards the discipline line, as well as retrieve to include your mention as well as website (if y'all have got one). Thanks. Entries may endure discipline to modest re-create edits. I volition allow y'all know if your respond is chosen.

Join over 2,500 animate existence lovers as well as subscribe to .


Zazie Todd, PhD, is the writer of Wag: The Science of Making Your Dog HappyThe books almost animals that had a profound number as well as fifty-fifty caused a alter of management Animal Lovers on the Books that Changed Their Lives. She is the founder of the pop weblog , where she writes almost everything from grooming methods to the human-canine relationship. She also writes a column for Psychology Today as well as has received the prestigious Captain Haggerty Award for Best Training Article inwards 2017. Todd lives inwards Maple Ridge, BC, alongside her husband, 1 dog, as well as 2 cats.

Useful links:

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. As an Etsy affiliate, I earn from qualifying Etsy purchases.

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

Which Domestic Dog Breeds Are The Best Alternatives To The French Bulldog?

If yous dearest Frenchies but the wellness issues give yous pause, these are the dogs like  French bulldogs that yous mightiness similar too.

If yous dearest Frenchies but the wellness issues give yous intermission Which Dog Breeds Are the Best Alternatives to the French Bulldog?
French Bulldog. Photo: Irinia Kozorog/Shutterstock.

By Zazie Todd, PhD

In 2018, French bulldogs became the most pop breed of domestic dog inward the UK, overtaking the Labrador retriever, which had the number 1 spot for almost xxx years. French bulldogs are also inward the hand 10 domestic dog breeds in the US (no. 4), Canada (no. 5),  together with Australia (no. 3).

French bulldogs are lovely dogs but unfortunately they tin endure from a number of inherited conditions, which tin endure pitiable for the domestic dog together with heart-breaking for the owner.  Because they have got a squashed face, they are at run a hazard of Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome, tin have got problem breathing, endure reluctant to exercise, together with may overheat inward hot weather.

Veterinarian Shaun Oppermann recently told The Guardian,
"We tend to say: ‘Oh, it’s a French bulldog – it’s normal for them to breathe similar that. But if your kid sounded similar that afterwards a walk inward the park, you’d have got him direct downward to A&E [the emergency department].”
As well, some French bulldogs have got ear problems; optic issues; pare issues; or deformities of the spine every bit a number of the genes that stimulate a screw tail.

If you’re thinking of getting a French bulldog but are concerned virtually their health, hither are some suggestions for other breeds that mightiness tally the bill, together with some tips if yous create upwardly one's hear entirely a French bulldog volition do.


People who acquire French bulldogs are ofttimes offset fourth dimension domestic dog owners who select the breed because of its distinctive appearance together with personality.

I reached out to some experts to inquire which breed they would recommend every bit an choice to someone thinking virtually a French bulldog. In other words, breeds that are suitable for offset fourth dimension domestic dog owners, goodness amongst families, suitable for aeroplane living, don’t postulate every bit good much exercise, together with have got a peachy personality.


Choosing the breed isn’t the most of import thing


Although breed is the thing most people think virtually when getting a dog, other considerations are to a greater extent than important, such every bit whether it’s the correct fourth dimension for yous to acquire a dog.

Veterinarian Dr. Emma Milne, writer of Picking a Pedigree: How to Choose a Healthy Puppy or KittenIf yous dearest Frenchies but the wellness issues give yous intermission Which Dog Breeds Are the Best Alternatives to the French Bulldog?, says,
“My advice for offset fourth dimension domestic dog owners would endure to totally forget virtually whatever breed they think they want! Every unmarried prospective domestic dog possessor should move for a minimum of one-half an hour’s walk twice a twenty-four hours every unmarried day for a calendar month regardless of weather. Millions of dogs acquire no practice together with this line is harder than yous think. Research is key. Talk to a vet, non simply breed clubs, it’s us that view the breed diseases. Make for certain the domestic dog suits your life together with larn virtually socialization together with habituation.  
“As for which breed I champion - the goodness erstwhile mutt. Influenza A virus subtype H5N1 truthful cross breed. Temperament together with wellness are WAY to a greater extent than of import than looks.” 

Dog trainer Kristi Benson, CTC, says,
“consider what it is virtually Frenchies that yous like, together with view what other breeds mightiness also have got that characteristic.”

These are the breeds recommended every bit peculiarly suitable for people who dearest French bulldogs.


