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An elderly man in glasses hangs white sheets on a clothesline while a Shih Tzu runs across the yard between them. 18 / 36

Otis Hung the Sheets and Pepper Turned the Yard into a Racetrack

AI imageshih tzulaundry daybackyard

White sheets hang from the clothesline like sails, and Otis reaches up to clip another one in place while a blue laundry basket waits at his feet. Down below, Pepper is mid-sprint, her paws lifted, ears bouncing, and tail curved high as she zooms across the packed dirt. Pots of herbs sit by the wall, and the afternoon is bright and breezy enough to dry the whole load in no time. A pair of garden clogs sits abandoned on the ground, and the corner of the house throws a long, sunny shadow across the yard.

Many dogs love a good run around the yard, and a clothesline day makes the most of it. Short bursts of play like this are great exercise for small breeds, and the wide-open space is a safe place to run. It's wise to check that the yard is fenced, that clothespins and small items are out of reach, and that laundry detergent and softener are stored out of her nose range, since cleaning products can be harmful if swallowed. Make sure she has a chance to cool down and drink water afterward.

Otis keeps working, with a glance down and a grin now and then. Pepper is clearly having the time of her life, and the sheets flutter behind her like applause. It is the most cheerful kind of chore. The basket will be empty soon, and Pepper will be ready for a long nap.

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