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Dr. Jenny Max, DVM
Lead Veterinary Editor & Small Animal Nutrition Specialist

Dr. Jenny Max, DVM

DVM, Small Animal Nutrition Specialist

Dr. Jenny Max, DVM is the Lead Veterinary Editor at ShowDogsWest, dedicated to translating complex veterinary science into clear, actionable guidance on pet health, nutrition, and responsible care.

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Professional Biography

Dr. Jenny Max, DVM is the Lead Veterinary Editor at ShowDogsWest, dedicated to translating complex veterinary science into clear, actionable guidance on pet health, nutrition, and responsible care.

Credentials

  • DVM
  • Small Animal Nutrition Specialist

Editorial Standards

ShowDogsWest documents its sourcing, corrections, update process and standards for pet-health content in the editorial policy. Read the editorial policy.

Latest Publications

178 Articles
Veterinarian inspecting a French Bulldog in a bright clinic setting Care Guide

How to Express French Bulldog Glands at Home Safely

Learning how to express French Bulldog glands safely at home involves applying gentle inward and upward pressure with a gloved hand and paper towel at the 4 o'clock and 8 o'clock positions beside the anus. Pet owners should only use this external method for mild fullness when a dog exhibits scooting or licking. If the glands feel hard, cause sharp pain, or discharge bloody pus, stop immediately and consult a veterinarian to prevent sac rupture.

Aug 14, 2026 12 min read
A fawn Pug sitting on a living room carpet looking at the camera Behavior & Training

Why Do Pug Dogs Lick So Much? Air, Ears, and Furniture Explained

The primary reason why do pug dogs lick so much involves a combination of breed-specific facial anatomy, instinctive social communication, and underlying physical needs. Their shortened brachycephalic muzzle and deep facial wrinkles trap saliva and moisture, creating mild irritation that prompts regular self-grooming. Licking also stimulates the release of calming neurochemicals like endorphins, helping pugs self-soothe when excited or stressed. However, repetitive or sudden licking directed at the air, furniture, or other dogs can signal gastrointestinal nausea, acid reflux, dental pain, skin fold dermatitis, or environmental allergies.

Aug 14, 2026 11 min read
A fawn French Bulldog wrapped comfortably in a warm blanket indoors Health

Why Is My French Bulldog Shaking? Causes, Emergency Signs & What to Do

If you find yourself asking, why is my French Bulldog shaking?, the causes range from normal physiological reactions like chilly drafts and excitement to urgent medical issues like low blood sugar, spinal pain, toxin ingestion, or neurological tremors. Because Frenchies have thin single-layer coats and compact airways, sudden temperature changes or emotional stress trigger shivering easily. However, persistent trembling accompanied by lethargy, vomiting, wobbly walking, or stiff limbs requires prompt veterinary evaluation.

Aug 14, 2026 11 min read
Fawn French Bulldog sitting on a vintage wooden bench in a warm room Dog Breeds

What Were French Bulldogs Bred For? Original Purpose & Breed History

What were French Bulldogs bred for? Originally, French Bulldogs were bred in the mid-19th century as small companion pets and lap warmers for English textile artisans, specifically lace workers in Nottingham. During the Industrial Revolution, displaced lacemakers migrated to northern France, bringing these toy bulldogs with them. In and around Paris, breeders crossed them with local terrier breeds, refining a compact companion dog with upright bat ears and a calm temperament designed specifically for indoor living.

Aug 14, 2026 9 min read
A seal point Ragdoll cat relaxing in a sunlit living room Care Guide

Is It Hard to Take Care of a Ragdoll Cat

For prospective owners asking is it hard to take care of a Ragdoll cat, daily maintenance requires moderate, consistent effort overall. While their silky single coat does not mat as easily as a Persian's, they require weekly brushing, strict dietary control to prevent obesity, and frequent companionship because they crave human attention. Routine veterinary screening for genetic heart and kidney conditions is essential.

Aug 13, 2026 6 min read
A fawn French Bulldog sitting indoors on a clean hardwood floor. Health

Are French Bulldogs Hypoallergenic

Are French Bulldogs hypoallergenic? No, French Bulldogs are not hypoallergenic. No dog breed is completely allergen-free or 100% hypoallergenic. French Bulldogs produce Can f 1 allergen proteins in their dander, saliva, and urine. Because they have a short single coat that sheds continuously and deep facial wrinkles where moisture and oils accumulate, they actively disperse dander into the household environment.

Aug 13, 2026 9 min read
A purebred seal point Ragdoll cat resting in a bright living room. Cat Breeds

How Much Are Ragdoll Cats? Price Guide by Quality and Source

For prospective pet owners asking how much are Ragdoll cats, a purebred Ragdoll cat from a reputable breeder typically costs between $1,000 and $2,800 for a pet-quality kitten. Show-quality Ragdolls and cats sold with breeding rights range from $3,000 to over $5,000. Alternatively, adopting a Ragdoll from a rescue organization or rehoming a retired breeding adult generally costs between $75 and $900.

Aug 13, 2026 5 min read
A fawn French Bulldog sitting on a living room floor Health

Why Do French Bulldogs Fart So Much? Causes & How to Stop It

If you are wondering why do french bulldogs fart so much, it is mainly because their short-nosed (brachycephalic) anatomy causes them to swallow excess air while eating and breathing, a condition called aerophagia. This combines with sensitive digestion and common dietary triggers like dairy, soy, or fatty scraps to produce more gas than in longer-nosed breeds.

Aug 13, 2026 5 min read
A healthy French Bulldog resting comfortably indoors representing spay and neuter timing guidelines. Breeding

When to Neuter a French Bulldog

If you are deciding when to neuter a French Bulldog, the ideal timing depends on the individual dog's development. Veterinarians often recommend waiting until the dog reaches physical and skeletal maturity rather than sticking to a strict age. For females, the decision involves balancing the benefits of spaying before the first heat against waiting for full bone development. Waiting allows their joints and spine to mature properly before the reproductive hormones are removed.

Aug 12, 2026 8 min read