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An older man wrapped in a plaid quilt sits by a crackling fireplace with a yellow Labrador leaning against him. 31 / 40

Grandpa Grabbed the Biggest Quilt in the House. It Still Wasn't the Warmest Thing There.

AI imagelabrador retrieverfireplacewinter

Logs crackle and glow in the stone fireplace, and Grandpa Gus has bundled himself up in a big plaid quilt for the evening. Only his head, his glasses, and one hand peek out, and that hand is resting right on Sunny. The yellow Lab sits snugly against him, her pale coat lit warm orange by the firelight, her eyes calm and her ears soft. The room around them looks like it was made for winter nights: a basket of folded sweaters, a mug on the side table, framed photos and books on the shelves, and potted plants soaking up the last warmth.

Fireplaces are wonderfully cozy, but they need some precautions when dogs are around. Use a sturdy screen to keep sparks and embers from landing on the rug or on a curious nose. Dogs, especially those who love to lie close, can overheat without realizing it, so make sure your Lab can move away from the heat whenever they want. Keep fire starters, matches, and lighter fluid stored out of reach, and do not let dogs chew on firewood or charred bits, which can splinter or upset the stomach. Ash and coals can stay hot for hours, so clean the hearth only when it is fully cold. A working smoke detector and carbon monoxide alarm are good for everyone in the house.

Outside, it might be cold and dark. Inside, there is a fire, a quilt, and a warm dog to lean on, which sounds like just about the perfect evening.

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