French Bulldogs in Warm Climates

The French Bulldog has become a favorite breed among dog lovers everywhere, because of the dogs positive characteristics. Unfortunately, the dog is not well adapted to the outdoors. The breed has physical characteristics and genetic traits that require special care in certain types of climates.
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Physical Characteristics That Affect Heat Tolerance
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French Bulldogs are popular because of their appearance, but this look comes with some warnings. The French Bulldog has a shortened nose and uniquely shaped head. Dogs with this type of head structure can experience breathing difficulties. This is also called Brachycephalic Syndrome.
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Dogs have very few sweat gland with most being located on the pads of the feet, and pant to expel heat from their bodies. French Bulldogs have a hard time regulating their body temperature because of having a shorter nose. The shortened nose of a French Bulldog prevents the breed from having an increased air intake ability. Warm climates can be quite difficult on the breed, and if proper care is not exercised, can result in death of the dog. It is very important for owners to be aware of the breeds climatic needs.
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French Bulldogs should never be left outside for long periods of time. The breed does not do well as an "outside" dog. The French Bulldog was bred to live indoors and the dog makes for an ideal live-in companion. The characteristics that have been bred into the dog, do come at a cost. This had made them poorly adapted to life outside the home. Keeping this in mind, French Bulldogs should be monitored when exercising outdoors in warm temperatures.
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How To Prevent Heat-Related Stress
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These guidelines should be followed to keep your French Bulldog from becoming a victim of overheating. Overheating can result in death of some dogs.
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The dog should have adequate shade and fresh water when outdoors.
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A French Bulldog should be kept indoors when the temperature and humidity are high.
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Lessen the outside activity of the dog during high temperatures and humidity.
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During the summer months, only allow the dog outside for short periods of time.
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When the dog is let outside to play, it is important to monitor them.
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A French Bulldog that is having labored breathing should be brought back indoors to rest.
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A dog should never be left in a car unattended with the windows rolled up.
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Walks should be kept short.
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The French Bulldog should be allowed breaks when walking long distances.
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French Bulldogs should have an air conditioned space where they can cool off during the summer months.
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When the dog shows signs of being overheated, it is best to rinse them in cool water and to lay cool wet towels on them. Very cold water should never be used, this can result in the dog going into shock and result in death. Your veterinarian should be contacted immediately if your dog shows any signs of heat exhaustion. The main thing to remember is to just be observant and use common sense and your hot pup will do just fine.
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This article was written by John Jackson and has been contributed by http://www.greatdogsite.com For more information on the French Bulldog, please visit our page http://www.greatdogsite.com/breeds/details/French_Bulldog/
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