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An older woman in glasses holds out seed to sparrows on a wooden feeder while a fawn Boxer sits and watches them. 7 / 24

Ruth Put Out the Seed. Bruno Held Perfectly Still for the Sparrows.

AI imageboxerbird feederbackyard

Eight little sparrows crowd the wooden feeder tray, pecking at a spill of mixed seed, and Ruth holds a few more grains in her open palm. She wears a gray cardigan and thin glasses, and her face is soft with concentration as she looks down at the birds. A few feet away, Bruno the fawn Boxer sits bolt upright, ears forward, dark eyes fixed on the feathery visitors, a curl of fur standing up on top of his head. A fence, a blue bucket, and a clay pot of succulents fill the yard behind them. Nobody moves a muscle, and the sparrows seem to know they are safe.

Backyard bird feeding is a gentle pastime that many older adults enjoy, because it brings a little wildlife to the door every day. If you have a dog, teaching a calm sit or stay makes it possible for everyone to share the yard. Boxers are energetic and curious, so a steady cue and a treat for staying put goes a long way. Keep the feeder clean, since dirty trays can spread illness among birds, and place it where your dog cannot easily reach spilled seed, which some dogs eat and which may upset their stomachs. Birds are also easier to attract when the yard stays quiet.

Bruno's self-control is impressive for a dog with so much energy. For now the sparrows keep eating, and Ruth keeps smiling.

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