Snort With Maven: Sass, Snorts & Smart Dog Advice

Category: Training & Behavior

From stubborn sitters to leash pullers, we’ve got training tips for every pup personality. Browse practical guides on obedience, potty training, socialization, barking, anxiety, and more. Learn how to build better habits, decode dog behavior, and raise a well-mannered companion—no matter the breed or age.

  • Dog Growling at Strangers? Here’s How to Calm and Train Them

    Dog Growling at Strangers? Here’s How to Calm and Train Them

    A growl is your dog’s way of speaking to you. It may sound alarming, but it’s often a warning, a request for space, or a sign of discomfort — not necessarily aggression. Understanding the “why” behind the growl is key to keeping both your dog and others safe, while building your dog’s confidence.

    🐕 Why Dogs Growl at Strangers

    Dogs growl for several reasons, and identifying the root cause will guide your response:

    • Fear or Anxiety: Loud voices, sudden movements, or unfamiliar faces can trigger nervousness.
    • Protective Instincts: Guarding their home, family, or possessions.
    • Past Negative Experiences: Dogs who have been mistreated or frightened by strangers before may expect the same outcome.
    • Lack of Socialization: Puppies that weren’t introduced to a variety of people early on may be less adaptable later.

    ✅ Steps to Calm the Situation Safely

    1. Stay Calm and Don’t Punish
    Punishing a growl removes an important warning signal and can lead to a bite without notice. Instead, think of a growl as helpful feedback from your dog.

    2. Increase Distance
    Put more space between your dog and the stranger. Cross the street, step into a driveway, or politely ask the person to stop approaching.

    3. Watch for Body Language
    Pinned ears, a tucked tail, lip licking, and tense posture often appear before or alongside a growl. Spotting these signs early can help you intervene before your dog feels the need to escalate.

    4. Build Positive Associations
    Gradually expose your dog to strangers in controlled environments. Pair each encounter with high-value treats, praise, or play so your dog begins to connect strangers with good things.

    5. Avoid Flooding
    Don’t force interactions by overwhelming your dog with too many new people too quickly — this can make anxiety worse.

    6. Bring in Professional Help
    If growling happens often or is getting worse, a certified dog trainer or canine behaviorist can create a custom plan to help your dog feel safe and respond more calmly.

    💡 Prevention Tips for the Future

    • Socialization Practice: Even adult dogs can benefit from gradual, positive exposure to new people.
    • Routine Training: Obedience skills like “watch me” or “place” can give your dog something positive to focus on when strangers are nearby.
    • Safe Zones at Home: If visitors are coming over, create a quiet area with toys, water, and a comfy bed where your dog can relax away from the action.

    ❤️ Final Bark

    Growling is communication — and your dog’s way of saying they need space or reassurance. By listening, creating positive experiences, and working patiently, you can help your dog feel more at ease around strangers while strengthening your bond.

    🐾 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 Calm an Anxious Dog During Thunderstorms

    🇺🇸 How to Calm an Anxious Dog During Thunderstorms

    Thunderstorms can be terrifying for dogs. The loud booms, flashing lightning, and changes in air pressure can send even the most confident pup into a tailspin of anxiety. Knowing how to comfort your dog during a storm can help them feel safe and secure.

    🌩 Why Dogs Get Anxious During Storms

    • Loud, unpredictable noises startle sensitive hearing
    • Static electricity & pressure changes can feel uncomfortable
    • Association with past fear makes each storm scarier

    🐾 Ways to Help Your Dog Stay Calm

    1. Create a Safe Space
    Set up a cozy area where your dog can retreat, like a crate with blankets or a quiet room away from windows.

    2. Use Calming Aids

    • ThunderShirt or snug anxiety wrap
    • Calming dog pheromone sprays or diffusers
    • Vet-approved CBD or calming treats

    3. Play Background Noise
    Turn on the TV, white noise, or soft music to mask thunder sounds.

    4. Stay Calm Yourself
    Dogs pick up on your energy. Keep your voice soothing and movements relaxed.

    5. Desensitization Training
    Play recorded thunder sounds at a low volume during calm times, pairing them with treats and praise.

    ❤️ Final Bark

    With patience, comfort, and the right tools, you can help your dog weather any storm with more confidence. Over time, they may even learn that thunder means extra snuggles.

    🐾 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.

  • 🐶 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.