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A silver-haired woman rakes autumn leaves while a gold and white Shih Tzu leaps into the pile near an open patio door. 26 / 38

Dottie Finally Raked Every Leaf Into One Big Pile. Teddy Was Watching From the Door.

AI imageshih tzuautumn leavesbackyard

Dottie has been working hard with her wooden rake, gathering a thick blanket of brown, gold, and orange leaves near the back patio. She pauses with both hands on the handle, smiling down at the little troublemaker who has just made his move. Teddy is mid-leap, front paws stretched out, tail curled high, and his fluffy face full of pure mischief as he launches himself straight into the leaf pile. Behind them, the sliding glass door stands open to a cozy room with a basket and a folded blanket, and a pair of slippers waits on the mat.

Jumping into leaves is a classic fall delight for dogs, and a few quick checks make it even safer. Leaf piles can hide sticks, thorns, and sharp debris, and damp leaves can grow mold that might upset a dog's stomach if eaten. It is a good idea to discourage leaf chewing. Fall is also a busy season for ticks and burrs, which can tangle easily into a long coat like a Shih Tzu's. A gentle brush-through after outdoor play helps catch any hitchhikers before they cause mats or itching. Small dogs can also be harder to spot in a deep pile, so it is wise to rake gently and keep an eye on where they are.

The pile may need to be raked all over again, but judging by Dottie's smile, that is perfectly fine. Some chores are really just an excuse for fun.

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