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A white Poodle sits inside a cardboard box in a living room while a chestnut horse peers in over the edge 37 / 37

One Cardboard Box, One White Poodle and a Very Curious Horse

AI imagewhite poodlehorse and dogcardboard box

Every cat knows the rule that if it fits, it sits, and this white Poodle has learned it too. She sits proudly inside a large cardboard box with her paws on the edge, soft curls fluffed and eyes gently fixed on something off to the side. Behind her, Copper the chestnut horse peers over the cardboard wall, nose down and ears relaxed, wondering whether there is room for two. A houseplant and a gray couch fill the living room behind them.

Many dogs love boxes, and so do cats, for a simple reason: a snug, enclosed space feels safe. Dogs descended from den-dwelling animals, so a box or crate can be a relaxing hideaway. If you want to give your dog a den, a sturdy bed or crate with soft bedding works better and is safer than cardboard for long periods. Poodles are intelligent, sociable dogs that enjoy being part of the family, and they do well with training and mental games. Supervise any pet that likes to chew cardboard, since swallowing pieces can be a problem, and call your vet if you notice trouble.

The Poodle has made her decision, and the box is hers. Copper is polite enough to wait, which is more than most of us would do. In the end, a small box and a good friend can make a perfectly fine afternoon.

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