Grandpa Otis Poured One Glass of Lemonade. Bear Thought It Was for Two.

A tall glass of lemonade, ice clinking and a lemon slice perched on the rim, is halfway to Grandpa Otis's lips when he notices he has an audience. Otis sits on the porch in a moss-green cardigan over a navy shirt, his reading glasses low and his gray beard neatly trimmed. Right at his knee is Bear, a sleek black German Shepherd with tall ears, a brown leather collar, and an expression of deep, patient longing. A coir doormat, a blue watering can, potted plants, and a row of muddy work boots line the porch behind them.

German Shepherds are intelligent, loyal, and famously attentive to their people, which explains Bear's laser focus on every move Otis makes. Solid black coats are a recognized color in the breed, and they look especially striking in sunlight. These dogs were bred to work, so they need regular exercise and mental challenges to stay happy, such as walks, training games, and puzzle toys. As for that lemonade, citrus and sugary drinks aren't a good treat for dogs, and some sugar-free drinks contain xylitol, which is very dangerous to them. On warm days, a bowl of cool, fresh water in the shade is the best refreshment for a big dog.

Bear might not get a sip, but he's earned a good scratch behind the ears for trying. Porch afternoons like this one are hard to beat.