Snort With Maven: Sass, Snorts & Smart Dog Advice

Author: Maven

  • Healthy Homemade Treats for French Bulldogs Made Simple

    Healthy Homemade Treats for French Bulldogs Made Simple

    Looking for simple, safe, and budget-friendly treats your French Bulldog will adore? Maven and I went full snack-scientist and curated a list of easy, homemade goodies—all with 5 ingredients or less!

    Here are the top 5 that Maven actually snorts for:

    🍌 1. Banana & Peanut Butter Bites

    Ingredients:

    • 1 ripe banana
    • 2 tablespoons unsalted peanut butter (xylitol-free)
    • 1 egg
    • ½ cup oat flour (or blended oats)

    Instructions:

    • Mash banana and mix with other ingredients.
    • Scoop into small balls and flatten.
    • Bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes.

    ✅ Rich in potassium and protein
    ❌ Avoid if your dog has grain allergies

    🥕 2. Carrot & Coconut Nibbles

    Ingredients:

    • 1 cup finely shredded carrots
    • 1 egg
    • ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
    • ½ cup almond flour

    Instructions:

    • Mix, roll into small treats, and bake at 325°F for 15 minutes.

    ✅ Great for skin + digestion
    ❌ Skip if allergic to nuts

    🫐 3. Frozen Blueberry Yogurt Drops

    Ingredients:

    • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
    • ¼ cup mashed blueberries
    • Optional: 1 tsp honey

    Instructions:

    • Mix, spoon into silicone mold, freeze.

    ✅ Cooling, probiotic-rich
    ❌ For dogs without dairy sensitivities

    🎃 4. Pumpkin Chews

    Ingredients:

    • 1 cup canned pumpkin (pure)
    • ½ cup rice flour
    • 1 egg
    • Sprinkle of cinnamon (optional)

    Instructions:

    • Mix, form into cookies, bake at 350°F for 20 mins.

    ✅ Digestive support superstar
    ❌ Only use pure pumpkin, not pie filling

    🍗 5. Chicken Jerky (One Ingredient!)

    Ingredients:

    • Boneless skinless chicken breast

    Instructions:

    • Slice thin, bake at 200°F for 2–3 hours until dry and chewy.

    ✅ High protein, dog-approved
    ❌ Store in fridge; lasts 7–10 days

    ⚠️ Frenchie-Safe Tips for Homemade Treats

    • Avoid grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol
    • Test new treats in small amounts first
    • Always check with your vet if unsure!

    🐶 Final Snort of Approval

    Maven believes homemade snacks = homemade love. These simple recipes keep her snorting with joy and keep her health in check. And bonus? They smell good enough for humans to steal (but please don’t).

    🐾 Meet Maven: A Book Full of Snorts, Sass, and Heart

    Maven the Maybe-Something-Else is a heartwarming and hilarious picture book that celebrates identity, imagination, and the weirdly wonderful ways our pets show us who they really are. Inspired by the true story of a little Frenchie with a big personality, this story helps kids learn to love themselves — quirks and all.

  • 10 Common Mistakes in Frenchie Care to Avoid

    10 Common Mistakes in Frenchie Care to Avoid

    How to Keep Your French Bulldog Healthy, Happy, and Snorty for Life

    French Bulldogs are adorable, squishy-faced charmers — but they’re also a breed with unique needs. Whether you’re a new Frenchie parent or a seasoned snort wrangler, avoiding these 10 common mistakes can dramatically improve your pup’s health, happiness, and longevity.

    1. Overheating Your Frenchie

    French Bulldogs can’t pant efficiently due to their flat faces (brachycephalic), making them highly prone to heatstroke.

    🔥 What to Avoid:

    • Walks during midday heat
    • Leaving them in cars — even for “a few minutes”
    • Hot pavement and unshaded areas

    ✅ Do This Instead:

    • Walk early morning or evening
    • Keep AC or fans running indoors
    • Use cooling vests or damp cloths in summer

    2. Ignoring Skin Folds

    Those adorable face wrinkles? Frenchie skin folds can become infection magnets.

