A Beagle Made a Cozy Red Nest Beside the Christmas Tree

With her nose tucked against her paws, the lemon-and-white Beagle has turned a chunky red knit blanket into the coziest bed imaginable. Her long ears are folded flat, her eyes are closed and her body is curled into a neat crescent. The Christmas tree behind her glows with lights and carved wooden ornaments, and the polished floor reflects its warm light.

Beagles are friendly, curious and a bit stubborn, and they love comfortable spots. Dogs can sleep twelve hours or more a day, and many love a nest of blankets, which gives them warmth and a sense of security. A chunky knit blanket is attractive, but loose loops can catch nails, so a quick check helps. Keep the bed away from tree cords and the tree water, which shouldn't be sipped. Beagles are also famous for their noses, so a quiet nap with the smell of pine nearby is probably heaven.

We'll call her Lulu. She's so deeply asleep that even a dropped ornament might not wake her, though a rustling treat bag certainly would. It's the best kind of holiday scene, quiet and warm and full of dreams about rabbits and cookies. A snug blanket, a glowing tree and a dog who knows how to relax: it's a recipe for a perfect holiday afternoon, and no one would dare disturb it.