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An elderly woman with glasses plays checkers on a porch table while a red-gold Golden Retriever rests his chin by the board. 7 / 36

Grandma Odessa Was One Move From Winning at Checkers. Then Copper Leaned In.

AI imagegolden retrievercheckersporch

The checkerboard has red and black pieces lined up and one big decision still to make. Grandma Odessa studies the board with a sly little smile, her glasses low on her nose and a green cardigan around her shoulders. Right next to the board, Copper has set his chin down on the wooden table, nose just inches from the pieces, his long eyes watching her hands. His thick red-gold ears fall forward beside the board. Behind them are a porch railing, a potted plant and a quiet neighborhood in gentle evening light.

Board games like checkers are a pleasant way to spend an afternoon, and they provide a nice mental exercise that many older adults enjoy. A dog near the game is a good companion, but a big wagging tail or sudden nose can send pieces flying, so keep a calm spot ready for them. Retrievers are known as gentle, eager-to-please dogs, and many enjoy staying near their people during quiet activities. Teach a settle cue, like lying on a mat, and reward your dog for staying there. Keep small game pieces off the floor, as a swallowed checker is a risk for dogs. If a piece goes missing, check for it before your dog does.

Copper has not claimed any pieces yet, but he is clearly studying the strategy. Grandma Odessa has her next move all figured out.

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