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Black grandpa in a fuzzy tan cardigan shovels a snowy driveway as a black Labrador plays in the snow at his feet. 26 / 33

Grandpa Walter Tried to Shovel a Path. Duke Kept Jumping Into Every Scoop.

AI imagelabrador retrieversnow daywinter

Snow has fallen thick and wet overnight, piling up along a narrow driveway between two houses, frosting the bare trees and trash bins, and still drifting down in a few lazy flakes. Grandpa Walter, bundled in a shaggy tan cardigan, olive trousers, and sturdy boots, leans on a wooden-handled shovel as he scoops a path, a few snowflakes caught in his hair and beard. Duke is having the time of his life. The black Lab bounds through the drift right in front of the shovel, chest plowing through the powder, mouth open in a goofy grin, snow sprinkled across his glossy back like powdered sugar.

Lots of dogs love to gobble mouthfuls of snow, and a little is usually harmless. Still, snow along driveways and sidewalks can hide de-icing salts, antifreeze drips, sharp debris, or dirt, so it is best to discourage snacking near roads and paved areas. Eating large amounts of snow can also chill a dog or upset the stomach. Offering fresh, room-temperature water after outdoor play is a better way to keep them hydrated. As for the humans, shoveling heavy snow is strenuous work, especially for older adults. Pushing rather than lifting, taking frequent breaks, and asking for help or checking with a doctor about heavy exertion are all sensible precautions.

Walter's path may take a little longer to clear with Duke turning every scoop into a game, but the laughs are worth it. Snow days were made for exactly this kind of company.

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