Browse ›
A brindle Shih Tzu lies on a rug with a brown and white calf sleeping with her head against the dog's front paws. 6 / 30

Mochi the Shih Tzu Didn't Move a Muscle. A Calf Was Sleeping on Her.

AI imageshih tzucalfnaptime

The calf is fast asleep, and the Shih Tzu has become her fortress. On a soft rug in a sunny, cluttered room, the brindle dog lies with her chin on her paws, her shaggy coat in shades of brown and gray, while the little brown and white calf tucks her face right against the dog's front legs. Blankets, baskets, and a leafy plant fill the background. We'll call the Shih Tzu Mochi and the calf Maple.

Shih Tzus were bred as lap companions, and they live up to it. They tend to be friendly, affectionate, and happiest when close to the family. Their long coats need regular brushing, and the hair around the eyes should be kept tidy so it doesn't irritate them. Their short noses mean they can overheat more easily than some breeds, so a cool resting spot is important.

Sleeping close together is a sign of trust in many animal species, since a sleeping animal is at its most vulnerable. Dogs and young farm animals alike tend to relax more when they feel safe, and warmth plays a part too. If your pet has a favorite sleeping partner, it is a good sign that they feel secure at home.

Mochi doesn't seem to mind being a pillow in the slightest. Maple's little sighs are the only sound in the room.

More from this collection

All 30 →
A black Labrador Retriever walks through a meadow of wildflowers beside a brown and white calf, a rope between them.The Lab Knew Exactly Where to Go. The Calf Trusted Him Completely.A brindle and white Boston Terrier and a brown and white calf lie side by side on sunny wooden boards near garden plants.A Patch of Sunshine Was Big Enough for the Terrier and the Calf
A tricolor Bernese Mountain Dog stands in a shallow creek while a brown and white calf splashes beside him.The Bernese Stood Guard in the Creek While a Calf Played in the SprayA black Newfoundland lies on straw in a barn beside a brown and white calf resting with her head tucked in.A Giant Black Dog Kept Watch While a Calf Dozed in the StrawA white and tan Jack Russell Terrier and a brown and white calf sleep curled together in a wicker basket of warm towels.The Laundry Basket Was Supposed to Be for Towels. Now It Has Two Napping Friends.A light cream Golden Retriever and a brown and white calf touch noses on a green backyard lawn.The Golden Retriever Said Hello. The Calf Leaned In for the Nose Touch.