A Blue Merle Border Collie Wore Antlers and Stole the Porch

One bright blue eye and one brown eye peer out from under a set of reindeer antlers, and the combination is irresistible. The blue merle Border Collie stands on a snowy porch, her marbled grey-and-black coat dusted with white, a red collar around her neck. Behind her, boots, a basket of pine cones and a wreath on the front door create a snug winter scene.

Border Collies are some of the smartest dogs around, and a blue merle coat is simply one of the many colors the breed comes in. They need work to do, such as games, training or a long run, or they might invent their own jobs. Antlers or other headwear should fit loosely and stay on only briefly, because dogs use their ears and faces to communicate. A porch in the snow is fun, but after any outing, dry your dog's paws and check for ice balls between the toes. Cold-weather outings should be short, and your vet can advise on winter care.

We'll call her Juniper. She holds still for a few moments, just long enough for the antlers to be admired, and then it's back to adventure. Whether she's a reindeer or a herder, she's clearly the star of the porch. A little holiday cheer goes a long way when it comes with such a clever, bright-eyed face, and the antlers only add to the fun.