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A bearded grandpa whittles a piece of wood with a small knife on a porch while a dapple Dachshund watches shavings pile up. 10 / 21

Grandpa Hank Is Carving Something on the Porch. Pretzel Wants to Know What.

AI imagedachshundwoodworkingporch

Curls of pale wood are piling up on the porch boards, and Pretzel is watching every single one fall. Grandpa Hank sits hunched over his work in a blue plaid shirt and suspenders, a small knife in one hand and a block of wood in the other, peeling away thin ribbons with slow, careful strokes. His eyes are fixed on the carving. Pretzel's are fixed on the shavings, her dappled head lowered and her nose just inches from the pile, as if she's trying to figure out what the wood is turning into. Golden evening light washes across the deck, and a pair of work boots waits by the door.

Wood shavings might look like fun to a curious dog, but they aren't something to snack on. Splinters can irritate the mouth and gut, and some woods or finishes can be harmful if chewed. It's a good idea to sweep up shavings after a carving session and to keep sharp tools well out of reach when you step away. Many dogs are happy simply to be near their person during a quiet hobby, so offering a safe chew toy or a lick mat can give them their own project while you work. Talk to your vet if a dog swallows wood or shows signs of tummy trouble.

Hobbies are better with company, even company that can't hold a knife. Whatever Hank is carving, it's a safe bet Pretzel will be the first to inspect the finished piece.

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