A Golden Puppy and a Pony Touched Noses for the First Time
Time seems to slow down when two noses meet. A golden Retriever puppy sits on a wooden floor with his soft ears hanging and his dark eyes half closed, gently pressing his black nose toward the pony in front of him. Pepper, the shaggy cream pony, bends his head down to meet the puppy, his forelock hanging over one eye and his breath close enough to stir the puppy's fur.
The room behind them is bright and a little messy, with a gray couch, a basket full of toys, a pair of boots by the door, and coats hanging from hooks. A leafy plant sits near a sunny window. Everything is quiet, as though the room is giving them privacy for this first, careful hello.
Golden Retriever puppies are known for their gentle, friendly nature and their love of people and other animals. They are also enthusiastic mouthers, so give them plenty of chew toys. Greeting by sniffing noses is a common way for animals to learn about each other, and a calm sniff is a good sign. Ponies and puppies can get along, but a puppy should never be left alone around a pony, since hooves can hurt. Move slowly, keep voices soft, and let each animal approach at its own pace. Ask your vet if you need advice on introductions.
One small sniff is all it takes. Sometimes a friendship starts with two noses and a great deal of curiosity.
