A Schnauzer's Beard Met a Calf's Pink Nose for the First Time

Whiskers to nose, a salt and pepper Miniature Schnauzer and a young brown and white calf are saying their first hello on a green lawn. The Schnauzer's bushy eyebrows and beard bristle as he leans forward, and the calf bends its neck low, ears out to the sides, pink nose just touching the dog's. A wooden fence and leafy shrubs surround the yard, and the afternoon looks calm and golden.

First meetings between a dog and a farm animal are best kept slow. Let each animal look and sniff from a short distance, and keep the dog on a leash until you know how both react. Calves are naturally curious and will often investigate anything new with their noses, while Miniature Schnauzers are alert, lively little terriers that may bark or chase when excited. Reward the dog for staying calm and watch the calf for signs of stress, such as backing up, raising its head, or kicking. A few short, quiet introductions work better than one long one. If something worries you, ask your vet for advice.

This hello looks about as good as they come. Nobody is barking, nobody is running, and both noses are exactly where they should be. The Schnauzer seems to be doing his best at being polite, and the calf looks interested rather than alarmed. Some of the best friendships begin with exactly this kind of nose-to-nose pause.