Grandpa Ken Turned Up the Music. Mochi Had Been Waiting for This All Day.
Somebody put on a favorite song, and the kitchen turned into a dance floor. Grandpa Ken has both hands in the air, fingers snapping, a wide delighted smile and glasses sliding a little down his nose. His green cable-knit vest swings with the beat. Mochi stands in front of him with his mouth wide open, pink tongue hanging out, tail curled high and wagging as if he has a rhythm of his own. Warm wooden cabinets, white tile, a bowl of fruit and a dish towel on the counter complete the happy picture.
Dancing is a good activity for people of many ages, and a dog who joins in gets a little exercise and a lot of attention. Pugs are playful, people-oriented dogs, but they are also a flat-faced breed that overheats and tires more quickly than long-nosed dogs, so keep the fun short and calm, especially in warm rooms. Watch for heavy panting, noisy breathing or reluctance to keep going, and give your dog a rest and some fresh water. Keep the floor safe too, since slick tile can be hard on small paws, and a rug or two can help. If you have questions about how much exercise is right for your dog, talk to your vet.
The song will end eventually, but the grin will not. Mochi is already looking up, waiting to see if there is another one.






