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A smiling elderly man in a tan sweater sits on a blue bench while a dark red Golden Retriever sniffs near his face. 12 / 20

Henry Sat Down on the Bench for a Moment. Copper Had Something to Check.

AI imagegolden retrievergarden benchseaside

A pale blue bench sits at the edge of the yard, and Henry has taken a seat in his tan sweater, glasses on and a wide, amused smile creasing his face. Copper has come over to say hello, sitting close with his long wet-looking nose tipped toward Henry's cheek and his dark red coat gleaming in the light. A leather collar rests around his neck. Behind them, a wooden fence, a clay pot of succulents, and a stretch of sandy path lead toward a gray sea beyond the garden.

A nose bump is a dog's way of checking in, and the sense of smell is how a dog learns about the world and the people he loves. A dog's nose is far more sensitive than ours, and he can pick up who has been around and even changes in a person's mood. Sitting calmly and letting a dog sniff is a good way to build trust. Golden Retrievers are known for being friendly, affectionate, and very people-focused, and they often seek physical closeness with their family. If your dog likes to nudge, teach him a simple cue like sit so that attention comes when he is calm. Fresh sea air and a gentle breeze are pleasant for a dog, but check his paws for hot sand or sharp shells and bring water. Talk to your vet if your dog's nose looks dry, cracked, or runny.

Henry laughs at the cold nose. Copper is simply making sure that his person is exactly who he thinks he is.

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An elderly man in a sweater vest eats breakfast on a patio while a Golden Retriever rests his front paws on the table.Henry Sat Down for a Sunny Breakfast. Copper Was Suddenly Tall.An elderly man in glasses waters flowers with a metal can while a dark red Golden Retriever sniffs at the falling water.Henry Watered the Flower Bed. Copper Had a Close Look at the Water.
An elderly man in a green sweater vest walks a dark red Golden Retriever on a leash along a quiet road at sunset.Henry Took Copper for an Evening Stroll. The Sunset Did the Rest.An elderly man in an argyle sweater vest tucks a white crocheted blanket around a dark red Golden Retriever in a round bed.Henry Said Goodnight the Way He Always Does. Copper Never Argues.An elderly man in glasses sits wrapped in a plaid quilt by a fireplace while a dark red Golden Retriever leans against him.Henry Pulled the Quilt Tight by the Fire. Copper Moved in Even Closer.A laughing elderly man holds a rake as a dark red Golden Retriever leaps into a pile of orange autumn leaves.Henry Raked the Leaves Into One Perfect Pile. Copper Saw an Opportunity.