Grandpa Ken Started Shoveling the Driveway. Mochi Started Something Else.
The driveway is only half cleared, and Grandpa Ken has stopped shoveling to admire his helper. Crouched beside a mound of fresh snow in a brown sweater vest and blue shirt, he grips the shovel handle and smiles at Mochi, who has flopped belly-first into the snowbank with front legs stretched out like a sledder. The fawn Pug's mouth is open in a happy pant, and bits of snow cling to its paws. Behind them, rooftops glisten white and the low winter sun turns the sky pale peach.
Many dogs adore snow, but short-coated, small breeds like Pugs feel the cold quickly. Keep winter play sessions brief and watch for shivering, lifting paws or slowing down, which are signs it is time to head indoors. A snug dog sweater can help. Ice-melting salts and chemicals on sidewalks and driveways can irritate paw pads and upset stomachs if licked, so wipe your dog's feet after outdoor time or choose pet-safe products for your own property. Ice balls can form between toes too. For people, shoveling is real exercise, so take it slow, push rather than lift when you can and rest often.
Mochi clearly believes the snowbank is the best thing to happen all week, and Grandpa Ken seems happy to let the shoveling wait. The driveway will still be there in five minutes. A Pug this excited about winter is worth pausing for.
