The Bernese Mountain Dog Lay Down in the Snow and Made a Warm Spot
A thick-coated Bernese Mountain Dog lies in a patch of snow with his paws stretched out and his chin lowered. Tucked right beneath his chest, a small brown bunny sits against his fluffy white fur. Snow dusts the ground, a basket and watering can wait by an old shed, and the pale winter light makes the whole yard glow.
Bernese Mountain Dogs come from the Swiss Alps and are bred for cold weather, with a thick, long coat. They are calm, affectionate dogs that enjoy being close to their families, and many love the snow. They do tend to overheat in warm weather, so cool places are important. A vet can offer advice about their care and joint health.
Rabbits can handle cold better than heat, but they still need protection from wet and wind. A domestic bunny should have a dry, sheltered hutch in winter, with plenty of hay for warmth, and should not be left out in a snowstorm. A short moment in the snow with a friendly dog is a very different thing from a cold night outdoors.
The picture shows the cozy side of winter. The big dog's coat makes a perfect windbreak, and the bunny is clearly happy to tuck into it. The snow lies quiet and soft around them, and it feels like a very warm place to be.