Border terrier together with other terriers


If yous dearest Frenchies but the wellness issues give yous intermission Which Dog Breeds Are the Best Alternatives to the French Bulldog?
Border Terrier. Photo: Radomir Rezny/Shutterstock


The edge terrier together with other terriers are all peachy choices.

Dog trainer together with qualified groomer Amy Terceira, CTC, of Dog Gone Good says, “Looking for a fun loving breed? Consider a edge terrier, West Highland terrier or a Norwich or Norfolk terrier."

She says. "These breeds are hearty together with don't have got loads of wellness issues. They are affectionate together with savor the companionship of the family. These terriers tin endure happily inward apartments every bit long every bit they acquire daily walks together with their moderate practice requirements are met. They have got lovely, spunky personalities together with loads of motivation which helps for grooming initiatives. The edge terrier inward particular is non known to excessively bark unless their needs are non beingness met. They are brave, confident piffling dogs.

“They have got moderate grooming requirements which some owners prefer to a breed that has considerable grooming needs. Preferably, they are manus stripped but tin endure brushed or clipped every bit well. Their coats produce non mat every bit easily every bit a poodle or Labradoodle for example. Hand stripping removes the dead oil outer coat to let a fresh wire coat to grow in.

“The edge terrier, inward particular, is wonderful inward the solid together with tin chill out for long periods of fourth dimension but does postulate to endure walked daily.

“I would caution potential owners that these breeds have got high prey drives together with dearest to chase critters, which is what they were bred to do! Walking them on leash peculiarly close roads is wise. Installing a strong recall is a goodness stance too. They aren't the best candidates to endure amongst cats, peculiarly inward an apartment.

If yous dearest Frenchies but the wellness issues give yous intermission Which Dog Breeds Are the Best Alternatives to the French Bulldog?
West Highland White Terrier puppies. Photo: Olga Ovcharenko/Shutterstock


“Another thing to annotation virtually these terriers is that they are choosy virtually their doggie friends. Socializing them from an early on historic menstruum is really of import but despite your best socialisation efforts, they may silent endure scrappy together with non acquire along amongst every domestic dog they meet. Terrier breeds tend to endure less tolerant of frontward advances yesteryear other dogs.

“If yous similar what yous are reading but would prefer something a piffling less spunky or spiky seek a Sealyham terrier or a Dandie Dinmont.”


Cairn Terrier


If yous dearest Frenchies but the wellness issues give yous intermission Which Dog Breeds Are the Best Alternatives to the French Bulldog?
Cairn Terrier. Photo: Marina Plevako/Shutterstock

Cairn terriers are piffling dogs that are mostly healthy; indeed, I suggested them inward a post I wrote for Psychology Today virtually the #BreedtoBreathe motion on brachycephalic dogs.

Dog trainer Eileen Holst-Grubbe, CTC, of Great Day Dog Training says, “While non normally stance of every bit a first-time-dog-owner dog, the cairn terrier has the personality someone looking at a Frenchie could endure attracted to. They have got the terrier spunk that mightiness brand a novice possessor think twice, but I’ve constitute that amongst some grooming (a goodness professional person is the best bet) together with other mental enrichment their zest for life tin endure channeled appropriately. While they are busy piffling dogs, they have got brusque legs together with I've constitute it doesn't have got every bit much physical activeness to tire them out.”

Holst-Grubbe has a personal argue for loving the cairn terrier. She told me, “Oscar was the cairn inward my life together with he, every bit good every bit the few I have got trained, all seem to have got a feel of humor. “

She added, “Their terrier spiciness mightiness outwit the average individual (or dog), but the few cairns I have got trained for clients have got been quick learners together with able to acquire well-behaved, yet entertaining, members of their families."


Golden retrievers together with Labrador retrievers


If yous dearest Frenchies but the wellness issues give yous intermission Which Dog Breeds Are the Best Alternatives to the French Bulldog?
Golden Retriever puppy. Photo: PhotoTrippingAmerica/Shutterstock


Golden retrievers together with Labrador retrievers postulate no introduction because they are such pop dogs.

Tim Steele, CTC, of Behavior Matters Academy says, “I realize it may audio trite, but I'd recommend people await at Labrador together with golden retrievers. There are goodness reasons these dogs terminate upwardly on the most pop lists every twelvemonth (the Labrador retriever comes inward offset together with goldens come upwardly inward 3rd out of 193 breeds at AKC.org).

“They are mostly friendly, goodness position unit of measurement dogs, easily trained, together with fantastic for people amongst active lifestyles. You couldn't inquire for a improve hiking buddy who volition dearest cuddling amongst yous when yous acquire dorsum home.”


