Balboa aka “Bobo” is a French Bulldog who has become a dog model. Though he became one before becoming part of Nikki Kustok's family. He is currently in the Nordstrom’s online Catalogue modeling a Juicy Couture doggy tuxedo. "The breeder that we got him from actually knew the online buyer for Nordstrom and she (the buyer) had been at her house and she saw him..." this led to Bobo's first modeling experience. Since then he has modeled for City Dog magazine and will appear in the spring edition, possibly on the cover. "The photographer contacted us and wanted to feature Bobo on the cover, side by side with a black and white Great Dane. She thought it would be cute to feature Bobo next to the Great Dane since he is also black and white and since he is tiny and the Great Dane is so big," Kustok explained.

He is 5&1/2 months old and Kustok got him from a breeder in Maple Valley. They did a lot of research in order to find a responsible French Bulldog breeder she said.

Balboa's markings are black & white which is referred to as Brindle Pied. Full grown 'Frenchies' are supposed to be from 19-26 pounds. They are known for their adorable “bat”ears. Kustok said, "Bobo can hear everything, but he never barks!"

French Bulldogs “Frenchies” are also known as clown dogs. They are very playful and alert. "Bobo is absolutely hilarious! They have really cute, spontaneous personalities," Kustok explained. Bobo likes to 'pretend hunt' fake mice, dance, hop around the yard, take walks on Alki and play with other dogs.

Bobo recently went swimming for the first time in the Columbia River (although they really only wade around in shallow water). Kustok said, "If they go into deep water they need to wear a life jacket. He really enjoys running around on the sandy beaches."
Kustok offered, "Bobo is my best friend, he comes everywhere with me, even to work everyday. He makes me laugh and smile everyday!
I love him like a son!"

How to nominate your pet for Pet of the Week:

Want to nominate your pet for Pet of the Week? Stop by the VCA West Seattle Veterinary Hospital at 5261 California Ave. S.W. and just ask for a form. A nomination is not a guarantee of appearance and your name and photo may appear in our newspaper and online.

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