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A gray-bearded man in suspenders sprinkles seed onto a wooden bird feeder full of sparrows while a brindle Boxer sits calmly. 14 / 23

A Feeder Full of Sparrows and a Boxer Who Has Been Practicing All Week

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A little crowd of sparrows has gathered on the wooden platform feeder, and Gus is sprinkling a fresh pinch of seed between his fingers to top it up. He wears a green plaid flannel shirt with olive suspenders, his gray beard neatly trimmed and his eyes soft as he watches the birds hop and peck. Down at his side sits Bruno, the brindle Boxer, absolutely motionless. His white chest is puffed out, his brow is wrinkled, and his eyes are trained on the feeder with tremendous self-control. A weathered fence, dried flowers in clay pots, and fallen leaves give the yard a quiet late-autumn feel.

Boxers were originally developed in Germany as working dogs, and many still have a decent amount of prey drive, which means birds and squirrels can be very exciting. Teaching impulse control through cues like "sit," "stay," and "watch me" can help a dog stay calm in moments like this. Reward-based training works well with Boxers, who tend to be eager and affectionate but can have a stubborn streak. Keep sessions short and upbeat. When placing a feeder, choose a spot where birds have nearby cover and where your dog cannot easily reach them, and clean up dropped seed so it does not attract pests or tempt your dog to snack.

The sparrows go on chattering, completely unbothered. Bruno stays put, earning every bit of the praise that is surely coming his way once Gus finishes up.

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