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An elderly man in a brown sweater plays an upright piano while a fawn Pug sits beside him on the wooden bench. 24 / 38

Grandpa Ken Sat Down at the Piano. Mochi Climbed Up to Join the Concert.

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The afternoon sun slants through the blinds and lands across the keys of an old upright piano as Grandpa Ken plays. He leans forward a little in his brown sweater, glasses low on his nose, eyes on the music. Right beside him on the long wooden bench sits Mochi, small body turned toward the camera and his wrinkled forehead creased in thoughtful worry. His dark eyes look off to one side, as though he is waiting for a favorite part to come around. A pair of folded glasses rests on top of the piano, and a woven basket sits near the wall.

Many dogs are happy to settle near someone playing an instrument, especially when it is a calm, familiar routine. Pugs in particular are known as affectionate companions that like being close to their people. Music can be a lovely daily activity for older adults, since playing from memory or reading notes keeps the mind engaged, and having a pet nearby adds company. If your dog seems unsettled by louder notes, try playing softer pieces first and give them a cozy spot nearby with a blanket. Rewarding calm behavior with a small treat helps them link the sound with good things. Also, keep paws and tails clear of the piano pedals and bench edges so nobody gets pinched.

Mochi may not know the song, but he has certainly learned which seat has the best view. The whole house sounds a little warmer for it.

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