Browse ›
A smiling older man in a brown sweater sits on a boardwalk bench by the beach, gently stroking a cream Chihuahua in his lap. 6 / 25

The Boardwalk Was Empty and the Wind Was Cold. Grandpa Didn't Mind One Bit.

AI imagechihuahuabeachboardwalk

A gray, breezy sky hangs over the beach, and the boardwalk is nearly empty. Henry has found a weathered wooden bench and pulled his brown sweater snug against the wind off the water. In his lap sits Peanut, tucked close against him while his hand gently strokes her head. She is gazing out toward the dunes with her big ears tipped back, calm and comfortable, while Henry smiles down at her with a look of pure affection. A fence lines the walk, sea grass waves in the sand, and the ocean stretches out flat in the distance.

Beach outings with small dogs can be lovely, especially in the cooler seasons. Chihuahuas get cold quickly, so wind off the water may call for a dog sweater and a warm lap to sit in. Sand can be hot in summer, and boardwalk boards may splinter, so watch little paws. Bring fresh water from home, since dogs should not drink seawater, which can make them sick. Keep a small dog leashed near the shore, where gulls, waves, and loose dogs can be overwhelming. Before visiting, check local rules, as many beaches restrict dogs during certain months or hours.

There is no fetch, no swimming, and no big adventure here, and that is exactly the point. Sometimes the best trip to the shore is just a bench, an ocean view, and a warm little dog to share it with.

More from this collection

All 25 →