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Grandmother in a floral apron raking brown autumn leaves as a black and white Havanese jumps into the leaf pile in mid-air. 9 / 29

Abuela Spent All Afternoon Raking the Perfect Leaf Pile. Then Chispa Saw It.

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Abuela has spent the afternoon raking crunchy brown and gold leaves into a neat pile, and now that pile is under attack. Chispa launches herself straight at it, front paws stretched out, ears flying and her fluffy coat bouncing as she leaps. Abuela leans on the rake handle in her cream sweater and floral apron, grinning from ear to ear instead of scolding. The porch steps behind them hold pots of mums, a green watering can, a couple of small pumpkins and a pair of work boots, and a mesh bag of onions hangs by the door.

Leaf piles are irresistible to many dogs, and a romp through them can be great fun. A few seasonal cautions help keep it safe. Wet leaf piles can grow mold, which is not good for dogs to eat, and piles may hide sticks, thorns or mushrooms. Some yards also have acorns or fallen nuts that can upset a dog's stomach. After playing, check a long-coated dog like a Havanese for burrs, twigs and ticks, which can easily get caught in that soft fur. A quick brush-through after outdoor play keeps mats from forming and makes it easy to spot anything that needs attention.

The pile will have to be raked again, of course. But judging by the smile on Abuela's face, that's a small price for watching Chispa enjoy autumn this much.

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