Earl Sat Down to a Fresh Croissant on the Patio. Pearl Was Already Waiting.
Breakfast has moved outside to the patio, where a wooden table holds a golden croissant on a plate, a few bright strawberries, and a mug of milky coffee. Earl, in his plaid shirt and denim overalls, has turned in his seat to beam at Pearl, who stands close beside him with her chin tilted up and her dark eyes fixed on his face. There are little crumbs scattered across the table and a folded napkin nearby. Potted plants and a weathered wooden fence frame the backyard, and fallen leaves dot the paving stones.
Sharing breakfast is a sweet ritual, but not every breakfast food suits a dog. Plain strawberries, washed and cut into small pieces, are generally considered a safe occasional treat for most dogs. Buttery pastries like croissants are another story, since they are high in fat and calories and offer little benefit, and too much fat can upset a dog's stomach. Coffee should always stay out of reach because caffeine is harmful to pets. A good approach is to set aside a few dog-safe bites before you sit down, so you can reward good manners without guesswork. Treats should make up only a small part of a dog's daily food, and your vet can help if you are unsure what is safe.
Pearl may not get the croissant, but she clearly has Earl's full attention, and that seems to be the part she likes best. Mornings are simply better with a friend at the table.