Havanese


If yous dearest Frenchies but the wellness issues give yous intermission Which Dog Breeds Are the Best Alternatives to the French Bulldog?
Havanese puppy. Photo: Dorrotya Mathe/Shutterstock

Havanese are toy dogs that are originate from Cuba, so the name.

Bonnie Hartney, CTC, of Ocean Park Dog Training suggests the Havanese. She says, “As a professional person domestic dog trainer, I pass fourth dimension amongst a diverseness of breeds together with mixes. One piffling domestic dog that has won my catch is the Havanese. They are cheerful, affectionate companion dogs, well-suited to aeroplane living. Friendly amongst people, children, together with other dogs, the Havanese are pop on neighbourhood walks. They excel inward domestic dog sports such every bit agility, olfactory organ work, together with obedience but are also content to hang out amongst their “people.”

“Like the French bulldog, Havanese are relatively quiet. Their beautiful silky coats, which come upwardly inward a diverseness of colours together with patterns, require brushing or clipping. Whether inward a selfie pose or amongst a novel trick, the Havanese are definite people pleasers.”


Italian greyhound


If yous dearest Frenchies but the wellness issues give yous intermission Which Dog Breeds Are the Best Alternatives to the French Bulldog?
Italian Greyhound. Photo: Sarah Weldon/Shutterstock

Italian greyhounds are small, elegant sighthounds that are ofttimes called Iggies for short.

Certified domestic dog demeanour consultant Kayla Fratt, CDBC, of Journey Dog Training told me Italian greyhounds are apartment-friendly dogs that are salubrious together with don’t postulate much exercise.

She says, “Italian greyhounds are notoriously tranquillity together with cuddly. They’re fifty-fifty smaller than Frenchies together with ofttimes await adorable inward sweaters (they acquire really cold). They’re actually nice, slow dogs. Plus, they come upwardly inward a lot of colors together with tin silent endure quite striking.

“Let’s confront it, many people dearest Frenchies because they’re so darn cute. Iggies (Italian greyhounds) also tally that bill!“


Poodle


If yous dearest Frenchies but the wellness issues give yous intermission Which Dog Breeds Are the Best Alternatives to the French Bulldog?
Toy poodle. Photo: Jagodka/Shutterstock


Poodles come upwardly inward standard, miniature, together with toy sizes together with are intelligent dogs.

Dog trainer together with canine demeanour consultant Melanie Ceronie, PhD, says “For individuals or families thinking virtually a Frenchie or other brachycephalic breed of dog, I highly recommend considering a poodle every bit an alternative. There’s much to a greater extent than to a poodle than simply a pretty face! Poodles are consistently inward the AKC’s hand 10 listing of most pop dogs inward the United States. They are active, highly intelligent, together with friendly dogs that brand peachy position unit of measurement companions.

“With 3 varieties of poodles to select from – toy (4-6 pounds); miniature (12-20 pounds); together with touchstone (50-70 pounds) – at that spot is a size suitable for everyone. Poodles also come upwardly inward a broad hit of colors, including grey, apricot, black, together with white. Poodles are highly trainable dogs that brand a peachy selection for people wishing to participate inward domestic dog sports, such every bit agility, freestyle, nosework, or contest obedience. They are also known to brand wonderful therapy together with service dogs, every bit well, due to their friendliness, intelligence, together with trainability.

“Because poodles are active dogs, it volition endure of import for those considering the breed to ensure that their dog’s daily practice together with enrichment needs are met. In improver their curly coats require regular brushing together with grooming. There's a lot to dearest virtually poodles, together with I highly recommend them to individuals together with families looking for a sociable, active canine companion.”


Shih Tzu


If yous dearest Frenchies but the wellness issues give yous intermission Which Dog Breeds Are the Best Alternatives to the French Bulldog?
Shih Tzu. Photo: rebeccaashworth/Shutterstock


Shih Tzus are pop piffling dogs because of their playful nature.

Dog trainer Jennifer Gailis, CTC, of Bravo Fido says, “If I had to total upwardly the Shih Tzu inward a few words, it would endure happy-go-lucky together with playful. The Shih Tzu is easily overlooked every bit a frou-frou demo domestic dog best suited to sit down on a fluffy pillow amongst a bow inward their pilus but this couldn’t endure farther from the truth. These are mostly playful piffling dogs amongst wonderful personalities. Their practice needs are depression compared to working breeds, however, they silent postulate daily activities together with play.