    ❌ Common Mistake:

    Not cleaning the folds regularly

    ✅ Better Habit:

    • Gently wipe folds with a damp cloth or pet-safe wipe 2–3x a week
    • Dry thoroughly afterward to prevent moisture buildup
    • Watch for redness or funky smells

    3. Feeding the Wrong Diet

    Frenchies are prone to allergies and weight gain.

    🚫 Don’t:

    • Feed table scraps
    • Choose food without checking ingredients

    ✅ Do:

    • Pick high-quality, limited-ingredient kibble or fresh dog food
    • Watch for allergy triggers (chicken, grains, dairy)
    • Use treats sparingly — or switch to homemade low-calorie options

    4. Not Watching Their Weight

    Even a few extra pounds can strain your Frenchie’s joints and breathing.

    ⚠️ Mistake:

    Assuming “chunky = cute”

    🟢 Tip:

    • Stick to portion guidelines
    • Use a measuring cup — always
    • Schedule regular weigh-ins or check-ups

    5. Skipping Regular Vet Visits

    Frenchies are stoic — they won’t always show discomfort.

    ❌ Mistake:

    Only going to the vet when something “seems wrong”

    ✅ Fix:

    • Annual checkups minimum
    • Ask for breathing, spine, and allergy screenings
    • Dental checks are a MUST for small breeds

    6. Neglecting Dental Care

    Small breed = small mouth = big dental issues.

    🚫 Common Oversight:

    No tooth brushing = plaque buildup = $$$ vet bills

    🪥 Solutions:

    • Use dog toothpaste and soft brush 2–3x/week
    • Dental chews or water additives as backup
    • Get professional cleanings as needed

    7. Forgetting to Socialize Early

    French Bulldogs are affectionate, but poor socialization can lead to anxiety or aggression.

    😬 Mistake:

    Waiting too long to expose them to new people or pets

    👏 What to Do:

    • Start puppy socialization at 8–14 weeks
    • Use positive reinforcement with calm introductions
    • Expose them to different environments and sounds

    8. Using Collars Instead of Harnesses

    Pulling on a collar can damage their trachea.

    🚫 Don’t:

    • Walk your Frenchie with just a neck collar

    ✅ Instead:

    • Use a well-fitted Y-style harness
    • Choose breathable, padded materials
    • Use the collar just for ID tags

    9. Overlooking Breathing Issues

    Those cute snores? They might signal something more serious.

    ❌ Mistake:

    Thinking snorting and wheezing are always “normal”

    👃 Red Flags:

    • Labored breathing during rest
    • Constant reverse sneezing
    • Gagging or coughing

    🩺 Tip:

    Ask your vet if BOAS (brachycephalic airway syndrome) surgery is needed

    10. Not Providing Enough Mental Stimulation

    Frenchies are smart, stubborn, and get bored fast.

    🧠 Mistake:

    Only giving physical exercise without brain work

    ✅ Try:

    Rotate toys weekly

    Puzzle feeders

    Treat-based games

    Basic obedience training for enrichment

    🐶 Final Snort of Wisdom

    French Bulldogs aren’t “low-maintenance” lapdogs — they’re quirky, sensitive, and worth every bit of intentional care. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’re giving your Frenchie the best life possible: snorts, wiggles, health, and all. Maven approves 💯.

    🇪🇸 Leer esta publicación en Español

    🐾 Meet Maven: A Book Full of Snorts, Sass, and Heart

    Maven the Maybe-Something-Else is a heartwarming and hilarious picture book that celebrates identity, imagination, and the weirdly wonderful ways our pets show us who they really are. Inspired by the true story of a little Frenchie with a big personality, this story helps kids learn to love themselves — quirks and all.

  • How to Potty Train a Puppy Fast in 2025 (Step-by-Step for Beginners)

    How to Potty Train a Puppy Fast in 2025 (Step-by-Step for Beginners)

    Bringing a new puppy home? Get ready for kisses, zoomies, and… a few messy accidents. Potty training is one of the very first milestones you’ll face as a dog parent, and doing it right from the start can save you a ton of stress (and carpet cleaner).

