Grandpa Otis Started Humming. Bruno Joined the Kitchen Dance Floor.
Light spills across the kitchen floor as Grandpa Otis sways to a song only he can hear. His brown cardigan hangs loose over a grey shirt, one hand reaches out as if holding a partner's, and his face is soft with a smile. Bruno is right there, brindle body angled up toward him, tail curled high and happy, ears pricked as if keeping time. Wooden cabinets, a sink with a bottle of dish soap, a cutting board with fresh herbs, a bowl of bananas, and a drawing stuck to the refrigerator door make the room feel warm and lived-in. It is the kind of dance that happens when no one is watching.
Dancing at home is a gentle way to stay active, and many people find that music lifts their mood. Dogs often join in, picking up on a person's excitement. For French Bulldogs, who tend to be affectionate and playful, a little kitchen dance is the right amount of exercise on a rainy day. Be mindful of floors, though: smooth tile or wood can be slippery for dogs, and a small rug or non-slip mat helps prevent slipping. Watch your feet too, since dogs have a way of ending up exactly where you are about to step. If you have any balance concerns, talk to your doctor.
Whatever the song, Bruno knows the steps: stay close, wag, and look adored. It is a pretty good routine.