“As amongst whatever breed, finding a responsible breeder, early on socialization, together with positive reinforcement grooming are telephone commutation to ensuring your Shih Tzu is happy together with confident. Shih Tzus are mostly extremely social dogs together with tin brand wonderful companions for people of whatever age. They tin endure lovely amongst children together with brand goodness position unit of measurement dogs. However, due to the Shih Tzu’s pocket-sized size, oil treatment or overly boisterous kids tin endure scary. Parental supervision is ever recommended.

“The principal drawback to the Shih Tzu is their coat which requires regular grooming. Most pet owners select to give their Shih Tzu a close-cropped puppy cutting which gives them an adorable oil together with spill look.

“Shih Tzus brand my listing of domestic dog breeds recommended for novice owners or anyone looking for a lovely companion. While the breed is recognized for many wonderful traits, delight retrieve all dogs are individuals together with at that spot tin endure variation within the breed.”

This is a brachycephalic breed, so have got extra attention to detect a responsible breeder.


Whippet


If yous dearest Frenchies but the wellness issues give yous intermission Which Dog Breeds Are the Best Alternatives to the French Bulldog?
Whippet. Photo: Cora Mueller/Shutterstock


Whippets are good-looking dogs that are taller than Italian greyhounds but smaller than greyhounds.

doc Kate Mornement of Pets Behaving Badly–Solutions amongst Dr Kate told me, "Whippets are a fantastic breed for so many reasons. They are friendly, affectionate, intelligent, compatible amongst other pets together with normally don't bark excessively. They are also really build clean together with have got a depression shedding, depression maintenance coat. These qualities brand them good suited to aeroplane living (as long every bit they are adequately exercised).

“Whippets brand peachy companions for most people together with living situations including families together with are said to endure 1 of the hardiest purebred dogs. Whippets experience the cold, though, together with may postulate an extra layer to move on them warm inward the wintertime months. These lovely piffling dogs produce best when they are allowed within together with included inward position unit of measurement life."


Mutts


If yous dearest Frenchies but the wellness issues give yous intermission Which Dog Breeds Are the Best Alternatives to the French Bulldog?
Mixed breed dog. Photo: Lunia/Shutterstock


Mutts are really pop for a diverseness of reasons, together with yesteryear Definition come upwardly inward all shapes together with colours.

Monash University PhD candidate Mia Cobb of Do You Believe inward Dog? recommends a mixed breed dog.

“You desire to part your life amongst a salubrious together with happy canine companion for every bit long every bit possible, yes? Then acquire a mutt!," she told me. "I’m a huge fan of welcoming rescue dogs of unknown heritage into my home. Perhaps you’re concerned that a mutt won’t comport every bit predictably every bit a pure-bred dog, but enquiry from the terminal ii decades repeatedly shows us that nosotros postulate to process dogs every bit individuals. We tin view every bit much behavioural variation within a breed every bit nosotros tin betwixt breeds. We can’t endure for certain that dogs volition comport a for certain agency simply because they belong to a specific breed or breed type."

There are advantages to a mixed breed dog, Cobb says. "Mixed breed dogs endure longer than pure bred dogs, together with this lifespan wages is proportional to torso size. We know that dogs amongst squashed (brachycephalic) faces atomic number 82 lives of compromised wellness together with welfare. If the destination is a happy, salubrious together with long-lived domestic dog - it’s non going to endure 1 amongst an extreme torso type – it’s actually that simple.

"Whichever type of domestic dog yous create upwardly one's hear to part your abode with, endure for certain to run across the specific individual. I’d advise spending fourth dimension getting to know them, their personality together with activeness levels. Do your enquiry to endure informed of whatever breed-related wellness issues they volition confront throughout their lifetime - together with so consider whether yous volition endure a goodness tally for each other over the side yesteryear side 15 years. Me? I’ll ever endure coming together my side yesteryear side mutt at the rescue shelter.”

Kristi Benson says an adult rescue domestic dog has the wages of beingness a known quantity. She told me, “Rescues together with shelters inward your expanse volition probable have got a bevy of mid-sized dogs who are fun, hilarious, together with amongst the same amount of unloose energy every bit a typical Frenchie.

"Plan to produce run across together with greets amongst dogs that are at to the lowest degree 3 years old, since in 1 trial a domestic dog is virtually three, they pretty much are who they are: they volition endure dog-friendly or not, cat-friendly or not, kid-friendly or not, together with yous tin easily position both their practice together with grooming needs.”


If yous actually desire a French bulldog


Whatever breed of domestic dog yous get, enquiry the wellness issues so yous tin inquire the breeder the correct questions.

