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An older man in glasses and a brown sweater vest reads a newspaper on the couch while a cream Chihuahua sleeps on his lap. 22 / 25

Grandpa Opened the Morning Paper. By Page Two, He Had to Hold It Sideways.

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Henry has the newspaper folded open to an article that clearly has his full attention, his glasses perched low and his brown sweater vest buttoned over a plaid shirt. But the paper is angled a little to the side, and for good reason. Peanut is curled up on his lap in a perfect cream crescent, chin resting on his knee, eyes squeezed shut in a deep, peaceful snooze. The living room around them is wonderfully lived-in, with a box of tissues, a cup crammed with pens, a basket of yarn, and a big leafy plant on the shelf.

Chihuahuas earned their reputation as lap dogs honestly. They tend to bond closely with one person and love staying near them, and a warm lap is about the best spot a small dog can find. For older adults, a calm lap dog can make quiet routines like reading the paper feel more companionable. Because they are so small, Chihuahuas are easy to accidentally hurt, so take care when standing up or shifting, and let them hop down onto a soft surface or lift them gently. Using pet steps for the couch can also save tiny joints from repeated jumps.

The news will be the same whether Henry finishes it now or later. Peanut, meanwhile, is having the best nap of the morning, and he seems perfectly content to read around her.

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