    In this 2025 edition, we’re breaking down the most effective, dog-positive potty training methods that work today — whether you’re raising a Frenchie like Maven or any other lovable pup.

    🐾 Why Potty Training Can Be Tricky (and Totally Doable!)

    Puppies are creatures of habit — but first, you have to create those habits.

    Common potty training hurdles:

    • Inconsistent schedule
    • Confusing commands
    • Lack of supervision
    • Too much freedom too soon

    Don’t worry — with the right approach, you’ll have your pup doing their business like a pro in no time.

    ✅ Step-by-Step Puppy Potty Training Plan (2025-Proven)

    1. Set a Clear Routine
    Take your puppy out first thing in the morning, after meals, naps, and every 2–3 hours. Consistency = faster results.

    2. Use a Designated Spot
    Pick one outdoor area and take them there every time. The smell triggers the urge!

    3. Reward IMMEDIATELY
    Use high-value treats and praise the moment they go. Don’t wait until you’re back inside.

    4. Crate Train for Success
    Dogs won’t usually potty where they sleep. A properly sized crate can be your secret weapon for nighttime and when you’re away.

    5. Supervise Like a Hawk
    Limit freedom until your pup is consistently going outside. Use baby gates or leashes indoors.

    6. Expect Accidents (But Stay Chill)
    Never punish. Clean thoroughly with an enzyme cleaner and try again.

    💡 Potty Training Tips from Real-Life Experience

    • Track progress: Use a notebook or app to log accidents and wins.
    • Use command cues: Say things like “Go potty!” every time.
    • Nighttime whines? Take them out calmly and quietly. No play, just potty.
    • Stay patient: Most pups are mostly trained by 4–6 months, but every dog is different.

    🐶 Maven’s Favorite Potty Gear

    Adjustable crate with divider panel

    Reusable puppy pads (eco-friendly!)

    Enzyme spray to remove scent completely

    Treat pouch for quick rewards

    🏁 Final Woof: You’ve Got This!

    Potty training is a process, not a race. With time, love, and consistency, your pup will learn where to go — and you’ll gain trust, routine, and a whole lot of clean floors.

    Want more training tips? Stick around Snort With Maven for more real-life dog care guides that keep it cute, clean, and chaos-free.

    🐾 Meet Maven: A Book Full of Snorts, Sass, and Heart

    Maven the Maybe-Something-Else is a heartwarming and hilarious picture book that celebrates identity, imagination, and the weirdly wonderful ways our pets show us who they really are. Inspired by the true story of a little Frenchie with a big personality, this story helps kids learn to love themselves — quirks and all.

  • 🐶 What Every Dog Owner Should Know: The Ultimate Dog Nutrition Guide

    🐶 What Every Dog Owner Should Know: The Ultimate Dog Nutrition Guide

    Feed With Confidence: A Complete Guide to Canine Nutrition for Lifelong Health

    Whether you’re a first-time dog parent or a seasoned pup pro, understanding your dog’s nutrition is essential to giving them a long, happy, and tail-wagging life. This guide breaks down what you really need to know about canine nutrition — no fluff, no filler (pun intended).

    🥩 1. The Building Blocks: What Makes a Balanced Canine Diet

    Your dog’s body thrives on six essential nutrient groups:

    • Proteins – for muscle development and energy
    • Fats – for energy and healthy skin/coat
    • Carbohydrates – quick fuel + fiber for digestion
    • Vitamins – for immune function and metabolism
    • Minerals – for bone health and cell function
    • Water – the most critical nutrient of all

    A well-balanced dog diet should include all of the above — in the right proportions.

    🐕 2. What to Look for in Commercial Dog Food

    Not all kibble is created equal. Look for these signs of quality:

    • ✅ Real meat as the first ingredient
    • ✅ No artificial colors or preservatives
    • ✅ AAFCO certification for complete and balanced nutrition
    • ✅ Named ingredients (e.g., “salmon” not “meat byproduct”)

    🔍 Pro Tip: Avoid vague labels like “animal fat” or “meat meal” unless they’re specifically sourced (like “chicken meal”).