If yous desire a French bulldog, it’s of import to detect a responsible breeder. Ask them whether the parents have got needed whatever medical procedures; a goodness breeder volition endure happy to verbalize virtually the wellness of their puppies. Dogs that have got had to have got surgical operation for Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome should non endure bred from. Make for certain yous view the puppy amongst mom, together with pay attending to whether the mom seems salubrious or is snorting or wheezing.

Ask the breeder if the puppies were born yesteryear caesarian section, together with if the mom has had multiple caesarians. In some breeds, including the French bulldog, the bulk of litters are born yesteryear caesarian subdivision because they cannot safely give nascency naturally. In some places, guidelines or legislation hateful bitches tin no longer endure bred if they have got had ii caesarian sections.

Benson says “Check amongst the Frenchie breeders inward your expanse for whatever who are breeding for longer snouts (and to address the other conformation issues amongst these dogs). Supporting these breeders volition back upwardly changes inward the breed standard, which is what many domestic dog advocates are seeking.”

Benson also suggests that yous consider a cross of a French bulldog amongst some other breed. “Search the rescues together with shelters inward your expanse for Frenchie crosses. Crosses ofttimes part characteristics amongst their bring upwardly breeds, but tin endure healthier together with to a greater extent than structurally sound.“

Remember that French bulldogs are also available from shelters together with rescues. In this instance yous acquire the wages of their wellness having already been checked – together with whatever necessary veterinarian procedures having been carried out. Plus, of course, yous are giving a abode to a domestic dog who badly needs one.

The video below shows what the Mayhew fauna welfare charity inward London, UK, did for 1 of the French bulldogs that came into their care.




Summary: French bulldogs together with alternatives


French bulldogs are wonderful dogs, but they tin have got serious wellness issues every bit a number of their looks. Ultimately, nosotros postulate kennel clubs together with breeders to detect a agency to solve this employment (for example, inward Sweden, dogs that have got had surgical operation for brachycephalic issues cannot endure bred).

If yous desire a domestic dog similar a French bulldog, the breeds listed inward this post are all peachy choices for people who dearest Frenchies, every bit are mutts. It’s of import to retrieve that French bulldogs are available inward shelters together with rescues too.

Whatever breed yous create upwardly one's hear on, retrieve to enquiry the potential wellness issues so that yous know which questions to inquire the breeder, together with ever view the puppy amongst mom. Check out my post on how to select a puppy for to a greater extent than tips.

And if you’re getting a puppy, don’t forget to sign upwardly for a goodness puppy class (see also: how to select a domestic dog trainer).


Join over 2,500 fauna lovers together with subscribe to .

This page contains affiliate links.

Zazie Todd, PhD, is the writer of Wag: The Science of Making Your Dog HappyIf yous dearest Frenchies but the wellness issues give yous intermission Which Dog Breeds Are the Best Alternatives to the French Bulldog?. She is the founder of the pop weblog , where she writes virtually everything from grooming methods to the human-canine relationship. She also writes a column for Psychology Today together with has received the prestigious Captain Haggerty Award for Best Training Article inward 2017. Todd lives inward Maple Ridge, BC, amongst her husband, 1 dog, together with ii cats.

Useful links:

Further Reading


Choosing dogs that tin breathe (on my Psychology Today blog)
Why produce people select for certain dogs  (here on )
‘This is a calamity’: The surgeons keeping pugs together with bulldogs alive yesteryear Simon Usborne at The Guardian.
Dogs deserve better (RSPCA)
Veterinarian doc Emma Milne has a page virtually the responsible purpose of pets inward advertising (and you’ll detect lots of fauna welfare information on her website too).
What the pug is going on? yesteryear Mia Cobb, Do You Believe inward Dog


References
Evans, K. M., & Adams, V. J. (2010). Proportion of litters of purebred dogs born yesteryear caesarean section. Journal of Small Animal Practice, 51(2), 113-118. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1748-5827.2009.00902.x
Fawcett, A., Barrs, V., Awad, M., Child, G., Brunel, L., Mooney, E., Martinez-Taboada, F., McDonald, B. & McGreevy, P. (2019). Consequences together with Management of Canine Brachycephaly inward Veterinary Practice: Perspectives from Australian Veterinarians together with Veterinary Specialists. Animals, 9(1), 3. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani9010003
Packer, R. M. A., Murphy, D., & Farnworth, M. J. (2017). Purchasing pop purebreds: investigating the influence of breed-type on the pre-purchase motivations together with behaviour of domestic dog owners.  Animal Welfare 26(2), 181-201.
Sandøe P, Kondrup SV,, Bennett PC,, Forkman B,, Meyer I,, Proschowsky HF,, Serpell, JA,, & Lund, TB (2017). Why produce people purchase dogs amongst potential welfare problems related to extreme conformation together with inherited disease? Influenza A virus subtype H5N1 representative report of Danish owners of 4 pocket-sized domestic dog breeds. PLOSOne https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0172091

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Tuesday, February 24, 2015

Turns Seven

Celebrating 7 years of blogging most scientific discipline in addition to pets hither at .

