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A tricolor Bernese Mountain Dog and a white lamb stand by a wooden fence, watching chickens in the yard. 4 / 24

A Bernese Mountain Dog and a Lamb Study the Hens Through the Fence

AI imagebernese mountain doglambchickens

Beyond a wooden fence, a flock of hens scratches in the dirt, and two spectators stand watching. A tricolor Bernese Mountain Dog leans against the fence rail, his soft brown eyes calm, and beside him Dumpling the lamb peeks through the slats with her ears pushed forward. The hens are brown and red, and a barn and some farm tools show in the distance. The Bernese's thick black coat and white chest make a fine backdrop for the small lamb. Both are following the hens' every move with polite interest. A rooster crows somewhere, and the lamb's ears flick toward the sound.

Bernese Mountain Dogs began as farm dogs in Switzerland, where they pulled carts, drove cattle and guarded property. They are strong, sweet-natured and usually calm around other animals, but they are also very large, and a friendly bump can knock a small animal over. Dogs that live near poultry should be introduced with care, and a sturdy fence helps everyone relax. Their thick coats mean they prefer cooler weather, and shade and water are important in summer. Lambs are curious, too, and watching other animals is one way they learn about their world. Keep a leash or a gate handy for introductions, and reward calm watching.

The hens keep scratching, and the audience stays right where it is. The hens have no idea they're so popular.

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