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An older man in glasses rakes leaves on a driveway as a fawn French Bulldog leaps into a pile of red and orange leaves. 32 / 34

Grandpa Gus Raked the Leaves Into a Perfect Pile. Waffles Noticed.

AI imagefrench bulldogautumn leavesfall

Grandpa Gus had barely finished building the leaf pile when Waffles arrived. The fawn French Bulldog is caught mid-leap, front paws stretched forward and ears flared, as red and orange leaves fly up around him in the warm evening light. Gus stands beside him with his rake in hand, glasses on his nose and a delighted grin on his face. He wears his green fishing vest over a plaid shirt, with muddy boots at the ready. Behind them, the front door is open to a cozy room, with a tote bag and a woven basket hanging by the entry and a bright autumn glow over everything.

Leaf piles are a classic autumn joy for dogs, but they come with a few things to watch. Damp leaves can hide sharp sticks, thorns, or rotting debris, and some mushrooms and mold grow in wet piles, so check the pile before play and keep him from eating anything. Frenchies are sturdy but have short legs, so gentle hops are better than big jumps. After play, check his fur and paws for burrs and brush off dust, which can bother flat-faced breeds' breathing. Keep him from overheating even on mild days. If you notice limping or sneezing afterward, ask your vet.

Gus will have to rake that pile again, and he knows it. He does not seem to mind in the slightest, because a dog who leaps this happily is worth a second round.

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