Celebrating 7 years of blogging most scientific discipline in addition to pets hither at Companion Animal Psycho  Turns Seven


By Zazie Todd, PhD

Today is precisely 7 years since I started amongst the aim of finding out what scientific discipline tells us most how to convey happy dogs in addition to cats.

In this time, I’ve been writing evidence-based articles most how best to attention for our cats in addition to dogs, in addition to most novel scientific enquiry papers that are relevant to the everyday lives of people in addition to their pets.

It’s wonderful to encounter how much the full general populace wants to know most scientific discipline in addition to our pets.

Over the years I’ve been honoured to verbalize to many scientists, veterinarians, dogs trainers, in addition to others most their operate amongst animals. As well, I’ve been lucky to position out some wonderful invitee posts.

Celebrating 7 years of blogging most scientific discipline in addition to pets hither at Companion Animal Psycho  Turns Seven
A 7th anniversary is a wool anniversary. Photo: dezy/Shutterstock


One affair that keeps me cheerful is to encounter simply how many amazing people are working in addition to so difficult to brand the earth a improve house for both pets in addition to their people.

This is my 445th post. In the final year, my most pop post was don’t punish your domestic dog for peeing inwards the house. Influenza A virus subtype H5N1 serial of posts on fearful dogs was specially good received.

I’ve published fantastic invitee posts past times MD Christian Nawroth, most what fauna noesis enquiry way for pet goats, in addition to Kristi Benson, on parallels betwixt domestic dog preparation in addition to fiction.

I was thrilled to interview Dr. Marc Bekoff about his mass Canine Confidential, to verbalize to Dr. Marty Becker about his co-authored book, From Fearful to Fear Free, in addition to the Fear Free crusade to brand vet visits easier for pets, in addition to to Prof. Hal Herzog about our complicated human relationship amongst animals.


Celebrating 7 years of blogging most scientific discipline in addition to pets hither at Companion Animal Psycho  Turns Seven
A 7th anniversary is also a copper anniversary. Photo: Narumoi Wunza/Shutterstock


As well, it was a pleasance to interview Lori Nanan about her course of pedagogy inwards canine smash care, and Jane Sigsworth about working amongst fearful dogs.

Last June, the 2018 Train for Rewards weblog party was a huge success amongst 27 entries.  Thank you lot to all the pet bloggers who took part. I took role inwards mortal else’s weblog political party for the starting fourth dimension time amongst the Pet Blogger Challenge in Jan this year. 

And I was incredibly honoured that  was profiled inwards the Washington Post.

Now, I am simply finishing upwards re-create edits on my book. I’m delighted to say you lot that Wag: The Science of Making Your Dog Happy volition survive coming to a bookstore close you lot early on side past times side year.

Celebrating 7 years of blogging most scientific discipline in addition to pets hither at Companion Animal Psycho  Turns Seven


I desire to give thank you lot everyone who has supported over the years amongst likes, shares, in addition to comments.

And I’d similar to scope a special shout-out to those of you lot who support on Ko-fi.

Your back upwards in addition to encouragement way the earth in addition to I appreciate it a lot.

Seven years inwards meshing years feels similar a long time. It’s something to celebrate!

Zazie

Join over 2,500 fauna scientific discipline enthusiasts in addition to subscribe to .

This page contains affiliate links.

Zazie Todd, PhD, is the writer of Wag: The Science of Making Your Dog HappyCelebrating 7 years of blogging most scientific discipline in addition to pets hither at Companion Animal Psycho  Turns Seven. She is the founder of the pop weblog , where she writes most everything from preparation methods to the human-canine relationship. She also writes a column for Psychology Today in addition to has received the prestigious Captain Haggerty Award for Best Training Article inwards 2017. Todd lives inwards Maple Ridge, BC, amongst her husband, i dog, in addition to 2 cats.

Useful links:

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. As an Etsy affiliate, I earn from qualifying Etsy purchases.