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Black grandpa in glasses and a cardigan holds a glass bowl of popcorn on the couch as a black Labrador sniffs it. 4 / 33

Grandpa Walter Brought Out the Popcorn. The Movie Hadn't Even Started Yet.

AI imagelabrador retrievermovie nightpopcorn

The couch is heaped with soft throws in mustard and plaid, a framed picture leans on the shelf, and a stack of books and a mug wait on the coffee table. Movie night is about to begin. Grandpa Walter, in a moss-colored cardigan and glasses, white beard neatly trimmed, holds a glass bowl overflowing with fresh popcorn in his lap. His smile is wide and knowing, because Duke has already pushed his big black head forward, nose resting right at the rim of the bowl, eyes rolled up toward Walter with an expression of absolute innocence. There is no question about who the real star of tonight's show is.

If it sometimes seems like Labradors are always hungry, there may be something to it. Researchers have found that some Labs carry a genetic variation linked to stronger appetite and food motivation, which helps explain the breed's legendary interest in snacks. That makes Labs wonderful to train with food rewards, but it also means owners need to be thoughtful. Puzzle feeders and slow-feed bowls can make meals last longer and feel more satisfying. Measuring food carefully, keeping snacks out of reach, and using part of the daily kibble as training treats all help. Popcorn for people, with butter and salt, is not a good dog snack, so keep the bowl just out of nose range.

Duke is not going to make that easy. But with a little self-control and maybe a dog chew of his own, he and Walter can still enjoy the whole movie side by side.

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