Nose to Nose: A Bulldog Puppy Says Hello to a Fuzzy Pony
It is the most gentle hello in the neighborhood: nose to nose, eye to eye, with no rush at all. A wrinkly brindle Bulldog puppy sits with his folded ears and his big, thoughtful eyes aimed straight at the pony, his broad nose just touching the pony's muzzle. Pepper, the shaggy brown pony, leans down with a soft dark eye and a forelock falling across his face.
Behind them stands a gray couch with a blue blanket, a leafy plant on a shelf, and a pair of boots by the door. A braided rug lies on the floor under the pony's front hooves. The room is still, and the two of them look as though they are sharing a secret.
Bulldog puppies are sweet, stubborn, and a little goofy, with wrinkled faces that melt hearts. Their short noses can make breathing harder, especially in hot weather or after hard play, so keep exercise gentle and watch for heavy panting. A nose touch is how many animals say hello, as scent carries a great deal of information. Dogs and ponies can learn to enjoy one another, but supervision is vital, since a pony's hooves can injure a small puppy. If you are not sure how to introduce your pets, ask your vet or a trainer for advice.
Neither of them says a word, and neither needs to. A quiet nose touch is a perfect way to begin a friendship.
