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An older couple crouch at the edge of a pond holding out seeds to mallard ducks while a fawn Chihuahua sits on the stone ledge. 18 / 20

The Ducks Came Paddling Over to Harold and Bea. Peanut Had the Calmest Reaction.

AI imagechihuahuaduckspond

Mallards are paddling in from every direction. Harold and Bea crouch at the stone edge of a small garden pond, both in cream cable-knit sweaters, holding out handfuls of seeds and grain. Bea smiles as she offers her palm, and Harold holds a small paper cup of more feed. Several ducks glide across the dark water toward them, including a green-headed drake. Peanut sits on the ledge just behind, one paw tucked, big ears up and eyes fixed on the camera, looking pleased to be out on an adventure. Potted plants, garden gloves, a watering can, and autumn leaves fill the yard.

Feeding ducks is a classic outing, but what you feed them matters. Bread fills ducks up without giving them much nutrition, and leftover soggy bread can foul the water. Better options include cracked corn, oats, birdseed, or chopped greens, offered in small amounts. When dogs come along, a leash is a must. Even a calm dog may lunge at flapping wings, which can scare the birds or lead to a dunk in the pond. Small dogs like Chihuahuas should also be kept away from deep or steep-edged water, since they can tire quickly if they fall in.

Peanut seems perfectly happy to be a spectator today. Harold and Bea have their feathered guests, and she has a front-row seat to the whole lively show.

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