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An older man places a jigsaw puzzle piece on a kitchen table while a blue merle Border Collie sits on a chair watching. 37 / 39

Grandpa Earl Spread a Big Jigsaw Puzzle Across the Table. Someone Pulled Up a Chair.

AI imageborder colliejigsaw puzzlekitchen

The puzzle is about half done, and the hard part, all that sky, is still ahead. Grandpa Earl leans over the kitchen table in his plaid shirt and overalls, carefully pressing a piece into place with the slow precision of a man who has done this many times before. Loose pieces are scattered around the edges, a mug of coffee sits nearby, and a dish towel lies folded on the corner. Seated on a wooden chair across the table, upright and dignified like a proper guest, is Skye. Her ears are perked, her head is tilted just slightly, and she is watching every move with focused, intelligent eyes.

Border Collies are often ranked among the most intelligent dog breeds, and that watchful focus is a big part of their reputation. Because they are such quick learners, they benefit enormously from mental exercise, not just physical activity. Puzzle feeders, snuffle mats, hide-and-seek games, and learning new tricks are all great ways to give a smart dog something to think about. A Border Collie that gets enough brain work is usually calmer and more relaxed at home, which might explain how Skye can sit so patiently at the table.

Of course, she cannot actually help with the puzzle. But she can supervise, and she seems to take that responsibility very seriously, perhaps hoping a dropped piece will turn out to be a crumb.

Earl has the corners and the edges done. With a supervisor this dedicated, the rest should fall into place by suppertime.

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