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A fawn Great Dane and a brown and white calf lie side by side on loose hay, eyes half closed. 26 / 30

A Fawn Great Dane and a Calf Found the Softest Spot in the Hay

AI imagegreat danecalfhay

The hay is soft, the afternoon is warm, and the Great Dane has her friend right where she wants her. A big fawn Great Dane rests her black muzzle on the straw with her heavy ears hanging, while a brown and white calf lies nestled close to her chest with her pink nose just above the hay. Behind them, a wooden wall and a woven basket give the room the look of a country barn. The Dane is Daisy and the calf is Maple.

Hay has a long history as bedding for farm animals because it traps warmth and cushions the body. Dogs often like to dig and circle in loose bedding before they lie down, an instinct inherited from their wild ancestors. Great Danes in particular enjoy soft surfaces that take weight off their joints.

If your dog rests in hay or straw, make sure it is clean and dry, since damp or moldy hay can cause breathing and skin trouble. Dust and seed heads can irritate eyes and noses, and some dogs are allergic. Check ears and paws for stray bits after outdoor naps, and talk to your vet if your dog sneezes or scratches a lot.

Daisy has stopped being a watchdog for now, and Maple has stopped being a wanderer. It's a calm and happy hush.

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