Gilbert came to FBRN as an owner-surrender. He lived with three other French bulldogs, and though he got on perfectly with the females, over time he began terrorizing the male Frenchie. He did not know how to walk on a leash and was fearful of it, for no reason anyone could understand. He was also nervous about being picked up and going for car rides and had never been crated.

The good news is that Gilbert has no known health issues and this handsome boy is a very healthy young frog that loves his people and treats! During Gilbert’s short stay in foster care he is already beginning to overcome some of his fears. Food is a good motivator, and he has been riding in the car and walking on a lead when spoken to calmly, and persuaded rather than forced to move. He is now calm when he is picked up and is making great progress with his fear of new places and experiences. Gilbert will need a strong pack leader and a patient forever home to continue working with him to build his confidence.

Gilbert is a cuddle-bunny who gives great kisses! He responds well to his name and has very nice manners. He is a happy camper once he is comfortable and can get into all kinds of mischief! Gilbert is lovable and active, but can also be dominant and bossy. He craves play and wants to be with his person at all times. Gilbert will need a strong leader that understands his occasional nipping at your hands during play is not to be allowed.

Gilbert does not like being crated! He will need a home where he can be in the house during the day, not in a crate. He is housebroken if he is taken outside at regular intervals and given plenty of time – he doesn’t yet know how to tell you that he needs to go out. He also values his privacy when he “does his business”. Gilbert needs continued patience and consistency for his housebreaking to be a success.

He is frightened of new places and activities until he becomes accustomed to them, so patient socialization is a must for this little frog. Gilbert will require a home with a fenced yard and someone who would love to spend all day with him. A single person, couple or a family with older children would all work for Gilbert, but they must understand that he needs strong leadership; otherwise he will take advantage and get himself into trouble. He must be allowed to sleep in the big bed, as curling up in your arms is his favorite thing in the world. A dog bed for daytime naps is fine, but it would be cruel for Gilbert overnight, and a crate is out of the question for him.

Gilbert occasionally enjoys the company of the other dogs in his foster home. There have been some fights over treats or toys, but he has shown a lot of progress in this area. First preference will be given to a home where Gilbert can be the only dog. If there are other dogs in the home, this will be carefully considered, depending on the temperament of the other dogs.

Gilbert is a very affectionate but insecure dog who cannot let his person out of his sight for more than 10 seconds! Folks who do not appreciate a “Velcro” dog should not apply for Gilbert.

A few words from Gilbert’s foster momma:
“Gilbert is one of the most loveable dogs that I’ve ever fostered, and it’s going to be heartbreaking to let him go. He loves to give you kisses and hugs, play a wild game of chase, hang out with you on the sofa while you watch TV and then curl up in your arms at night when you go to sleep. The right person, his person, is going to think that they won the lottery when they meet Gilbert. He’s still very much a puppy and will keep you laughing and on your toes with his antics!”

If you have room in your bed, some extra space in your fenced-in back yard, and you feel that Gilbert is a good match for you, then please apply. Gilbert could be your perfect companion! Just be sure you are ready to travel, because Gilbert is loving life in Maryland and will not be shipped.