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A smiling elderly woman in an olive jacket walks a red-gold Golden Retriever past produce stalls at a farmers market. 2 / 36

Grandma Odessa Took Copper to the Market and Everyone Stopped to Say Hello

AI imagegolden retrieverfarmers marketfall

The market is busy in the golden light of late afternoon, with green canopies, crates of squash and rows of bright vegetables behind them. Grandma Odessa leans down toward Copper with a warm smile, short silver curls catching the light, one hand holding his leash. She wears an olive jacket over a denim shirt and small earrings. Copper stands proud and relaxed with his mouth open in a pink-tongued smile, feathery red-gold coat glowing and a brown collar around his neck. Behind them, stalls full of cucumbers, peppers, pumpkins and baskets stretch off in a soft blur.

Markets are exciting for dogs, with plenty of smells and new faces, so a little planning makes the visit better. Use a short leash and a comfortable harness or collar, and check that the market allows dogs, since rules vary. Bring water and a small bowl, and avoid hot pavement on warm days, which can burn paws. Be careful about dropped food, because some produce, like grapes and onions, is harmful to dogs. Retrievers are friendly and often love saying hello, but ask people before letting your dog approach them. Reward calm behavior with small treats. Short, relaxed outings are a good way for dogs to practice being polite in busy places.

Copper will make friends with half the market before they get to the tomatoes. Grandma Odessa seems more than happy to let him.

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