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A white lamb sleeps tucked between the front paws of a blue merle Australian Shepherd on a wooden floor. 31 / 37

A Blue Merle Aussie Made a Little Bed Between Her Paws

AI imageaustralian shepherdlambsleeping

A blue merle Australian Shepherd lies on a warm wooden floor with her chin resting on her paws, and cradled between them is a sleeping white lamb. The lamb's eyes are closed and her ears are flat, and the dog's gray, black and white coat is speckled like a river stone. The dog's pale eyes are open and watchful, though her body is perfectly relaxed. Laundry baskets and shoes line the room behind. The golden light of late day falls across them both. It looks like a very safe place to sleep. The lamb's side rises and falls slowly, matched to the dog's slow breathing.

Australian Shepherds are intelligent, loyal herders who tend to be protective of their people and sometimes of their charges. Their speckled merle coats are striking, and they usually need regular brushing. These dogs thrive on activity and can be a handful if they don't get enough exercise and mental stimulation. Many herding breeds show a nurturing side toward small animals, but every dog is different, so introductions should always be supervised. Lambs, like many young animals, sleep deeply when they feel safe, which is a good sign that she trusts the dog completely. Offering a calm place to rest is good for any dog that works hard or plays hard.

The lamb dreams, the dog keeps watch, and the light moves slowly across the floor.

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