    🍖 3. Raw, Kibble, Fresh… Which Feeding Style Is Best?

    There’s no one-size-fits-all diet — here’s a breakdown:

    🟤 Kibble (Dry Food)

    • Pros: Affordable, easy to store, dental benefits
    • Cons: Lower moisture content
    • Best for: Busy dog parents looking for convenience + value

    🟡 Canned Food

    • Pros: Higher in moisture, good for picky eaters
    • Cons: More expensive, not ideal for teeth
    • Best for: Senior dogs or those with dental issues

    🟢 Fresh or Gently Cooked

    • Pros: Human-grade ingredients, very digestible
    • Cons: Requires refrigeration, can be pricey
    • Best for: Dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs

    🔴 Raw Diet

    • Pros: Natural feeding method, high protein
    • Cons: Risk of bacterial contamination if not done right
    • Best for: Owners who commit to safe prep & guidance

    🧠 4. How Much Should You Feed Your Dog?

    Feeding depends on:

    • Age
    • Breed
    • Activity level
    • Health conditions

    Use your food brand’s feeding chart as a starting point, then adjust based on your dog’s weight and energy needs.

    🧪 Bonus tip: You should be able to feel (but not see) your dog’s ribs. If they’re a loaf with legs, it’s time to remeasure.

    ⚖️ 5. Understanding Dog Food Labels (Without a Degree in Chemistry)

    Decode ingredient lists like a pro:

    • Ingredients are listed by weight (first = most)
    • Guaranteed analysis tells you protein, fat, fiber, moisture %
    • Watch for “complete & balanced” backed by AAFCO guidelines

    👀 Avoid:

    • Sugar or corn syrup
    • BHA/BHT (chemical preservatives)
    • Food dyes (they’re just for humans — dogs don’t care!)

    💡 6. Supplements: Necessary or Not?

    Sometimes helpful, never a substitute for real nutrition.

    Common helpful additions:

    • 🦴 Glucosamine & chondroitin for joint health
    • 🐟 Omega-3 (from fish oil) for skin and coat
    • 🧠 Probiotics for gut health

    📌 Always ask your vet before adding any supplement.

    🐾 7. Foods That Are Toxic to Dogs (Print & Stick on the Fridge)

    Never feed your dog:

    • 🍇 Grapes or raisins
    • 🍫 Chocolate
    • 🧅 Onions or garlic
    • ❌ Xylitol (in sugar-free gum & peanut butter)
    • 🥜 Macadamia nuts
    • 🍷 Alcohol, coffee, or tea

    Even small amounts of these can cause serious harm — keep human snacks out of reach.

    🧪 8. Special Diets for Special Dogs

    Dogs with allergies, health conditions, or sensitivities may benefit from special diets:

    • Hypoallergenic diets (limited ingredients, novel proteins)
    • Prescription diets (for liver, kidney, weight, etc.)
    • Homemade vet-approved meals (when done with a pro)

    📅 9. Nutrition at Every Life Stage

    Your dog’s needs change as they grow:

    Life StageNeeds
    PuppyHigher protein, DHA for brain growth
    AdultBalanced calories for maintenance
    SeniorFewer calories, more joint support

    Switch food as they age — but do it gradually over 5–7 days to avoid tummy troubles.

    🧡 10. What Healthy Dogs Actually Look Like

    Forget Instagram. A healthy dog:

    Seems excited to eat, move, and playrfectly aligned with the theme of your article.

    Has bright eyes, clean ears, a shiny coat

    Has regular energy (not hyper or sluggish)

    Poops regularly (yup, we said it)

    Maintains a healthy weight

    🐶 Final Thoughts from Maven:

    “You are what you eat. And if I eat cheese, I’m a genius.”

    But seriously — smart feeding is an act of love. Choosing the right nutrition is one of the best things you can do for your dog’s long-term health.