The Smallest Reindeer on the Block Was a Frenchie on the Porch
Two brown antlers stand up from a headband, and under them sits a fawn French Bulldog with big dark eyes and soft bat ears, looking off to the side. Snowflakes cling to the fur at his shoulders and dust the porch boards and railing. A doormat peeks from under the snow, and bare branches and dry leaves are visible beyond the rail. The expression is a little serious, a little curious, and entirely reindeer. It is a very small herd of one.
French Bulldogs have short coats and flat faces, so they feel cold quickly and don't breathe as easily in extreme weather. In winter, keep outdoor time short, watch for shivering, and dry the dog off when he comes inside. A coat or sweater may help. Antlers and headbands should fit loosely enough that they don't rub or slide over the eyes, and the dog should wear them only briefly while you watch. Wipe paws to remove ice or salt, which can irritate the skin, and talk to your vet about winter care for flat-faced breeds.
We might call him Dasher. He isn't going to pull a sleigh, but he looks ready to try. A brief visit to the snow, a treat, and then a warm blanket are all part of the plan. For the moment, the porch belongs to the smallest reindeer in the neighborhood.
