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A small fluffy white Maltese licks the forehead of a sleepy white lamb lying on a beige blanket in a living room. 37 / 37

A Little Maltese Leaned Over a Drowsy Lamb and Planted One Right on Its Forehead

AI imagemalteselambaffection

Smooch delivered, right between the ears. A small, fluffy white Maltese with shiny dark eyes stands over a resting lamb and plants a gentle lick on its forehead, the tip of a pink tongue just visible. The lamb has its eyes half closed and its head tilted, looking completely at ease with this little grooming session. They are nestled on a soft beige blanket on the floor, and behind them a couch draped with a throw, a woven basket, and a few houseplants make up a cozy, lived-in living room.

Licking is one of the most common ways dogs show affection and social bonding. Mother dogs lick their puppies to clean and comfort them, and many adult dogs keep the habit as a friendly gesture toward people and animals they like. The Maltese, an ancient toy breed long kept as a companion, is known for being especially sweet and attentive. Its silky white coat grows long and does not shed much, but it needs daily brushing to prevent tangles, and many owners keep it in a shorter puppy cut. Gently wiping around the eyes helps reduce the tear staining that often shows on white fur.

It is hard to imagine a more tender gesture than this one. The little dog seems to have taken on the role of caretaker, and the lamb seems happy to be fussed over. Sometimes the smallest friend has the biggest heart in the room.

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