The Biggest Gift Under the Tree Turned Out to Be a Maltese
The red bow sits right on top of the flap, and below it a tiny white Maltese looks out from a nest of brown tissue paper. Her dark eyes are round, her ears fall in silky curtains and her whole body is tucked neatly inside the box. Behind her a couch with garland, a tissue box and a tray of mugs show that this is a calm and cozy living room.
Dogs, like cats, are often drawn to boxes. A small space can feel like a den, and a Maltese is small enough to fit comfortably. These lively little dogs are friendly and affectionate, with long silky coats that need regular brushing. Before letting a dog play in a gift box, remove tape, plastic and loose paper they might swallow, and keep the bow out of reach. A box with soft bedding inside can become a favorite bed. And with small dogs, remember that a box on the floor can be missed by someone walking by.
We'll call her Bella, and she's the gift nobody ordered but everybody wants. The box is cardboard, the ribbon is red, and the contents are pure sweetness. She's unlikely to leave until someone offers a treat. For a dog this small, a cardboard box really can feel like a palace, and the red bow on top makes it a very festive one indeed.
