A Newfoundland Became the Softest Hill on the Farm for One Sleepy Piglet

The hay is deep and golden, and a big brown Newfoundland has sunk into it like it was made for him. His thick, shaggy coat is the color of dark chocolate, and his heavy head rests on the straw, eyes closed, jowls relaxed. Resting on his shoulder, a tiny pink piglet is asleep too, snout tipped up, curly ear flopped over. Soft afternoon sun filters through the fence behind them.

Newfoundlands are large, calm dogs, famous for their sweet temperament and love of water. They were bred as working dogs for fishermen, and they are often called nanny dogs because of their patience with smaller creatures. Their thick coats need regular brushing, and they can overheat in warm weather, so shade and water are important. Hay makes a cozy bed, but dusty or moldy hay can bother the lungs, so it should be clean and dry. If you have questions about bedding for a dog or a pig, a vet can help you choose a good option.

Let's call the piglet Pearl. She has climbed up on the Newfoundland's shoulder as if it were a hill and fallen asleep on the summit. He does not mind. His breathing is slow, and his thick fur rises and falls, rocking her gently. It might be the easiest bed on the farm, and certainly the most patient one.